April 2018
INSIDE • CV SHOW PREVIEW • 2018 VAN AWARDS • CONVERSIONS • FIRST DRIVES
CLEAN LIVING Ford’s Mark Harvey discusses the new Transit Custom PHEV as it reaches fleets
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9TH MAY 2018 vanfleetworld.co.uk
April 2018
INSIDE • CV SHOW PREVIEW • 2018 VAN AWARDS • CONVERSIONS • FIRST DRIVES
CLEAN LIVING
Ford’s Mark Harvey discusses the new Transit Custom Plug-in hybrid as it reaches fleets
Kia's K Ki ia a''s Albert Alb Al bee Biermann on the h importance of ‘fun to drive’
contents
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Register now at thefleetshow.co.uk
9TH MAY 2018 vanfleetworld.co.uk
Director Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Editor Dan Gilkes dan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW 2018 PREVIEW
Business Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Content Editor Jonathan Musk jonathan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk FW Editor Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Fleet Consultant Steve Moody steve@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Account Directors Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Yvonne Wright yvonne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
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Kevin Gregory – Van Fleet World kevin@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
LAUNCH REPORT: Mitsubishi Fuso eCanter unveiled
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Designers Dan Bennett dan.bennett@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Tina Ries tina@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Dan Desta daniel@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
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DRIVEN: Isuzu Blade Renault Kangoo Isuzu Grafter
Celebrating the best in the LCV fleet industry
Circulation Manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
Transit Custom Plug-in Hybrid
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Account Executive Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk
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review It is certainly an exciting time to be involved in the light commercial vehicle market. In the last month I’ve been to launches of full electric vans and trucks, taken a closer look at a plug-in hybrid van and had the opportunity to see just some of the technology that is coming our way in the next few years. t seems that we are at a major tipping point and, while developments over the last few years might have seemed to be moving at a glacially slow pace, things are going to start happening much more quickly going forwards. When a manufacturer the size of Mercedes-Benz Trucks tells you that by the middle of the next decade 25% of the vehicles that it sells will be electric, you can see that the van and light truck market is set for major upheaval. While that may be exciting news for a magazine editor, it must be a real headache for fleet managers. Planning ahead three or five years requires information, expert advice and usable data. Which is one of the reasons that anyone responsible for the running of a fleet of vehicles should take the time to attend this year’s Fleet Show, at the Silverstone circuit on May 9. An increasing number of manufacturers will be bringing vans and pickups to this year’s event, alongside their latest cars. Visitors will have the opportunity to put those vans to the test, with the Stowe circuit dedicated to light commercial driving. But there is more to the show than getting behind the wheel, with numerous service and product suppliers on hand to demonstrate and advise on the latest technology, to help inform your business decisions. To register for free entry to the Fleet Show, visit www.thefleetshow.co.uk The technology that surrounds vehicle operation has never been more vital to business users and it was particularly pleasing to see record numbers of suppliers entering the Van Fleet World/Vans A2Z Awards this year. While it made the decision making process harder for the judges, the innovation and engineering excellence on show, in telematics, cool chain management, vehicle construction and leasing, proved that there is no shortage of help available for fleet managers, whatever the requirement. Full results of the 2018 Van Awards are included in this issue and I would like to once again congratulate all the category winners.
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Don’t miss out on all the latest daily LCV news! Visit our website vanfleetworld.co.uk
9TH MAY 2018
SILVERSTONE CIRCUIT
i nbusiness
Vauxhall plant secures £100m PSA investment for new van
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SA Group has con irmed that Vaux‐ hall’s Luton van plant will build an all‐new mid‐weight Vauxhall van, on PSA’s EMP2 platform, by 2019. The van, which will be based on the award‐ winning Peugeot Expert and Citroen Dispatch, will replace the current Vivaro, which has been designed in partnership with Renault’s Tra ic for many years. PSA, which acquired the Vauxhall/Opel business in Europe last year from General Motors, will invest £100m in the Luton plant, along with £9m of UK government funding. This will take manufacturing capacity at the site from 70,000 vans in 2017, to at least 100,000 light commercial vehicles per year. “Performance is the trigger for sustain‐ ability and I would like to thank all stake‐ holders involved and underline the open mindset of our union partners, as well as that of the UK Government,” said Carlos Tavares, chairman of the managing board of PSA Group. “This is a major milestone for the future of the Luton plant and a key enabler to serve our ambitions in the commercial vehicle market, guaranteeing customers the best offering in this segment.” Vauxhall has already announced that its next Combo van, expected later this year, will be based on the new Peugeot Partner/Citroen Berlingo platform. The current Combo had been a derivative of Fiat’s Doblo Cargo van. Higher up the range, the Vauxhall Movano will continue to be built in conjunction with Renault’s Master van until the end of its current life
inshort bitesize stories from a month in the van fleet world...
Lightfoot assistance Lightfoot has developed a Vehicle Management package to work alongside its technology and rewards platform. It incorporates a live, automatically updated oversight of service, tax and MOT dates, that is accessible by both drivers and managers. The package also uses Lightfoot’s connected vehicle functionality to monitor and detect vehicle faults. The company claims that the Vehicle Management package will take pressure off managers, by monitoring all aspects of vehicle maintenance, to improve safety and reduce downtime.
Pickup dealer growth cycle. It will then probably come in line with PSA’s Peugeot Boxer and Citroen Relay, which are currently built alongside Fiat Professional’s Ducato van. The decision to build the Vivaro replacement at Luton will safeguard jobs at the site for at least a decade and it comes despite continued uncertainty surrounding Brexit. “Brexit remains a concern for our busi‐ ness,” said Tavares. “We welcome the recent agreement between the EU and UK about conclusion of terms of the transitional arrangements, the clarity allows us to move towards tran‐ sition more con idently, but there’s still work to do to ensure frictionless trade.”
Register now at thefleetshow.co.uk
Pickup manufacturer Isuzu UK has boosted its dealer network with the appointment of five new outlets. The dealers include NMG in Norfolk, Firbank Van Sales in Cheshire, Autosales in Kirriemuir, Fussell Wadman in Devizes and Lloyd in Kelso. All will offer sales, aftersales and servicing. “We’re always looking for opportunities to help expand our brand across the country and introduce people to our close-knit Isuzu network,” said group dealer development manager Claire Ketchion.
Tracker Data from Tracker shows that 82% of the vans that it has helped to recover were stolen without the owner’s keys, up from 44% in 2016. This is said to be due to a rise in keyless entry technology in the van market. “The relatively new trend in vehicle theft, termed ‘relay attack’ that allows criminals to harness more sophisticated theft techniques to overcome existing vehicle security technology, such as immobilisers and keyless entry systems, has played a significant part in this increase,” said Andy Barrs, head of police liaison at Tracker.
MOVANO LOADS BETTER Movano offers a wide choice of load length, roof height and even front or rear wheel drive. And with a range of four gross vehicle weights with truly impressive payloads, it’s a great choice for your business.
For more information call 0345 740 0777 or visit www.vauxhall.co.uk/vans Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (9.3) – 40.9 (6.9). CO2 emissions: 242 – 179g/km.# #Fuel consumption information is official government environmental data, tested in accordance with the relevant EU directive. Official EU-regulated test data is provided for amend or withdraw this offer at any point in time. Correct at time of going to press.
