GreenFleet Magazine issue 46

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ISSUE 46

Please turn over for Transport Business

PARIS MOTOR SHOW A round-up of the latest green vehicles

GREENFLEET AWARDS

winners announced

ALTERNATIVE FUELS The UK’s position on hydrogen and electric vehicles PLUS MORE

ALL

YOUR FLEET

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COMMENT

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Dear Reader www.greenfleet.net

ISSUE 46

Please turn over for Transport Business

The wide-spread use of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles could become a reality in the UK sooner than you think thanks to the accelerated pace of preparation taking place in the UK. The most recent, and perhaps most significant project underway is the Bristol Accord UK HyNet initiative, a major hydrogen For the infrastructure project being rolledlatest GreenFleet® out in preparation for the mass news, events and deployment of hydrogen fuel cell features please visit vehicles expected in 2015.

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PARIS MOTOR SHOW A round-up of the latest green vehicles

GREENFLEET AWARDS

winners announced

ALTERNATIVE FUELS The UK’s position on hydrogen and electric vehicles PLUS MORE

fleet.net Meanwhile, €5.67m funding from the EU’s Cleaner Hydrogen in Cities project is enabling Transport for London to add three hydrogen hybrid fuel cell buses to its hydrogen bus project, extending the demonstration project from three to four years.

Dr Peter Speers from Cenex, the UK’s Centre of Excellence for low carbon vehicle technologies, sums up the UK’s progress in preparing for hydrogen on page 21, including what this means for fleets.

This October saw many organisations and manufacturers awarded once again for their excellent work in lowering emissions at the 2010 GreenFleet Awards. Get inspired on page 33 by reading all about the winning projects.

Angela Pisanu, Editor

If you have any comments please email the editorial team – editorial@psigroupltd.co.uk GreenFleet® would like to thank the following organisations for their support

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

03

CONTENTS

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GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

ISSUE 46

25

15

28

06 NEWS

28 PARIS MOTOR SHOW 2010

The latest news on green motoring, alternative fuels and low carbon transport

Our pick of the latest green vehicles and concept cars from this year’s Paris Motor Show

15 ALTERNATIVE FUELS

33 GREENFLEET AWARDS

ITS (UK) discusses the remit for its newly formed Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Working Group (EVIWG)

A look at this year’s winners who have demonstrated excellence in environmental fleet management

Catherine Hutt from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders gives an overview of how the UK is preparing for the mass adoption of electric vehicles

42 TEST DRIVE

Cenex’s Dr Peter Speers considers what the UK needs to do to prepare for the arrival of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles

We test drive the Countryman, MINI’s first fourdoor, five seat car with four-wheel drive With lower emissions, better equipment and striking looks, the updated Mazda6 has the competitive edge

44 PRODUCT FINDER

25 ROAD SAFETY Organisations need to ensure that they integrate road risk management into their overall health and safety arrangements, urges the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents

28

33

42

http://www.greenfleet.net Editor Angela Pisanu

Publisher Martin Freedman

Production Editor Karl O’Sullivan

Advertisement Sales Martin Freedman

Production Design Jacqueline Grist

Group Publisher Barry Doyle

Production Control Reiss Malone

Reproduction & Print Argent Media

Printed on recycled paper MEMBER OF THE PERIODICAL PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION

GreenFleet® Magazine is published by Public Sector Information Limited. 226 High Road, Loughton Essex IG10 1ET. Telephone +44 (0) 20 8532 0055 © 2010 Public Sector Information Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher.

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

05

GREENFLEET® NEWS

COMMENT

The stars are electric NEXTGREENCAR’S DR BEN LANE REVIEWS THE SIGNS POINTING TOWARDS AN AUTOMOTIVE REVOLUTION IN THE NEW YEAR As any investor will know, basing decisions on just facts is rarely enough – the best bets also involve a healthy dose of intuition and knowing how to ‘read the signs’. Since I wrote my last comment, I have therefore been working hard to add to my consultancy skills (such as they are) and have found one researchmethod to be particularly useful – namely, Astrology!

