Motoring Eye 2012 by Buckley Publications

Issue 001 Winter 2013 £2.50

Customer Care... The Ogilvie Way Features: 06

Financing Cars… The Options Explained

Colin McNab… A Unique Perspective

Toyota… Leading Hybrid March

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Contents

Winter 2013 ISSUE 001

Cut Co2 & Cut Fuel Costs

Train Drivers To Increase Economy

On Board Monitoring Can Make A Difference

Colin McNab... A Unique Perspective On Car Marketplace

Financing Company Cars... What Are The Options?

DFC... Blending Experience & Personal Service

Cover Story â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Customer Care, The Ogilvie Way

New Era For Fleet Financial

Risk Management... Why Consider It?

Agnew Corporate... Leading The Way In Fleet Management

Buckley Publications 20 Kings Road Belfast, BT5 6JJ Tel: (028) 9047 4490 Fax: (028) 9047 4495 www.businesseye.co.uk

Editor Richard Buckley Commercial Director Brenda Buckley Sales Manager Claire Dickson

Features & Promotions Manager Ciara Donnelly Credit Control Manager Lisa McArdle

Design Hexagon 65 Irwin Crescent Belfast, BT4 3AQ Tel: (028) 9047 2210 www.hexagondesign.com

Photography Press Eye 45 Stockmans Way Belfast, BT9 7ET Tel: (028) 9066 9229 www.presseye.com

Welcome to a special Business Eye publication spotlighting the Fleet Vehicle Marketplace here in Northern Ireland.

Richard Buckley EDITOR Irish Magazine Editor of the Year 2005

BUSINESS VEHICLES... MANAGEMENT IS THE KEY

ars and light commercial vehicles might be looked upon by many companies as little more than a bottom line expense, but there’s no doubt that for most organisations they’re not just necessary but essential. In the pages that follow, we look at a wide variety of issues around the purchase of vehicles, use of vehicles and management of vehicle fleets....with the help of specialists in the field. We talk to the business leaders behind Northern Ireland’s leading contract hire and vehicle leasing companies about how they view the marketplace, about their advice to business users, and about how they see the marketplace (and its products) developing in the future. We also look at a number of key elements of the fleet/business car market. Not least, we turn the spotlight on the top-selling cars of 2012, and at how new technology – not least the rise of hybrid vehicles – can shape developments going forward. We take a closer look at how Government policy, and the attitude of Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs, has added a sharper focus to the question of vehicle choice. Companies choosing more environmentally friendly vehicles can increasingly reap tangible rewards. We report on how effective fleet management can make a difference to the bottom line, and at how in-car driver monitoring technology can help avoid accidents and shave insurance and car maintenance costs. And we turn our attention to a number of other live issues – from defensive winter driving to environmental measures and from financing options through to risk management. Our thanks go to the key players in the contract hire and leasing marketplace here in Northern Ireland, and to other specialists who play a key role in the sector. Richard Buckley Editor

A fleet at your fingertips Whatever the size, Fleet Financial makes childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play of getting your perfect business vehicle package. See how we can help your business succeed Telephone: 028 9084 9777 www.fleetfinancial.co.uk

Motoring Eye

TRAIN DRIVERS TO INCREASE ECONOMY... AND AVOID ACCIDENTS It’s a proven fact, it seems, that training can help drivers reduce their fuel consumption by up to 15%....saving companies thousands of pounds on fuel costs.

et, a relatively small number of organisations have been providing that form of training. Take up of training courses on defensive driving, and other accident avoidance techniques, is much higher among organisations. But eco driver training, as it is known, can have a dual effect. A number of fleet

operating companies point out that driving for improved fuel economy also means driving more safely and more slowly. Eco driver training also had a proven positive impact on fuel bills, but also on carbon emissions. So what’s it all about? The principles are fairly simple and easy to understand. Drivers

are encouraged, first and foremost, to avoid harsh braking, jerky movements, heavy use of the throttle and excessive speed. What’s more, these are driving skills which can be transferred

from work into the domestic/ private motoring scenario. Evidence suggests that, for most drivers, the effect of the training does stick... and does improve their driving over the long term.

IS THIS THE START OF A CHINESE REVOLUTION? The first Chinese vehicle to go on sale here is the Great Wall Steed, a double-cab pick-up. Could this be the start of something much bigger?

ventually it might be. For the moment the offering is at the cheap and cheerful end of the market. Priced from less than £14K (plus VAT) the Steed is the least expensive of its kind by a considerable margin. Great Wall has been in business for some 35 years in its uncritical home market. How will it fare in the West where standards are higher even for basic workhorses? Eakin Bros from Claudy are confident it will do well and have signed up as the first dealer in Northern Ireland. So what does the Steed have to offer? It has a decently powerful 2.0-litre 16-valve turbo diesel engine with a 143PS output. I drove a couple of examples

over the Craigantlet Hills to find them lively enough for a pick-up though they did grind and growl. There is plenty of torque, enough to tow a 2,000kg braked trailer (750kg unbraked). It offers two-wheel or four-wheel drive at the touch of a button and there are low ratios for offroad use. The Steed galloped along fine in a straight line but did roll a bit on the bends.

But this is a commercial vehicle so don’t expect it to be bundle of laughs. Inside, there are few surprises and the hard plastic finishes are in the interests of practicality rather than luxury. Quality is not up to current Western standards with an ill-fitting tailgate and wide panel gaps. The bottom line is more encouraging. Fuel consumption

is 34mpg Combined which is good for this class of vehicle and emissions are 220g/km. Insurance is low in groups 7/8. The three-year warranty includes roadside assistance. It is early days and Great Wall has a long way to go. But when you consider that sophisticated products such as the iPhone are made in China, maybe we should not ignore them

BETTER S S E N I S U B FOR S E L C I H E V Here at Northern Ireland’s fastest-growing commercial broker, our focus is on finding better insurance for business vehicles. And here’s why we think you should give us a try: • we compare cover and obtain competitive premiums from our panel of insurers on your behalf • flexible payment options • dedicated account handlers • single or multiple vehicles But that’s not the whole story. Talk to us about premises, plant and liability insurance too. And find out what better business insurance can mean for your business.

Call 028 9181 7924 today or visit hughesinsurance.co.uk

Hughes Insurance is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Motoring Eye

Cut Co2... Cut Fuel Costs I

t’s a statistic that can’t be ignored. The Energy Savings Trust reckons that a car or van fleet’s fuel bill can be cut by up to 20% by undertaking a ‘green’ audit. And that’s not the only benefit. The Trust also says that a ‘green’ approach can help cut down on vehicle depreciation as well as reduce maintenance costs. There is a proven link between vehicle Co2 emissions and costs. Emissions are linked to the volume of fuel burned... and companies can rack up cost savings simply by setting a Co2 limit on their car choice lists as well as encouraging drivers to use their vehicles more efficiently. Research has shown that many organisations have little knowledge about their carbon footprint... or a detailed record of fuel use and mileages covered.

And there is also a common misconception among companies that taking an environmental approach will cost them money... as opposed to producing immediate savings. But a lot of the thinking behind such an approach revolves around the simple mechanism of reducing overall mileage.

CHANGE ON THE WAY FOR CAR TAX? Change could be on its way to the system of taxing company and fleet vehicles.

overnment is thought to be considering replacing vehicle excise duty with a one-off environment tax on new cars. The proposed tax would be based on Co2 emissions... and could potentially raise the amount raised in vehicle tax for the Treasury. It’s not an easy proposal to get to grips with. But, in essence, it would involve taking the emission levels of the best-performing 1% of cars, and then introducing a sliding upward scale of charges (per extra gram of emission). Cars below the ‘pivot point’ would receive a

subsidy on the new car price, and cars above it would pay extra in tax depending on their emission levels. Fleet operators and company car drivers already know all about emission-based charges. But those proposing the upfront charges reckon that it would force more drivers into going for low emission vehicles. As things stand, company car drivers pay Benefit In Kind tax on a percentage of the P11D value of their car... the list price plus VAT, delivery, number plates and any optional extras.

But the percentage of tax paid is decided by the Co2 emissions of the car and fuel type based on a sliding scale. Industry publication Fleet News, in a report on the proposed changes, provides a useful example for company car drivers. A Vauxhall Insignia 2.0 CDTI Ecoflex would see its P11D price rise by £1,000 to £23,195 (GB mainland price levels). And a 20% taxpayer would therefore pay an extra £32 a year in tax, while a 40% taxpayer would face a hike double the size of that.

But there are doubts whether the new tax proposals will ever see the light of day. The proposals mean that VED is transferred from the company to the employee... and this may well be considered a bridge too far by many in the industry (not to mention motorists themselves).

In this age of Benefit in Kind taxation, it is not always best to take a Company vehicle and this is where Contraflex can help. With over 36 years experience, Contraflex can offer totally independent advice on all methods of vehicle procurement based on individual details and requirements.

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Volkswagon Tiguan 2.0 TDi S Blue Motion

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Cars shown for illustrative purposes only, monthly payments based on Contract. Please ask for more details.