BRITISH BRAND SINCE 1903 (g/km). Movano Panel Van range: Urban: 29.4 (9.6) – 38.2 (7.4), Extra-urban: 30.7 (9.2) – 42.8 (6.6), Combined: 30.4 comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Vauxhall Motors Limited reserves the right to change,
i nbusiness
Fleet Show to grow with major van presence in 2018 T
he Fleet Show returns to the iconic Silverstone circuit on 9th May 2018, providing leet managers with unparalleled access to the latest new vehicles and leet services. However, commercial vehicles will play a far more visible role this year, with many manu‐ facturers taking the opportunity to exhibit the latest vans and pickups alongside their cars. More than 20 manufacturers will have over 300 vehicles available for test drives on the day, with three of Silverstone’s famous circuits in use throughout the day. The Stowe Circuit will be dedicated to light commercial vehicles, providing leet buyers with an opportunity to compare vans and assess their performance in a safe environment. The Fleet Show is about far more than driving vehicles though. This unique event brings the whole leet industry together, with a wide range of products and services on display throughout three halls of the state‐of‐the‐art Silverstone Wing exhibition centre. There will be a series of seminars, open to all visitors, running throughout the day. Topics will include WLTP fuel economy tests and 2020 tax reforms, future‐proo ing your leet, multi‐modal transport and the changing role of telematics in leet operations. More than 900 visitors attended the Fleet Show in 2017, so early registration is recom‐ mended. Entry on the day is free and it’s quick and easy to sign up. For further details visit www.thefleetshow.co.uk
inshort bitesize stories from a month in the van fleet world...
Electric VW to start UK trials Volkswagen’s full electric eCrafter will start trials with UK customers following its unveiling at this month’s Commercial Vehicle Show. Four UK operators will take part in the international test programme, including Gatwick Airport, Heathrow Airport, City of London Corporation and the London Borough of Southwark. The eCrafter has a 100kW output and a range of just under 100 miles. The van uses a 10.7m3 body, with the lithium-ion battery packs mounted beneath the body. An 80% charge can be carried out in just 45 minutes using a rapid charging facility.
Fleet attitudes under scrutiny
Market demand will drive prices
F
leet operators looking to source Euro 6 vans to meet upcoming Clean Air Zone requirements could be hit with a double whammy, according to Shore‐ ham Vehicle Auctions. The irm claims that longer lead times on new vehicles and rising prices for used vans, could make life dif icult for leets as more cities introduce clean air zones. “OEMs have invested millions in aggressive discounts and finance offers to drive sales in the UK in the past few years,” said managing direc‐ tor Alex Wright. “When you now have other European
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economies growing and where demand for new vans is high, then surely they will redirect their marketing money away from the UK. That will mean that prices of new Euro 6 vans will start to creep up and UK operators will be faced with longer new van lead times, as stock becomes more restricted. “Demand for Euro 6 vans will continue to increase in 2020 and beyond and prices will rise accordingly. With the post‐ Brexit UK economy likely to grow, then it could be a major challenge for SMEs look‐ ing to buy used van stock to support the growth of their businesses.”
Fleet World and Shell Commercial Fleet invite readers to take part in a survey to explore current fleet trends. This third survey in the series will look at fleet attitudes to data, with results to be published in an article in the future. To take part, visit bit.ly/FWandShellSurvey
Trade prices for parts from Ford Ford is to offer a direct sales channel for trade parts, for both Ford and non-Ford vans. The company’s network of 84 Parts Plus centres will supply Ford and Motorcraft parts alongside the Omnicraft range, which launched last year. Customers will also be able to access expert advice from technical support teams on how to repair Ford vehicles.
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ICH Yeiji Èi_]d_òYWdjbo bem[hÉ j^Wd Yecf[j_j_ed
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he new Transit Custom, Transit Connect and Transit Courier Xh_d] [d^WdY[Z \k[b [õY_[dYo" new features and even greater h[òd[c[dj je <ehZÉi Yecc[hcial vehicle (CV) range for 2018. J^[o eô[h XebZ d[m \hedj#[dZ Z[i_]di" new interior features and technology including available SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system. Transit 9kijec _i j^[ òhij 9L je _dYbkZ[ ?dj[bb_][dj If[[Z 7ii_ij" WdZ _i j^[ òhij <ehZ lWd _d ;khef[ je eô[h _ji 8b_dZ Ifej ?d\ehcWj_ed Ioij[c m_j^ 9heii JhWõY 7b[hj$ Re-engineering of the Transit Custom includes a new ECOnetic variant of the Dagenham-built Ford EcoBlue 2.0-litre
diesel engine, available for the 300 L1 van, delivering up to 49.6mpg and 148 g/ km CO2 emissions. The Transit Custom line-up includes two roof heights, two wheelbase options, a GVM range from 2.6-3.4 tonnes for payloads up to 1,450kg, and bodystyles including van, kombi and double-cab-invan. JhWdi_j 9edd[YjÉi fem[hjhW_di fhel_Z[ [d^WdY[Z \k[b [õY_[dYo" m^_b[ WY^_[l_d] ;khe ,$( [c_ii_edi$ <ehZÉi Wbb#d[m '$+#b_jh[ EcoBlue diesel engine combines the latest fuel injection, turbocharging and emission-control technologies. An advanced new version of the 1.0-litre ;Ye8eeij f[jheb [d]_d[ \[Wjkh[i i_]d_ò-
YWdj Y^Wd][i \eh \khj^[h \k[b#[õY_[dYo$ Service intervals have been extended on both diesel and petrol variants, with cWdkWb Z_[i[b l[^_Yb[i eô[h_d] lWh_WXb[ intervals of up to two years/25,000 miles, contributing to scheduled maintenance and non-scheduled repair costs i_]d_òYWdjbo bem[h j^Wd fh_cWho Yecf[j_tion, according to Ford analysis. Short- and long-wheelbase options of Transit Connect provide load volumes up to 3.6 cu m (VDA), payloads of 579-865kg, and bodystyles including van and doubleYWX#_d#lWd$ D[m JhWdi_j 9ekh_[h eô[hi payloads up to 600kg, load volumes up to 2.4 cu m (VDA), and a choice of van and kombi bodystyles.
MAJOR PRESENCE AT APRIL’S COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW New Transit Custom, new Transit Connect and new Transit Courier will be among 15 vehicles exhibited by Ford at the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC, Birmingham, on 24-26 April, on stand 5G10/5G20 in Hall 5. The line-up will include a special edition of the Ford Ranger, in addition
to the Transit Custom Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, (PHEV) and the YecfWdoÉi bWj[ij _ddelWj_edi _d j^[ world of smart mobility. <ehZ l[^_Yb[i ed ej^[h YecfWd_[iÉ stands will include a British Gas Transit Custom PHEV shown by Bri-Stor Systems.
For further information on any Ford Fleet products or services call the Ford Business Centre on 03457 23 23 23, [cW_b ó_d\ehc6\ehZ$Yec" eh l_i_j \ehZ$Ye$ka%\ehZó[[j
show preview
Exhibition time The Commercial Vehicle Show returns to the NEC in Birmingham from 24-26 April, with a host of new and improved vans and services, says Dan Gilkes.