So in my first ‘reading’ I would like to remind you (in case you hadn’t noticed) that we are only a matter of weeks away from a global automotive revolution. While electric vehicles have been around since the dawn of the motor car, for a hundred years they have been eclipsed by the combustion engine. However, I foresee their time has almost come, and can even predict the date of their ascendancy to be in Capricorn on 4 January 2011.

For the benefit of any remaining sceptics, let’s review the celestial (and commercial) ‘signs’. The first alignment is vehicle range. While most current EVs tend to be conversions, quadricycles or commercial vans, the availability of OEM supplied electric cars will significantly improve during 2011. These include the Mitsubishi i-MiEV (also the Peugeot iOn and Citroen C-Zero), and the Nissan LEAF. But this is just the start – by 2013, almost every major manufacturer will have at least one electric vehicle in their model range.

The second element in the imminent conjunction is ‘desirability’. Whereas global annual electric vehicle sales have historically been measured in the thousands, the forthcoming models are already generating huge consumer demand. For the LEAF alone, Nissan has already taken 27,000 pre-orders worldwide. Those well-known soothsayers Deutsche Bank and HSBC predict that by 2020, plug-in EVs will represent five per cent of the European market, with global sales exceeding eight million vehicles per year.

The third emerging alignment is infrastructure.

The government funded Plugged-in Places scheme aims to install around 11,000 on-street charge points by 2013 – which (coincidentally?) happens to be similar to the number of UK petrol stations.

Research by ElementEnergy also suggests that around 17 million UK households (80 per cent) already have access to a garage or off-street parking area which could be used to safely access a home-based socket for an electric vehicle.

Last, and certainly not least, the fourth favourable sign is the consumer Plug-in Car Grant, worth up to £5,000 per vehicle. With £43 million now confirmed for the first 15 months of the scheme, EV prices are more competitive than ever before – of the new models about to launch, the LEAF and i-MiEV will cost just under £24,000 (Grant included).

Still not convinced of my new astrological methods? Then consider that the next but one new moon will occur on 4 January 2011. If the Office for Low Emission Vehicles was looking for a more auspicious day on which to launch the EV revolution, they couldn’t have made a better choice! ©Dr Ben Lane, NextGreenCar.com

06

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

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London electric vehicle charging network to launch in Spring 2011 LONDON’S CITY WIDE electric vehicle charging network, ‘Source London’, will launch in Spring 2011, the Mayor of London Boris Johnson has announced.

Source London will deliver 1,300 public charging points across London by 2013.

The Source London network will create a single visual identity for electric driving across the capital, and allow members to charge their vehicles at any one of these public charging points for no more than an £100 annual membership fee.

Currently electric vehicle drivers have to register in each separate borough they want to use charge points in.

In preparation for this new network a website, www.sourcelondon.net, has also been launched providing a ‘one stop shop’ of information on electric vehicles, including charge point locations across the city. Once Source London has been launched in Spring 2011 drivers will be able to sign up for the scheme online.

The development of Source London, has been led by Transport for London in close collaboration with the London boroughs and a wide range of private sector partners – who will play a key part in funding and providing locations for the network’s charge points.

First RAC Brighton to London green car challenge a success MORE THAN 60 eco-friendly vehicles – some not seen on UK roads before – completed the first RAC Brighton to London Future Car Challenge on Saturday 6 November.

The entrants, including well-known celebrities such as TV presenter Quentin Willson and Pink Floyd Drummer Nick Mason, started in the morning from Madeira Drive, Brighton and finished at Pall Mall in London.

This inaugural Royal Automobile Club event was organised to be a very public showcase for low-energy vehicles. It was staged, promoted and judged in three categories – Electric, Hybrid and Internal

Combustion Engine. Within each category, entries were measured in various modes for the energy used during the drive.

The challenge was to complete the event with the least energy impact.

Overall winner, Jim Holder of What Car? magazine, driving a Volkswagen Golf bluee-motion, said: “It’s been a fantastic event.

Volkswagen UK is delighted and a little surprised to have won overall, as am I. This car does not go into production for another two years so it was wonderful to win on its UK debut. I think the whole event shows just what the motoring industry can achieve.”