Motoring Eye

FINANCING COMPANY CARS... WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS? How best to finance company car fleets is a hardy annual among the challenges facing company FD’s.

he simple fact remains that the sourcing and financing of vehicles has important tax and employer implications. Research shows that contract hire remains the most popular route, with employees picking up the bill for benefit-inkind tax on the car. BIK also applies to cars bought under personal contract hire. But there are other considerations, not least health and safety. It’s worth remembering that even if a car driven for business purposes is owned by the employee, the employer is still liable for health and safety. New corporate manslaughter laws bring that into sharp focus. Employee car ownership plans avoid BIK but the risk factor isn’t taken away from the employer. Then there’s the issue of mileage allowance payments, and what level to set these at... as well as how to monitor claims. The remaining option is outright vehicle purchase... using the buying power of the organisation to negotiate the best available deals for management and staff. Company cars remain an attractive benefit, and are still seen as an important tool when it comes to recruitment. The best approach is to do the homework on finance, on risks and on the costings for the life cycle of every vehicle. CONTRACT HIRE The downside to contract hire is the benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax implications. Under contract hire the employer owns the car, and that ownership status means that BIK tax is payable by the employee. Alastair Kendrick, partner at Bourne Business Consulting, says: “Tax is liable here because the car is considered to be a company car, and until the date of the transfer of ownership to the employee, tax will have to be paid.” Therefore the employee pays company car tax, which is based on price of the vehicle and its CO2 emissions level - the employer pays national insurance (NI) on that amount. Fortunately,

Motoring Eye because of the government’s strong desire to keep carbon emissions down, tax breaks are available on cars that produce super-low emissions at 120 grams per kilometre or below. And BIK tax breaks are set to become even more generous from April, when the CO2 quotient falls from 15% to 10%. PERSONAL CONTRACT HIRE The same BIK principle applies to company cars offered under a PCP. PCPs are similar to the contract hire scheme in that the employer retains effective ownership of the company car because the contract is between the employer and the supplier. As a result, BIK, is still be due on the car. But unlike contract hire, individual employees approach the leasing firm directly to select a car, usually within strict guidelines as to the make and model of car. Next to tax, risk is a second crucial issue to consider when deciding how to finance your company car fleet. Under the new Corporate Manslaughter Act, which comes into effect in April, an organisation could face prosecution and an unlimited fine in the event of death of an employee caused by gross corporate failings in health and safety. In the past, any prosecution would have had to have shown gross negligence by at least one individual senior company officer or director. This is no longer the case under the tighter new rules. And a car used for company business is seen as an extension of the workplace, so a motor accident that results from gross corporate failings in health and safety could lead to prosecution. It has quickly become clear, that even if a car driven on business is owned by the employee, and not the employer, the employer is still liable for health and safety. So many employers are taking much closer control of these cars. So in terms of risk, contract hire schemes and PCPs can help in establishing a liability shield, with the employer being assured that the fleet leasing supplier will look after the vehicle’s MOT,

insurance, and regular servicing. In addition, the employer knows that the vehicle being driven is a new car. So overall the chances of employees driving poorly-serviced or not-fit-forpurpose cars are at a minimum. Grosvenor’s Menzies adds: “A contract hire vehicle would be fully maintained, the employer can put in its own parameters around engine size and miles per gallon (MPG), and this is all part of the contract.” EMPLOYEE CAR OWNERSHIP PLANS Diametrically opposed to contract hire schemes - in terms of tax and risk - are employee car ownership plans (Ecops). Ecops are where the car is owned by the individual worker. Therefore, there is no BIK tax or NI to be paid, even though the company is technically funding the use of the car. In simple terms, the employer agrees a sum of cash to award the employee each month and it is agreed that the employee will use that cash to fund the running of a car. In addition, drivers are reimbursed for the business miles they drive in Ecops via authorised mileage allowance payments (Amaps) - as is the case for any employee driving their own car for business. Employers pay drivers 40p per business mile for the first 10,000 and 25p per mile thereafter, free of tax. Amaps were originally introduced for public sector employees who were not offered company cars and had to drive business miles in their own car. The generous tax-free rates were set to compensate for the general wear and tear of their cars. However, the fleet industry is currently awaiting a final decision from HM Revenues & Customs (HMRC) on how Amap rates will be offered in relation to Ecops. A consultation document was published last year, and there is concern that the generous Amap rates might be a target of the Budget on 12 March. If this were to happen, Ecops would instantly become less attractive. So, with no BIK tax to pay and a currently appealing

tax-free option to reimburse business drivers for fuel, wear and tear, Ecops have become financially attractive. Jim Salkeld, chairman at provider firm Toomey Opticar, explains: “The most effective cash option for larger fleets is some form of structured Ecop arrangement.” But there is a major potential pitfall. FDs should be aware that Ecops could end up costing employers huge sums of money if proper fleet risk checks are not applied to the Ecop vehicles, or indeed other schemes where staff are free to select their own car. Take a typical example of an employer which offers cash allowances and allows drivers free rein on how they spend the money. An employee is awarded £500 a month in car allowance, and decides to spend just £100 a month on an ‘old banger’, taking the rest of the allowance as a cash bonus. If that employee was then involved in an accident, the employer could be held liable because the company is technically funding the car. “It is very difficult to control something that is not managed by a third party, how do you know about the history of the car, or whether it has ever been serviced?” asks Kendrick. So, in order to reduce this risk, many providers are now offering structured Ecops where they work with the employer to restrict the employees’ selection to certain makes or models or ages of cars. The provider will also ensure that the driver keeps the car serviced and insured with regular reminders. Richard Schooling, chief operating officer at Alphabet, says: “An Ecop scheme managed by an experienced fleet provider is likely to offer the optimum financial benefits to the employer and driver, while also ensuring that the employer retains a vital insight into both vehicle condition and fitness for purpose.” While Salkeld adds: “Employees would generally expect to be able to source and fund their own car under a cash allowance option, and as long as the policy for age, suitability, insurance and maintenance is clear and effectively enforced, there should be no problem.”

OUTRIGHT PURCHASE The third most popular way in which employers source company cars (after contract hire and employees sourcing their own cars) is outright purchase. Using the corporate buying power of the organisation to negotiate good deals when buying in volume can prove to be highly cost effective. “It tends to be better for the company to source the car, or range of cars because they have the buying power to offer a discount to employees, and should be corporately controlled,” says Kendrick. But the amount of discount that the employer will be able to negotiate will depend on the manufacturer it is dealing with, and the more prestigious the model the less likely the manufacturer will be willing to negotiate. “Vauxhall and Ford may offer up to 30% discounts, but BMW may well be a different story,” says Kendrick. In the case of outright purchases, BIK tax applies, but like contract hire, the employer has much greater control over the risk elements of running company cars. Sadly, there is no one-sizefits-all scheme, and the issue of risk and cost-effectiveness crops up with each sourcing method. However, if the FD is willing to put in the legwork, the solution may play itself out using a combination of sources that produces a fit for staff that actually have a range of different needs.

“ An Ecop scheme managed by an experienced fleet provider is likely to offer the optimum financial benefits to the employer and driver, while also ensuring that the employer retains a vital insight into both vehicle condition and fitness for purpose.” 11

Motoring Eye

CUSTOMER CARE... THE OGILVIE WAY Ogilvie Fleet might be a relatively new name to the fleet car marketplace here in Northern Ireland, but the company isn’t short on experience or scale.

anked No. 19 in the UK by Fleet News, Ogilvie is headquartered in the Scottish city of Stirling, with operating bases in Sheffield, Birmingham and Belfast. It forms part of the wider Ogilvie Group, a £175 million turnover family owned concern employing more than 400 people and with interests in construction and house building as well as fleet vehicles. Ogilvie Fleet has embarked on a major assault on the UK fleet marketplace – especially in the North of England, Scotland & Northern Ireland – over the past seven or eight years, lifting a series of awards for its innovative customer service along the way. “As a company we’ve grown by 370% in the past number of years,” says David Snarr, the company’s Manchester-based Business Development Director. “We’re ambitious and we intend to maintain that record of growth, here in Northern Ireland as well as elsewhere.” The company opened its Northern Ireland operation just over two years ago and already has around 1,000 vehicles under contract in the local marketplace.... making it a major player in the sector already occupied by some established fleet providers. Recent expansion has seen the appointment of the highly experienced Jim Humphreys as the firm’s new Regional Manager here. He heads up a sevenstrong team currently based in Dundonald but considering a move to larger offices elsewhere. “Our aspiration is very clear” says Humphreys. “We want to become the No. 1 vehicle leasing company in Northern Ireland. “Ogilvie has built its reputation on two very firm corporate values – trust and transparency. We are

open and transparent with our customers. We work hard to ensure that they fully understand every aspect of our dealings with them and that, in turn, builds up a relationship built on trust. In other words, we treat our customers the way we would wish to be treated ourselves.” On a national basis, Ogilvie Fleet has well over 10,000 vehicles under contract, and that adds an impressive layer of experience to its business growth in the local marketplace. “Like any good company, we’re only as good as our results in the market. And, in our case, our rapidly growing fleet show that our customers value the service they get from Ogilvie,” Humphreys adds. Ogilvie’s No. 19 ranking in the annual Fleet News survey makes them the only “fully-operational-office” player in the Northern Ireland market placed in the top 20 contract hire and leasing companies UK-wide. “We’ve posted consecutive growth year and year over the past number of years,” adds David Snarr. “And it’s worth bearing in mind that we’ve achieved that growth through some pretty lean years on the economic front. We’re aiming to continue that progress through organic growth. “That’s not to say that we wouldn’t consider acquisition as a route going forward, but it’s not something that’s high on our list of priorities just at the moment,” he adds. Jim Humphreys says that, when it comes to customer growth, the recipe for success lies in securing business and then retaining that business though the provision of the very best levels of customer service. “We can never forget that our customers have a choice of suppliers, so we have to make sure that we give them the kind of amazing customer experience they deserve.” “We’re working with companies of all sizes, large and small,” he adds. “We’re more than happy to talk to business customers with two or three cars on their fleet but then we can truly excel ourselves when

Motoring Eye

working with much larger organisations with more complex and diverse fleet needs. “Either way, we can provide the value, the customer care and the choice that they’re looking for. He is quick to return to the issue of transparency. “It’s important to be transparent with our customers. In this business, there can be grey areas, like end of contract condition charges and what happens when contract mileages are either exceeded, or not reached. These matters are traditionally areas where fleets can be exposed but our transparent and upfront approach is unique and protects fleet operators in a way that very few other leasing companies can deliver. We also acknowledge that metallic paint enhances our residual value and therefore pass that benefit on to our customers in the form of free metallic paint on all cars.” There’s little doubt that the wider contract hire and leasing sector has grown in recent years, as more and more companies look at the funding and outsourcing of their vehicles. “There has been a definite growth,” adds Humphreys. “There’s no doubt that cash is king just at the moment, and companies don’t want to use up cash for vehicle purchases if they can do it a better way. “That’s what we’re able to offer....backed up, of course, by some very clear tax benefits. “The Northern Ireland business marketplace is very tuned into potential cost efficiencies, and we’re able to come in and provide exactly that on the vehicle front, whether it is fleet cars or light commercials.”

Both Ogilvie executives also point to the firm’s contribution to the greater good here in Northern Ireland. “We’re here for the long term. We’re buying a lot of vehicles from local dealerships, and that provides knock-on economic benefit. The same goes for the money we put into ancillary business areas, like vehicle maintenance and tyre suppliers.” Ogilvie Fleet is a full member of the British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Association (BVRLA), an industry body for a sector which employs around 46,000 people in the UK, supports a fleet of around 2.5 million cars and commercial vehicles and spends in excess of £16 billion each year on new vehicles.....nearly half of all the vehicles sold in the UK as a whole. “People like to buy from people,” Jim Humphreys sums up. “So it’s vital that trust and transparency exists in those relationships. That’s something we work very hard on. The fact that Ogilvie Fleet has grown by 370% in the past 10 years suggests that we’re doing something right...”

