THE NEW SEAT LEON X-PERIENCE WITH 4DRIVE DISCOVER NEW ROUTES FOR YOUR BUSINESS
SEAT FOR BUSINESS Average consumption: 4.8 - 6.8 l/100 km. Average CO2 mass emissions: 125 - 152 g/km.
TECHNOLOGY TO ENJOY
SIMPLY CLEVER
I L A E T S
N O I T N E T T A G N
The new ŠKODA Fabia. For your economical and stylish fleet. The new ŠKODA Fabia will become the highlight of your fleet. And not only thanks to its dynamic design. Its new generation of economical engines will bring you low running costs as well as the great feeling of environmental friendliness. The car’s exceptional spaciousness will ensure comfort for all aboard. Its advanced systems, such as the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) with the multi-collision brake will take care of your maximum safety. In addition, you can choose from an endless variety of exterior and interior colour combinations for complete car customisation. In convenient: contact us, we will prepare a special offer fit to your needs. At the same time we will most gladly introduce you to other ŠKODA car models. skoda-auto.com/fleet
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Combined fuel consumption and CO2 emissions for the Fabia Combi model: 3.4–4.8 l/100 km, 89–110 g/km
contents THE NEW SEAT LEON X-PERIENCE WITH 4DRIVE
DISCOVER NEW ROUTES FOR YOUR BUSINESS
SEAT FOR BUSINESS Average consumption: 4.8 - 6.8 l/100 km. Average CO2 mass emissions: 125 - 152 g/km.
TECHNOLOGY TO ENJOY
Publisher Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
16 The stars of the show in New York.
26 Interview: Christian Chapelle of PSA.
40 The Kia Motors fleet success story.
47 Jeep’s stylish Renegade on the road.
Editor John Kendall john@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Deputy Editor Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Business Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Features Editor Katie Beck katie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Fleet Consultant Ross Durkin ross@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Sales Director Anne Dopson anne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
04 Fleet Review John Kendall looks at connected car tech for fleets.
Sales Executives Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
06 Inside Knowledge Alphabet’s Eric LeLarge talks operational leasing.
Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
08 News The biggest stories from a month in the international fleet world.
Circulation Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
16 Motorshow The key launches from the 2015 New York Motor Show.
Dawn Mitchell dawn@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
20 Spotlight An in-depth look at Skoda’s new flagship Superb.
Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
22 Feature How intelligent car technology will shape the future market.
Designers Tina Ries tina@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Samantha Hargreaves sam@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
26 Interview PSA’s Christian Chapelle on the issue of NOx reduction. 28 Fleet Focus The fleet challenges of China’s urbanised population. 34 Interview Jan Maarten de Vries on TomTom’s software developments. 36 Interview ALD’s Mike Masterson on the company’s global operation.
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
38 International Fleet Academy The importance of a road safety culture. 40 Profile Kia’s investment in international production and R&D projects. 44 Launch Report New Vito / Mazda6 / Leon X-Perience / Jeep Renegade. 48 Fleet Show 2015 What to expect from this year’s spectacular one-day event. 50 Fleet in Figures Breaking down the latest global vehicle sales by region.
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fleet review
This month, editor John Kendall looks at the possible future for intelligent vehicles, tachos and increasingly clever engines...
Petrol emissions We are used to diesel engines being in the spotlight over emissions. Specifically, particulate matter (PM), the soot particles emitted by diesel engines and oxides of nitrogen (NOx), which can both cause or aggravate health problems. Many diesels have been fitted with particulate filters (DPF) for some time, many since Euro 4 emissions came into force in Europe. Despite problems with these devices for short-distance driving, they have proved to be very effective at reducing PM emissions. Euro 6 will also go some way to making a sizeable reduction in NOx emissions too. It was interesting to hear in my interview with PSA’s Christian Chapelle that direct injection petrol engines, which many people think can replace smaller diesels are permitted to emit 10 times the level of PM than diesels under step 1 of the Euro 6 emissions limits. This has led to calls for these engines to be fitted with particulate filters too. All engines cause pollution, pointing the finger of blame at one or another does not help solve the problem.
Connected cars
It seems unlikely that autonomous cars, those not under direct control of the driver, will not be controlled by some remote computer as many had thought. The technology involved would be costly and a single centralised system in a region or
04 / internationalfleetworld.com
country would be most unwelcome if it failed. The likely scene is that cars using today’s technology, where on-board systems can already relieve the driver of the boredom of things like motorway driving, such as adaptive cruise control, combined with autonomous emergency braking systems, will be at the core of the systems. That has clearly been the trigger for Volvo’s autonomous driving experiment, which is due to begin in Sweden in 2017. And just as personal computing systems have invaded every corner of our lives, we have only just seen the beginning in the car. Chris Wright’s feature on the connected car in this issue is well worth reading.
Intelligent tachographs An extension of the connected car discussion could also be applied to trucks and other heavy vehicles. Those of you familiar with them will know that there are complex regulations covering how long drivers are permitted to drive and how long they must rest for. The driver’s hours are all recorded on a tachograph, mounted in the vehicle, at least in Europe. Digital tachographs became mandatory in the EU for new vehicles from 2006 and its fair to say that the early devices were not user friendly. Things have thankfully moved on and at the recent CV Show in the UK we saw the latest devices, which come with smartphone apps and even smartwatch apps. Now drivers can check at a glance how much driving time they have left before they need a break and also how much rest they need to take, by checking their smartphone. These are already helping drivers to avoid penalties for breaking the rules – a case of new technology making work less stressful for a number of drivers.
visit internationalfleetworld.com
The New Generation Hyundai i20
A boost for your fleet. A brake on your costs. Our New Generation i20 combines a wealth of virtues that are rare in this class of car. Within its surprisingly spacious interior, drivers will appreciate the availability of large car features like the wide-opening sunroof, Lane Departure Warning System, heated steering wheel - even cornering lights. And you will welcome the comfortably low cost of ownership together with our reassuring 5-year unlimited mileage warranty. The Hyundai i20. Expect more.
Combined Fuel Consumption: 3.2 - 6.7 l/100 km, Combined CO2 Emissions 109 - 155 g/km. The 5-year unlimited mileage warranty is valid in all EU member states + EFTA. Warranty is subject to local terms and conditions. For taxi or rental usage model specific restrictions apply. For more information, visit www.hyundai.com/eu
inside knowledge
Advantage operational leasing Eric Lelarge, chief commercial officer at Alphabet might well think that operational leasing has advantages over outright purchase for fleets.
O
perational leasing always makes sense when compared with the outright purchase of cars because it means you get to keep your money in your business rather than spending it on a depreciating asset. It also means that you are outsourcing a non-core activity to professionals. They can deal with everything from maintenance and tyres to insurance and disposal of the vehicle at the end of the contract. It's a hassle-free solution. The benefits of outsourcing are far more important for most firms than the ability to treat an operational lease as off-balance-sheet finance; a situation that may of course change at some point in the future, depending on the outcome of the long-running debate on accountancy standards. It is also worth noting that while businesses such as Alphabet can certainly provide vehicles under a straightforward lease agreement, they can also deliver a variety of alternative mobility solutions. Corporate
car sharing programmes such as Alphabet's own AlphaCity scheme is an example. AlphaElectric offers a solution for fleets wishing to run electric vehicles. Then there are apps to help your drivers with a range of everyday issues from contacts to parking. We can put together salary sacrifice schemes for clients too. Deal with a reputable lessor and there should be no need to worry about excessive charges for supposed damage when the vehicle goes back. When a car is returned to us after four years we know it won't be as good as new. There is such a thing as fair-wear-and-tear. In any event we use an independent third party to assess damage and customers will only be charged if it is fully justified. Nor are clients heavily penalised if they have to return a car, say, 12 months into a four-year contract. All Alphabet will seek to do is recover any depreciationrelated losses it may incur.
Keeping it flexible Businesses can now benefit from a variety of different mobility solutions, such as AlphaCity.
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manufacturer news
Volkswagen unveils sixthgeneration Transporter
V
olkswagen Commercial Vehicles has officially unveiled the new T6, which is said to bring improved economy and increased comfort and convenience. As well as the commercial vehicle, the range includes the Multivan model aimed at families and outdoor sports enthusiasts and the Caravelle, which targets both commercial and private use and is now for the first time available as a Highline model as well. A revised and more fuel‐efficient engine line‐up sees a completely new generation of 2.0‐litre TDI engines, designed for bespoke commercial vehicle needs. Engines are transversely mounted and angled forwards by eight degrees and come with 84hp, 102hp, 150hp and 204hp. There’s also a 2.0‐litre petrol delivering either 150hp or 204hp. All engines have a Stop/Start system as standard and, according to Volkswagen, bring a 15% reduction in fuel consumption on average. Prices have been announced for Germany and see the Transporter start at €23,035 (plus value added tax for the 84hp TDI).
PSA & GM to build new small LCVs in Spain eneral Motors and PSA Peugeot Citroën have G announced that they are to team up for the produc‐ tion of future small light commercial vehicles. The vehicles will replace the Citroën Berlingo, Peugeot Partner and Opel/Vauxhall Combo. They will be developed on PSA’s latest LCV architecture and will be built at the PSA Vigo plant in Spain. The first vehi‐ cles will be on the market in 2018. The project was one of three signed off by the manu‐ facturers in an agreement in December 2013. The other projects include the production of B‐MPV (B‐segment multi‐purpose vehicles) in the GM plant in Zaragoza, Spain and C‐CUV (C‐segment crossover util‐ ity vehicles) in the PSA plant in Sochaux, France.
Thomas A Schmid promoted to COO role at Hyundai yundai Motor Europe has announced the appointment of H Thomas A Schmid to the position of
Daimler & Nissan team up to develop midsize pickup truck
he Renault‐Nissan Alliance and Daimler AG are to T expand their five‐year strategic cooperation with the development of a midsize pickup truck for Mercedes‐Benz. The pickup will share some of its architecture with the new Nissan NP300 but will be engineered and designed by Daimler to meet specific needs of its customers. The pickup will feature a double cab and will be targeted both at personal‐use and commercial customers. The Mercedes‐Benz one‐tonne pickup truck will be built by Nissan in the Renault plant in Cordoba, Argentina, along with the Nissan NP300 and the Renault ne‐tonne truck, for Latin America. The three trucks will also be built in the Nissan plant in Barcelona, Spain, for other markets, exclud‐ ing North America. Production of the trucks at the two plants will start by the end of the decade.
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chief operating officer (COO). Since 2013, Mr Schmid has been leading the company’s sales divi‐ sion in the role of vice president sales and fleet. In his new role, he reports to president of Hyundai Motor Europe, Mr Byung Kwon Rhim, and is responsible for setting business direc‐ tion and overseeing Hyundai’s pan‐European sales, marketing and customer service operations, as the company seeks further sustainable growth in Europe during the coming years. Mr Rhim commented: “Thomas has made a valuable contribution to the recent success of Hyundai in Europe. He now brings his broad industry experience to his new COO role, and I’m sure he will drive further positive developments in our sales, marketing and customer service operations, to deliver our medium‐ and long‐term goals to the benefit of our customers and business partners.”
For the latest news, visit internationalfleetworld.com
Kia hints at forthcoming compact cars with Novo concept ia’s latest concept car, the Novo, has been unveiled at the 2015 Seoul Motor Show, giving an insight into how its forth‐ K coming cee’d could look. Designed at Kia’s Namyang design centre in Korea, on a specially adapted version of Kia’s C‐segment global platform, the Novo brings a coupe‐inspired silhouette and also features mini‐ mal front overhangs, longer rear overhangs and fastback roofline, as well as a slim, long glass area. It also wears the latest interpretation of Kia's hallmark ‘tiger‐ nose’ grille and slim, new laser headlamps. The Novo is powered by a 1.6‐litre ‘Kappa’ turbo gasoline direct injection (T‐GDI) engine with the brand’s seven‐speed DCT.
fleetweet a few soundbites from a month in fleet
@Scrof Alex Robbins, consumer editor, Telegraph Cars
Tweeting this at 80mph from behind the wheel of a self-driving car on an autobahn. Blimey!
@GregKable Greg Kable, automotive journalist
#Porsche's global sales up staggering 31.5 per cent in March 2015 compared to a year earlier at 20,222. #TheMacanEffect
@hiltonholloway Hilton Holloway, associate editor, Autocar Magazine
Goodbye three-door superminis. Next Polo might well be five-door only, due to tiny three-door sales. Move will save multi-multi millions.