GREENFLEET® NEWS

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Supermarket giant installs electric charging stations WAITROSE is installing charging stations at some of its key stores to prepare for the expected rise in electric vehicles next year thanks to government subsidies.

Chargemaster Plc has been chosen by Waitrose to install DualCharge posts at three stores across the UK. The charging stations are able to charge two bays at the same time and will provide customers with the facility to re-charge their electric vehicles whilst they are shopping in the store.

One of the electric vehicle chargers has been installed at one of its newest stores – York, which is Waitrose’s flagship store for embracing carbon cutting initiatives.

The other charging stations will be installed at stores around the country, where customer demand is high.

Waitrose will be measuring the electricity consumed through the charging points and evaluate it against cost and overall carbon emissions from power supply.

If proven to benefit the customer, the environment and the company’s carbon footprint, electric charging stations will be rolled out across other stores.

Stagecoach recognised for bio-diesel bus scheme Bus operator Stagecoach Group has scooped the Travel and Transport award at the Green Business Awards 2010 for its bio-buses project, which converts used cooking oil into bio-diesel to power its fleet of buses in West Scotland.

The scheme encourages customers to fill a container with their used cooking oil in return for discounted bus travel. The bio-buses are responsible for an 80 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions, which has added up to a saving of 2,450 tonnes of carbon dioxide since the launch.

General Electric to buy record number of EVs

GreenFleet Awards winners announced, see pages 33-41 for more information

Canadian government to trial electric vehicles AS PART OF Transport Canada’s ecoTECHNOLOGY for Vehicles (eTV) programme, two Mitsubishi i-MiEVs will be tested in government facilities, as well as in a variety of real-world conditions.

Test results will help to assess the potential environmental benefits of electric vehicles in Canada.

Transport Canada’s eTV programme regularly tests and evaluates the environmental performance of a range of new vehicle technologies and aims to encourage the introduction of clean vehicle technologies in Canada.

Chuck Strahl, the Canadian Minister

NEWS IN BRIEF

of Transport said: “The Government of Canada is committed to working with the automotive industry and consumers to help make safe and clean technologies available to Canadians. We are pleased to be a part of such projects that will benefit the environment and promote greener transportation alternatives.”

General Electric (GE) has announced it will buy 25,000 electric vehicles by 2015, the largest-ever single electric vehicle commitment. GE will initially purchase 12,000 GM vehicles, beginning with the Chevrolet Volt in 2011, and will add other vehicles as manufacturers expand their electric vehicle portfolios.

It will use some of them in its own fleet and the rest will go into its Capital Fleet Services business, which leases cars to corporate customers. It hopes that this record order of electric vehicles will drive the development of a network of charging stations, and other related products, which it produces

New plants to convert end of life plastic into diesel An agreement has been signed to build Britain’s first fully operational plants to convert end of life plastic into diesel fuel.

The agreement by SITA UK and Cynar Plc will see the first of ten plants by the end of 2011 in the greater London area.

Each plant is designed to convert approximately 6,000 tonnes of mixed waste plastic annually, specifically targeting mixed waste plastic diverted from landfill, and to produce in excess of four million litres of end of life plastic into specification diesel fuel. The waste plastic recovery process is expected to be produced at below the cost of normal diesel and the fuel itself is expected to have a lower carbon footprint than conventional diesel.

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

07

GREENFLEET® NEWS

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Hybrids to overtake petrol within the decade PETROL-POWERED company cars could almost be obsolete in ten years, according to a new study by Lex Autolease with 300 finance chiefs and company car drivers.

Eight out of ten business drivers (78 per cent) and two thirds of financial directors (65 per cent) are confident that hybrid or electric vehicles will become the most popular company car choice in a decade’s time. By contrast, less than five per cent of both groups polled believe that petrol cars, once the staple choice of business drivers, will outsell other fuel types in a decade’s time.

Further findings from the survey show that 87 per cent would consider a diesel for their next company car, while just 28 per cent would put a petrol option on their shortlist. However, exactly half of the drivers polled would also include a hybrid.

Indeed, almost half (47 per cent) of all drivers polled would like to road test either a hybrid or a fully electric vehicle, while almost two thirds (64 per cent) of finance bosses believe that employees should be given the option to add these vehicles to their company car choice list.