T
he annual CV Show is the biggest commercial vehi‐ cle event in the UK and once again the event takes over three central halls at Birmingham’s NEC this April. Attracting more than 21,000 visitors a year, exhibitors include vehicle manufacturers and converters, telematics and fleet management providers and a host of support businesses. There is a dedicated Cool Zone for those working in refrig‐
erated transport, while the Workshop section provides a shop window for the after‐market sector. Following a successful introduction last year, there will also be an Inno‐ vation Hub, offering topical seminar sessions throughout the show. Key topics will include autonomous vehicles, truck platooning, alternative fuels and the latest smart logistics. A number of guest speakers from the industry will take part and the seminars are free to attend.
Ford
Fiat Professional
With one of the largest stands at the show, Ford always has plenty to attract visitors. This year the new Transit Custom will take centre stage, with an improved interior, upgraded connectivity and additional driver assistance on offer. There will be three new Customs on show, including the latest Sport in Orange Glow launch colour. Visitors will also be able to ind out more about the Transit Custom PHEV, which is currently undergoing operator trials with companies in London, including the Metropolitan Police, Heathrow Airport, Clancy Plant and Speedy Hire. Using a 1.0‐litre petrol engine and a compact battery pack, the PHEV promises up to 31 miles of zero‐emission electric range. Alongside Custom, visitors to the stand will be able to see the latest Transit Connect, with a refreshed grille and headlamps. There are more changes inside too, with SYNC 3 connectivity and a six‐inch touchscreen, while the driv‐ elines on offer will include new 1.5‐litre EcoBlue diesels, with the option of an eight‐speed automatic transmission. Transit Courier also gets an update, with a redesigned front end and the addition of a six‐speed manual gear‐ box alongside a 100bhp 1.5‐litre diesel engine. Lastly expect to see the latest special editions of the Ford Ranger pickup, including the limited run Ranger Black.
Fiat Professional will exhibit a new range of Sportivo speci ication vans, alongside a range of conversions, including a Ducato ambulance and a Ducato Luton. The recently launched Fullback Cross pickup will be on show beside a Fiat Doblo Workup light truck.
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Guest Truck/Iveco Iveco dealer Guest Truck will be lying the lag for the Italian manufacturer again this year, with the focus on the award‐winning Blue Power Daily range of vans. Iveco now offers Daily with a choice of Euro 6 diesel engines, natural gas power or electric drive, delivering the widest possible choice for customers.
Isuzu
Mitsubishi Motors
Isuzu’s popular D‐Max pickup will be present in its many trim levels, including the big‐wheeled Arctic Trucks speci ication. There will be a number of conversions on offer and Isuzu is promising to unveil something new on the irst day of the show.
Mitsubishi’s L200 remains a strong seller in the UK pickup market and the truck is sure to take centre stage this year. However, the company also offers commercial versions of its Outlander and Shogun all‐ wheel drive cars, with the Outlander PHEV still one of the only hybrid vans on the market..
LDV
Citroën and Peugeot
With a growing range of vans on offer, LDV is another company with a launch planned for the irst day of the show. The company, part of the Chinese SAIC motor business, has both diesel and electric versions of its V80 and EV80 available. UK and Ireland dealer Harris Group has promised smaller vans and a pickup in the future, so a visit to the stand will be worth the time.
Despite the car versions being shown at this year’s Geneva auto show in March, it is unlikely that Peugeot and Citroën will have the new Berlingo and Partner on offer this April. Expect the focus instead to remain on the new Expert and Dispatch, with the full range of both models now freely available to UK buyers. There will no doubt be an emphasis on conversions for the heavier Relay and Boxer, while electric versions of the smaller vans will no doubt make an appear‐ ance in both L1 and L2 bodies.
MAN Truck & Bus MAN will be back at the show this year, with a full range of vehicles from the 3.0‐tonne TGE through to its TGX lagship tractor. The TGE, which is MAN’s version of the new Volkswa‐ gen Crafter, will be the main attraction for van leets, with front, rear and all‐wheel drive models coming to the market this year.
Nissan Nissan recently uprated the e‐NV200 electric van with improved range and power. The 40kWh e‐NV200 will be offered in panel van and combi versions and the irm will also show a ‘workspace concept’ vehicle based on the updated van. A range of NV200, NV300 and NV400 vans will be displayed, along with an NT400 Cabstar light truck, plus the irm’s popular Navara pickup will be shown in 2018 model year speci ication.
→ vanfleetworld.co.uk / 11
show preview
Renault Renault continues to lead the way in electric vans and this year the Master Z.E. will take centre stage along‐ side the smaller Kangoo Z.E. 33. The electric Master uses the same batteries as the smaller van, with the drive motor from the Zoe car and boasts a payload in excess of 1‐tonne from a gross weight of just 3.1‐ tonnes. Available in a range of lengths and heights as a panel van and also in two chassis cab lengths for conversion, Master Z.E. will go on sale later in the year. The irm will also launch Renault Tech at the show, with a range of factory conversions including a temperature‐controlled Master and a parcel van with walk‐through partition.
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SsangYong SsangYong will launch its updated Musso pickup this April, available in all‐wheel drive double‐cab format only. With a one‐tonne payload and the abil‐ ity to tow a 3.5‐tonne trailer, the Musso truck is powered by a 2.2‐litre diesel engine providing 181bhp and 420Nm of torque. Buyers can choose between a six‐speed manual gearbox or a six‐speed auto, passing the drive to a part‐time 4WD system with high and low ratios. All models come with DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and Apple Car Plat/Android Auto, displayed through an eight‐inch screen. Electric windows, air conditioning and a power outlet in the pickup bed are also available. All SsangYong models come with a ive‐year limitless mileage warranty.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Volkswagen’s stand will once again be built to resemble a house, providing a comfortable environment in which to do business. New Business Editions of Caddy, Transporter and Crafter will take centre stage too. Based on Startline trim for Caddy and Transporter, plus Startline or Trendline versions of Crafter, the Business Edition packs include a range of spec‐ i ication and trim options grouped together in a combined price. For instance, the Caddy Business pack includes an alarm, rear parking sensors and air conditioning for £950, while the Transporter pack includes the alarm, parking sensors, air‐con and a bulkhead for £975.
Toyota Toyota is celebrating 50 years of the Hilux pickup in 2018 and the truck will dominate the stand, particularly on the irst day of the show. However, the company will also have Proace in display and will take the wraps off a Land Cruiser‐based commercial vehi‐ cle, which will be available in three‐ door short wheelbase and ive‐door long wheelbase formats. Expect to see new conversions, based on Proace, on the stand throughout the show too.
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CONVERSIONS, PRODUCTS & SERVICES Carrier Transicold Carrier Transicold will demonstrate its engineless technology, including the Iceland Twincool and the Vector 1550E. The Iceland Twincool refrigeration unit is powered by hydro‐elec‐ tric power generated by the truck’s power take‐off, taking the diesel engine away from the fridge unit and using the vehi‐ cle’s own Euro 6 motor. The Vector 1550E is a trailer unit that can also be powered by the tractor’s PTO or through mains power when parked.
Cartwright Conversions Cartwright Conversions will show an eight‐seat welfare vehicle built on a Ford Transit base van. The welfare unit includes a heater, water boiler, hand wash facilities, a microwave and a 25‐litre electric lush toilet. The company will also show a Peugeot Expert equipped with its modular racking system.
Paneltex Paneltex will have three new temperature‐controlled bodies on display in the Cool 2018 section of the show. There will be an 11.4m twin axle, dual compartment Urban Trailer, with a self‐tracking rear axle. This features a Dear‐ man undermount refrigeration system with a zero‐emis‐ sion nitrogen expansion engine. The company will also show a Transit with a side‐loading refrigerated body and a very low access height that eliminates the need for a step. Lastly the irm has a Somers conversion on a VW Crafter chassis cab, with a dual temperature body and Somers’ SuperFreeze modular rear doors.