@peterpham Peter Pham, Co-Founder/Partner of digital business @scienceinc
Gap between official fuel economy & real-world figures growing
T
he difference between the official fuel economy figures for new cars and their real‐world results is continuing to grow, according to data from Emissions Analytics. The company says the latest examination of its large‐scale test programme of passenger cars in Europe shows that the gap between the combined New European Driving Cycle figures and its real‐world results has grown to 24% – up from the 16% aver‐ age variance that it first recorded in 2012. As a result, the firm says the fuel economy motorists can expect from their new vehicles is hardly growing over the last three years yet the official figures show a marked improvement. The company added that while it is true that vehicles went through a phase of significant efficiency improvement in the past, these new results suggest progress in this area has now stalled.
BMW i8 crowned 2015 World Green Car at New York Auto Show – It’s the scissor doors, makes you feel like Marty Mcfly!
@EMI_LisaHolmes Lisa Holmes, survey analyst with global market research company @uromonitor
Ever used your phone to book a car? (I'm looking at you @Uber) So have 33% of global smartphone users.
@POD_Point Official account of charging company, POD Point
Spanish EV drivers now get special benefits for driving green. What a great idea! #EV
internationalfleetworld.com / 09
The most important meeting of 2015. The new CLA Shooting Brake.
A Daimler Brand
Space and design meets less emission. Take a decision for comfort and an intelligent energy management. www.mercedes-benz.com/fleet
Provider: Daimler AG, MercedesstraĂ&#x;e 137, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany
environmental news
Australia kicks off plans for ‘Hydrogen Highway’
A
ustralia’s first hydrogen refuelling station is now open at Hyundai’s regional headquarters in Macquarie Park, the first step towards what will become the country’s first government‐backed ‘hydro‐ gen highway’ from Sydney to Melbourne via Canberra. Built by Air Products and Chemicals Inc. of Allen‐ town, Pennsylvania, the 350‐bar station gives the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell a range of around 300km to a full tank. Higher pressure 700‐bar stations can enable longer range, but this is said to be plenty to demon‐ strate its potential. Hydrogen for the site is provided by Coreagas Australia, made at Kembla Port in New South Wales and supplied in bottled form. Hyundai expects to generate its own hydrogen on site in the near future, using an electrolyser powered by solar energy for added environmental benefits. Already being leased in North America and Europe, the ix35 (or Tucson) Fuel Cell has been undergoing operational trials in Australia since June 2014.
Hyundai hopes to launch the next generation fuel cell vehicle in 2018, with plans to introduce it in Australia. Speaking at the unveiling of the refuelling station, Australia’s industry and science minister, Ian Macfar‐ lane, said he hoped the country could mirror hydrogen highway projects in California and Europe as the tech‐ nology becomes more widespread. “The vehicle and the associated refuelling station here in Sydney is a very exciting first step towards one day having a network of refuelling stations right across the eastern seaboard and ultimately right across Australia,” he said. Hyundai Motor Company Australia CEO, Charlie Kim added: “In February 2013, Hyundai Motor Company became the first automobile manufacturer in the world to begin mass‐production of a hydrogen‐powered vehi‐ cle – the ix35 Fuel Cell. The fact that we have brought one to Australia is testament to how important the Australian market is to Hyundai, and how seriously we take our environmental responsibility.”
50% ULEV target for U.S. government fleets E lectric and plug‐in hybrid vehicles will account for 50% of new orders on United States government fleets by the end of 2025, following an Executive Order signed by Presi‐ dent Barack Obama last week. The ‘Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade’ order sets strict targets for agencies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 4% at the end of the 2017 financial year, compared to a 2014 baseline, rising to 15% in 2021 and 30% by 2025.
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Agencies with fleets of more than 20 vehicles will be required to increase their quota of plug‐ins during that period. By 31 December 2020, 20% of new agency fleet acqui‐ sitions will have to feature a plug‐in hybrid or fully electric drivetrain, with a further target of 50% five years later. In the meantime, agencies must work towards eliminating non‐essential vehicles based on telematics data, with a six‐ month target to collaborate on where recharging infrastruc‐ ture can be shared to help with the adoption of plug‐ins.
For the latest EV news, visit evfleetworld.com
City of Florence fleet is 60% electric
T
he Municipality of Florence, Italy has taken delivery of 70 Renault electric vehicles as part of an ongoing initiative to improve the city’s environmental performance. With 53 Twizy quadricycles and 17 Kangoo Z.E. vans, 60% of the city’s fleet is now electric, and will be supported by a network of 91 charging points to be installed at municipal offices across Florence. A network of 147 dual‐outlet charging points in planned in the near future, half of which will support rapid charging, to support private buyers and business fleets making the switch to electromobility. Dario Nardella, mayor of the city of Florence, said: “This delivery of a Renault Z.E. fleet is a first step towards the implementation of our program supporting EV use. Florence is a beautiful city with a great historical centre and the environment has always been our priority. We have to lead the way. “Promoting electromobility helps respect the environment, reduce acoustic pollution, and contributes to preserving our cultural heritage, damaged everyday by car exhaust gases.”
in brief UK study could develop wireless charging lanes The UK’s Transport Research Laboratory has begun a feasibility study which will investigate installing wireless electric vehi‐ cle charging lanes on the country’s busiest roads. Aimed at complementing static charging points, it will identify two poten‐ tial technologies which can transfer power while the vehicle is moving, before begin‐ ning real‐world trials later in the year.
BMW i3 available on Amazon Japanese drivers can now order the BMW i3 electric car through online retailer Amazon, as part of a multi‐channel sales programme being pioneered by the carmaker. Claimed to be a first in Japan, and for Amazon, buyers put a deposit down online then lease the vehicle over 60 months through BMW’s financial service.
£6.6m investment for UK’s hydrogen infrastructure
Further upgrades for Tesla Model S
T
esla has upgraded the Model S line‐up to include a four‐wheel drive entry‐point and software updates aimed at ending ‘range anxiety’. The Model S 70D replaces both versions with the smaller 65kWh battery. It features a dual‐motor four‐wheel drive setup producing 334hp and offers a range of 442km. Access to the Supercharger fast‐ charging network, which had previously been an option on the entry‐ level model, is included as standard. New and existing cars have also had a software update in April, intro‐ ducing automated parking and cruise control and new navigation features to alleviate concerns about range. This can plan routes with minimal detours to the fastest charging points, adjusted based on live usage data, reducing the need to forward‐plan journeys in detail.
EV 3
Nissan LEAF battery pack failures, out of 165,000 sold since its 2011 launch, representing a 0.01% failure rate.
in numbers
SOURCE: Nissan
Business minister, Matthew Hancock, has pledged an extra £6.6m (€9.1m) invest‐ ment in the UK’s hydrogen infrastructure in a move set to increase demand for hydrogen vehicles. This will establish a network of 12 refuelling stations as well as upgrades to existing hydrogen demon‐ strator stations, and will pave the way for wider usage of fuel cell vehicles in the UK.
EVtweet of the month @GoUltraLow Could 2015 be the year of the electric car? @BBCNews reports 400% rise in plug-in car sales
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Twizys to be deployed by Bolloré’s Bluecar, Bluecub and Bluely car share fleets by the end of 2015.
Source: Renault
internationalfleetworld.com / 13
business news
GE to sell GE Capital fleet business
G
eneral Electric has announced plans to sell off most of its GE Capital assets including its fleet management and commercial lending and leasing businesses to create a “simpler, more valuable” industrial business. GE chairman and CEO Jeff Immelt said the move would be made to focus GE “around its competitive advantages.” In a statement released at the time of going to press, GE said: “GE Capital has been an important part of the history of GE. However, the business model for large, wholesale‐funded financial companies has changed, making it increasingly difficult to generate acceptable returns going forward.” GE Capital Fleet Services added: “We anticipate being able to sell our businesses to buyers who are fully committed to and invested in the financial services industry and can offer a good environment for growth.”
Talks end over ownership of LeasePlan Corporation
easePlan Corporation NV has confirmed that discussions L between its 100% shareholder Global Mobility Holding BV (GMH) and a group of investors regarding a potential change of ownership have been terminated. The leasing and fleet management company announced in March that discussions about a potential divestment were taking place, with Sky News reporting that the deal was being led by a consortium of state‐backed, pension and private equity funds, with PGGM, a Dutch public sector pension fund, at the helm. Now, LeasePlan has said that parties have not reached an agree‐ ment on the change of ownership and negotiations between parties have been ended. It said that GMH has informed LeasePlan that it has no plans to pursue further options leading to a divestment of LeasePlan in the near future and confirms that it will continue to support the company’s existing successful business approach.
BCA to be acquired by Haversham Holdings for €1.7bn aversham Holdings has confirmed that it has reached agreement HHaversham to acquire BCA for €1.7bn. Holdings, a listed vehicle which has backing from a funding group including Aviva Investors, Artemis, Invesco and Schroders, will acquire the company from BCA owners, which include Clayton Dubilier & Rice. Last year CD&R stopped a flotation of BCA, citing volatile global equity markets. The reverse takeover will be funded by a placing of new ordinary shares and a new debt facility and will see BCA renamed as BCA Marketplace plc. Avril Palmer‐Baunack, executive chairman of Haversham, said: “The acquisition of BCA represents an important strategic step for Haversham into the automotive sector. BCA is a market‐leading busi‐ ness with a unique position in the used vehicle marketplace.”
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in brief Q1 EU car registrations up 8.6% Passenger car registrations in the EU rose for the 19th month running, leading to an overall rise of 8.6% for Q1, according to latest data from the ACEA. All major markets posted growth in the first quarter, with Spain up +32.2%, Italy +13.5%, France +6.9%, the UK +6.8% and Germany +6.4%).
Orange Business Services acquires Ocean Orange Business Services has announced the acquisition of French telematics firm Ocean for an undis‐ closed amount. The firm said that by integrating Ocean’s operations in its own activi‐ ties, it is creating a new leader on the French and European markets – with over 100,000 managed vehicles.
C-Class takes World Car of the Year title The Mercedes‐Benz C‐Class has been announced as the 2015 World Car of the Year at the New York Interna‐ tional Auto Show. The C‐Class was chosen from an initial entry list of 24 vehicles from all over the world, then a short list of 12, then three finalists: the Ford Mustang, the Volkswagen Passat, and the Mercedes‐Benz C‐Class.
Zipcar & SNCF partner Zipcar is partnering with SNCF, France’s national railway operator, to offer a ‘door‐to‐door’ mobility service. The partnership with SNCF will offer Zipcar members and SNCF frequent travellers the opportunity to complete their journey with a Zipcar on arrival at their designated station.
New MOvaNO
we just woN Gold. ANd GreeN. Gebrauchtwagenreport 2015 Gewinner seiner Klasse www.gebrauchtwagenreport.com
The Opel Movano is now officially a double winner: award-winning in the transporter class as vehicle with the best deKrA Mängelindex (deKrA fault index) in any mileage range in its vehicle class* and of the ‘Green Van 2015’ for outstanding eco-friendliness by the Verkehrsrundschau.
opel.com *Findings are based on vehicle inspection data from Germany. Fuel consumption combined 9.5–6.8 l/100 km; Co2 emissions combined 249–177 g/km (according to r (eC) No. 715/2007).
MOTOR SHOW New York
New York’s newcomers
Amid the world’s most iconic skyline, the 115th New York International Auto Show put the spotlight on luxury, as Alex Grant reports.
Jaguar XF Launched as a retail-heavy car, the outgoing XF has become the backbone of Jaguar’s fleet presence since its 2011 refresh, and its replacement ties up a few loose ends. Targeting greater fleet uptake, there’s been a focus on whole-life costs, with an aluminium-rich architecture and JLR’s all-new 2.0-litre diesel engines giving bestin-class fuel economy and CO2 emissions, while the evolutionary styling has resulted in strong residual value predictions. Dealer upgrades and newcomers such as the XE and forthcoming F-Pace crossover show Jaguar is serious about growing its fleet presence.
Lexus RX The RX accounts for almost a third of all cars Lexus has ever sold, so this fourth-generation SUV remains an important part of the range. Over a longer wheelbase, the larger bodyshell echoes the sharp-edged styling of the smaller NX, with a choice of V6 petrol and hybrid drivetrains offering improved fuel economy compared to their predecessors. The challenge Lexus might have, in fleet, is that rival brands have caught up with its once unique-to-sector hybrid offering – using the four-cylinder 300h drivetrain from the GS – might help to grow its already expanding corporate sales.
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Lincoln Continental Concept Ford will revive the iconic Lincoln Continental luxury car next year, 14 years after the Ford subsidiary discontinued the 76-year-old nameplate. The concept car, shown in New York, features a 3.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and four 30-way adjustable seats for maximum comfort, while rear-seat passengers get tray tables with space for tablets.