Ogilvie Fleet Ltd Thallon House Carrowreagh Business Park Dundonald, Belfast BT16 1Q

AWARDS: 2012 FN50 “Customer Service Award - Team” - *WINNER*

2012 Fleet News “Reader Recommended” Contract Hire Company - *SHORTLISTED*

2012 Business Car Techies Awards *HIGHLY COMMENDED*

2012 Fleet News “Customer Service Award” - *WINNER*

2012 Scottish Business Awards “Customer Focus” Category - *NOMINEE*

2011 Fleet News “Reader Recommended” Contract Hire Company - *SHORTLISTED*

2012 FleetEye CSi Award for “Highest Customer Satisfaction Levels” - *WINNER*

2011 FleetEye CSi Award for “Highest Customer Satisfaction Levels” - *WINNER*

2012 Fleet News “Best New Product or Service (Ogilvie MiFleet)” - *FINALIST*

2010 Fleet News “Reader Recommended” Contract Hire Company - *SHORTLISTED*

Tel: 028 9048 5777 FOLLOW OGILVIE FLEET

Tel: 028 9048 5777 Fax: 028 9048 3555

www.facebook.com/ ogilviefleet

www.twitter.com/ ogilviefleet

Email: jim.humphreys@ogilvie.co.uk and/or fleet-ni@ogilvie.co.uk

www.youtube.com/ ogilviefleetuk

www.linkedin.com/ company/ogilvie-fleet-ltd

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Motoring Eye If you look at the latest sales figures, Kia is on a roll. Once the pour relations, even among the Far Eastern motor manufacturers, the Korean maker has invested, invested again and kept at the hard work until it got to where it is today.

KIA CEE’D... The Best Value Around?

cursory glance around the roads here in Northern Ireland shows just how well the company is doing, particularly with its Sportage SUV model. But the mid-range Cee’d is Kia’s big player just at the moment in the fleet car marketplace....and it’s a car well worth considering. The previous version of this compact family hatchback is the

model that did the trick for Kia. A major step up in every area, and combined with some sharp pricing, the Cee’d put the Korean brand alongside all the big boys for the first time, with no excuses. So the expectations were high for this all-new Cee’d. It’s slightly bigger all-round, with some new engines that offer the possibility to get below the magic 100g/km CO2 figure that has so many tax advantages. Kia isn’t content with this though, and it has included a bucketful of technology that, a few years ago, you’d have never have dreamed of in a family car. So the high-spec trim level has cornering headlights, a heated steering wheel with no less than 14 controls mounted on it, steering that can be adjusted for weight, an electric parking brake, lane departure warnings, self parking, a panoramic roof and much more. You will, of course, pay for this luxury and we suspect that more affordable Cee’ds are the bigger sellers. Performance The 1.6 diesel in its most powerful form has 128hp, it is smooth and refined for a diesel and particularly quiet. The six-speed manual gearbox (there’s also a traditional six-speed auto as an option) has an easy change which helps make the Cee’d whisk along in town and on open roads with almost serene progress. Sixth gear, mind you, is extremely high - to aid economy - with the result that the engine has very little in the way of acceleration in this gear. So swapping gears to

fifth is a common requirement, sometimes fourth to give the car enough shove to maintain the right level of progress. The 1.6 petrol model gets the option of a new automatic transmission with a double-clutch system. A different technology to the diesel automatic, this DCT gearbox is more efficient to offer better economy. It comes with paddles mounted behind the wheel for manual shifting when you choose. Ride and handling The new Cee’d, like virtually every new car launched these days, has electrically assisted power steering rather than hydraulic assistance that has been around for a century. The advantage of electric power steering is that it consumes less power, so economy is improved. Kia, though, couldn’t resist taking advantage of another possibility it offers, to vary the weight at the steering wheel. So the Cee’d has a Normal setting, Comfort and Sport. There is some argument for the superlight steering that you get with Comfort, for the lazy and those simply with weak biceps. Interior A strength of the original Cee’d, the new car’s interior moves ahead in leaps and bounds and can genuinely be considered alongside an Audi for its perceived quality. The dashboard makes extensive use of chrome highlights that veer, but only just, on the right side of tasteful. The switches and levers are finely detailed, as good as you get in a compact hatch.

There’s more choice of seating colours and materials too, though it’s unlikely all of the eight options will finally make it to the UK. The seats are well shaped and comfortable, a decent height from the floor both front and back. There’s a little more room inside, and the Kia can take four adults with ease. The full-length opening panoramic sunroof is a nice feature for those in the rear. Boot space is up by 40 litres to 380 litres, but as importantly, the luggage area has a good, square shape and the floor is completely flat when the rear seats are folded down. Economy and safety The official figures for the diesel promise an average economy of 68.8mpg, an astonishing figure no doubt helped by the absurdly high gearing. Yet the test car computer showed close to 60mpg on the motorway, and the mid-forties in town, which is still excellent. In terms of safety, the body is stronger than before, Kia says, notably for side impact protection. Six airbags are standard across the range. The previous Cee’d scored five stars in the EuroNCAP safety tests, but the new model has yet to be assessed. Verdict There’s much to admire about the new Cee’d and there’s no doubt it will hit the spot for many drivers. The interior is particularly appealing and as the interface between driver and car, that’s important. But there’s one even more important factor.... the seven-year warranty.

Motoring Eye

RISK MANAGEMENT –

WHY CONSIDER IT?

Risk Management is a common sense approach to managing the resources of your business. It involves identification of risks that affect your business, assessment of the potential interruption to business that each risk presents, establishing a list of actions to minimise those risks and finally implementing a programme to bring the risks under control. Q. So why should a business consider implementing a Risk Management Programme for its Motor Fleet insurance? A. The financial costs of repairs following an accident are only a small element of the potential impact on a company’s business following an accident. Other costs can exceed the repair costs incurred and also impact far beyond the timescale for repairs. Examples of other costs include :• Loss of production, expertise and business opportunities due to serious injury or even death of drivers and passengers. • Damage to goods which may have an impact on existing/future contracts or at least the level of service provided to your customers. • Additional administration resources required to deal with the accident. Claim form completion, replacement vehicles, rescheduling of deliveries to name a few. • The rising cost of insurance premiums which will be linked to the claims history of the business. • Potential legal costs and the time involved in defending an action made against the business following an accident. • Financial penalties for breach of legislation. All of the above have affected and will continue to affect thousands of businesses each year and even in isolation provide sufficient reason why all firms should consider implementing a Motor Fleet Risk Management Programme. If that does not convince you then consider the following statistics:• 65% of all company owned vehicles are involved in an accident of some description each year.

Derek Quinn, Commercial Insurance Director, Hughes Insurance.

• 41% of these accidents are considered avoidable as they are a direct result of poor driving. • 28% of incidents are also attributed to vehicle crime.

(c) disclosure of convictions received regardless of driving a company vehicle at the time (d) disclosure of medical conditions which could affect ability to drive (e) details of previous claims incurred

All of the above incidents have potential to place a further burden on your business. The implementation of a Motor Fleet Risk Management Programme could help ease this burden.

Vehicles: (a) responsibility for notification of faults including clear guidelines regarding action to be taken (b) regular inspection of vehicles (c) instructions on who is authorised to drive company vehicles (d) instruction on the carriage of passengers (e) details of each persons responsibility in the event of an accident. (f) vehicle protection (g) driver incentives (h) driver training (i) vehicle users handbook

Implementation of a Risk Management Programme (1) The programme must be structured with clearly defined responsibility for those involved in implementing the required procedures. (2) Good Communication along with a clear understanding of procedures is key to the success of the programme. Risk Management Programmes will vary from business to business – some areas for consideration are detailed below:• Identify areas specifically where Issues/costs occur. • Create a list of procedures which will include Drivers: (a) ensuring drivers licences are in force for anyone who may drive (b) annual checks of licences

These are only some of the areas that need consideration. My advice to you is simple – don’t delay and implement a Risk Management programme as soon as possible. Guidance and assistance is available from Hughes Insurance – your local insurance broker.

For more information contact:Derek Quinn, Commercial Insurance Director, Hughes Insurance Email: derek.quinn@hughesinsurance.co.uk Telephone: (028) 9181 7924

Join us in the Charles Hurst family.

Visit www.charleshurst.com where the choice, quality & value is endless. Established 1911 Customers nationwide 19 Leading manufacturer brands Over 2000 cars, vans and bikes online Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most comprehensive choice

Main dealers for Aston Martin Bentley BMW Motorrad Chrysler CitroĂŤn Ferrari Hyundai Jaguar Jeep Kia Land Rover Lexus Maserati Nissan Peugeot Renault Toyota Vauxhall Yamaha

Simply click on: www.charleshurst.com

Motoring Eye

Driving Clever...But Can Technology Help? We all think that we’re good drivers, don’t we? We don’t take kindly to others telling us that we’re not perhaps as good as we think we are. But it’s a bit harder to take offence when it’s a piece of software which is doing the telling... But can driving performance software make a difference? And how does it change driver behaviour? Richard Buckley put it to the test with the help of Northern Ireland specialist accident management company Crash Services...

rash Services’ BMW 3 Series saloon looks like any other BMW 3 Series saloon....and behaves like one as well. There’s little to give away the fact that there’s a little piece of computer technology on board that records your every move, in driving terms at least. The rationale is pretty simple. The system is aimed at business running car or van fleets, not surprisingly. And it can produce some tangible results for those fleet operators across a range of measures:- By improving fuel efficiency through efficient driving techniques - By reducing carbon emissions - By potentially (and increasingly) reducing insurance premiums - By reducing the risk of accidents - By ensuring that companies meet ‘duty of care’ liabilities And, as an added bonus (although company drivers may not think so...), the system, developed by Ingenium Dynamics, also uses GPS technology to pinpoint where a particular vehicle is at any given moment. To be frank, it’s that little ‘Big Brother’-like feature that will spook most users much more than the prospect that their everyday driving habits can be monitored at a glance.