Thermo King Thermo King will also show zero‐emission refrigeration this year, with a range of electric and hybrid drive systems on offer. The Thermo King and Fridoblock stand will have a new SLXi Hybrid trailer unit that was irst shown as a concept last year. The company will also demonstrate a range of telematics solu‐ tions for refrigerated bodies.
SmartWitness SmartWitness will have a range of products to reduce driver distraction in vans and trucks on offer. This includes the new DDC100 camera that uses infrared imaging and AI machine learning to detect mobile phone use at the wheel. It also identi‐ ies driver fatigue and tiredness. SmartEye is a system that checks for lane deviation, vehicle distance and nearby pedestri‐ ans and cyclists, sending alerts to avoid accidents. Both systems can be set to run with live updates to leet managers.
BT Fleet BT Fleet will show its latest devel‐ opments in app technology, acci‐ dent management, data insight, along with updates in service, main‐ tenance and repair. The company will have members of its Fleet Solu‐ tions team on hand to discuss leet requirements and to introduce its latest products and services.
Trakm8 Vehicle tracking specialist Trakm8 will show a 4G telematics camera called the RH600. Now in full production, the RH600 integrates telematics with live‐ streaming dash cam technology. It can be equipped with one or two cameras, to monitor the driver as well as the road, delivering a 280° ield of view. The company will also show its Trakm8 Prime solution for SMEs. The telematics device can be self‐ installed, so there are no itting fees, while vehicle downtime is kept to a minimum.
Vehicle Weighing Solutions Vehicle Weighing Solutions (VWS) will exhibit its Vehicle Over‐ load Protection System (VOPS2) that provides drivers with front and rear net weights, gross vehicle weight and individual axle weights. The system, which doesn’t rely on springs or transduc‐ ers, can be itted to most commercial vehicles, from 3.5‐tonnes upwards, whether using steel, air or spring suspension.
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The Newest Vehicles… Electrification, autonomy, connectivity… the pace of change in the automotive industry has never been faster. The Paddock area brings all the latest cars and to one place; an outdoor exhibition area packed with manufacturer stands and experts to answer your questions, and a choice of Silverstone’s Stowe, National and International Circuits for test-drives.
ONE DAY. ONE INDUSTRY. THE FLEET SHOW 2018… Bringing the biggest names in the industry together for one action-packed, time-efficient event, the 2018 Fleet Show is an unmissable opportunity to get your fleet in pole position.
Since the first event in 2012, the Fleet Show has gained a reputation for offering early access to the most important launches long before they reach showrooms. It’s a unique, safe space to familiarise yourself away from traffic and queues, and all test drives are accompanied by a manufacturer representative, giving a full and detailed understanding of how they could fit your fleet and drivers’ needs.
…all within easy reach This year’s event returns to the iconic Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire; the Home of British Motor Racing, and a name familiar worldwide. Not only does this offer fantastic space and facilities to host large-scale exhibitions, but it’s easily accessible, located in the heart of England, close to the M1 and M40 motorways. Plentiful, free on-site parking means it’s convenient to drop in for as long you need without delays.
Where the Industry Meets The Fleet Show 2018 brings the biggest names in the fleet industry all under one roof. Held across three halls of the state-of-the-art Silverstone Wing, the bustling indoor exhibition area showcases products, services and developments from suppliers, manufacturers, service companies and industry bodies who can benefit the way you operate. Drop in, see who you need to see, evaluate products can save you time and money, and make decisions for the year ahead, without the complexity of organising separate meetings. In a changing industry, there’s no more time-efficient way to prepare for what’s on the horizon.
SILVERSTONE CIRCUIT
9TH MAY 2018
Room to Talk With hundreds of decision-makers all under one roof, and break-out areas throughout the Silverstone Wing, this is also an unmissable opportunity to arrange your own networking sessions. Catch up over a coffee, share ideas with colleagues, or get some extra time with exhibitors to make plans for the year ahead – it’s up to you.
Plan Ahead: Fleet 2023 seminars Following a successful launch last year, the Fleet Show’s pop-up seminar sessions will return to the exhibition area for 2018. Looking ahead at the challenges and opportunities facing the sector in the next five years, Fleet 2023 will offer concise expert briefings on the changes you need to know about, followed by dedicated Q&A sessions with speakers.
TER... es available to fleet managers and decisionREGIS is now open, with plac
Registration rental company executives, makers, senior vehicle manufacturer, leasing and to attend, and takes only and consultants with purchasing decisions. It’s free isitors for more information. minutes to sign up. Visit: www.thefleetshow.co.uk/v 14 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
INTERVIEW Mark Harvey, Ford’s Urban Electric Vehicle Programme director
Clean air van deliveries As Ford's plug-in hybrid Transit Custom takes to the streets of London to begin trials with a range of operators, programme director Mark Harvey talks to Dan Gilkes.
W
hile a growing number of van manufacturers are busy testing and launching full electric vans, Ford has decided to take a different path, trialling a plug‐in hybrid PHEV version of its popular Transit Custom with opera‐ tors in London over the next 12 months. The PHEV is expected to be one of the major talking points on the company’s stand at this month’s CV Show in Birmingham. “At the point where we were kicking off the project, the message from our leet partners was that they wanted an elec‐ tri ied product,” said Mark Harvey, Ford’s Urban Electric Vehicle Programme director. “But, they felt that there were compromises in range, payload and cube with many electric vehicles.” With that in mind, Ford decided to go down the plug‐in hybrid route. The Transit Custom PHEV uses Ford’s award‐winning 1.0‐ litre EcoBoost petrol engine as a range‐extender, with no direct connection to the van’s driveline. The wheels are driven exclu‐ sively by an electric motor, with a compact, liquid‐cooled lithium‐ion battery pack providing the motive force. The van offers up to 31 miles of pure electric drive, but with the petrol engine working as a range extender, it is said to deliver up to 310 miles of potential range, removing anxiety for operators. In addition, the vehicle is equipped with fast charging technology, that will provide a full charge in just three hours. “Clearly it needs to be fully charged at the start of the day for the most ef icient use. It really is ideal for city operations,” said Harvey. “It gives them a vehicle with range assurance, not anxiety.” While the Transit Custom PHEV is very much intended for urban use, Ford is not limiting its appeal to one type of operation. The trial vans are working with a diverse list of potential customers. They will cover different distances and with very different load profiles, providing Ford with plenty of data. Confirmed operators taking part in the trial include Transport for London, the Metropolitan Police, British Gas, Morrison and Clancy Plant.
16 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
“We have a very wide range of users, from municipal, law enforcement, plant hire and home delivery,” said Harvey. Some vans are single driver, while others will be used by a number of drivers with the trial irm’s operation. That said, Ford has provided some element of driver training where necessary to allow customers to get the best from the vans. All of the trial Transits have been equipped with telematics systems to deliver a wealth of operating information to Ford’s engineers, allowing them to ine tune the van prior to its commercial launch in 2019. Development of the Custom PHEV has been supported by a £4.7m grant from the Government’s Advanced Propulsion Centre. The vans have been designed at Ford’s Dunton technical centre in Essex and at Prodrive Advanced Technology in Banbury. Were they to be commercially available today, the PHEV would also qualify for the Plug‐In Van Grant. Though the Transit Custom PHEV is currently the irst van of its kind, and still in the trial stage, Ford is conscious that the electric and hybrid van market is moving swiftly. “We’re certainly at a key point,” said Harvey. “In my time this is the biggest point of change we’ve ever seen. There are clearly going to be more products and it’s a very active market place. The challenge is going to be to turn that into sales.”