Cadillac CT6 The CT6 will spearhead Cadillac’s range as it relaunches in Europe. It’s the same size as a BMW 7 Series, but it weighs less than a 5 Series thanks to its aluminium-rich architecture. Engines comprise 2.0litre turbo, 3.6-litre V6 and 3.0-litre V6 turbo units, all with eight-speed automatic gearboxes, but Cadillac has yet to confirm the diesel it needs for Europe.
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class The M-Class gets a new badge with its mid-life refresh, which introduces a new nine-speed automatic gearbox on both diesel engines and a 78g/km plug-in hybrid. Launched into a fleet-heavy sector, reducing CO2 emissions from 154g/km to 140g/km for the four-cylinder GLE 250d will give Mercedes-Benz a competitive option.
Nissan Maxima The Maxima is Nissan’s competition for the German premium brands, and replaces a car which has been on run-out for over a year. Built at the carmaker’s plant in Tennessee, alongside the North American market LEAF, it further focuses the four-door sports car concept with a lighter construction and more power and economy from the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine. Sales will begin this summer.
internationalfleetworld.com / 17
MOTOR SHOW New York
Scion iM Scion unveiled two new models in New York – the iA sedan and the iM five-door hatchback. Beneath its aggressive bodykit, the latter is based on the Toyota Auris and is targeting young drivers with a limited budget. Power comes from a 137hp 1.8-litre petrol engine, and pricing starts at less than $20,000 (€18,700) in the United States.
Honda Civic Concept Honda is about to offer a five-door Civic hatchback in North America for the first time since 2003, importing the newly-refreshed European model. This neon green concept shows the next Civic coupe and sedan, both of which are developed and built in the United States, will inherit plenty of styling cues from their European counterpart. The production version will be the first car to use the new 1.5litre VTEC turbo petrol engine, and the British-built Type R hot hatch will be reintroduced to North America with the imported model.
Chevrolet Malibu The outgoing Malibu has had a strong family resemblance to the Opel Insignia, with which it shares a platform, but there’s been a marked effort to bring its replacement in-line with the latest Chevrolets. Looking similar to the Impala and new Volt, its extended wheelbase gives improved passenger and luggage space, while 136kg has been stripped from the kerb weight. There’s a tablet-style centre stack inside, optionally equipped with the latest 4G LTE version of the OnStar telematics system, and engines include a class-leading hybrid and a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol.
18 / internationalfleetworld.com
Toyota RAV4 Behind a heavy re-style, the RAV4 gets new equipment and improved materials from December, but the most significant addition is the first hybrid version. The drivetrain is derived from the NX 300h’s four-wheel drive hybrid system, so expect sub-120g/km CO2 emissions, and it’ll join the European range early next year.
Kia Optima Although the Optima has been a relatively small-seller in Europe compared to the Sportage and cee’d, it’s Kia’s biggest-selling car in the United States and production was localised in 2011 to meet demand. The secondgeneration of the sedan has grown in length, width and wheelbase, and gets improved cabin materials to give it a more premium feel. Styling reflects the Sportspace concept revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, which also suggests Kia is working on a wagon for Europe. This is likely to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, close to Kia’s European headquarters.
Mitsubishi Outlander The driving force behind Mitsubishi’s rapidly expanding global sales will be the first model to get the brand’s new family styling, previewed by its recent concept cars, before it launches in the United States. Design aside, the car is re-engineered for better comfort, refinement and agility, likely to be reflected in a refreshed Outlander PHEV in the near future.
internationalfleetworld.com / 19
SPOTLIGHT Skoda Superb
Simply Superb Skoda says its new Superb is more handsome, bigger, lighter, better equipped and more refined – but still great value. Steve Moody reports.
Drivetrain The new Superb will come with eight engine options with additional options of DSG automatic and 4x4 transmissions on selected models. There will be five TSI petrol and three TDI diesel units with outputs ranging from 120hp for the entry level diesel 1.6 TDI to 280hp for the new 2.0-litre TSI engine. DSG transmissions are available on both. A GreenLine model, which is expected to return 3.1l/100km combined and emit 95g/km of CO2, will join the line-up later.
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Technology Technology options for the Superb are fit for a flagship model, including Dynamic Chassis Control with multiple modes to choose from, Park Assist which can drive into and out of spaces and – fitted across the range – Multi-Collision Brake which stops the car after an accident. Convenience is engineered in throughout the cabin, including cupholders which enable one-handed opening of bottles, and umbrellas tucked into compartments in both front doors. The new modular infotainment system can be equipped with Android and Apple smartphone integration, and a WiFi hotspot for multi-device internet browsing on the move.
What we think... Size and space The new Superb is 28mm longer and 47mm wider than its predecessor, with an 80mm longer wheelbase, making for an even more spacious passenger compartment than before. The boot (which is a traditional hatchback rather than double-hinged type in the current car) is 30 litres bigger at 625 litres, expanding to an estate-like 1,760 litres with the rear seat backs folded. Despite the increased size, the Superb is up to 75kg lighter than its predecessor, thanks in part to weight-saving measures made available by the car’s advanced MQB construction.
The new Superb builds on the strengths of the old one such as tremendous value for money, refinement and space, and addresses some of the weaknesses – it is much sharper looking, for a start. The result is a car that looks a very strong package for long-distance business drivers. SM
internationalfleetworld.com / 21
TECHNOLOGY Connected Cars
Driving the future Vehicle manufacturers and internet companies will both have a hand in designing the cars of the future, reports Chris Wright.
I
t will be well into the 2020s by the time cars that can drive themselves are a common sight on our roads but Volvo will have 100 autonomous cars running around its home city of Gothen‐ burg in Sweden by 2017. The XC90 models will be operated by lease customers on their normal daily commute. The carmaker has been work‐ ing with the City of Gothenburg author‐ ities, Linholdmen Science Park and the Swedish Transport Administration on its Drive Me programme, which will use main commuting roads in the city. Marcus Rothoff, Volvo’s autonomous driving programme director, said: “These are urban highway roads, dual carriageway with no pedestrians or cyclists and where speed is limited to 80km/h. This is technically feasible with current sensors and technology and we plan to start the autonomous driving programme by 2017.” He added: “The car opened up the opportunity to travel and has become a symbol of freedom. That’s the way we want it to stay, but the reality is being stuck in traffic and the frustra‐ tion involved in that. When it becomes no longer time efficient and boring you become distracted and that leads to safety issues. Many customers already tell us they want the autonomous car now. “At Volvo we don’t just focus on safety, we are safety. The company mission is that by 2020 no one will be killed or seri‐
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ously injured in a Volvo. Long‐term we will have a Volvo that doesn’t crash – the only way we can get customers to trust us with autonomous driving is by making cars that do not crash.” And safety is key to the success of the driverless car. Is a driver prepared to sit back, open up a newspaper and then let the vehicle take over? It is a subject that is seeing one of the biggest changes to the automobile – and, indeed the indus‐ try, since, well, since volume production started. It has pitched the car industry into a technology race with IT giants such as Apple and Google to find mobility solu‐ tions for the ‘mega cities’ of the future. The future of transport is going to be more congested. Industry figures show that today there are 2bn people globally in the middle class – those able to buy cars – and project that by 2030 that figure will double to 4bn. A huge poten‐ tial, then, for global gridlock. Carmakers are moving beyond their traditional tier one suppliers as connected and autonomous cars become a reality and are increasingly talking to different industry sectors, governments and organisations. Graham Hoare, global director, vehi‐ cle evaluation and verification at Ford, told the recent SMMTConnect confer‐ ence in London that infrastructure is an important issue as driverless vehicles take to the roads. He said: “We are now talking to many
“Long-term we will have a Volvo that doesn’t crash – the only way we can get customers to trust us with autonomous driving is by making cars that do not crash.” Marcus Rothoff, autonomous driving programme director, Volvo
more people beyond our traditional tier ones and building relationships with many new people dealing with infrastructure such as city planners, telecommunications and internet companies, all moving at different clock speeds, so that is a challenge.” Driverless cars are also an issue for the insurance industry, which will have to look at accident liability in the future. John Leech, UK head of automotive at KPMG, said: “Our research has so far shown that current laws are sufficient to determine liability whether personal or manufacturing defect. As we move towards a situation where a car can drive itself, with control occasionally taken back by the driver, then we might need more clarity.” Managing the relationship between vehicle manufacturers and internet giants such as Apple and Google will also
be a major challenge for the connected car – the auto industry is not determin‐ ing the pace, it is the smart phone. Wolfgang Ziebart, director of engi‐ neering at Jaguar Land Rover, said there is an issue over who benefits from harvesting the data collected by a connected car – the auto industry or the Internet companies. Ziebart said: “Apple and Google have even said they will make their own cars, we are not afraid of that but we do fear disruption of the automotive business model. We do not want to be left as just the hardware manufacturer with all the software and its data collection benefit‐ ting someone else. “But, what we cannot do is move forward separately – that is a no‐win situation. When a car is on the move it can collect all sorts of real‐time infor‐ mation, which can be highly relevant in
the Internet of Things, but we must be very careful how we use that. “Apple and Google have a huge number of users and can leverage vast numbers of application writers and this has been the key to the success of the smart phone – it’s no longer just a telephone or media player. For the car manufacturer the key is to provide a platform for apps but we must own the infrastructure and the data stored within. “Neither can succeed on their own and certainly manufacturers won't open up the car to Apple or Google to please themselves. Access to informa‐ tion must be under the ultimate control of the customer.” BMW’s Glenn Schmidt, head of steer‐ ing government and external affairs, sustainability communications, said that the use of data is the essence of future debate. He said the availability of
internationalfleetworld.com / 23
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TECHNOLOGY Connected Cars
Driving the future.. →
data allows real‐time information and relevant services to be made available. “But we have to take into account rele‐ vance, context and how personal the information is. People say cars will become a smart phone on wheels but I disagree. If you lose a smart phone or it goes wrong it is annoying but if some‐ thing goes wrong in a car it’s a major safety issue. Data gathered in the car can be important for safety and security issues or product liability but a lot of data must require customer consent before it can be accessed. It will be a global debate and third party access can only be granted once we have sorted this out.” Ed Vaizey, UK minister for business, innovation and skills, said that it is important to start from the principle that data must be owned by the citizen. “There is legislation going through right now on this issue but there has to be an element of common sense. Most people understand that data collection can result in better personalised service and customer experience while the aggrega‐ tion of anonymous data can make life easier in terms of telling drivers about road conditions or traffic congestion.” Britain is in a prime position to be a global leader in connected and autonomous vehicle development stem‐ ming from the UK government’s deci‐ sion in the 1960s not to ratify the Vienna convention, enabling on‐road driverless car pilots to take place with‐ out the need for primary legislation. Research commissioned by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has found the development of connected and autonomous vehicles will help generate 320,000 jobs in the
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country as well as delivering other benefits to the economy. The report, compiled by analysts at KPMG, also found that these new vehi‐ cles could reduce serious road traffic accidents by more than 25,000 a year by 2030. It also forecasts the UK will be a global leader in the production of this next generation of vehicles. SMMT chief executive, Mike Hawes (pictured below), said: “Connected and autonomous cars will transform our roads and the way our society functions for generations to come, dramatically reducing accidents. The KPMG report clearly shows the UK automotive industry is leading the way in developing the cars of the future and that it will act as a cata‐ lyst for wider economic benefits that will create more than 300,000 jobs by 2030.”
Mike Bell, global connected car director, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “The potential of the connected car is huge. It is certainly one of our top priorities and we are making a significant invest‐ ment in the technology, skills and part‐ nerships to make this a reality. Jaguar Land Rover is taking a leading role and is actively embracing the connected car. We have huge potential to ensure the car has a prominent role in the Internet
of Things, which will enhance the driv‐ ing experience and make driving smarter, safer and even cleaner in the years to come.” But will people still be buying cars in 10 or 15 years’ time? Especially if there is no need to drive them? Car sharing is increasing in popularity and Switzerland can lay claim to having the most success‐ ful car sharing business worldwide. More than 120,000 people have signed up to the Mobility Group’s nationwide car‐sharing scheme. Since the co‐opera‐ tive’s start‐up in 1997, Mobility cars and vans have been an increasingly common sight on Swiss roads. Some 2,700 red Mobility vehicles are now available at 1,400 pick‐up points around the country including car parks and train stations. The Swiss environ‐ mental association VCS/ATE has also reported a rapid development in private and company car pools in recent years. Vehicle ownership in the country is not declining, however. Figures show that last year there were 4.4m cars registered in Switzerland and the number of private vehicles has been rising steadily since 1990. With 120,300 customers, Mobility’s level of market penetration means the scheme is considered to be number one in the world, offering people freedom from the costs and obligations of owning their own vehicle, and to travel as and when they want. The business pointed out that the average private car in Switzerland is not used for 23 out of 24 hours. Mobility allows people to pay only for their actual journeys based on hourly and kilometre tariffs.