Gone are the days, perhaps, when a van or car can be hidden round the back of your house (or someone else’s house) during working hours! The Ingenium Dynamics system, supplied by Crash Services on request to all of its customers, is certainly a clever piece of technology. Get behind the wheel and drive the car as normal.....but bear in mind that you’re being watched! And therein lies one of the secrets of how the system works. I spent a few days with the Crash Services BMW, and it’s all but impossible to start driving without considering that you’d better think about how you’re doing it. So you tend to be a little smoother about how you accelerate, you tend to avoid sharp braking where you can, you think about optimum gear changing (although the BMW I sampled made things easy by being an automatic) and you drive with economy in mind. And it’s worth noting that BMW econo-meter on the main dash makes that a little bit easier. Once you’re safely back at base, it’s quick and easy to log into the Ingenium Dynamics site with your ID and password and look at how you’ve been performing.....day by day and journey by journey. The system highlights ‘star’ performances, journeys when you get the green light for everything

you do, and – just as quickly – points out areas of concern. Unfortunately for a lot of us, that includes pointing out when you exceed the speed limit on any given trip. The thing is that it does get a little addictive. For the majority of drivers, a couple of fairly patchy performances tend to be followed by some marked improvements. And, from then on, it becomes a bit of a challenge....and there’s no doubt that it improves your driving performance. Even if you’re under pressure to be somewhere else, the prospect of bad marks comes to mind and you’re moderating things once again. Call it classroom philosophy, but it works! “It’s a very effective system and once you get used to it, you enjoy driving with it on board,” says Tony McKeown, Managing Director of Crash Services. “From a company perspective, there’s no doubt that it produces results. It reduces the risk of accidents, it leads to real savings on fuel costs, and it cuts down on wear and tear of tyres and the vehicle itself. “And it’s a boost for any organisation’s green credentials as well as an additional security safeguards through the vehicle tracking technology.” For full details of the Ingenium Dynamics system, contact CRASH Services. CRASH is an independent accident management company with its headquarters in Newry, Co. Down. Founded in 1996, it has grown rapidly in recent years. CRASH effectively manages accidents on behalf of its client organisations – providing vehicle recovery, repairs and replacement vehicles, as well as assisting with the insurance and legal implications. The company has supported more than 45,000 Northern Ireland motorists and handled over £60 million worth of insurance claims since 1996. TEL CRASH: 0500 27 27 47

NO DR W

IV IN IN CL G UD ST ES YL E

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Motoring Eye

CHARLES HURST’S COLIN McNAB... A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON THE CAR MARKETPLACE With no less than 18 different motor franchises under his wing, it’s hard to argue with the fact that the experienced Colin McNab has a fairly unique view of the car marketplace here in Northern Ireland.

career man with the Charles Hurst Group, he now finds himself in the role of Operations Director at the Belfast-based company, which forms part of the Lookers Plc motor retail group. “The reality is that there have been winners and losers in the market. We’ve got 10 volume franchises and eight premium ones, and each one has a different story to tell,” says McNab. “We’ll never see a time when every

one is at the top of its cycle.... and it is a cyclical thing for manufacturers, whose fortunes can go up and down. We call it the ‘piston effect’, and we’ve got 18 pistons to think about.” The year just past, he says, saw new car sales remaining relatively flat, but the used car marketplace growing by a very significant 17% year on year... largely due to more consumers opting for the lower cost of used vehicles. “All in all, the market is in reasonably good shape all things considered,” adds McNab. The strength of the Charles Hurst Group, he reckons, isn’t just its number of franchises. It’s also the fact that Colin McNab and Group Chairman Ken Surgenor can gather together all of their franchise directors within half an hour. “So we can react very quickly if we see opportunities, or

threats for that matter,” he smiles. “We can’t change the economic conditions, but we can certainly react to them.” The car market continues to move apace. 2013 will see no less than 10 different key model launches from manufacturers within the Hurst Group stable, as well as a large number of model refreshments. “What has been important for us as a group has been to work with our customers. We know that times are tougher, so we’ve looked at finance deals, budget plans, service packages and a lot more besides. We’ve got to make it easy for people to buy our cars. “Customers can’t afford any shocks or hidden charges. That explains why our service plans are up by 56% this year. People are looking more closely than ever at the running costs of any car.”

Among key trends, he notes the continued rise of hybrid technology, which is being effectively championed by the Toyota and Lexus brands which form an important part of the Charles Hurst stable. And then there’s the marked growth in sales by Korean manufacturers Hyundai and Kia... whose much improved model ranges are backed by comprehensive five and sevenyear warranties respectively. “Back in 2008, the total Kia sales in Northern Ireland was

Motoring Eye

“ Customer retention, as ever, is vitally important for us as a company. We want to make sure that every customer – whether for used cars, Dacia, Kia, Bentley or Ferrari – has a good experience at Charles Hurst. That way, they’ll come back next time.”

672 Kia vehicles. In 2012, we were looking at well over 1800 cars. That’s a big increase in five years,” he emphasises. Within the Hurst Group, each franchise has its own business specialist, on site to advise business customers on the financial options available. “We’re well aware that business customers want value for money, and they also want a hassle-free experience. We aim to provide both of those.” The coming year will see the addition of an 18th franchise

on the sprawling Hurst site at Boucher Road. The new showroom will mark the arrival of the Dacia brand, a highly affordable stable of Romanian-built vehicles. “We had more than 50 orders for the new Dacia Duster (the maker’s SUV model) before we had even given anyone a chance to drive it... so we’re very excited about the new venture,” Colin McNab adds. At the other end of the price scale, enquiries and firm orders for the brand new Range Rover starting at £70,000 have exceeded even the

most optimistic forecasts. Maserati and Ferrari will be moving into new state of the art purpose built premises within the complex as Maserati prepare to expand the number of models coming in from Italy. The marques previously shared a showroom with Bentley. “We’re looking forward to the new year. Economic conditions might be tough. But the car market is holding up remarkably well. And we’re looking forward to the new models that 2013 will bring.

“Our used car sites are trading exceptionally well. A number of our franchises are also going really well in an otherwise flat market. “Customer retention, as ever, is vitally important for us as a company. We want to make sure that every customer – whether for used cars, Dacia, Kia, Bentley or Ferrari – has a good experience at Charles Hurst. That way, they’ll come back next time.”

Motoring Eye

TOYOTA LEADS THE MARCH OF THE HYBRIDS There’s not much doubt about which car manufacturer is leading the way when it comes to hybrid technology.

nd there’s even less doubt that hybrid cars are on the up in terms of sales with plenty of help from Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs. Toyota think the tighter company car tax regime announced in the 2012 Budget statement will prompt higher demand for the their very latest petrol-electric Auris as fleets look for increasingly costeffective transport solutions. Better looking and with a highergrade finish, the new Auris gets improved aerodynamics from a

55mm reduction in height and is £615 cheaper than its predecessor. Detail changes to the drive system control logic have also improved driving performance, although the continuously variable transmission still sends the 1.8-litre engine spinning at a seemingly excessive rate when acceleration is needed on motorway inclines. For the most part, however, the hybrid hatchback has a more subdued and refined demeanour in its latest guise, which features better detailing, improved comfort and thicker sound-deadening material. Relocating the hybrid battery pack from the boot to beneath the rear seat has removed a major criticism. Luggage capacity is no longer compromised and the 360-litre volume now matches that of conventional versions.

Along with suspension revisions, the change has also benefited handling by lowering the centre of gravity to improve stability at speed and reduce body roll during cornering, although the car still trails the class leaders in overall handling ability. With the Auris, Toyota GB is launching a fresh grade structure – Active, Icon, Sport and Excel. The mid-range Icon trim is expected to be most popular with fleets and includes alloy wheels, six speaker DAB audio, a multimedia control screen, rear parking camera, pushbutton start, fog lamps and poweroperated windows all round. Intelligent park assist gadgetry is included on the Excel, together with cruise control, dual-zone air conditioning, automatic wipers and headlights, heated front seats and power-fold door mirrors.

Most importantly, here are the key numbers and stats... • 11D Price: £ 21,690 • Benefit in kind: 10 • Power: 136 • Torque: 105 • CO2 Emissions: 91 • Combined MPG: 72 • Annual VED: 0 • Top Speed: - 0-60: 10.9 • Engine Size: 1798 • On Sale Year: 2013 • Transmission: Auto • Number of Gears: • Fuel Type: Hybrid • Vehicle Type: Lower Medium • Residual Value 3 Years 60K: £ 6,850 4 years 80K: £ 5,425 • Running Cost (PPM) 3 Years 60K: 35.95 4 Years 80K: 32.28

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The VoLVo S60, V60 and V70 BuSineSS ediTion from £19,995 oTr* • Integrated Satellite Navigation • Bluetooth® • High Performance Audio • Rear Park Assist • City Safety • BIK from 16% & CO2 114g/km

We know what matters to business drivers. Useful things like Satellite Navigation and Bluetooth®. Helpful extras like Rear Park Assist. Plus important things like a lower retail price to keep costs and BIK down. That’s why the new Volvo Business Edition from just £19,995 OTR* makes perfect business sense. Call us now to find out more about this unique blend of Scandinavian style and truely local value-for-money.

The VoLVo S60 d2 BuSineSS ediTion from £249 (+VaT) per monTh on BuSineSS conTracT hire* Greers of Antrim 62 Greystone Road, Antrim Tel: 028 9446 3259 www.greersofantrim.com S m w Belfast 19 Boucher Crescent, Belfast Tel: 028 9068 6000 www.smwbelfast.co.uk *Business users only. Excluding vat, non-maintenance. Initial rental £1494 plus 35 monthly rentals, 10,000 miles per annum, excess mileage will be charged. Subject to availability until 31.12.2012. Not available with other offers. Official fuel consumption for the Volvo Business Edition range in mpg (l/100 km): Urban 28.5 (9.9) - 57.7 (4.9), Extra Urban 47.9 (5.9) - 74.3 (3.8), Combined 38.2 (7.4) - 65.7 (4.3). CO2 emissions 171 - 114g/km. Benefit in kind rate for the 2012/2013 tax year on the Volvo Business Edition ranges from 16% to 26%. By way of example, company car tax payable being £55.17 to £125.69 per month for a 20% taxpayer and £110.35 to £251.38 per month for a 40% taxpayer. Monthly amounts are a guide only. Final car tax payable may be lower or higher and will depend on other factors including final list price of car with accessories and options and any employee capital contributions or payments made towards private use. Excludes private fuel. Advice should be taken. Volvo Car Leasing/Contract Hire is provided by Lex Autolease Ltd, trading as Volvo Car Leasing, incorporated and registered in England with company number 1090741 & registered at 25 Gresham Street London EC2V 7HN. Images for illustrative purposes only. *S60 T3 Manual Business Edition. Images shown have optional metallic paint

Smart ABC NI Smart repair is smart because it saves you money. Why pay to have whole body panels repaired for a single scuff, or have to order expensive replacement parts? Smart repair is suitable for repairing cars due for return to lease companies and is recommended in the Fair Wear and Tear Standard by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA). If you have a lease or contract hire vehicle that has to be returned soon, you can save a lot of money by getting the scratches, dents and scuffs to the body, bumpers and wheels repaired with SMART ABC NI before it gets returned.

www.smartabcni.co.uk

Bumper Scuffs The most frequent damaged part of the car not only looks unsightly but can devalue your car for resale. Using our colour matching system we can fix the damaged area and restore your bumper to its original condition.