Liverpool council buys electric vehicle for building maintenance team AN ELECTRIC VAN is helping Liverpool City Council to deliver quiet and clean operations in its building maintenance division.

The local authority has invested in a Smith Edison van as part of the Department for Transport’s low carbon vehicle procurement programme (LCVPP). The van has a range of up to 100

miles and a top speed of 50mph.

Liverpool is deploying the Edison in its Premises Management Unit, which is responsible for maintenance and repairs of around 2,500 public buildings throughout the city, including schools, cemeteries, parks and cruise liner terminals.

John Carrington, Transport Services manager from Liverpool City Council said: “The electric van is perfect for the lower mileage requirements of our Premises Management services. It is clean, quiet and a pleasure to drive.

“The purchase of this initial van will help us to grow our understanding of electric vehicles, as we gather data from its performance and running costs. This experience will inform our future purchasing strategies of low carbon vehicles.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

University unveils EV charge points The University of Sunderland has unveiled its first electric vehicle charging points. The posts are the first of a number of planned charging points both in the university and city, and will signal the University of Sunderland’s move towards a complete electric vehicle fleet.

The process has already begun with the university’s facilities department, and next summer will see the low carbon shuttle bus service transporting students across the city in clean, green, safe vehicles.

Regional development agency One North East secured the charge points through the government’s £30m ‘Plugged-In Places’ initiative.

Toronto adds biogas-powered waste truck to fleet The City of Toronto has added to its fleet a waste and recycling collection truck that is powered by compressed natural gas created from green bin organic material.

Introducing green medium and heavy-duty trucks is a priority for the City, as explained in the Green Fleet Plan 2008-2011. The goal of the Green Fleet Plan is to reduce fuel consumption, fuel costs, and emissions of greenhouse gases and smog pollutants.

Geoff Rathbone, general manager of Solid Waste Management Services, said: “Pending results from a pilot programme, the City hopes to convert biogas produced from digesting green bin organic material into compressed natural gas for distribution across Enbridge’s system.

“In essence, Toronto will be making its own natural gas. Our two green bin processing facilities have the potential to produce enough natural gas to take our entire fleet of 300 waste trucks off diesel. Creating natural gas from kitchen waste will be the first operation of its kind in North America.”

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

09

GETTING

STRAIGHT TO THE POINT. (USING LESS FUEL AND EMITTING LESS C02 ) THE AWARD-WINNING M{ZD{ 6 Range.

• C O2 emissions starting at just 138g/km • BIK rating from 19% • U p to 54.3mpg combined fuel consumption • STRONG WHOLE LIFE COSTS • 5 STAR EURO NCAP RATING

Speak to one of our Fleet Specialists on 0845 402 5525 or visit www.mazda.co.uk/fleet to find out more.

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The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Mazda6 range: Urban 25.2 (11.2) – 42.8 (6.6), Extra Urban 44.1 (6.4) – 64.2 (4.4), Combined 34.9 (8.1) – 54.3 (5.2). CO2 emissions (g/km) 188 – 138.

Models shown: Mazda6 2.2D Estate TS OTR. £20,835.52. Model features optional metallic paint (£410). On the road price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months’ road fund licence, 1st registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years’ European Roadside Assistance. Details correct at time of going to print.

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Model Shown Mazda6 2.2D Sport 180ps

The Mazda6 – with added zoom-zoom With its striking new appearance, cleaner engines, extra equipment and modest price, the revamped Mazda6 has boosted its appeal to fleet customers hanks to engine improvements, the diesel derivatives are now 4.1 per cent more economical and enjoy a 4.8 percent drop in average CO2 emission levels. The petrol engines have also profited, with a 3.2 per cent average increase in fuel economy and a 4.4 per cent drop in average CO2 emissions. This means CO2 emission levels start from just 138g/km with a combined fuel economy of up to 54.3mpg.

T

KEEPING EMISSIONS DOWN

Mazda6 TS2 Estate vs Competition

The range includes a choice of 12 hatchback and seven estate models with a choice of six engines – three petrol and three turbo diesel.