Adaptability Flexibility Innovation The world is moving fast. Working life is becoming more diverse and employees need more agility to keep up with a changing work environment. Alphabet, one of the leading providers of outstanding Business Mobility solutions, is already thinking ahead, offering innovative and sustainable products which empower companies to give their employees more flexibility and meet their mobility challenges. Let’s shape the future of Business Mobility together. Business Mobility. Tailor-made for you at www.alphabet.com
INTERVIEW Christian Chapelle, PSA Peugeot Citroën
Emission impossible Engines are becoming more efficient, but that also means emissions are becoming a wider problem, as Christian Chapelle, head of drivetrains and chassis at PSA Peugeot Citroën, told John Kendall.
R
educing fuel consumption and emissions from internal combus‐ tion engines is a requirement everywhere in the world for motor manufacturers. It’s a similar story for fleet operators too as they seek a reduc‐ tion in fleet costs – often meaning lower CO2 emissions to reduce tax liabilities. Engines have been reduced in size and turbocharging has made them more effi‐ cient, but what does the future hold? The first thing is to look at the car as a whole, not just the engine, reckons Christian Chapelle. Cars need to be lighter and more aerodynamic before looking at the powertrain. “One of the main directions taken some years ago was downsizing,” says Chapelle. He explains that PSA has started on diesel engines, because all manufacturers were obliged to adopt turbocharged diesels some years ago for emissions reasons. “Once you have made the decision to only use turbocharged engines, it’s easier to go the downsizing way,” he says, “We have made a lot of progress with turbocharger suppliers, with smaller turbochargers which were able to equip smaller and smaller and smaller engines,” he says. The problem, as Chapelle points out, is designing engines that emit low levels of carbon dioxide and use comparatively small amounts of fuel while also manag‐ ing oxides of nitrogen from the engine. NOx can be harmful to human health among other effects, which is one reason why NOx emissions have been targeted more by Euro 6 emissions legislation. “The more you downsize the engine for heavy cars, the more the engine emits NOx,” says Chapelle, “Because with a good diesel engine, in terms of
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efficiency – good fuel economy and low CO2 emissions – emits a lot of NOx.” There’s another complication here too. The other pollutant that causes concern from diesel engines is particu‐ late matter (PM). This is the black smoke that used to go with diesel exhaust. Most larger car diesel engines have been fitted with particulate filters (DPF) for a number of years. These devices trap the soot in the exhaust, then periodically burn it off to stop the trap from becom‐ ing clogged up. They also make sure that most diesel smoke is eliminated. But designing an engine to reduce PM emissions will lead to an increase in NOx emissions, or designing it to reduce NOx emissions will increase PM emis‐ sions. Designing a diesel engine that can deliver good fuel economy, low CO2 emissions, low NOx and PM emissions is therefore impossible. The logical way to develop the engine is to design it for low fuel consumption and CO2 emis‐ sions, but high NOx emissions. With PM emissions taken care of by an exhaust trap, engine designers needed to treat the NOx emissions too. The most effective way to do this is to inject a liquid, usually known as AdBlue into the exhaust stream that would react with the NOx as it passes through an exhaust catalyst. This is the technique that truck and bus diesel engines have used for a number of years. AdBlue contains ammonia, which breaks the NOx down into nitrogen gas and water. Some cars already use this system – PSA refers to it as ‘Blue HDi’ and it will become far more widespread as Euro 6 emissions come into force, meaning that most fleet driv‐ ers will have to get used to topping up with AdBlue every few thousand miles.
Since PSA started fitting DPFs to its diesel engines some years ago, these too have been using an additive. Drivers remain unaware of it because it only needs to be re‐filled when the car is serv‐ iced. Chapelle explains why PSA chose this system, “Thanks to our particulate trap technology, using an additive, we can burn the soot at 100°C lower than our competitors. We are the only OEM in the world using an additive trap,” he says. This enables PSA to treat the NOx in the exhaust just after it leaves the engine, where it is hotter and before it reaches the DPF, converting around 90% of the NOx in the exhaust. He says that competitor manufacturers must put the DPF close to the engine to ensure the exhaust is hot enough to burn off the soot. Because the exhaust is then cooler when the AdBlue is injected, Chapelle claims that only 50% of NOx can be converted instead of 90%. He says that if further NOx reductions are demanded by future emissions limits, all PSA will need to do is increase the amount of AdBlue injected, whereas competitors may need to re‐engineer their exhaust aftertreatment systems. Chapelle claims that drivers of Euro 6 step 1 PSA vehicles will not need to be concerned with re‐filling AdBlue tanks, because the cars have been fitted with tanks that will hold enough AdBlue for 20,000km meaning the tank can be refilled at a regular service. This will change in future if NOx limits are tight‐ ened further, perhaps meaning that AdBlue will need to be topped up every 5/6,000km. Anticipating that, PSA and other manufacturers are working with the oil companies to fit suitable AdBlue pumps
near the diesel pumps at filling stations, so that drivers can simply fill up with 20 litres of AdBlue when they fill up with diesel. Similar pumps are already in use with truck fuel pumps. Particulate emissions are not just a problem for diesels. The direct injection petrol engines that are starting to replace conventional petrol engines also emit particulates. “We face partic‐ ulate problems,” says Chapelle, “The Euro 6 step 1 regulation allows petrol engines to produce 10 times more particulates than a diesel, so when people are fighting against new diesels, they are completely wrong. “Now the particulate debate is on the turbo direct injection petrol engine. As soon as you downsize the engine on any car, the engine is working closer to full power at full throttle and it emits more particulates, so the limit of the down‐ sizing will be the particulates. We have to be ready to introduce petrol engine particulate traps in the future. The technology is not as complex as it is on a diesel and is less expensive, but it’s not for free so we are trying to avoid it for as long as we can, but we have to be prepared for it.”
“As soon as you downsize the engine on any car, the engine is working closer to full power at full throttle and it emits more particulates.”
internationalfleetworld.com / 27
FLEET FOCUS China
Little trouble in big China Both the company car sector and light CV sector in China offer huge growth potential despite a gradual slowing in the vehicle market, as John Kendall discovers.
C
hina is without doubt the largest automotive market in the world with sales in 2014 of around 23.5 million light vehicles. But given the population of around 1.36bn, the motorisation of China is still at an early stage. That said, the country already experiences serious air pollu‐ tion, which has led to curbs on car sales in some cities. Most of the pollution is caused by a reliance on coal‐fired power stations. China is the largest single emitter of carbon diox‐ ide produced by the burning of fossil fuels, according to information form the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). In area, China is slightly smaller than the US and the fouth largest country on Earth after Russia, Canada and the US, but with a far higher population density than any of these larger countries. CIA data suggests that 54.4% of the pop‐ ulation lived in urban areas in 2014 and also suggests that the rate of urbanisation in the country has been around 3.05% per year between 2010 and 2015. Such a highly urbanised society is likely to shape how China’s motorisa‐ tion proceeds. This year, LMC Automotive reports that light vehicle sales in China reached 4,142,495 by the end of February, repre‐ senting a seasonally adjusted annualised selling rate of 24.6m units, a 6% year‐to‐date rise compared with 2014. At the same time, both exports and imports have fallen. Data from the China Association of Automobile Manufac‐ turers (CAAM) shows that in Q1 2015, exports reached 183,200 units, consisting of 104,600 cars and 78,700 com‐ mercial vehicles. Overall this is a decline of ‐12.3% on Q1 2014, with car exports down ‐17% and CVs ‐5.3%. Total imports in January and February were down ‐18.7% com‐ pared with the same period in 2014. LIGHT CVs Similarly, sales of light commercial vehicles in China have been in decline for a while. In January and February sales reached 0.57m units, down ‐16% year‐on‐year compared with the same period in 2014. LMCA reports that the light truck segment continued to lead this decline with sales down ‐24% YTD. It seems that growing environmental awareness is at least partly responsible for this decline as
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many cheaper models produce high levels of emissions. But Arthur D Little believes there is great growth poten‐ tial in the Chinese light CV sector. Currently the company describes the light CV sector as low‐cost and dominated by local brands. Wuling, Dongfeng and Changan take 80% of the market between them. Most models are sold as passen‐ ger variants because there are cost and restrictive usage implications for cargo versions. But environmental pres‐ sure is growing and Arthur D Little points to a need for the product development expertise of Western OEMs to assist with implementing the technologies needed, from emis‐ sions performance to improved safety, to prepare for pos‐ sible changes in local regulations. SUVs & MPVs LMCA reports that growth in the car sector reflects the trends seen elsewhere in the world with strong sales in the SUV sector. MPV sales growth was also impressive. Local manufacturers of these models have performed well with locally made SUVs growing by 46% and MPVs by 20% year‐ on‐year. LMCA data suggests that Chinese branded SUV models have enjoyed sales that have doubled compared with the same period in 2014 to 0.46mn units, a total that exceeds that of all the locally‐produced foreign branded SUVs put together. Seven of the top 10 best selling SUVs were Chinese branded, with the Haval H6 the best seller with 56,300 sales in January and February. Chinese brands are also thriving, reports LMCA, with sales growth double that of the light vehicle sector as a whole at 12% YTD. LMCA data suggests that Chinese branded models have seen their market share reach 43% in January/February compared with 38% in the same period in 2014. The trend has continued in Q1 with Chinese brand car sales rising 20.8% to 2,292,200 compared with 2014 according to data from CAAM. The total was made up of 728,900 SUVs, up 108.3% on Q1 2014 and 527,900 MPVs, up 24.7%, while tradition passenger car sales actually declined by ‐2.3% to 710,400 units. For the January‐February period, LMC data shows that the Wuling Hongguang was the best selling passenger
model with sales of 122,082, down ‐17% on the same period in 2014. The Volkswagen Lavida was the second best seller with 101,400 sales, a ‐6% reduction on 2014 and the Haval H6 was the third best‐selling passenger model with sales up 32% on the same period in 2014 to 56,303. Air quality issues in China have helped to stimulate the mar‐ ket for alternative fuel vehicles there. Statistics from CAAM show that 27,271 cars fuelled by alternative energy were pro‐ duced in China in Q1 2015 and 26,581 were sold. This breaks down into 16,113 battery electric vehicles (BEV) produced and 15,409 sold, an increase of around 3.7 times more than in Q1 2014. Data for PHEVs show 11,158 were produced and 11,176 sold in Q1, 2.1 times more than in Q1 2014. BUSINESS CARS Not surprisingly, the business car sector is quite different from that in either Europe or North America. Frédéric Hamain, General Manager of ALD China (pictured), explains that one reason is the vast number of leas‐ ing companies in China. “There are so many leasing companies, or so‐called leasing companies in China. I would say around 25,000 companies are doing car leasing. There is no centralised picture. They are called leasing com‐ panies, but everyone has a different definition of what leas‐ ing is. Some view a three‐month lease as long‐term. The ALD Automotive view is that long‐term leasing in China may be around 60,000 cars a day.” Hamain would qualify a further 200,000 cars a day as short‐term rental. Considering there are around
155,000,000 cars on the road in China, the leasing and rental sectors make up a relatively small proportion of the total. For all company cars, it is again difficult to be precise, but Hamain reckons that the total is around 10% of the Euro‐ pean company car sector. He also illustrates the pace of development in the country, “20 years ago in China, there were 5,000 cars and now it’s around 155 million, so it’s extremely fast growing, but not on the corporate market. Every year, there are around 20m cars registered in China and if you include light CVs, that makes maybe 23m. I esti‐ mate that the new cars registered every year by leasing com‐ panies is around 20,000, so it’s roughly 0.1% of the new car market.” This only refers to the corporate car market. Hamain also points to completely different mobility needs in China from either North America of Europe, because of the urbanised population and the size of the cities, which are vast. This has a number of effects. The first is that for transport in cities, there is a choice of pub‐ lic transport and car rental. There are convenient ways to move around the cities without a designated car. Similarly because of the distances involved in travelling around China, business people are more likely to fly between dis‐ tant cities than drive. So overall there is little incentive to offer cars for business transport. Even so, there is still room for significant growth, “Prob‐ ably the average growth for leasing cars to corporates may grow more than 20% per year for the next five years. That’s faster than the car market itself, but still we are at a very low level. We are like China 20 years ago with 5,000 cars on the road, but we can see how that developed.”