Wing Mirror Casing

that has developed over time or as a result of weathering and for light scratches that Colour matching wing have built up over time on the mirror replacement, new or replacement mismatches from surface coat of your paintwork. We can inject new life into scrap yards. Scratches and scuffed wing mirror casings can your faded or lightly scratched paintwork using our specialized take the look off a vehicle. We compounds and enhancers. can colour match the casing to restore the wing mirror BEFORE casing to its original finish.

Scratches & Scores Minor Dents Vandal damage such as keyed panels and all unsightly scratches and scores. We can pick up scratches and scores on our vehicle, be it from keyed panels, to light scratches (on one or more panels), we have a repair solution to meet your needs.

Kerb Damaged Alloys Refurbished & Repainted

i.e. irritating trolley dings. Dents and chips in paintwork can significantly decrease the value of your car, but more importantly, any kind of break in the paintwork will eventually lead to rust. The prevention of corrosion is in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self a solid reason to have damage seen too.

AFTER

Cosmetic Repairs Scrapes and scuffs on your alloy wheels look unsightly. We can repair scuffs and scrapes on your alloy wheels that are commonly caused by catching kerbs when parking. Wheels can really make your car stand out so keep them looking like new.

Please call or email for further information, to book a repair, to arrange a no-obligation FREE quote or to purchase gift vouchers.

From tidying up stone chip damage to an all round machine polish body buff to remove light scratches, to bring the shine back to your car or Phone: 07500707175 to restore faded paintwork. Email: info@smartabcni.co.uk Machine polishing services are ideal for dull or faded paintwork Web: www.smartabcni.co.uk

Motoring Eye

Body Repairs... Sort Them Out The Easy Way There are few of us who don’t have a less than impressive collections of dents and scratches around our cars after a year or two of wear and tear.

Ryan Campbell of SmartABC

ou know the kind of thing... tiny dents where someone has bumped a trolley into your car in the Tesco car park, larger ones where the more inconsiderate amongst us has hit your car with their door, scuffs on the bumpers where we (or someone else) has misjudged the distance while parking. And so the list goes on. We all like to keep our cars in good shape. But bumps, scuffs and scrapes are a very specific problem for drivers and company cars on contract hire or lease deals. At the end of each car’s contract, the leasing companies go over the vehicle with an eagle eye for bodywork problems. For each one they have to repair before the car can be re-marketed, they charge the end customer. And, with no disrespect to the

leasing industry, those charges tend to be less than kind! Ryan Campbell of Belfastbased SmartABC has the answer. His company specialises in repairing minor scrapes, dents and scuffs on vehicles...and repairing them so that they pass the kind of inspection meted out by the leasing companies. What’s more, SmartABC do the job quickly – often within a few hours – and at a fraction of the cost of repairs at mainstream car body shops. “Where a specialist body shop will insist on replacing an entire panel to repair a relatively minor piece of damage, we can repair the damage itself a half of the cost and often less than that. And, while the body shop will take your car for a few days, we can have the job done in three or four hours,” says Ryan. He set up the company three years ago, and a steady stream of business from contract hire customers as well as private motorists has seen SmartABC go from strength to strength. “We look after all kinds of vehicles. Around 60% of our business comes from the drivers of contract hire and leased cars which are approaching the end of their contracts. But we’re also kept busy by private customers who want to keep their vehicles in good shape.”

BEFORE

AFTER

The company works with customers in the wider Greater Belfast area, with customers as far afield as Larne in East Antrim and Downpatrick in Co. Down. “Customers can get in touch with us by phone on 07500 707175 or, better still, via or website www.smartabcni.co.uk,” he explains. “That way, they can contact us directly but also upload photos of the vehicle damage they need us to look at... and we can provide an instant quote by return.” BEFORE

AFTER

Motoring Eye

WILL THE NEW SKODA RAPID BE ONE FOR YOUR FLEET? Why has Skoda launched a new car that is almost as big as the Octavia? This is because there will be a new and larger Octavia next year.

he Rapid is the seventh model in the Czech company’s growing range. While it looks like a saloon it is actually a very roomy hatchback like the SEAT Toledo used to be (and may soon be again?). The styling is elegant and more eye-catching with hints of the bigger Superb about it. This is Skoda’s new ‘design language’ that features a separate badge on the bonnet and a more aggressive grille. At launch there will be four petrol

engines and one diesel on offer. The 1.2 and 1.4 petrol are aimed at the private buyer but it is the 1.6TDI that I drove that does the business. Familiar from other VW group cars, this has been honed to perform quietly and economically. This 105PS oil burner gives reasonable everyday performance, sprinting to 62mph in 10.6 seconds. That is more than enough to keep up with traffic and to cruise on the motorway. This engine is quiet and flexible.

With a Combined Consumption of 64mpg and emissions of 114g/ km, this is a pretty tax-friendly package. GreenTech models to follow next year improve these figures to 70mpg and 106g/km. There are three trim levels – S, SE and Elegance. Prices start from £12,900 for a three-cylinder, 1.2litre petrol model in S trim. The

1.6 diesels come in SE trim from £17,100. Why they do not offer the TDI in the cheaper trim is puzzling. The Rapid has a lot of ingredients that would make it a good business car but the dominance of petrol engines suggests that Skoda is only putting its toe into the fleet pool at the moment. I rather suspect that will change before long.

Transform 2013 with fleet management from Fleet Simplicity What could your business achieve in 2013? To see real improvements this year, now’s the time to make robust decisions. Now is the time to invest in TomTom WORKsmart fleet management with Fleet Simplicity, and make 2013 your most efficient year ever.

Introducing TomTom WEBFLEET When your workforce is out and about, it can be difficult to retain control of your day-to-day operations. Fleet Simplicity has solved this problem with TomTom WEBFLEET, an online application that enables you to manage your fleet, 24 hours a day, from any PC. There’s no software to install. Just open TomTom WEBFLEET through a web browser and you can manage your entire field operation from the comfort of your desk.

To find out more, contact Fleet Simplicity today on 028 9002 1041 or visit www.fleetsimplicity.com for more information. 30

That’s about the only answer you won’t get from Agnew Fleet Manager. From tracking vehicles to reducing fuel costs - we have the solution.

Want to know how to save time, money and take control of managing your fleet? Then Agnew Fleet Manager is the answer. It brings everything you need together – all at the touch of a button. Pair this with our competitive rentals and find out how Agnew Corporate is the complete fleet solution. Call us on: 028 9038 6600 Take control today – we’d be happy to give you a full demonstration of how Agnew Fleet Manager could benefit you.

18 Boucher Way, Belfast BT12 6RE www.agnewcorporate.co.uk

Motoring Eye

DFC... Local Company Local People Local Service DFC is now the only major locally owned vehicle management company in NI. Independent from any dealership influence they supply, fund and manage all makes and models of cars and vans.

Motoring Eye

he acquisition of two large competitors within Northern Ireland by Lookers Plc and Sytner PLC leaves DFC is a unique position as the only major locally owned vehicle management company. The two men who have led the company for over a decade continue to guide its fortunes and are in a confident mood about the marketplace in 2013 and going forward. But both Uel Butler and Peter

Shaw are quick to admit that the past number of years hasn’t been easy. “We were hit by something of a perfect storm back in 2008,” says Shaw. “Our customers were hit by the recession, and local banks appetite for asset finance effectively become non existent overnight due to the global credit crunch “But challenging times can sometimes do you a favour. We’ve adapted to changes and come out the other end. We’ve made

“ We can provide unlimited funding and alternative credit lines in addition to local business banking.”

hard decisions and we’re very confident that we can offer even more value and even better deals to our customers going forward.” DFC has forged close business partnerships with three major European funders which operate in the UK.“ “These organisations purchase over fifty thousand vehicles per year and so have huge buying power. DFC can offer this benefit to Northern Ireland businesses and with the new personal contract hire product, also for individuals. we can offer the kind of exceptional deals customers in mainland GB are getting to our customers here in Northern Ireland,” says Peter Shaw. We can now provide unlimited funding and alternative credit lines in addition to local business banking. DFC ethos hasn’t changed, according to Uel Butler. “We’ve always concentrated on offering a consistently high level of personal service to our customers, and if anything, that is set to become even more important in the future.” We have empowered, experienced people, accessible 24/7 to deal with emergency situations and we always go the extra mile to make sure customers and their drivers are always mobile But the company is aware that some of its customers are finding it harder to look too far ahead. To that end, it has expanded its DFC Rental Operation, providing cars on short-term rental deals to customers, and has also introduced a number of mini-lease options...once again majoring on short-term commitment. “We also combine exceptional deals with the fact that we’re the largest independent provider here in Northern Ireland, solely owned by Northern Ireland people. Our board of Directors have always and will always be accessible and actively involved with our customers. We are increasingly finding that Northern Ireland business owners like to deal with a locally owned company run by local people. Uel Butler says that DFC has

long enjoyed a high level of customer loyalty, and he is sure that the firm’s local identity has a lot to do with that. DFC works with a wide variety of customers, ranging from larger organisations with multiple fleets through to many smaller companies with only two or three cars on the road. It also offers personal contract hire to a range of self-employed, sole traders and private individuals The company’s impressive purpose-built base in Belfast’s Airport Road area also houses an increasingly busy department selling used cars and vans headed by Trevor Armstrong.... selling a wide range of vehicles which have come off contract. “So we can offer our customers a complete range of vehicle options,” says Butler. “And that kind of flexibility is what it is all about in these challenging and changing times. There’s no doubt that the economic climate has sharpened everyone’s focus. Value and keeping costs down is the name of the game. “Customers are looking at whole life costs, and they’re looking at brands they perhaps wouldn’t have considered before. The rise of Kia and Hyundai models is clear evidence of that.....” The company offers a comprehensive one call Operations Department this also includes an on line service booking facility. Essentially we take all the hassle away by taking full responsibility for managing your vehicles. Both men say that they’re confident but realistic about the business prospects in 2013 and beyond. DFC will be celebrating its 25th anniversary in business soon. “We’re looking forward to the year ahead, and we’re as fit and energetic as we’ve ever been as a company,” says Peter Shaw. “ We warmly welcome anyone to give us the opportunity to discuss their company/individual requirements and we are confident that we can offer a market leading solution.