Mark Harvey, Urban Electric Vehicle Programme director, Ford
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Thanks to its trailer stability assist, smallest turning circle and the fact that it is one of the only pick-ups that can tow on tarmac in 2WD and 4WD3, the Mitsubishi L200 Series 5 is simply the best pick-up to tow up to 3.5 tonnes2. The L200 Series 5 Titan is available from £199 per month+VAT1 over 3 years on a 8,000 p.a. mileage Contract Hire contract provided by Shogun Vehicle Leasing, which means that owning one is now more affordable than ever.
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Take on the world. Search L200 | Visit mitsubishi-cars.co.uk to find out more 1. L200 Series 5 Titan rental shown is for manual transmission. Business users only, subject to status provided by Shogun Vehicle Leasing (a trading style of Lex Autolease Ltd, SK3 ORB). Excess mileage charges of 10.79p plus VAT per mile. Vehicle must be returned in good condition to avoid further charges. The offer is valid for new vehicles registered between 1st April and 30th June 2018, whilst stocks last. Other terms and mileages are available on request. Available in the UK (EXCLUDES Channel Island and I.O.M) subject to availability. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and is correct at time of going to print. 2. 3.5 tonne towing capacity is possible with 3 axle braked trailer; 3.1 tonne towing capacity is possible with 1 or 2 axle braked trailer; 0.75 tonne towing capacity is possible regardless of the number of trailer axles or trailer brakes. 3. Super Select 4WD is not available on L200 Series 5 4Life models. The air conditioning system contains fluorinated greenhouse gases. Chemical name: HFC-134a. Pre-chased weight: 0.52kg. Global-warming potential ratio: 1430. Converted CO2 weight: 0.74t.
Fuso eCanter Fuso has launched the first production, full electric, 7.5-tonne truck in the eCanter, says Dan Gilkes. SECTOR Light Truck POWER 180bhp GROSS WEIGHT 7.5-tonnes CO2 Zero
F
uso, the Japanese division of Daimler Trucks, has 3 year payback is possible. What’s more, this difference in launched the full electric eCanter, said to be the first price will continue to shrink, as battery prices drop fur‐ series production 7.5‐tonne electric truck. Already on ther. The company predicts that battery pricing will fall by sale in both Japan and in North America, the first eight eCan‐ as much as 70% by 2030 and as soon as 2025 many elec‐ ters in the UK have been delivered to three customers. Logis‐ tric vehicles will in fact be cheaper to buy and run than tics firm Wincanton has added five of the electric trucks to its their diesel counterparts. 3,600‐strong delivery fleet and will operate the eCanters in and “Today is an historic day for London’s transport opera‐ around London. Flour milling company Hovis will run two tors,” said Mike Belk, Mercedes‐Benz and Fuso Trucks man‐ eCanters, while parcel delivery firm DPD has taken one. aging director in the UK. The compact eCanter is powered by six 420V, 13.8kWh “By the middle of the next decade, 25% of the vehicles lithium‐ion batteries, driving through a we sell will be electric. We will be permanent magnet motor. This provides launching 15 e‐vehicles over the com‐ 180bhp (129kW) through a single‐gear ing years, including eVito, eSprinter and transmission in the rear axle, with an eActros 18‐26 tonne trucks.” operating range of around 62 miles. That Fuso aims to sell up to 500 eCanters in said, Fuso will upgrade the performance the next 18 months globally. Updates will of the batteries to provide up to 112 arrive next year, to improved battery miles of range over the next six months. capacity and range and the company The 7.5‐tonne eCanter offers a body expects to sell up to 1,000 trucks a year and payload capacity of around 4.5‐ in 2019. By the launch of the third gen‐ tonnes, so there is no loss of payload eration eCanter in 2021, the company versus its diesel counterpart. With the expects sales to rise rapidly, to 5,000, batteries mounted below the bodywork 10,000 and eventually 15,000 a year. there is also no loss of load volume. Fuso Fuso launched the Canter Eco‐Hybrid in claims that each eCanter will save up to 2006 and trialled the Canter e‐Cell in 2014. 16‐tonnes of CO2 in a single year of oper‐ “Fully electric trucks are no longer sci‐ The eCanter is the first ation, depending on electrical supply. ence fiction, we at Daimler are already step towards full electric Operators can expect to see cost savings manufacturing them and now we’re urban truck deliveries and, of around £875 for every 6,200 miles of putting them into operation with well‐ if the range and operating use, compared to a diesel truck, thanks known customers,” said Mr Belk. costs stack up, could be an to 75‐80% lower service costs with no “We’re pleased to build on our rela‐ oils and filters and fewer moving parts tionships with DPD, Hovis and Wincanton effective alternative to a than a diesel truck. in this way, as they clearly believe the regular diesel model. This is of course countered by a higher Fuso eCanter is a viable proposition for purchase price, though Fuso claims a 2‐ their urban distribution business.”
what we think
18 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
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The complete van package We’re proud to have been named Best Lease Provider at the Vans A2Z Van Fleet World Honours. “Arval has been working to reduce downtime for its LCV customers by looking at every step of the vehicle life cycle” said Dan Gilkes, editor of Van Fleet World. “This covers initial vehicle requirements and sourcing the right van at the right time. It also includes complete in-life ē ă Ė Arval has combined several products including an accident management solution and a bespoke telematics solution to strengthen the proposition to customers, underpinned by dedicated support through an Arval account manager.” Come and see us in Hall 5, Stand C32 at the CV Show where we will be unveiling our latest van whitepaper. Alternatively, visit the Arval website, or speak to our team today: 0370 419 2818 corporatesales@arval.co.uk arval.co.uk/vehicle-leasing/van-leasing
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vanfleetworld.co.uk / 21
Presented by Dan Gilkes, editor, VFW and Neil McIntee, editor, VansA2Z
2018
Dean Hedger picks up the award for Best Van Fleet Management, with Neil McIntee (left) and Dan Gilkes (right)
Best Van Fleet Management Alphabet (GB) Smartsheet Build & Conversion Management has created a “ Alphabet commercial vehicle build
”
and conversion tool based on Smartsheet, that provides vehicle arrival dates from OEM to converter, build start and completion dates and the date the vehicle will be available to the customer.
Cameron Javid picked up the award
James Allitt picked up the award
Best Van Safety
Best Van Innovation
Volkswagen AEB
CoolKit Refrigerated Box Body
making autonomous “ By emergency braking (AEB)
”
standard on all of its new vans, Volkswagen has ensured that all drivers benefit from what Thatcham Research calls ‘the most significant development in vehicle safety since the seat belt’.
22 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
carried out an “ CoolKit evaluation within the food
”
delivery market and found new methods of construction, with honeycomb section, high density blown PET and sheet-textured GRP flooring, that have saved up to 150kg of load capacity.