The Volkswagen Lavida was the second best seller in China with 101,400 sales.
internationalfleetworld.com / 29
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FLEET FOCUS China
Seven of the top 10 best selling SUVs were Chinese branded, with the Haval H6 the best seller with 56,300 sales in January and February.
→
Users of these cars tend to be at manager level and pro‐ vided as part of their company benefits. “We see some com‐ panies starting to re‐organise their fleet”, comments Hamain, “These are wanting to clarify their costs.” This is because with the rapid expansion seen in the past five years, compa‐ nies were growing so fast that they were not that concerned about costs, “But when you are digging into all the costs, a
leasing solution can be one way to clarify those costs. “We have been asked for advice from several corporates. They tell us they have around 50 cars. After three months of discussion and checking, they find they have 100 cars.” There has been a tendency for managerial staff to have a chauffeur in China, but Hamain thinks that this trend will decrease because of the costs involved.
Best selling passenger car brands in China Jan/Feb 2015 compared with Jan/Feb 2014
Car production in China Jan/Feb 2015 compared with Jan/Feb 2014
Brand
Sales
Change %
Share %
Volkswagen
559,570
4
Changan
206,182
Hyundai
Brand
Volume
Change %
Share %
16.2
SAIC Volkswagen
344,067
-2
10.8
73
6.0
FAW Volkswagen
324,472
29
10.2
179,823
-6
5.2
SAIC GM
283,923
8
8.9
Buick
149,833
-6
4.3
SAIC GM Wuling
186,598
22
5.8
Ford
148,767
15
4.3
Beijing Hyundai
179,900
0
5.6
Wuling
126,090
-14
3.6
Changan Automobile Group
174,543
70
5.5
Toyota
123,020
-11
3.6
Changan Ford
136,998
20
4.3
117,956
-1
3.4
Great Wall Motor
119,595
22
3.7
117,326
-4
3.7
107,043
11
3.4
Chevrolet Kia
106,056
-3
3.1
Dongfeng Nissan
Dongfeng
105,565
40
3.0
Dongfeng Peugeot Citroën
Source LMC Automotive
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Source LMC Automotive
Intelligent Mobility Future Business Models in Connected and Automated Mobility
1 - 2 July 2015, London, United Kingdom Frost & Sullivan is proud to host its 2015 Intelligent Mobility Workshop Join key decision makers, industry experts, government stakeholders from mobility-related functions across the globe on 1st & 2nd of July, for an industry benchmarked workshop show-casing innovation, thought leadership and key mobility trends.
INTERNATIONAL
FLEETW RLD To Register for this Event:
Key Areas of Discussion:
Email: Cyril.Cromier@frost.com For Partnership Opportunities:
Mobility Solutions
Corporate Mobility
New Business Models
Connected Car
Autonomous Vehicles
Big Data & Cyber Security
For General Enquiries:
Integrated Transport Solutions
E-Commerce Platforms
Email: Stefania.Callisto@frost.com
Contact: Kapil Raina on +44 (0) 20 7343 8392 Email: Kapil.Raina@frost.com
ww2.frost.com/event/calendar/intelligent-mobility-2015/
IAM REPORT China
Take a back seat… Advice to business drivers around the world from the Institute of Advanced Motorists. DRIVING IN CHINA If you are considering driving in China for business, it is highly likely your employer will have arranged a driver for you. With driving conditions highly challenging, it is some‐ thing you would be strongly advised to accept. However, if you must drive in China, you must plan well in advance as a standard international driving licence will not meet the requirements. You will need a Chinese licence, and People’s Republic of China rules state that an international driving permit can be converted to a local licence, possibly with an additional examination, which sounds like a great deal of trouble unless you are going to be in the country for some time. A provisional licence can now be obtained quite easily in major cities like Beijing, from places like counters at Beijing Capital Airport, without any tests. Getting a regular licence may be quite complicated, and the rules vary considerably over time. LICENSING First, you need to pass a computerised theory test of over 900 multiple‐choice questions with a requirement to score at least 90% to pass. Generally you can be excused from the actual driving test if you have a foreign licence. Often self‐ drive tours offer a service where the tour operator will obtain the licence for you; it is debatable as to whether you could then use this for business purposes, so check first. If you have navigated all this, there is a wide range of things to be aware of. In mainland China, traffic drives on the right, while their neighbours (Hong Kong, Macau, India) drive on the left. You need to be aware that a government, military, police and fire department vehicle may not follow any rules of the road.
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You will identify them by their white or blue number plates. Road conditions vary widely between municipalities, so be ready for changing conditions. Generally western provinces are poorer than the east coast and Guangzhou region. MISSING DRAIN COVERS If you can, you should drive near the middle‐right of the road, as drain covers are often stolen. You could be sharing the road with pedestrians, bicycles, tricycles and animals – amazingly farmers sometimes use part of the road to dry grains. Be aware that turning off of main roads may require off‐road driving skills and a vehicle to match, and could be illegal. In major city roads traffic is often congested. Beijing, in spite of five ring roads and nine arterial expressways, is generally regarded as a tougher place to drive than Shanghai, which has a series of elevated expressways and tunnels. To the average overseas driver, it may seem there are no rules on Chinese roads. While there of course are, Western‐ ers have to keep their wits about them and try to keep moving. One guide book I found simply said: “Do not assume that Chinese drivers will follow any rule you know.” You need to adopt a ‘defensive’ driving technique, and expect drivers to change lanes without warning or looking. Cutting people off, swerving into the oncoming lane, driving on the hard shoulder, in a fenced‐off bicycle lane, the wrong way down a divided highway are all commonplace – so don’t be surprised! And running red lights is also quite common. You might prefer driving during the night to avoid the dense traffic. If you choose to do this, be aware that many drivers of very large construction trucks prefer to be active between 10pm and 4am on roads like the Jingmilu (Beijing). Some of these lorry drivers might not bother with lights either. So if you do feel brave and take the wheel in China, we wish you the best of luck.
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Online now! For all your fleet needs, visit internationalfleetworld.com
NEWS from the global fleet community
INSIGHT from experts into the fleet industry
ADVICE best practice for running your fleet
T
omTom Automotive announced a string of new business deals at the Geneva Motor Show including a deal with Volkswagen for TomTom Traf‐ fic and Maps, extending its business with Fiat and Chrysler in Latin America, as well as new business with Hyundai, Kia and others. The goal, according to Jan Maarten de Vries, vice president auto‐ motive, TomTom, is to help vehicle manufacturers make the transition to the truly connected car. “We focus on connected navigation where this is concerned,” says de Vries, “With the connected car, you will see that there is so much more software coming into the car and so much more electronics. Consumer expectations are much higher so OEMs are trying to find ways to bring a competitive infotain‐ ment system in the car that is connected with their ‘cloud’ system, that also meets consumer expectations and competes with devices such as smart phones in a proper way. That’s where we can help because we try to bring that innovation to the automotive domain as fast as possible at an affordable cost.” Development and integration Historically, several volume carmakers have tried to launch infotainment systems with varying degrees of success. “I think there are a number of reasons why it has been so difficult to launch a competitive system,” says de Vries, “The number of features is ever expanding. It’s growing rapidly – people are used to a level of functionality on their smart‐ phones. Their expectations of the HMI (Human Machine Interface) and the user experience that works flawlessly is high and they are becoming more demanding. “At the same time these systems need to be integrated with many more sub‐systems in the car and also with the back end and
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INTERVIEW Jan Maarten de Vries, TomTom
On the move.. TomTom made several announcements at the Geneva Show. John Kendall asked TomTom’s Jan Maarten de Vries where he thinks developments are taking us.
that’s a complex task. Then the manufac‐ turer wants to introduce these infotain‐ ment systems across different regions and different car models and all the time the systems are constantly being updated and that is a difficult thing to manage. “These systems can be uncompetitive if the software and the content is not up to date. After the system has been launched in the car, OEMs have become used to not touching the system, because it’s risky and may cause problems. In the consumer electronics world, it is common practice to update the software and the services on a very frequent basis and even change the hardware every six months or each year. That’s a huge contrast with what is happening with these embedded systems. “To make these systems competitive, we need to correct this issue. We are enabling these systems to have fresh and up‐to‐date content, almost on a real‐time basis.” Software updates De Vries says that TomTom is also apply‐ ing development practices to their own software development to do so in a way that does not de‐stabilise the system but allows them to add new innovations and features every two months. “We also stimulate manufacturers to upgrade the software after the launch of the car.” TomTom also has expertise in fusing together data from different sources and using it to benefit users, such as TomTom’s traffic service. “That’s where the link to telematics is,” says de Vries, “If we refer to Volk‐ swagen, we provide a traffic service to Google, but what you see is a telematics service that is being bought by the OEM.” GM launched its OnStar system at the Geneva Motor Show for Vauxhall and Opel customers in Europe. The system has been progressively developed in
North America over many years. OnStar merges infotainment and real time serv‐ ices in an installed system. Connectivity, but how? There were plenty of infotainment systems on display at Geneva and there appear to be some differing trends. Some have opted for embedded SIM cards as the basis of the car’s external connectiv‐ ity, while others rely on the user’s smart‐ phone to make the connections. De Vries sees both systems co‐exist‐ ing in the market place, at least in the short term, “For instance, the deal we announced with Hyundai‐Kia on serv‐ ices makes use of the smartphone for connectivity, but over time what we expect is that embedded connectivity, 3G or 4G will grow at the expense of using the smartphone. That doesn’t mean that it will completely rule out connectivity using smartphones, espe‐ cially for entry‐level models, where it can still be a cost effective model. It’s more flexible to do it, so they will co‐ exist, but over time we think you will see more embedded connectivity.” TomTom also has a separate device for eCall, the Europe wide emergency system that was due to come on stream in 2015. It now looks as though it will be 2017 or 2018 before the system is launched. If a car is involved in a collision, eCall will automatically log the car’s position and call the emergency services, even if the driver is unable to make the call. “Then maybe you will have a separate box for telematics and another for entertain‐ ment,” says de Vries, “It seems to make sense, but that is an architecture decision that’s up to the OEMs. Then we will prob‐ ably see in the architecture more common technology for both the head unit, providing entertainment services as well as the telematics provision unit.”
Private/fleet separation We could also see separation between systems providing information of inter‐ est to fleets and those for private drivers. “The two areas are close together, but the boundaries are getting more blurred,” comments de Vries, “There are still two primary reasons why there are distinct areas. One is the real time services for things like connected navigation and there are things like Spotify that we don’t provide. These are focussed on the consumer, whereas telematics are focused on business customers. “Consumer services are provided as part of the car, provided by the OEM for the driver, whereas the fleet manage‐ ment solution is typically provided to the fleet owner who may have vehicles from different brands. But because the tech‐ nology is close together, I think you may start to see changes in the market.” De Vries can see a trend where vehi‐ cles are getting smarter, by offering some of the services that we have already discussed as well as gathering more data from the car, which may help the driver and may also help with remote vehicle diagnostics and data that can be used for third party services.
“With the connected car, you will see that there is so much more software coming into the car and so much more electronics.”
internationalfleetworld.com / 35
INTERVIEW Mike Masterson, ALD
Benefiting from the emerging markets Weak economies in some developing markets have not stopped growth for ALD Automotive in 2014, as John Kendall reports.