visit our new website... dfcbelfast.co.uk 33

Motoring Eye

Blackbourne right on track Blackbourne Integrated M&E have recently invested in extending their maintenance fleet as well as further enhancing and improving their overall service by choosing Fleet Simplicity; Irelands’ leading vehicle tracking and fleet management company.

he investment is due to the continued growing success of Blackbourne throughout the UK and Ireland and with already over 50 vehicles on the road, servicing a diverse range of mechanical and electrical maintenance contracts throughout England and Northern Ireland, these additional vans will further contribute to improving our overall contract execution. Our previous fleet management process was extremely successful, however

due to our company ethos of continual improvement we had been seeking ways to move forward. Therefore we have now taken it to the next level by striking up a partnership with Fleet Simplicity and Agnew Corporate to make our fleet as effective and efficient as possible. We are using the TomTom “WEBFLEET” which is an online application that enables us to manage our fleet, 24 hours a day, from any PC. The system is linked to each vehicle

and allows us to remotely track our operative’s locations and we can pinpoint the closest appropriately qualified/equipped engineer. The system will also provide us with live fuel information and driving efficiency data which we can use to reduce costs and reaction times, provides eco and safety reports while also reducing our paper waste as information is stored electronically. Management can gather reports on contract performance and our engineers; mileage, trips, and time spent on location. The system also improves our drivers’ health and safety as we can determine whether our drivers are speeding, braking harshly or driving inefficiently or recklessly, this in turn means we can take the necessary actions to ensure our drivers are as

efficient and careful as possible. To maximise the effectiveness of our fleet we decided to compliment the TomTom system with the Agnew fleet management system, which will streamline our administration for the fleet to an absolute minimum and again eliminate any administrative paperwork. The system also allows us to manage many other supporting aspects and gives other information such as: driver information, contract details, service and tyre schedules, renewals and keep an eye on recharges, invoices and incidents. The systems are proving extremely successful and the new investments will continue to enhance Blackbourne’s overall service to clients, save money and reduce the carbon footprint of the business.

kia.co.uk

At "179 a month* it�s an easy call.

More advanced than your typical car; now you can make those all important phone calls safe in the knowledge both hands are always on the wheel with our voice activated Bluetooth technology. Another example of the clever technology you will find in the new Kia cee�d. Available from "179 per month* with "1,611 initial payment and 35 monthly rentals.

The new Kia cee�d with voice activated Bluetooth. Live more life.

Downeys Kia 39 Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT23 8NN 02891 812525 Fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the new Kia cee�d 5-door hatchback range are: Urban 33.6 (8.4) � 68.9 (4.1), Extra Urban 57.6 (4.9) � 80.7 (3.5), Combined 46.3 (6.1) � 76.3 (3.7). C02 emissions are 145 � 97 g/km. *Offer available to individuals for orders received between 01 October and 31 December, inclusive, sourced through Kia Motors (UK) Ltd or its authorised dealers. Figures based on a non-maintenance contract hire package over 36 months and 10,000 miles per year (max). The model shown is a new Kia cee�d 5-door �1� 1.4. An advance rental of "1,611 is payable, then 35 monthly rentals of "179. Rentals and excess charges are based on the current VAT rate. An excess charge of up to 7.22 ppm will be applied for mileage in excess of 10,000 mile p.a.. Excess charges also apply if the car is not serviced and maintained in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and returned to Kia Motors (UK) Ltd in a condition commensurate with the BVRLA Fair Wear & Tear guidelines for its age and mileage. Package includes R.F.L. and Kia Assist. Offer subject to availability and status. UK supplied vehicles only. For full specification, details, terms and conditions contact your local Kia dealer. Guarantee and/or indemnity may be required. Applicants must be 18 or over. Personal contract hire by ALD Automotive Ltd, Oakwood Park, Lodge Causeway, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3JA. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers and is available at participating dealers only. 7 year / 100,000 mile manufacturer�s warranty. For terms and exclusions visit www.kia.co.uk or see your local dealer.

Motoring Eye

NEW ERA FOR FLEET FINANCIAL 2012 was a momentous year for Fleet Financial. The Mallusk-based contract hire and fleet management specialist was acquired in June by Charles Hurst Group, Northern Ireland’s largest multi-franchise dealership group and itself part of GB giants Lookers Plc.

“O

f course it is a new era for us as a company,” says Philip Miley, Fleet Financial’s Sales & Marketing Director. “The ownership has changed, but the people and the business model is the same. Customers will be getting the same high levels of customer service as before, and same personal approach to how we do business, that is important to us. We’ll also continue to operate from our own dedicated site in Mallusk. “In fact, the acquisition brings only benefits to the table,” he adds. “Now that we’re part of a large and well-funded Plc, the finance providers have been beating a path to our door. They’re keen to work with us, and the knock-on effect is that we have strengthened and added to funding providers and this allows us to offer a wider range products. A good example of this is the addition of Personal Contract Hire for private individuals. With all local banks now supporting us, this has now resulted further competitiveness in their funding rates” Like others in the sector, Miley is quick to note that some business customers have clearly been feeling the pinch, resulting in clear evidence of vehicle downsizing, a quest for better value motoring and a firm eye on Co2 & fuel efficiency. “This is a business where it’s vital to keep an eye on the detail,” he adds. “For instance in April 2013, under the latest government-led initiative, businesses will be able to claim 100% tax relief on vehicles which produce less than 130 gms of Co2 emissions. So there’s no doubt that we’ll see a lot of organisations striving for sub-130 gms emission fleets and we are working towards this with our customer base. “It’s not surprising that more and more businesses are trying to cut costs where they can, and fleet costs are one area where they can see significant savings” “There is no doubt that vehicles are getting more and more efficient and representing better value than ever before. In particular the executive sector is showing value for money as more manufacturers are offering enhanced discounts on these products. We have seen an increase in the uptake of Audi A4,

BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C Class sized vehicles. Also with the introduction of product such as the Volvo V40, Mercedes A Class and new VW Golf we have seen a significant reduction in Co2 emissions and expect significant growth in this sector in 2013” Philip Miley says that Fleet Financial’s customers look much more closely these days at the efficient business use of fleet vehicles.

“ Contract hire is more popular as a funding option than it has ever been, and it is continuing to grow in popularity. Business managers don’t want to tie down cash for vehicle purchases. They want to retain that cash in their businesses.” “Contract hire is more popular as a funding option that it has ever been, and it is continuing to grow in popularity. Business managers don’t want to tie down cash for vehicle purchases. They want to retain that cash in their businesses.” The Northern Ireland fleet market, he says, hasn’t risen as sharply as the UK marketplace as a whole, but it is on the up. “We’ve just completed a very good trading year, and things are looking bright for 2013. We are adding to our sales team with a view to increasing our market share.” He’s confident that Fleet Financial’s balance sheet strength, combined with the backing of the Charles Hurst/Lookers Plc brand and increased availability of funding will mean more competitive vehicle deals for customers during 2013 and going forward. “We’re always ready to sit down with our customers, look at what they need and come up with the fleet and vehicle solutions to suit those needs....and their budgets.” His assessment of the Northern Ireland fleet marketplace is clear cut. He sees Fleet Financial (with its Charles Hurst/Lookers parentage) maintaining and enhancing it’s market share, while continuing to focus on customer service. “That said, we’re very optimistic about 2013. We think that we can achieve 10-15% growth through our own sales channels and the support of the Charles Hurst dealer network, exciting times at Fleet Financial.”

Motoring Eye

“ Each manufacturer takes pride in telling us about how good their vehicles are but the fleet companies have all the right answers as after all they already have and maintain these vehicles on their fleets so they have hard proof of all the various shortcomings which don’t become apparent until it’s too late.”

Motoring Eye

The Road To Success Is Always Under Construction M

any years ago, companies were able to run a fleet of vehicles and be quite competent in all the various aspects of vehicle usage including purchase, servicing and maintenance. Warranties weren’t governed by the manufacturers to the same extent as at present, servicing was at a cost that most could afford, vehicle P11d taxation was quite simple and fair across the board and disposal could be done by anyone with an ounce of sense. Oh.... how things have changed over the years! Now a fleet manager (or whoever is in charge of vehicle procurement) needs to be skilled in a variety of disciplines in order to keep up with all the various changing tax laws and employment laws... and that’s only the starter. What type of vehicle, which fuel to use, what Co2 to get, what benefit in kind is payable, is the vehicle fit for purpose? (Deep breath) What’s the cost of servicing, tyres, Road Fund Licence, how long for delivery and on and on and on? If you have a toothache, would you dream of drilling your own tooth? If you require any form of tax information I’m sure you would consult your accountant who is the person whom you pay and is fully trained and informed to give the right answers. So why do so many companies try to do their own thing, when there are fully trained people available, working for the various Fleet Companies within Northern Ireland and who don’t charge for the type of advice which could be worth a lot of money in the future vehicle running costs. I have always valued the specialist fleet staff who are available at the

end of the phone, they really work hard to give the correct advice for the client and at the end of the day don’t know if they will even get any business out of their hard efforts. Independent Fleet Companies really don’t have an axe to grind when it comes to the types of vehicles required as they are not answerable to the motor manufacturer. They are not based within the showroom and not under instruction to sell not only which vehicle but in which method to suit the manufacturer. They would generally look in depth at the client requirements and then base their answers on actual overall information available, taking into account all vehicles available to suit the budgets. Each manufacturer takes a pride in telling us about how good their vehicles are but the fleet companies have all the right answers as after all they already have and maintain these vehicles on their fleets so they have hard proof of all the various shortcomings which don’t become apparent until it’s too late. Looking at maintenance alone, if I asked 20 businessmen how much an hour’s labour for a ‘technician’ would cost, I doubt if two of them would have a clue that you can pay up to £125 per hour (which is more than an accountant, doctor or some solicitors). Technicians today are not required to fix things but just replace defective parts and at quite a large cost. This is where the independent fleet company comes into it’s own, as they employ fully trained individuals who keep track of all work carried and ensure that costs are kept to a minimum and only work as recommended by the manufacturer is carried out.