Bill Chambers picked up the award
Best Technology
Best Daily Van Rental
TMC
Ogilvie Fleet
created Fuel+, using “ TMC fuel, telematics and
”
Jim Hannah picked up the award
journey data to reduce fuel costs, provide visibility over fuel usage and to identify where ULEVs can be deployed. It has already saved £1.2m in business fuel for one client.”
“
”
Amanda Gibson picked up the award
Gary Burns picked up the award
Best Lease Provider
Best CDV
Arval
Mitsubishi Outlander Commercial
has reduced downtime “ Arval for LCV customers by looking
”
Ogilvie Fleet launched Ogilvie Rental in 2017, accompanied by a dedicated website. The site provides access to more than 120,000 commercial vehicles at more than 2,000 locations, with vehicles available within a two-hour time frame if required.
at every step of the vehicle life cycle, including initial vehicle requirements, sourcing the right van at the right time, complete in-life support, downtime management and a flexible return process.
Outlander Commercial “ The is a light commercial that is
”
completely at home in any working environment. It boasts a deceptively cavernous load area, comes with selectable four-wheel drive and can be had with either a diesel engine or petrol/electric drive system. vanfleetworld.co.uk / 23
Presented by Dan Gilkes, editor,VFW and Neil McIntee, editor, VansA2Z
2018
Iain Brooks picked up the award
Best Small Van
Best Light Panel Van
Ford Transit Courier
Volkswagen Caddy
version is due “ Atorevised be unveiled at the CV
”
James Allitt picked up the award
Show next month, but thanks to its car-like interior, great chassis and fuel-efficient engines, the Ford Transit Courier is the Best Small Van for 2018.
“
”
Mark Wilson picked up the award
Iain Brooks picked up the award
Best Medium Panel Van
Best Pick-up
Ford Transit Custom
Nissan Navara
always been “ We’ve impressed by Transit Custom
”
An excellent load capacitypayload-footprint ratio, not to mention fuel efficiency and driveability, Volkswagen's Caddy offers a stylish exterior design and boasting a choice of diesel and petrol engines, not to mention manual or automatic transmission.
and the latest version is no exception. It was heavily revised at the end of last year with improved refinement levels, a new cab interior and the addition of an automatic gearbox option
24 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
long-time fans of “ We’re pick-ups and it takes a lot
”
to impress us. Very refined both on and off the road, especially in terms of ride quality, Nissan’s Navara remains our number one choice in the pickup market.
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$WWUDFWLYH Ă&#x20AC;QDQFH IRU D YHUVDWLOH YDQ 8SGDWLQJ \RXU YDQ Ă HHW KDV MXVW EHFRPH D ZKROH ORW PRUH DWWUDFWLYH ZLWK D $35 RQ +LUH 3XUFKDVH )LQDQFH RIIHU IURP 0$1 7KH QHZ 0$1 7*( YDQ UDQJH LV IXOO\ HTXLSSHG WR PHHW DOO FRPPHUFLDO YHKLFOH UHTXLUHPHQWV ZKHWKHU \RXU EXVLQHVV LV ORJLVWLFV FRQVWUXFWLRQ RU SDVVHQJHU WUDQVSRUW $QG ZLWK $35 RIIHUHG RQ VHOHFWHG PRGHOV WKH 7*(¡V YHUVDWLOLW\ QRZ H[WHQGV WR \RXU Ă&#x20AC;QDQFHV WRR 7R Ă&#x20AC;QG RXW KRZ PXFK WKH 0$1 7*( FDQ HQKDQFH \RXU EXVLQHVV HPDLO XV hello@man.eu RU YLVLW www.van.man/uk *Ownership transfers once the customer pays all charges and payments including the Option to Purchase Fee. With Hire Purchase. Business Users Only. 18s+. Subject to availability and status. T&Cs and exclusions apply. Offer available when ordered by 1st July 2018. Available on limited stock only. Indemnities may be required. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication [04/18]. Freepost MAN Financial Services.
Presented by Dan Gilkes, editor,VFW and Neil McIntee, editor, VansA2Z
2018
James Allitt and Simon Wood pick up the joint award for Best Large Panel Van, with Neil McIntee (left) and Dan Gilkes (right)
Best Large Panel Van
Best Large Panel Van
Volkswagen Crafter
MAN TGE
standard of every model in “ The this sector is so high, but the
”
prize goes to a range of vans that raised the bar in terms of usability and technology, offering the widest choice of drivelines and body capacities.”
as an integral part of the “ Working Volkswagen Group, MAN has been
”
able to move into the large van market with the introduction of a full range of TGE models, which will no doubt appeal to many of its heavy truck customers.”
Kayleigh Robson picked up the award
Lloyd Bonson picked up the award
Best Light Truck
Best Electric/hybrid
Fuso Canter
Renault Kangoo Z.E.
with a semi“ Available automatic twin-clutch gearbox
”
and stop/start system, a first in this sector, not to mention the possibility of an all-electric drivetrain, the Fuso Canter and eCanter offer exceptional carrying capacities and low operating costs.
26 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
s Kangoo was the first “ Renault’ manufacturer-developed pure
”
electric van to come to market and thanks to a recent round of improvements, including an extended real-world range, it remains our pick of the growing number of eLCVs on offer.
Renault TRAFIC SPORT Hard work never looked so good.
Renault TRAFIC SPORT including: Media Nav touchscreen multimedia & navigation Air conditioning & pollen ďŹ lter Rear parking sensors
To ďŹ nd out more, visit renault.co.uk/vans or visit your local dealer.
Presented by Dan Gilkes, editor, VFW and Neil McIntee, editor, VansA2Z
2018
Andrew Eccles picked up the Editors Award
Editors’ award
Van of the Year
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter technology
Ford Transit Custom
really is taking a new “ Mercedes approach to Sprinter, offering
”
Iain Brooks and Phil Daniel pick up the award
customers a massive range of solutions, to meet the needs of a wide variety of industry sectors, including built-in connectivity, in-house telematics and a range of Mercedes PRO locationbased packages.
“
”
Henry Brace picked up the award
James Allitt picked up the award
Best Service, Maintenance & Repair BT Fleet Solutions Fleet Solutions invested “ BT more than £1.6m in its SMR
”
offer last year. It extended its working hours, tripled its repair network, introduced mobile technicians and brought further digitisation to improve efficiency.
28 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
Bristling with the latest active safety features, connectivity and driver comforts, including the option of an automatic transmission and much improved levels of refinement, a recent update brought Custom bang up-to-date. It’s a package that few can beat.
Manufacturer of the Year Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles only has Volkswagen “ Not Commercial Vehicles
”
developed an award-winning range of products, that span the requirements of the majority of operators, it has also put in place an industry-leading specialist dealer and service network, to support customers.
Award-winning vans that are working with you. We work hard to engineer innovative technology such as City Emergency Braking into our vans, and to offer flexible business support such as Mobile Servicing and extended opening hours. So it’s nice to know all that hard work has been recognised by being named VansA2Z and Van Fleet World’s Manufacturer of the Year 2018. Visit us to discover how our range of vans and services can help your business thrive. We’re waiting to work with you.
www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk
feature conversions
Ready-built options With the expansion of manufacturer-approved conversion ranges, there has never been a wider choice for buyers, says Dan Gilkes.