I
n 2014 ALD Automotive expanded its fleet by 9.8% to 1,107,376 vehicles and saw its full service leasing busi‐ ness rise by 6.5% to a total of 813,889 contracts. In all, full service leasing accounted for 73.5% of the total ALD fleet, with vehicles under fleet manage‐ ment making up the remaining 26.5%. ALD’s Spanish business added 25,000 new contracts in 2014, in France the company took on 22,500 more vehicles, while the business in the UK grew by 14.1% and added 13,800 new contracts. Business in South America proved brisk with the fleet in Brazil expanding by 29.6%, representing an additional 4,300 vehicles. Growth in Mexico was also impressive with 3,700 new contracts, a growth of 26.6%. In 19 of the countries where ALD International is represented, the company recorded double digit percentage growth in business, notably in Poland, Norway and India. In the emerging Eastern European countries, the fleet grew from 66,102 cars to 72,748 cars in a region that includes both Russia and the Ukraine, where busi‐ ness is currently under pressure. Growth across Europe has largely been impressive for ALD, but there are
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challenges elsewhere, “There are the difficulties of Brazil’s recession and diffi‐ culties in Ukraine, where the combina‐ tion of economic and political factors are making the overall picture in emerging markets quite uncertain”, says ALD International CEO Mike Masterson, “In Europe I would be surprised if we don’t have a steady improvement like we had last year and probably a slightly higher improvement in Spain and Italy.” Business is more challenging in eastern Ukraine, where it is impossible to obtain insurance, effectively preventing new business opportunities at the moment. Prospects are brighter in countries like Mexico and India, where ALD has already seen double‐digit growth in 2014. In India for instance, the company added 1,300 new contracts, a growth of 14.9%. Masterson expects to see that level of growth continuing into the future: “At the moment, looking at where we stand today, because of the relative immaturity of the market, we’re probably looking at lower double‐digit growth, but clearly the potential is substantial, given the size of the vehicle parc and the population.” Looking at the broader picture, Masterson sees the scale of the
company’s operations as a key factor in its success. It is this that he believes has helped ALD to deliver value. “The other conclusion from that is that on a global scale, there are some real economies that are coming through for customers. We’ve seen over a couple of years, our average lease rate has dropped by around 10%, over a period where the average invest‐ ment per car has been flat. There’s clearly a trend downwards, which comes from scale, purchasing, more efficiency in delivering the services and also a very competitive environment.” ALD has also launched a number of corporate mobility products in the past year or so, but growth for these has been limited, “We’re waiting for the market to move and doing a lot of consultation with customers, but at the moment, the volumes are relatively modest,” says Masterson.
“Clearly the potential in India is substantial, given the size of the vehicle parc and the population.”
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NAFA International Fleet Academy
Creating a dialogue CHAPTER 12
Communicating policy This chapter explains how to induct employees into a culture of road safety and communicate policy effectively to all levels of management.
Reproduced with the kind permission of NAFA Fleet Management Association, this is the latest in a series of extracts from the International Fleet Academy Global Fleet Guide.
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Committed leadership Far too often, leadership is not aware of driving risks until there is a fatality. Fleet managers should work to help leaders see the problem, understand the behaviours that will reduce risk and provide information they can share with employees. Senior management can play a very important role in the communication of the expectation that all employees drive safely and the assurance that appropriate resources (budgets, time, staff etc.) are allocated to fleet safety programmes. Ideally, senior leaders should provide a visible commitment to fleet safety programmes by demonstrating the expected behaviours (attend a behind‐the‐wheel safety training class), and holding general managers accountable for keeping employees safe.
Employee engagement
driver agreement as a condition of driving on company busi‐ ness. By signing an agreement, the driver acknowledges aware‐ ness and understanding of the safety policies and procedures, expectations regarding driver performance, vehicle mainte‐ nance and reporting violations. A driver agreement is also recommended for companies that provide vehicles as benefits. It is a best practice that a copy of the driver agreement is kept in company files and another copy given to the employee. Some companies capture an electronic signature for this purpose as the digital age makes keeping and filing paper documents cumbersome. This is especially true for global corporations.
Driver training
Employee involvement is vital to sustained risk reduction. In some regions and countries (e.g. Europe) this involvement is mandated by local works councils or similar committees. In other regions it will be necessary to develop local committees that include employees at all levels to assist with understand‐ ing the issues, developing solutions and communicating with employees. You should also plan for language translations of communications, policy documents and training, particularly for fleets operating across more than one territory.
Safety policies Safety policies address expected safe driving behaviours and should include substance abuse, impaired driving, seat belt use, use of speed and other aggressive driving behaviours, distracted and fatigued driving. The policy should address your organisation’s expectations regarding behaviour at a crash scene, and how to report a crash. This policy statement should also cover how and under what conditions the organisation would conduct a crash inves‐ tigation and establish criteria for preventability. Driver train‐ ing policies dictate who is trained, how often, in what format, and on what content.
Driver agreements Creating a contract or driver agreement serves to protect the employer and employee. It is recommended that all employees who drive for work purposes, whether they drive assigned company vehicles or their personal vehicles, should sign a
Readers can review the full article – and much more – by purchasing the Global Guide through the NAFA website: www.nafa.org/
The most effective time for extensive systematic training is right after the driver is hired and before being assigned to a vehicle. The initial training should bring the knowledge and skill of the new driver up to the level needed to perform the job properly. As such, you will want to provide an orientation for all employ‐ ees who have driving responsibilities. Refresher training is a review of the initial training with updates on training materials, problems, or regulations. Ongo‐ ing training and communication in safe driving practices can improve attitudes, skills and knowledge of rules of the road. Remedial training is designed for drivers who have had a number of violations or crashes. Discussing how the crash could have been prevented works well in this situation with a focus on defensive driving skills. This type of training is not intended to teach drivers how to drive, but rather to remind them of just how important defensive and safe driving is – to the driver and the company.
Next month... How to motivate staff to drive safely and deal with incidents on the road.
internationalfleetworld.com / 39
PROFILE Kia Motors
Kia to success Kia’s long-standing partnership with Dongfeng continued to flourish in 2014, helping the Korean brand maintain overall growth despite a slight downturn in some markets. A continued investment in international operations and alternative drivetrain R&D projects will strengthen Kia’s global growth in 2015, assisted by new key models set for launch‌
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Manufacturer Kia Motors Total sales 2014 2,907,757 Headquarters Seoul, South Korea Global market share 3.5% No. of models 15
view
from the top
Investment in production...
K
ia Motors Corporation recorded a 6% cumulative year‐on‐year sales increase in 2014 compared to 2013, thanks largely to strong sales in China and inter‐ national markets. The brand’s 2014 bestselling model was the B‐segment Rio (known as ‘K2’ in China) with 491,613 units sold, followed by the C‐segment Cerato (known as ‘Forte’ or ‘K3’ in some markets) with 432,420 units delivered. The Sportage compact SUV, Optima D‐segment sedan and Soul urban crossover followed with 416,856; 300,685 and 194,572 units sold, respectively. Kia now holds a 2.6% share of European sales, up from 1.6% in 2009, with a 47.3% increase to 296,768 units in 2014. Its biggest sellers in the region– Sportage, cee’d and Venga – are all built locally, helping to reduce lead times. Kia experienced a slight tail‐ ing off of European sales towards the end of 2014 but the Sportage midsized SUV and the new‐generation Sorento large SUV are expected to reestablish growth in 2015. The manufacturer performed mid‐life upgrades of the Sportage, Optima, Venga and Rio in 2014, as well as launching a new Soul into the rapidly expanding B‐SUV sector. The first‐generation Soul performed particularly well in the United States, where it gained sales from the Toyota Scion xB and Nissan Cube, and Kia maintained the same boxy style language for the second‐generation model. The platform for the new model is shared with the cee’d rather than the Venga, and while CO2 and economy figures are above segment benchmarks, improvements to the driving experience and material quality have helped lift sales. Kia has been present in China for more than 10 years and currently has two assem‐ bly operations working at full capacity, with plans for a third plant awaiting approval. By the end of 2016, Kia aims to build one million units per year in the country. China is now one of Kia’s top three markets along with South Korea itself and North America, and models such as the KX3 concept, unveiled at the 2014 Guangzhou Motor Show, are being developed to meet the specific needs of Chinese customers. The KX3 concept has been designed and engineered through Dongfeng Yueda Kia, the Korean brand’s joint venture in China, and hints at a China‐only SUV production model. A $1bn agreement to build a new production plant in Mexico was finalised in August 2014, with construction on the Kia Motors Mexico plant in Nuevo León sched‐ uled for completion in early 2016. It will boast a targeted annual production capac‐ ity of 300,000 vehicles, and Kia expects the Mexico plant to play a major role in alleviating current global supply issues thanks to its strategic geographic location. Its proximity to the USA will enable the company to better address the ongoing supply shortage situation, and Kia plans to utilise the plant to strengthen the brand’s sales presence throughout the entire Central and South America region. The brand is also rumoured to be considering a plant in India to establish a local foothold in this fast‐growing market.
KIA MOTORS Global sales, by territory Territory S. Korea China North America Europe Other Total
2013 456,078 574,742 607,702 590,365 514,064 2,742,951
2014 465,200 678,196 650,241 589,775 524,345 2,907,757*
*Total sales of passenger cars, RVs & commercial vehicles
% change +2% +18% +7% -0.1% +2% +6%
John Hargreaves, head of fleet and remarketing at Kia UK, on the brand’s growing user-chooser appeal. What are your expectations for the forthcoming Optima, compared to the outgoing car? We are expecting a substantial increase with the new model – this is partly due to the improved CO2 posi‐ tion and also because we expect to have a larger number of cars avail‐ able for sale in the European markets. Whilst the estate version is not definitely confirmed, following the recent Sportspace concept we are hopeful that this car will be avail‐ able for sale as, of course, estates are a significant part of the upper‐ medium market and we have performed very strongly with cee’d SW in the lower–medium sector. Has there been a push towards your higher trim levels in recent years? To a degree this varies by model line – in general, all our derivatives are very well specified and this extends right down to the lead‐in models – for cee’d, for example, in the UK last year over 20% of our fleet sales were entry level models even though the most popular single vehicle was a mid‐range specification. As you would expect, the situation is slightly different with the larger models – for example over one quarter of our 2014 UK sales of Sportage were in the higher trim levels. How will Kia carry its sales momentum into 2015? We have traditionally had a strong presence in the essential user, job need part of the market with prod‐ ucts such as cee’d which have very competitive whole life costs. Prod‐ ucts such as Sportage have opened up the user‐chooser market for us with company drivers selecting Kia for style as well as cost of ownership reasons. This style/cost effectiveness combination will continue in 2015 with two major new models – Sorento and Optima.
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internationalfleetworld.com / 41
PROFILE Kia Motors
→
Where are they made?
Manufacturing plant locations
1 Sohari Plant, Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi
Province, S. Korea – Rio (Pride), Sedona (Carnival), K9 (Quoris) 2 Hwaseong Plant, Gyeonggi Province,
S. Korea – K3, Optima (K5), K7, Sorento, Mojave (Borrego) 3 Gwangju Plant, Gyeonggi Province,
S. Korea – Soul, Carens (Rondo), Sportage 4 Seosan Plant, South Chungcheong
8
Province, S. Korea – Picanto (Morning) 5 Yancheng Plant 1, Jiangsu Province,
China – Soul, Sportage, Optima, Rio 6 Yancheng Plant 2, Jiangsu Province,
7
China – Cerato, Forte, Optima (K5), K2 7 Georgia Plant (KMMG), West Point,
Georgia, USA – Sorento, Optima 8 Žilina Plant, Teplicka nad Vahom,
Slovakia – cee’d, cee’d Sportswagon, pro_cee’d, Sportage, Venga Elsewhere • Kia builds 100,000 cars a year at a facility shared with Hyundai at St.Petersburg in Russia. • 60,000 Kias, rebadged as Nazas, are built at a site in Gurun, north-west Malaysia, for sale locally and in other Asian markets • Vietnam Motors Corporation builds 20,000 Kias per year at a facility on the outskirts of Hanoi
4
5 6
• Kia also has CKD assembly operations in Thailand, Pakistan, Iran, Egypt and Ecuador
FIN L
Focus on alternative drivetrains...
fleet in numbers
15%
Estimated improvement in economy with Kia’s new hybrid system.
3.37m Kia’s global production capacity by Q1 2016.
150km Range of Soul EV on a single charge.
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aunched in April 2015, new Sorento kicked off a busy launch schedule for Kia which also includes face‐lifted versions of Rio and Picanto in Q4. The large SUV is available in five or seven‐seat configurations in international markets, and the 147kw 2.2‐litre diesel engine comes fitted with a six‐speed manual or six‐speed automatic gearbox, as well as standard four‐wheel drive. Due in 2016, Kia hopes to rival Mondeo and Passat dominace of the D‐segment with its new Optima. Based on the Sportspace concept previewed at the Geneva Motor Show, the model is likely to utilise Kia’s new mild hybrid system and first dual‐clutch transmission. Set to appear on all new models from 2015, Kia’s seven‐speed dual‐clutch trans‐ mission will replace the existing six‐speed automatic, and is claimed to offer a 5% improvement on acceleration times while achieving a 7% fuel efficiency uplift. A new hybrid system is also due for an imminent launch, allowing all‐electric driv‐ ing using a small electric motor. Developed in Germany, the system comprises a battery and motor‐generator, the latter offering regenerative braking while decelerating, functioning as the engine starter and alternator and providing power while cruising or at low speeds. Following the launch of the Kia Soul EV in July 2014, Kia unveiled a four‐ wheel drive hybrid concept at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show. The concept’s drivetrain combines a 190hp turbocharged petrol engine, which powers the front wheels, with a 35hp electric rear axle, supplied with electricity via a battery under the boot floor. Helped by a Hybrid Starter Generator on the petrol engine, which shuts it off when not required and can charge the battery, Kia claims 30% better fuel econ‐ omy in the city, and 10% on the motorway compared to the 2.0‐litre petrol Soul. “Kia is committed to developing hybrids, plug‐in hybrids, battery electric and fuel cell electric vehicles to provide, primarily, city‐dwellers with a clean and usable alternative to internal combustion engines,” explains John Hargreaves, head of fleet and remarketing at Kia UK. “However, the fuel cell electric vehicle currently remains an expensive option, so until proper infrastructure is provided and legislative bodies provide the right kind of encouragement, the development of these vehicles will remain slow and piecemeal.” To help tackle the issue of infrastructure for electric vehicles, Kia is planning a network of charging points spanning its retailers and head offices across Europe, starting with the addition of two 100kW rapid chargers at its European HQ in Frankfurt in September 2014.