This also applies to tyres, windscreens etc in fact all the costs that make motoring a very expensive issue. Then we come to the whole business of the various taxation issues. From being quite simple these issues have changed into a real minefield with the result that a wrong decision at procurement time can lead to costs for both the company and the car driver. The tax levels have been announced to cover some years to come and carry incremental increases with the result that P11d taxation this year can increase over the next few years on certain types and Co2’s. Again this is where the independent companies have a vast knowledge and can save not only money but also a lot of time by giving the correct information at the correct time. In today’s business environment there are a lot of private vehicles used for business mileage and as with all form of business these vehicle come under company legal legislation including the Corporate Manslaughter Bill and all the Duty of Care to Employees rules. Are these vehicles insured for business use, are they road legal and taxed? How many points does the driver have on his or her licence? These are all day to day enquiries received by Fleet Companies and all answered correctly which helps cover the company’s liability for duty of care. What am I saying here? That Northern Ireland Independent Fleet Companies are second to none in the U.K. / Ireland market place and as such offer all the knowledge and advice required to make the road to success a lot more even and smooth, so why not try a phone call, you might be very surprised by what you find out.

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Motoring Eye

It’s probably safe to say that most of us glance at the perennial article on how to drive in the winter months... but don’t always pay much attention. That’s until something happens on a frozen or snow-covered winter roads, when we wish we’d been a bit more attentive.

WINTER DRIVING...

IT’S A QUESTION OF COMMON SENSE

o, with some harsh winter motoring weather already behind us, here’s some timely advice from the Institute of Advanced Motorists. First up, there’s the annual top tip and that’s along the lines that it’s better to avoid going out on the road at all... unless, as the old saying goes, your journey is ‘strictly necessary’. If staying in the warmth of home or office isn’t an option, the IAM offers the following advice on driving safely through this period: • Make sure your windows are clear and that you have all-round visibility before you set off. • Take the time to thoroughly clear your roof and windows of snow. • When driving in snow, get your speed right - not too fast that you risk losing control, but not so slow that you risk losing momentum when you need it.

• Start gently from a stationary position, avoiding high revs. Stay in a higher gear for better control and, if it is slippery, in a manual car move off in a higher gear rather than automatically using first. • If you find yourself in a skid, the main thing to remember is to take your foot off the pedals and steer - only use the brake if you cannot steer out of trouble. • Double or even triple your normal stopping distance from the vehicle in front so you are not just relying on your brakes to be able to stop. It simply may not happen! • It’s better to think ahead as you drive to keep moving, even if it is at walking pace. • Plan your journey around busier roads as they are more likely to have been gritted. Avoid using short cuts on minor roads – they

are less likely to be cleared or treated with salt, especially country lanes and housing areas. • Bends are a particular problem in slippery conditions – slow down well before you get to the bend, so that by the time you turn the steering wheel you have already lost enough speed. • On a downhill slope, get your speed low before you start the descent, and do not let it build up – it is much easier to keep it low than to try and slow down once things get slippery.

• If you must leave your vehicle to telephone for assistance, find a safe place to stand away from the traffic flow; the next driver could lose control in the same place. • On motorways and dual carriageways it is always better to leave your vehicle and stand a short distance behind and to the safe side of it. Don’t stand in front of it if at all possible. Balancing the risks of a collision and hypothermia is something that depends on your situation.

And if the worst does happen:

To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched its winter driving campaign which includes a dedicated website with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter. www.iam.org.uk

• Keep track of where you are. If you do have to call for assistance, you need to be able to tell the breakdown or emergency services your location so they can find you.

Motoring Eye

Agnew Corporate - leading the way in Fleet Management It’s been a case of all change in the fleet car marketplace here in Northern Ireland over the past year or so... with two of the biggest players in the sector changing ownership.

gnew Corporates acquisition (inc. the Agnew dealer network) by the Sytner Group (part of Penske Automotive) was the first major transaction in the sector in 2012, shortly followed by the sale of Fleet Financial to the Charles Hurst Group in the middle of year. The likelihood is that the two companies will remain as the leading players locally with only a positive impact from their respective changes in ownership. “I think the fact that we’re part of a larger organisation with over 150 dealers across the UK representing most of the major brands in fleet sales will only stand us in a better position to offer our customers an even better level of service,” says Graham Thompson, Agnew Corporate’s General Manager. “We have great relationships with all of the local funders and we work hard to secure preferential terms with most of the vehicle manufacturers to allow us to offer local companies some of the best vehicle deals around.” Contrary to popular belief, Thompson says that Agnew Corporate’s overall fleet is only around 50% angled towards the Agnew Group’s leading franchise brands – Volkswagen, Audi, BMW & MercedesBenz. “I know this may sound repetitive but we do sell all makes and models of car and LCV and although it is extremely valuable having the Agnew brand name it can on occasions pigeon hole us to only selling the Agnew brands, when this is simply not the case”, says Thompson. “Northern Ireland is very different from the rest of the UK in that our average fleet size is much smaller,” he says. “We deal with small businesses with only a couple of cars right up to much larger organisations with 100 and more vehicles on the road.” This means we need the work force on the ground offering the required level of service to meet the high expectations of our large customer database and we believe we have staffed

ourselves accordingly to achieve this”. Graham says, “Our main focus in 2013 is to really concentrate on offering our customers with the highest possible level of service and not to necessarily look at incidents on an isolated basis but to take a broader and more holistic approach to forging long term relationships. Part of this was the introduction of Agnew Fleet Manager, the fleet management software we provide to our business customers. This offers a wide range of at-a-glance details on individual vehicles for fleet managers and financial administrators. Whether our customers decide to use it extensively or only for fact find exercise, they can keep a close eye on all of the costs surrounding vehicles, including fuel economy, P11D information, service records, mileages and many other details. The software is a highly effective and valuable management tool and it’s one that our customers truly appreciate.” In addition, Agnew Corporate works alongside the Belfast based TomTom partner, Fleet Simplicity, to provide both satellite navigation and on-board fleet management systems to its business users. We have invested our time and resource to ensure that both software systems integrate with one another to provide the perfect fleet solution for our customers. More and more businesses are finding the implementation of tracking a necessary requirement to reduce costs and our relationship with Fleet Simplicity means that we can work hand in hand to make this work. In common with others in the industry, Graham Thompson says the vehicles his firm are supplying have become much more efficient over recent years. All manufacturers have a massive push to reduce their Co2 emissions to keep in line with the increase in BIK % being introduced in April and every year thereafter. “There’s no doubt that the vehicles have been improving all the time... in

terms of fuel economy, Co2 emissions and across a number of other factors,” he says. “A few years back, we couldn’t have imagined an E-Class MercedesBenz producing Co2 emissions of 109 g/ km in the form of the new E300 Hybrid, and we couldn’t have predicted that the number of cars currently available under 100 g/km would have reached its current level, the new VW Golf 1.6TDi at 99 g/km being a perfect example.” Fleet and contract hire is a highly competitive business, as much so here in Northern Ireland as it is anywhere else in the UK. “There are some phenomenal deals around, probably some of the best I’ve seen during my years in this industry,” adds Thompson. “From a customer perspective, this is a very good time to look at the vehicle options available.” Agnew Corporate has a fleet under management of some 4,000 vehicles, and Graham Thompson says that it enjoyed a good 2012. “I don’t imagine 2013 will be any different,” he adds. “We do see most customers looking for economies and we will continue to assist them in reducing their overall fleet costs through whole of life cost analysis, utilising our independent Deloitte vehicle choice management software. Although in challenging market conditions we did have our best year for some time in 2012, growing our contract hire fleet by some 23% year on year”.

“The used car marketplace is particularly strong at the moment, and that helps one side of our business, of course. We also find that our customers like to consult with us before making their decisions... on everything from vehicles choices to tax implications”. “Our aim is very simple. With a strong corporate structure in place and some long standing and very experienced members of staff, we want to remain as the dominant contract hire company here in Northern Ireland and strategically exploit some further afield opportunities in GB. Our aspiration is to consolidate all the good work we have done in the last few years developing the business, to grow marginally by some 10% and we see no reason to doubt that we can achieve just that.”

“ There are some phenomenal deals around, probably some of the best I’ve seen during my years in this industry. From a customer perspective, this is a very good time to look at the vehicle options available.” 43

Motoring Eye

CUTTING THE COST OF INSURANCE Insurance premiums continue to go up, and there’s not a lot that any of us can do about it. Comprehensive motor insurance for consumers went up by a staggering 40% between March 2010 and the following March, according to the AA’s Insurance Premium Index. Premium inflation has slowed since then but it has stayed on an upward track.

owever, there are actions companies and fleet operators can take to control costs. Bear in mind that two factors control premiums. One is claims history; the other is putting together a convincing package of measures which will convince an any insurer that your future risk will be lower. Best practice advice from the insurance sector to keep your premiums low

1. Risk management begins with risk assessment Work with your insurer to analyse your claims history and highlight areas for improvement. 2. Driver training Many insurers offer driver training programmes through partners and all will take into account defensive driver training. Not all insurers give upfront discounts but an improved claims record should be swiftly recognised 3. M anage young drivers Young drivers, aged 17-20, are twice as likely to make an insurance claim as any other driver, and on average the claims cost will be three times higher, and 10 times more likely to involve severe bodily injury. 4. Combine insurances Some insurers offer combined public liability, employee liability and fleet insurance...with associated cost savings on these insurance product ‘bundles’. 5. Use camera technology Forward facing cameras can provide invaluable data for defending claims or swiftly settling at-fault

claims. They are particularly effective against crash-for-cash scenarios; organised fraudulent vehicular claims currently costs the industry £350m a year. 6. Renew policies in good time and after proper review Don’t pay for unnecessary extras such as windscreen cover. 7. Self-insure – or at least raise your excess 8. Provide good vehicle security Insurers will offer lower premiums for fleets with clear and documented security measures in place, such as vehicle tracking technology. 9. Telematics The business case for telematics in car fleets may be less compelling than for vans and HGVs – but if you have it, make sure you put the time in to exploit the health and safety benefits. And there’s more advice when it comes to claiming on your insurance policies... 1. Claim fast (part one)The average cost of bodily injury claims is increasing by 30% every year. Make sure that drivers report claims, especially fault claims involving third parties, immediately. In cases of injury, insurers often even have preferred doctor and rehab arrangements, where costs can be controlled. 2. Claim fast (part two) Even in non-injury cases, third parties can be given expensive credit hire vehicles which are then charged back to your insurer. The sooner you claim, the more control insurers have over costs. 3. Claim fast (part three) Insurers have a limited amount of time for information gathering leading to fast, non-litigious resolution. Break that deadline and costs spiral. 4. Be honest and encourage drivers to be honest If you are at fault say so. The longer you fight a battle you know you’ll eventually lose, the more it costs. 5. Tracking can help with this speed as well as duty of care.