P
eugeot is the latest manufacturer to introduce a dedi‐ cated range of ready‐built conversions, under the Built for Business banner. The line‐up includes a single cab tipper on an L2 Boxer chassis and a crew cab tipper on an L3, single cab dropsides on L2 and L3 chassis, plus a crew cab dropside on the L3 platform. There are Luton vans on L3 and L4 Boxer chassis, along with curtainsider and box bodies on the same L3 and L4 platforms. Peugeot will also offer a low‐ loor Luton, providing a massive 22m3 load volume. All of the conversions will use the Boxer 335 chassis, powered by a 2.0‐litre BlueHDi 160bhp diesel with a six‐ speed transmission. Standard equipment includes air condi‐ tioning, an uprated battery and revised dual‐leaf rear suspension with an anti‐roll bar. The conversions all conform to either European Whole Vehicle Type Approval or National Small Series Type Approval. Renault has offered a wide range of approved conversions for some time, but this year is launching Renault Tech as a factory‐fitted conversion brand. This includes a wide range of vehicles, including the usual tipper, dropside and Luton, but also more specialised models, such as a temperature‐ controlled pharmaceutical delivery van, based on the Master model. The company is also introducing a Master‐based parcel deliv‐ ery van with a walk‐through bulkhead and racking, designed in conjunction with UPS. This design allows the driver to access the rear of the van without having to exit the vehicle, improv‐
30 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
ing roadside safety. This year’s Commercial Vehicle Show will also see the introduction of an aluminium tipper body under the Renault Tech name. Lighter than a standard steel conver‐ sion, the alloy body provides additional carrying capacity for customers within the 3.5‐tonne gross weight. Manufacturers have been offering ready‐built conversions, direct from their dealers, for many years. There are several bene its to this type of conversion, mainly the fact that the vehicle comes with a single warranty and full type approval, for the chassis and the body, so customers don’t have to deal with two companies in the event of a problem. As many of these pre‐built conversions are kept in stock, opting for a ready‐to‐go type of vehicle can also greatly reduce the lead time required for a chassis to be bodied by an after‐market converter. Perhaps surprisingly, this type of inished model can also be considerably less expensive than a bespoke conversion. The main downside is that you are buying what the manu‐ facturer feels is the most popular version of a tipper, dropside or Luton body, rather than one that has been speci ically designed to meet your individual needs. For many though, the range of pre‐bodied vehicles is more than up to the job and the bene its outweigh this concern. Of course, if you do want something a little bit more specialised, there is no shortage of converters and specialist body builders ready to meet your every requirement. It might just take a little longer to arrive.
Isuzu Grafter Green Isuzu Truck updates its light range with the launch of Grafter Green, says Neil McIntee. SECTOR Tipper POWER 123bhp GROSS WEIGHT 3.5-tonnes PAYLOAD 1,256kg
I
suzu Truck has taken its range of 3.5‐tonne Grafter chas‐ smooth and refined, and who would have thought a small sis cabs to Euro 6, with the introduction of a new 1.9‐ truck‐based 3.5‐tonne tipper would perform so well with a litre turbodiesel engine. The good news is that it does 1.9‐litre diesel under its forward‐tilting cab? But perform it not require AdBlue to function, thanks to Lean NOx Trap does, thanks to peak torque coming in from just 1,600rpm. It technology. It replaces the 3.0‐litre unit from the previous also benefits out on the open road from the six‐speed gear‐ Grafter and offers much improved fuel consumption and box, while retaining impressive low speed maneuverability lower CO2 emissions. Grafter Green is so clean, that it’s capa‐ when fully loaded. The reduced clutch weight helps, though ble of operating in the new London ultra‐low emission zone. the gearbox remains long‐throw and doesn’t like to be rushed. Despite the significant drop in engine capacity, power and Ride quality has improved, with the revised front sus‐ torque have increased slightly to 123bhp and 320Nm respec‐ pension better able to control nose‐diving under braking, tively. The four‐cylinder motor drives the but to perform at its best it needs to have rear wheels (either single or twin) via a a load in the back. Steering feel has also new six‐speed manual gearbox and clutch improved substantially. weight has been halved. Other major Thanks to an alloy load bed and body changes to Grafter include independent sides, along with the chassis cab being double wishbone spring/damper front lighter than its predecessor, the Grafter suspension, improved rack and pinion Green SWB tipper provides a substantial power steering, a redesigned cab interior 1,256kg of maximum payload. Tipper and a reduction in overall noise levels. operation is courtesy of a wander lead Available with a choice of two wheel‐ control unit, which lives in a holster to the bases (2,490mm or 3,350mm), Grafter rear of the driver’s seat. To aid loading, all Green chassis cabs are lighter than their three sides of the body can be dropped predecessors and consequently provide down and if necessary the rear corner much improved body/payload potential. posts removed as well, to turn it into a Weighing in at just 1,710kg, the single rear flatbed. The tailgate can easily be config‐ wheel SWB chassis cab is 152kg lighter ured to be top‐hinged for unloading. What a difference a new than its predecessor, while the twin rear Cab access is simple thanks to remote engine makes. The wheel LWB is 150kg lighter than the old central locking, 90°opening doors and a Grafter Green tipper is model. Grafter Green has been integrated convenient step. Once inside, the driver much more refined, into Isuzu Truck’s Driveaway pre‐bodied sits high‐up with a commanding view of more fuel-efficient and programme, with both tipper and drop‐ the road ahead and large door mirrors side models available from launch. provide excellent rearward vision. The has a higher payload From behind the wheel of a short‐wheel‐ steering column is rake and reach‐ than its predecessor. base, twin rear wheel tipper, we can report adjustable, and the driver gets a fully that the new engine is a real beauty. It’s adjustable suspension seat.
what we think
vanfleetworld.co.uk / 31
Isuzu D-Max Blade A high specification and a small engine could be the ideal combination, says Dan Gilkes.
T
he pickup market continues to hold its own, at a time when overall van sales have peaked. There is little doubt that Benefit‐in‐Kind and VAT savings have helped to bolster popularity, but there also seems to be a genuine desire for dual‐ use trucks, driven in part by the rise in SUV and crossover sales. While companies like Isuzu, Ford, Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi continue to offer real working pickups, with a variety of cab layouts and drivelines, the big sellers are the high‐ speci ication, high‐powered range‐toppers. Isuzu updated its D‐Max line last year and continues to keep a boot in both the work‐ ing truck camp and the high‐trim sector. Its range‐topping Blade model certainly offers a comfortable driving experience, with a long list of standard specification including heated leather trim, climate control and a touchscreen monitor with sat nav and Blue‐ tooth connectivity. The D‐Max Blade is offered in a simple choice of white or black, complete with a roller cover and styling bar or an Aeroklas canopy. The only options fitted to our truck were a towing hook and electrics, at just under £500. The Blade trim also boasts the same driv‐ eline as the lesser models in the range, all of which dropped the previous generation’s 2.5‐litre twin‐turbo diesel engine, in favour of a new Euro 6, 1.9‐litre single‐turbo unit. While the power output remains a healthy 164bhp, the all‐important torque peak has fallen slightly, from 400Nm to 360Nm. On the road there is still plenty of perfor‐ mance, with easy motorway cruising and
32 / vanfleetworld.co.uk
what we think Downsizing has not damaged the performance of Isuzu’s D-Max, though it is perhaps a better fit lower down the trim ladder.