1 2 3
KIA fleet model range
Picanto / Morning
Ray
Rio / Pride
Variants: 3/5dr hatchback Markets: Europe, Asia, South America, Oceania Fuel: 3.6-6.5l/100km CO2: 99-145g/km
Variants: 5dr hatchback Markets: Asia Fuel: 0.0-5.6l/100km* CO2: 0-131g/km*
Variants: 3/5dr hatchback, 4dr saloon Markets: Europe, Asia, North America, Oceania Fuel: 3.3-6.3l/100km CO2: 86-150g/km
Venga
cee’d
Soul
Variants: 5dr hatchback Markets: Europe Fuel: 4.0-5.7 l/100km CO2: 117-154g/km
Variants: : 3/5dr hatchback, wagon Markets: Europe, Oceania Fuel: 3.5-7.4l/100km CO2: 97-171g/km
Variants: Crossover Markets: Global Fuel: 0.0-8.4l/100km CO2: 0-195g/km
Sportage
Carens / Rondo
K3 / Cerato / Forte / Shuma
Variants: Crossover Markets: Global Fuel: 6.3-8.6l/100km CO2: 139-206g/km
Variants: MPV Markets: Europe, Asia, Oceania Fuel: 4.3-7.5l/100km CO2: 127-184g/km
Variants: 5dr hatchback, 4dr saloon, Coupe Markets: Asia, N. America, S. America, Oceania Fuel: 6.6-7.7l/100km CO2: 158-184g/km
K5 / Optima
Sorento
K7 / Cadenza
Variants: 4dr saloon Markets: Global Fuel: 4.4-7.9l/100km CO2: 119-189g/km
Variants: SUV Markets: Global Fuel: 5.7-6.7l/100km CO2: 149-177g/km
Variants: 4dr saloon Markets: Asia, North America, South America Fuel: 6.7-7.7l/100km* CO2: 155-178g/km*
K9 / K900 / Quoris
Mohave / Borrego
Sedona / Carnival
Variants: 4dr saloon Markets: Europe, Asia, N. America, S. America Fuel: 8.0-10.3l/100km* CO2: 186-238g/km*
Variants: 3/5dr hatchback, 4dr saloon, wagon, crossover, MPV, Coupe, SUV Markets: Europe, Asia, N. America, S. America Fuel: 9.3-11.6l/100km CO2: 245-269g/km
Variants: MPV Markets: Asia, N. America, S. America, Oceania Fuel: 7.7-11.6l/100km CO2: 199-271g/km
*Figures in brackets are calculated from non-NEDC combined cycle tests.
internationalfleetworld.com / 43
Mercedes-Benz Vito New Vito looks set to take on the class leaders in the medium panel van sector, reckons John Kendall. SECTOR Van PRICE From €17,990 FUEL 6.0l/100km CO2 170g/km
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ercedes claims a first for offering front, rear and start, requiring the AdBlue additive. The 1.6‐litre engine is four‐wheel drive models in this sector of the van available as a Euro 5 compliant engine initially. The four gross market. Vito went on sale in most European mar‐ weight ratings are 2,500kg, 2,800kg, 3,050kg and 3,200kg. kets in September 2014 and right‐hand‐drive sales have There’s a lot of standard equipment in the Vito spec recently followed. including Attention Assist to ensure the driver remains For front drive models, Mercedes is using the Renault‐ alert, Crosswind Assist and a tyre pressure monitoring sys‐ Nissan 1.6‐litre turbocharged diesel, similar to that in the tem. Other equipment includes cruise control, a speed lim‐ Renault Trafic and Vauxhall Vivaro. This engine provides iter, a trip computer and 5.8‐inch dashboard display. the two lower power ratings for the van, with 88hp and Bluetooth connectivity, USB and aux in ports, iPod interface 114hp, badged 109CDI and 111CDI. Mercedes 2.15‐litre and SD memory card slots are also available. In the load diesel has been revised to meet Euro 6 emissions regula‐ area, twin rear doors, two side loading doors and a full tions and is available in three power rat‐ height bulkhead are all available. ings; 136hp (114 BlueTEC), 163hp (116 Unfortunately we didn’t drive one of BlueTEC), and 190hp (119 BlueTEC). the new front‐wheel drive models, but All engine options are available with all were able to sample a 114BlueTEC vari‐ three body lengths and weights. The three ant as a Long van and Long Tourer in the lengths are designated Compact, Long and entry‐level PRO spec. The van was loaded Extra Long and each is available as a panel to 500kg. Even so, the 136hp engine gave van, crew van or passenger carrying respectable performance on a mix of Tourer. Tourers are available with two trim roads including motorway. Noise levels choices; Tourer Select and Tourer PRO. were low in the van and eight‐seater Prices start from €17,990 (ex‐taxes) for Tourer, while ride and handling felt as the 109 CDI panel van. Perhaps surpris‐ though they could be a match for the Ford ingly it is the larger engined 116 and 119 Transit Custom. A load always helps to BlueTEC models that are the economy improve ride quality but the unladen champions, both returning 6.0l/100km on Tourer also provided a smooth ride. The new Vito has class the combined cycle. All rear drive models The weight took up a good deal of the leading potential, and is a get the option of Mercedes’ BlueEFFI‐ load space but minimal taper to the body capable challenger to the CIENCY package, which includes alterna‐ sides helps maximise available space tor management, improved under body and there are sturdy looking tie‐down Ford Transit Courier. With aerodynamics and automatic engine eyes in the floor and lower body sides. potential for low running Stop/Start. Alternator management There was plenty of room for the driver costs, it seems to offer ensures that the battery is only charged with comfortable seat adjustment, plenty of fleet appeal. during coasting or deceleration. 2.15‐litre although the fixed twin passenger seat engines are Euro 6 compliant from the in the van limited legroom.
what we think
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Mazda6 Mazda’s revisions for the Mazda6 make a good car better, reckons John Kendall. SECTOR Upper medium PRICE From €19,250 FUEL 3.9–5.9l/100km CO2 106–137g/km
I
available for the Mazda6 too. t was clear from launch that Mazda had a winner on its The first impression from behind the wheel is that hands with the third generation Mazda6, launched in although the changes are subtle, they have succeeded in 2013. The design, using Mazda’s Kodo design language making the car feel more upmarket. One of the weaknesses gave the car a distinctive appearance and is arguably one of of the 2013 model was the satellite navigation system, the best looking D‐segment models available. So how do you which I found did not always do what was hoped of it. The improve on a car that got so much right first time? new system gains a seven‐inch touchscreen display, tied in Mazda has taken on board some of the criticism of the with Mazda’s MZD Connect system for Bluetooth connec‐ 2013 model as well as adding in some additional safety tivity. Although we didn’t have much time to use the system equipment. As a result, the revised Mazda6, which went on the launch, it looks and feels a big improvement over the on sale in many markets earlier this year, gains a better previous system. It includes a number of infotainment dashboard layout, the option of an electrically operated options too, some of which were avail‐ handbrake and optional adaptive LED able before, but the whole system is eas‐ headlights (ALH). ier and more intuitive to use. New safety systems include blind spot I should also mention that Mazda has monitoring (BSM), rear cross traffic alert also revised the suspension settings and (RCTA), Lane Keeping Assist (LAS), provided better sound insulation. I liked Driver Attention Alerts (DAA) and Smart the 2013 model’s firm suspension, but City Brake Support Forward/Reverse I’m sure that added comfort will be wel‐ (SCBS F/R). BSM compliments the exist‐ comed by passengers in particular. The ing Rear Vehicle Monitoring (RVM) sys‐ reduced noise levels are definitely wel‐ tem’s range. RCTA alerts the driver to come. Road noise in particular was more approaching vehicles when reversing. noticeable than it should have been and LAS adds steering torque assistance to less is better. help prevent the car from drifting out of There are no mechanical changes apart its lane, while DAA monitors the driver’s from the four‐wheel‐drive option and the behaviour for signs of drowsiness and The Mazda6 really 2.2‐litre diesel that will no doubt be the recommends a break if appropriate. SCBS benefits from the choice for many fleet users is as impres‐ F/R adds smart city braking to the car changes. The interior sive as before, except that with better when in reverse to brake if there is a risk road insulation, its refinement is perhaps of collision. has a more upmarket more impressive with less road noise. Diesel Mazda6 wagon models are now appearance and the Mazda’s aim appears to be to move the available with Mazda’s latest all‐wheel‐ infotainment system Mazda6 upmarket and if so the company drive system, similar to that used on the is far better. is on the right track with the changes it CX‐5. Last but not least, the head‐up dis‐ has made. play first used on the Mazda3 is now
what we think
internationalfleetworld.com / 45
SEAT Leon X-Perience X-Perience gives SEAT a crossover offering ahead of an SUV debut next year, says John Kendall. SECTOR Crossover PRICE From €23,227 FUEL 4.9l/100km CO2 122–150g/km
T
o say that within the VW Group, SEAT has been a bit or the 184hp version. The excellent DSG twin clutch six‐ light on the SUV and crossover front is a bit of an speed automated transmission is available with the 1.8‐litre understatement. Volkswagen has Golf Alltrack, petrol and selected diesels, check your market specification. Tiguan and Touareg, Audi is all ‘Qs’ and Allroad, while The 1.8‐litre petrol engine gives CO2 emissions of 150g/km. Not surprisingly, it’s the diesels that offer the lowest CO 2 Skoda has Yeti and Octavia Scout. emissions and fuel consumption. The 1.6‐litre TDI gives OK, there used to be the Altea Freetrack, but SEAT is now 122g/km, while the 150hp and 184hp 2.0 TDI models are emerging from the shadows. Leon X‐Perience, in some ways both rated at 129g/km. All models are Euro 6 compliant. a successor to the Altea Freetrack, with its Haldex four‐ X‐Perience models are well specified with a host of wheel drive system is merely the starting point. SEAT optional equipment too. A full‐length panoramic sunroof is showed the 20V20 SUV concept at the recent Geneva Motor on the options list as is adaptive cruise control. The boot Show and there will be a compact SUV arriving in show‐ has a floor that can be set at two levels rooms next year after making its debut giving a capacity of 587 litres, expanding at the Geneva Show 2016. to 1,470 litres with rear seats folded. X‐Perience is based on the Leon ST If you have driven a Haldex equipped estate model with 15mm raised ground model before, the Leon X‐Perience clearance and the almost obligatory sill will not hold surprises. The raised sus‐ and wheel arch protective mouldings. As pension is noticeable when getting in, we have hinted, all models get the latest but otherwise it feels like a Leon ST, version of the Haldex four‐wheel drive. until you get under way. The 4x4 system This smart system drives the front wheels is unobtrusive, as intended, but ride only for most of the time, but when loss of quality is more compliant than the traction is detected, will divert drive to front‐drive Leons. That combination of the rear wheels. It is infinitely variable, slightly higher driving position and capable of sending all the drive to the rear greater comfort would appeal to older wheels when necessary, or any front/rear drivers, but the X‐Perience is all about drive split it senses is best. For traction in Leon X-Perience “Active Lifestyles,” says SEAT. snow and ice, or towing a trailer onto a signals SEAT’s entry With crossover and SUV sales still muddy field, it’s an ideal system. into the crossover and growing and the cars seen as desirable, it X‐Perience comes with a full choice of ought to ensure some competitive leas‐ petrol and diesel engines, depending on SUV sector. It offers ing prices as RVs should hold up well, market. There’s just one petrol engine, all the advantages maybe with a bit of help from arriving the 1.8‐litre 180hp TSI. Diesels include of the ST with allSEAT SUVs next year. It’s a welcome addi‐ the 110hp 1.6‐litre TDI and the 2.0TDI weather traction. tion to the Leon range, offering more engine used extensively across the VW design verve than an Octavia Scout. Group. For this, there’s a choice of 150hp
what we think
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Jeep Renegade Renegade is Jeep’s first European built model and looks like a winner, says John Kendall. SECTOR SUV PRICE From €16,380 FUEL 4.6–6.9l/100km CO2 120–160g/km
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The most fleet friendly version is the 1.6‐litre diesel, offer‐ UVs and me don't always hit it off. While I like the rel‐ ing CO2 emissions of 120g/km and combined consumption atively good accommodation that the high rise seat‐ of 4.6l/100km. Four‐wheel drive is available with the ing position often gives, I'm often underwhelmed by 160hp MultiAir engine and the 2.0‐litre diesel. the handling precision or ride quality. But as a motoring It's hard to fault the Renegade's accommodation, given its journalist, such things frequently matter more to me than comparatively compact dimensions. There's space for those who are likely to choose them. Even so it’s 1.85m tall occupants to sit behind one another and reason‐ welcome to find an SUV that shows how well things can be able luggage space in the boot with 351 litres seats up, plus done. The Jeep Renegade is such a vehicle. the usual seat folding arrangements to liberate up to 1,297‐ I have been waiting to drive it since it first emerged at litres. Front seat passengers sit a comfortable distance from the Geneva Show last year. Firstly because of it's design the windscreen, which adds to the impression of space. which almost seems to poke fun at larger SUVs and sec‐ Off road, the availability of a low ratio ondly because it is based on the Fiat gearbox with the 2.0‐litre diesels ensures 500L, probably the least impressive car that the Renegade can deliver uninhib‐ to wear Fiat 500 badges. Could the ited Jeep off‐road performance, helped Renegade do better? by Jeep’s Selec‐Terrain which gives four Jeep has something for everyone with (five with Trailhawk versions) terrain the Renegade – two and four‐wheel drive settings; Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud, plus and in case you forget that it's a Jeep, the Rock for Trailhawk models. In Auto Trailhawk variant is a proper off‐roader, mode, the rear axle will be disconnected with transfer gearbox giving low ratio during normal on road driving. gears for serious off‐road work. Comfort is not sacrificed on‐road There's an equally broad range of either with a supple ride on tarmac. 4x4 engines including 140hp and 170hp models have a 30mm higher ride height 1.4‐litre MultiAir and 110hp 1.6‐litre than 4x2 models, while the Trailhawk E‐torQ petrol. Fleet‐friendly diesels, all rides slightly higher still. from the Fiat engine room include Jeep is taking on the There are four trim options and a long 120hp 1.6‐litre with 140hp and 170hp class leaders in the list of additional items too including 2.0‐litre common rail versions. Trans‐ compact SUV sector detachable lift‐out roof sections and a missions include six speed manual for number of infotainment and connectiv‐ most engines, six‐speed dual clutch with the very capable ity systems. automated for the 140hp MultiAir, as Renegade. It looks Renegade is the first Jeep to be built in well as a ZF nine‐speed torque con‐ like a success story Europe and sold in the USA. All production verter automatic, similar to that used in in the making. will come from a plant in Melfi, Italy and it the Honda C‐RV, available with the will be sold in 100 different countries. 170hp MultiAir and 2.0‐litre diesels.