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18-inch ‘interlagos’ alloys, bixenon headlights, leather seats, heated seats, bluetooth, touch screen satelite navigation system, 2zone climate control, park distance control, adaptive chasis control, iPod connectivity, multi-function leather steering wheel, front fog lights, privacy glass.

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Business users only. *6.0p per mile (plus VAT) charged for mileage travelled in excess of the contracted mileage. Further charges may be payable when the vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18’s in the UK only. Offers available on orders before January 31st, 2013. Subject to availability. Certain vehicles excluded. Ask for details. Volkswagen Finance, Freepost VWFS. Official fuel consumption in mpg ( litres/100km ) for the Volkswagen CC range: urban 28.0 (10.1) – 49.6 (5.7); extra urban 50.4 (5.6) – 65.7 ( 4.3); combined 38.7 ( 7.3) – 60.1 ( 4.7). CO2 emissions 182 – 125g/km.

Motoring Eye

TOP FLEET CARS 2012 The choices open to company fleet car buyers seem to increase all the time, but which are the best cars for the job?

hat Car? Magazine’s annual Top Fleet Cars listing is as good a place to start as any.... and it’s choices for 2012 are well worth a second glance. What Car? Top !0 Company Cars Skoda Citigo 1.0 60 Greentech SE 5-door - cars don’t get much cheaper to run than the Skoda Citigo. It shares most parts with the brilliant Volkswagen Up so it’s amazingly practical and sophisticated for a car this small and affordable. As a company car, the 1.0 Greentech makes most sense, because it’s incredibly fuel efficient and leasing costs are cheap.

It (Skoda Citigo) shares most parts with the brilliant Volkswagen Up so it’s amazingly practical and sophisticated for a car this small and affordable.

Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi 95 Zetec Econetic 3-door – the Ford Fiesta has a long and proud history at the lower end of the fleet car scale. It’s fun to drive, practical, has environmentally friends engines and it is cheap to run. The 95 Zetec model balances equipment and costs better than most other models in the range, and the 1.6 diesel engine offers excellent economy. Kia Cee’d 1.6 CRDi 128 - the Kia range has improved beyond all recognition in recent years, and this is one of the best of the lot. The Cee’d comes with a wellfinished cabin and a 1.6 litre diesel engine which is both frugal and quiet. The CRDi model combines performance and economy with a generous level of trim. Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi 115 Eco Zetec – the good old Mondeo might be synonymous with company car drivers, but Ford have made sure that it has maintained its leading edge over the years. The latest Mondeo is one of the best Ford have ever produced, and the 115 Zetec model offers

excellent fuel economy from its diesel engine, low emissions and a good level of performance. BMW 116d 5-door – BMW has managed to dramatically reduce the fuel consumption and C02 emissions of its cars over recent years. The latest 1 Series is the German maker’s most efficient model yet, and long term ownership costs are so low that it makes more sense than many mainstream models with a cheaper list price. The 116d model has C02 emissions of just 99g/ km and very low leasing costs. BMW 320d – Probably the best compact executive saloon around, with a range of ultra efficient engines offering economy and C02 emissions which beat most of its rivals. BMW 520d – And BMW completes a hat trick on the What Car? Rankings with its larger executive saloon, the 5 Series. With this one, it’s all about striking an effective balance between driving dynamics and the comfort and executive class style indoors.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCI Acenta – the Nissan Qashqai has funky 4x4 styling and a desirable image. Combine that with a competitive price and strong resale values and you have a compelling, affordable company car. . Mazda CX-5 2.2 Skyactiv D Another car that blends smart SUV looks with excellent practicality. Its 2.2-litre diesel engine is one of the best - and most efficient - around, and the CX-5 is as good to drive as it is to look at. It’s not cheap, but it is a great all-rounder and running costs are comparatively low. Toyota Prius+ 1.8 VVTi Opting for a seven-seat MPV often means being lumbered with poor fuel consumption and high Co2 emissions, but not if you go for a Prius. Using an updated version of the standard Prius’s petrol-electric hybrid powertrain, theToyota Prius+ 1.8 VVTi T4 promises real-world fuel economy of over 50mpg,.

AMPERA

ELECTRIFYING PERFORMANCE

The Ampera makes a powerful impact; no wonder it’s just scooped `BusinessCar Green Model of the Year 2013’. Absolutely, positively not a hybrid, its advanced Extended-Range Electric Vehicle technology offers the convenience of a conventional car – overcoming the range anxiety often associated with other electric cars: • Eligible for £5,000 Government Plug-in Grant • 100% Writing Down Allowance (first year) • Congestion charge exempt*

• Up to 235.4mpg** • 27g/km CO2 • 5% BiK tax band (2012-14 tax years)

VAUXHALL FLEET vauxhallfleet@vauxhall.co.uk

Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km), Vauxhall Ampera: Combined/weighted: 235.4mpg (1.2). CO2 emissions: 27g/km. * = Exemption from London Congestion Charge available upon the payment of a £10 annual fee. ** = The “Combined/weighted” fuel consumption/CO2 figures calculated from two test results: one with the battery fully charged and the other when the battery is discharged. The two test results are a weighted average, taking into account mileage range on battery power only, providing a representative figure for the vehicle used in a variety of battery charge conditions. General Motors UK Limited does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their accountant with their particular tax position. Image shown is for illustrative purposes only.

Are you getting your business message to the right people? Targeted circulation counts

hen your message is aimed at the Northern Ireland business community, high quality targeted circulation is the only way to go... Business Eye’s circulation – in common with other stand alone quality magazines – is dedicated, focused and entirely concentrated on the Northern Ireland business community and the public sector. That means targeted readership for every copy and no wastage. The same simply can’t be said of supplements distributed alongside daily newspapers. Add in exacting print standards, glossy high quality paper and the best photographic reproduction available and the gulf between magazines and newspaper supplements grows even wider...

The difference is clear...

Business Eye Leads The Market... Amongst the quality stand alone business magazines (non-supplements) serving the Northern Ireland marketplace, Business Eye has the highest direct business to business circulation. That’s according to the latest ABC (Audit Bureau of Circulation) Island of Ireland Report, published during the summer months. Business Eye has an average net audited circulation of 7,411 copies.

Motoring Eye

Motoring with Derek Black dbmotoring@btinternet.com

THE STYLISH VOLKSWAGEN CC IS NOT WHAT IT SEEMS No, this is not a coupe cabriolet with an opening roof – instead it is a rather handsome fourdoor coupe based on the muchadmired Passat. Most are sold to the fleet market, adding a touch of class to the company car park.

t is a curious piece of marketing by VW. They are giving you more style plus access to all the top-end technology – aren’t such cars called Audi? Well, the CC sits on the borderline between the two brands and is none the worse for this. What’s more, it makes a decent business proposition. Three engines are on offer, 140 and 170PS versions of the acclaimed 2.0TDI and a1.8 TSI petrol with six speed-manual or sevenspeed DSG auto gearboxes. The diesels use BlueMotion technology to enhance their economy. The 140PS TDI manual that I drove provided useful performance with acceleration to 62mph in 9.8 seconds. Fairly quiet for a diesel, it feels effortless

in most situations. Potentially, this model can do 60mpg on the Combined Cycle but to achieve this you need a light right foot. I managed a creditable 50mpg plus with mixed driving. Emissions are rated at 125 g/ km which is fairly tax friendly for an executive car of this size.

This means zero road tax for the first year and moderate company car taxation. The 140 TDI manual in GT trim is priced from £27,760 on the road and from £25,535 in standard trim. Of course, the CC can be customised from a long list of extras including touchscreen

navigation, dynaudio with 600w and 10 speakers, lane assist, distance control, park assist and nappa leather with a heated and air conditioned driver’s seat! This is an elegant premium Volkswagen for the most discerning of directors but all this does add to the price.

BMW SOCKS IT TO THE HYBRIDS – AGAIN! BMW has done it again! They have come up with an Efficient Dynamics car that puts the hybrids to shame. The 116d ED follows the 320d ED and shows that you can have an economy car without wearing a hair shirt!

he 116d uses a turbo-diesel engine that has been fine tuned for efficiency. You can trundle around at very low revs and it pulls smoothly and sweetly. Even at the motorway limit it is turning over at a fast tick-over below 2,000rpm. As it has a BMW badge, you still get a smart driving machine. As always, the engine drives the rear wheels to give the nice mix of balance and responsiveness. The 2.0-litre engine offers 114bhp and that makes the 116d nippier than its eco rival. It reaches 60mph

in a useful 10 seconds or so. Even around town I managed to eke the consumption up to 62mpg. The official combined figure is an aspirational 74mpg. Emissions are rated at just 99g/ km and that means zero road tax plus other benefits for business users. The sums really do add up for this engineering package. The driver will only be aware of the automatic start-stop system which cuts the engine in traffic and fires it up again as soon as you press the clutch pedal. Other ‘hidden’ Efficient Dynamics

features include fuel saving tyres, brake energy recuperation and clever aerodynamic touches. The latest 1-series looks smoother, more modern and more purposeful than before. A bit longer and wider, there is more room inside. The cabin has a quality feel with clear

instruments and better materials. The 116d is the economy champion but there are also 143 and 181bhp versions of the 2.0-litre turbo diesel. The most powerful can hit 60mph from rest in about seven seconds and has emissions of less than 120g/ km. Lean and green, indeed!

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