specification MODEL Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Blade Auto BASIC PRICE £28,999 ENGINE 4-cyl/1,898cc FUEL INJECTION Common-rail POWER 164bhp @ 3,600rpm TORQUE 360Nm @ 2,000-2,500rpm Weights (kg) GVW 3,050 KERB WEIGHT 1,949 PAYLOAD 1,101 MAX TRAILER WEIGHT 3,500 Dimensions (mm) LOAD SPACE LENGTH 1,485 LOAD SPACE WIDTH 1,530 LOAD SPACE HEIGHT 465 WIDTH BETWEEN W/ARCHES 1,080 Cost considerations COMBINED CO2/MPG 205g/km/36.2mpg FUEL TANK CAPACITY 76litres OIL CHANGE 2 year/12,000 miles WARRANTY 5 year/125,000 miles
the ability to keep pace on cross‐country routes. The D‐Max Blade also makes a strong case for itself in town, where its relatively compact dimensions make it easy to thread through traffic and to park within defined bays. Downsizing brings benefits in fuel consumption and emissions too, along with a drop in unladen weight. Admittedly the boost to the truck’s load‐lugging ability is more noticeable in the lower‐spec models, that aren’t carrying so many gadgets, but even the automatic transmission Blade has an extra 26kg of payload available, at 1,101kg. All D‐Max models boast a 3.5‐ tonne towing capacity too, keeping them on a par with the competition. Isuzu’s figures suggest up to 36.2mpg should be possible with the auto box, with CO2 emissions dropping from 220g/km to 205g/km. We saw an indicated 33mpg in daily use, falling to around 31mpg at higher motorway speeds. The 1.9‐litre engine is fairly vocal though, particularly when cold or when called upon for rapid acceleration. At launch, Isuzu was at pains to point out that this 1.9‐litre engine is more than capable of keeping up with the previous 2.5‐litre. But you suspect that many top‐ of‐the‐range buyers will no doubt still expect a more impressive motor beneath the bonnet. The good news for leets however, is that managers can now offer drivers the best of both worlds in a single package. The D‐Max Blade is a high‐speci ication pickup, without a bigger engine, retaining the improved emis‐ sions and fuel consumption of lesser models.
Renault Kangoo EDC Formula One connections aside, Kangoo’s EDC gearbox is well worth a look, says Dan Gilkes.
W
hile the paint scheme may be the most noticeable feature of this Renault Kangoo, its transmission is in fact the more interesting option. That’s because this Formula Edition Kangoo has been equipped with Renault’s Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) transmission, a six‐speed dry clutch automated box that can be used in full auto or semi‐auto modes. You don’t have to have the Formula Edition van to access the EDC box, though you do have to have the top‐specification Business+ trim if you don’t want the black and yellow paint. The EDC box is available with a choice of 90bhp or this 110bhp version of Renault’s 1.5‐litre dCi diesel engine though. Shouldering a £2,000 premium is not going to make EDC a popular option, which is unfortunate as it works really well. Despite the six gears, the automated trans‐ mission also delivers around 9‐10mpg less than a standard manual, while CO2 figures rise by 17g/km to 132g/km. However, if you can see past that, EDC has to be the way forward for urban delivery drivers. There is a bit of hesitation from standstill, but once moving the gearbox is incredibly smooth, slurring up and down through the gears imperceptibly and leav‐ ing the driver free to concentrate on road conditions and sat nav directions. As is so often the case, while you can change gears yourself, it is hardly worth it, unless you need to hold a gear for any reason. Far better to leave the transmission to do the work for you. Of course, if cost is not such a considera‐
what we think There’s a hefty premium to pay, but Renault’s EDC transmission makes life considerably easier for the urban delivery driver.
specification Renault Kangoo ML19 dCi110 Auto Formula Edition BASIC PRICE £20,145 ENGINE 4-cyl/1,461 cc FUEL INJECTION Common-rail POWER 110bhp @ 4,000rpm TORQUE 250Nm @ 1,750rpm Weights (kg) GVW 1,950 KERB WEIGHT 1,300 PAYLOAD 650 MAX TRAILER WEIGHT 1,050 Dimensions (mm) LOAD SPACE LENGTH 1,731 LOAD SPACE WIDTH 1,219 LOAD SPACE HEIGHT 1,251 LOAD VOLUME 3.0m3 Cost considerations COMBINED CO2/MPG 132g/km/55.4mpg FUEL TANK CAPACITY 60litres WARRANTY 4 year/100,000 miles MODEL
tion, then you may well be tempted by the Formula Edition trim as well. Designed to celebrate the fact that Renault Pro+ is the official logistics partner of the Renault Sport Formula One team, you get more than the black and yellow paint job for your £1,600 investment. The Formula Edition builds upon the range‐topping Business+ trim, with cruise control, a leather‐clad steering wheel, Formula edition floor mats, front fog lights with Sirius Yellow surrounds, LED daytime running lights, 15‐inch black alloy wheels and a black grille and Renault badge. The Business+ trim level already includes electric windows and mirrors, air conditioning, body‐coloured bumpers, rear parking sensors, a centre console with armrest and an overhead parcel shelf. Fortunately, the Formula Edition Kangoo loses none of the practicality of the stan‐ dard van, with a 3.0m3 load volume that can be extended to 3.6m3 if you opt for a fold‐ ing mesh bulkhead and fold‐flat passenger seat. The van retains its 650kg payload too, making it a very practical urban hauler. In truth few fleets are going to opt for the Formula Edition model, the owner‐ driver and SME are more its intended customer base. But see past the striking graphics of this particular test van, or simply order the Kangoo in Business+ specification and the EDC transmission is certainly well worth a closer look, even with the higher purchase and operat‐ ing costs. The automated transmission really lifts the driving experience in the compact Renault.
vanfleetworld.co.uk / 33
VAN
MARKET OVERVIEW Risk Management
Do you offer on-line LCV driver appraisal?
Do you offer psychometric driver profiling?
Do you offer risk assessment for LCV’s as part of your programme?
Do you offer an on-the-road LCV driver training programme?
Do you offer a classroom-based LCV driver training programme?
Do your instructors provide a demonstration drive?
Do you offer operator licence training?
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Do you offer Driver CPC Periodic Training?
Do your instructors carry out a driver eyesight test?
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Do you offer Post Accident Investigations training?
Do you offer e-training as part of your programme?
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IAM RoadSmart
Bespoke Driver Training Ltd
IAM RoadSmart is the UK’s leading independent road safety organisation and has been improving driving standards for more than 60 years through expert training. Our courses demonstrate that improving driver behaviour is key to reducing collisions and optimising vehicle efficiency, and therefore in helping businesses to keep tighter control on their costs. Our on-road training for business drivers is delivered by a nationwide network of fleet-registered ADIs, and supported by a suite of risk management tools including licence checking, online risk assessment, driver auditing and e-learning providing an easy, lowcost route to full compliance and a safer, more efficient fleet.
For over 20 years, we have been helping organisations of all sizes to meet their obligations to manage the risks to staff whilst driving at work. Through tailored interventions that engage drivers in fun, pragmatic and practical ways, we can help you to demonstrate that safety is no accident. Our expertise encompasses tailoring bespoke, holistic solutions to the challenges of reducing occupational road risks and fleet operating costs.
Contact: Sales Team business@iam.org.uk
Tel: 0870 120 2910 iamroadsmart.com/business
Contact: Mark Kendrick, Director Tel: 01905 887884 mk@bespokedrivertraining.com www.bespokedrivertraining.com
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VAN SUPPLIER DIRECTORY FLEETW W RLD daily rental
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