what we think
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WHY YOU NEED TO BE THERE! INDOOR EXHIBITION
SEMINAR PROGRAMME
With nearly 100 exhibitors already signed up, the indoor exhibition area at Fleet Show 2015 promises to provide visitors with plenty of opportunities to discover new products, services and suppliers. Covering everything from accident management to telematics, exhibitors in the indoor exhibition area will be primed to provide fleet buyers with information on how to make their fleet safer, more environmentally friendly, more cost-effective and more effective as a means of recruiting and retaining staff.
Fleet Show 2014 pioneered a new kind of seminar programme in which all the content was collated and presented by a team of experienced fleet managers. Audience feedback was unequivocally positive and as a result the same format will be adopted in 2015. Under the chairmanship of Dennis Dugen - Fleet & Employee Benefits Manager for WSP Group - our team of professional fleet managers will present the latest thinking on: • Fundamentals of Fleet Management • Environmental Management • Risk Management • Procurement and supplier agreements Further seminars and training sessions will be available throughout the day.
OFF-ROAD COURSE The off-road course will be in operation throughout the day. Visitors who have experience of driving 4x4s will be able to test a wide range of vehicles over the challenging course, while those who haven’t driven offroad before can pick up some of the key skills from our team of instructors.
TRACK DRIVING With so many different areas to choose from, Silverstone Circuit provides the perfect location for test driving new cars and vans. At Fleet Show 2015 visitors can experience: > NATIONAL
> INTERNATIONAL
> STOWE
VILLAGE CORNER THE LOOP
ABBEY COPSE CORNER WOODCOTE CORNER
NATIONAL PITS STRAIGHT
FARM CURVE INTERNATIONAL PITS STRAIGHT
CHAPEL CURVE
BROOKLANDS CORNER
WELLINGTON STRAIGHT
HANGAR STRAIGHT
LUFFIELD CORNER MAGGOTTS CORNER
CLUB CORNER
SPONSORED BY
VALE
AINTREE CORNER
STOWE CORNER
All drives will be accompanied by either a professional racing driver or a representative of the motor manufacturer. Drivers on the National circuit will be able to experience the full excitement of the iconic Silverstone Circuit.
NETWORKING LOUNGE Fleet Show 2015 will provide visitors with a full day of informative experiences, but there’s always time to sit down for a chat with colleagues old and new. The networking lounge in Hall 3 proved to be something of a magnet for visitors to last year’s show and with so many of the industry’s major players in attendance, the networking lounge will once again be the place WHERE THE FLEET INDUSTRY MEETS.
SILVERSTONE CIRCUIT
12TH MAY 2015 www.thefleetshow.co.uk FLEET DRIVER OF THE YEAR Now in its third year, Fleet Driver of the Year 2015 is a driving competition like no other. It puts fleet drivers’ skills to the ultimate test through a thorough three-month assessment to find the UK’s best company car driver and promote safer, smarter driving. The event was launched by ALD Automotive, in association with event partners Toyota & Lexus Fleet Services. The final of the prestigious competition will take place at the Fleet World Fleet Show 2015.
REGISTER TODAY and be part of the action at the Fleet Show 2015, visit www.thefleetshow.co.uk
fleet in figures
Varied fortunes in Europe The overall picture might be of strong growth but as John Kendall finds out, there are several regions where a weak economy is taking its toll.
SEAT SEAT Leon sales helped to raise registrations for the Volkswagen Group by 16.2% in Q1.
Global market strong in Q1 A global light vehicle market that is gaining momentum is the picture painted by the latest data from LMC Automotive. LMCA sees January and February as a soft patch, although Scotiabank in its April Global Auto Report suggests that global car sales climbed to record peaks in February, with sales around 1% higher than in
50 / internationalfleetworld.com
February 2015. Both LMCA and Scotia‐ bank are agreed on where the strong markets are – Western Europe, North America and Asia and also where the markets are struggling – Russia and South America. Scotiabank points to Russian sales falling ‐38% in February compared with February 2014, while LMCA data for Eastern Europe, includ‐ ing Russia, shows first Quarter (Q1)
sales down ‐19.9% to 843,921. Q1 global light vehicle sales rose 1.4% to 22,097,965 compared with Q1 2014.
Slow growth in South America LMCA points to a selling rate in Brazil that increased by almost 9% in March, but this cannot buck the downward trend. Factors include impending reces‐ sion, soaring inflation and interest rates
as well as high levels of consumer debt, expected to bring the market down this year. LMCA Q1 data for Brazil and Argentina shows a market down ‐18.5% compared with 2014 to 798,595 sales. Of Argentina, LMCA says; “The sales out‐ look remains bleak, with falling real wages and deteriorating job prospects making consumers very cautious.” Scotiabank also focuses on Brazil’s north‐western neighbour, Colombia. “Colombia was the strongest economy in South America last year, with car sales climbing 12%. However, sales in Colombia have declined for two consec‐ utive months, falling 7% year‐to‐date,” says Carlos Gomes in the Scotiabank Global Auto report for April. Gomes points out that Colombia’s exports in January were ‐40% below those a year earlier, due mostly to a reduction of over 60% in petrol receipts. Q1 results for North America show US light vehicle sales up 5.7% com‐ pared with Q1 2014 to 3,948,553, while Q1 results for Canada showed a 2.4% increase to 367,888.
China strong but Japan down We discuss the market in China else‐ where this issue, but overall light vehicle sales are up 5.5% to 6,292,551 according to LMCA data. Passenger car sales are booming and light CV sales are falling, partly due to tighter emissions limits introduced for LCVs at the beginning of the year. LMCA comments, “The economy is showing signs of further slowdown. The rising risk of deflation, the sharp deceleration of the once booming prop‐ erty sector, and the uncertain global out‐ look are expected to force the government to step up its monetary and fiscal easing measures. If so, sales could pick up their pace in the coming months.” The Q1 light vehicle market in Japan is down ‐14.4% compared with 2014 to 1,544,662, according to LMCA, which notes, “The annual Mini Vehicle tax
has been raised and the rules to qualify for the ‘eco‐car tax exemptions’ have been tightened. As such, sales are expected to lose momentum again in the coming months.” The picture is different in South Korea where the Q1 market rose 5.9% to 395,202 according to LMCA data. The company attributes this to falling infla‐ tion, record low interest rates and a strong currency, but also suggests that a slow economy and falling job market are concerns.
Strong growth in Western Europe Overall demand for passenger cars in Western Europe increased for the 19th consecutive month, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA). ACEA data for EU27 registrations for Q1 show that the mar‐ ket rose by 8.6% to 3,527,704 registra‐ tions, with most countries registering an increase during the period. Austria, Belgium, Finland, Luxemburg, Poland and Slovakia all experienced falling reg‐ istrations during Q1, but ACEA data for March shows that only the Netherlands and Poland recorded declines in March. Spain posted the largest increase with registrations up 32.2% for Q1 compared with 2014 to 267,137, although the mar‐ ket is still a long way below the peak before the economic crisis. The other ‘Big 5’ European countries all posted Q1 increases with France up 6.9% to 477,319, Italy up 13.5% to 428,464, Ger‐ many up 6.4% to 757,630 and the UK up 6.8% to 734,588. Volkswagen remained both the strongest group in the EU27 and strongest brand with Volkswagen registering 421,486 cars in Q1, an increase of 10.7% on 2014. SEAT and Porsche recorded the highest percentage increases in the Volk‐ swagen Group with SEAT Leon sales help‐ ing to raise registrations by 16.2% in Q1 to 87,532. The arrival of the Macan is clearly having an effect on Porsche sales
as registrations rose by 47.2% in Q1 com‐ pared with 2014 to 15,864. Jeep continues to perform strongly for the FCA Group with Q1 registrations fired by the Renegade to a 206.8% increase over 2014 to 20,689.
Europe LCV: Ford Renault leadership
challenges
The European LCV sector is being shaken up by Ford at the moment. Renault has dominated European light CV sales for some years, but a resurgent Ford is put‐ ting Renault under pressure. A renewed range, focussed under the Transit brand gives Ford coverage of the light to heavy van sectors, with the Transit Courier, Con‐ nect, Custom and two‐tonne models, as well as the car‐derived Fiesta van and Ranger pickup truck. The company is also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the launch of the Ford Transit this year, a model that has been the best selling light CV in the UK for the past 50 years. In Q1, Ford was the top selling light CV manufacturer in Europe although it is only represented in 20 of the EU27 mar‐ kets. Ford’s light CV registrations reached 70,646 in Q1, a 42.4% increase over 2014, giving Ford a 13.3% share of the Western European light CV sector. According to Ford, combined demand for the Transit and Transit Custom models grew by 27%, with sales exceeding 45,000 units in Q1. In the same period, Transit Connect sales rose by 69% – the model was launched in 2014. The Tran‐ sit Courier, the smallest model launched late last year sold 4,400 units. Ford also claimed leadership in the pickup sector with Q1 sales of the Ranger pickup rising 46% compared with 2014 to 6,578. Ford says that Q1 orders for its commercial vehicles in Europe rose by 87% year on year. With no new light CV product expected from Renault this year, the company could have a fight on its hands to maintain its European LCV market leadership.
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