The Mazda6 Estate has received particular recognition this year, scooping the award for ‘Best Estate Car’ at the Fleet World Honours (for the 2.2 litre diesel), and was named ‘Best Estate Car’ from both Fleet News and What Car? Magazines.

The entry-level 2.2 litre diesel engine has benefited not only from an increase in power since its predecessor, from 125ps to 129ps, its CO2 level has also gone down from 147g/km to 138g/ km. As many companies impose a sub 140g/km limit on some drivers, this Model Power output (hp) P11D value

Mazda6 2.2D Estate TS2 163ps

model is set to be an attractive choice.

That said, all Mazda6 diesel derivatives – including the range-topping 2.2 litre Sport – have emissions below 150g CO2 , helping to offset this year’s 5g/km increase in company car tax thresholds and rises in VED on cars with emissions above 151g/km.

The 2.0 litre petrol has experienced the largest drop in CO2 , going down from 168g/km to 159g/km, while power has increased from 147ps to 155ps.

These CO2 reductions translate to benefit-in-kind tax savings for company car drivers and financial savings for companies on National Insurance contributions paid on benefits-in-kind, Vehicle Excise Duty and capital allowances.

STRONG FLEET SUPPORT Earlier this year, Mazda embarked on a sales programme to boost sales within small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with sub-50 fleets. This involved franchise dealers working alongside an outsourced specialist sales team.

So far, this drive has generated more than 200 company car orders, with predictions of 820 orders by the end of the 12-month programme in April 2011.

Phil Parker, dealer principal at familyowned Ashleys Garage in Southport, said: “We have sold nine Mazda6 vehicles to a local IT company as a result of the Programme thanks to the guidance and ideas we are receiving to build small fleet business locally. It is vital to the life-blood of the economy that local businesses support each other and the Mazda Programme. The support we are receiving gives me confidence that fleet is a sales channel that will be successful for us.”

Mazda also offers strong support to organisations buying fleets in other areas, such as its Fleet Centres which have a dedicated fleet team, as well as a Mazda Corporate Support Centre which provides support for prospective and existing customers with information on Mazda products, pricing and services.

COMPETITIVE VERSUS THE COMPETITION The refreshed Mazda6 has Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) and ‘smart’ turn indicators added to its already extensive list of standard equipment. Going up the trim levels, standard features have grown to include front and rear parking sensors, Hill Hold Assist, and Bi-Xenon front lights with AFS. Even with its fuel consumption improvements, emission savings and added equipment, the upgraded Mazda6 – priced from £17,428.65 to £23,821.98 – still offers exceptional value for money and is competitive versus the competition.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 0845 402 5525 Web: www.mazda.co.uk/fleet

Vauxhall Insignia Exclusiv Nav Estate 2.0CDTI 16v 160ps

Toyota Avensis TR Estate 2.2D-4D 150ps

Ford Mondeo Titanium Estate 2.0 TDCI 163ps

Honda Accord ES GT Estate 2.2i-DTEC 150ps

161

158

148

161

148

£21,830.52

£22,880.00

£22,437.60

£23,305.00

£24,830.00

BIK tax rating

20%

21%

22%

19%

22%

CO2 Emissions (g/km)

143

149

147

139

154

34.36%

28.85%

30.51%

31.08%

31.92%

52.3

50.4

51.4

53.3

48.7

Predicted Residual Value* Combined fuel consumption (mpg)

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg 91/100km) for the Mazda6 range: Urban 25.2 (11.2) – 42.8 (6.6), Extra Urban 44.1 (6.4) – 64.2 (4.4), Combined 34.9 (8.1) – 54.3 (5.2), Co2 emissions (g/km) 188-138. Model Shown: Mazda6 2.2D Sport 180ps £23,185.52. Model Features optional metallic paint (£410). On the road price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months’ road fund license, 1st registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years’ European Roadside Assistance. Details Correct at time of going to print. * Residual values taken from Kwik Car cost at 1 November 2010. Competitor data taken from respective manufacturers’ websites during November.

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

11

Our fuel card unlocks time and money

with features that offer security, control, convenience and flexibility Less admin, with simple VAT invoicing and direct debit payment, secure, cash-free transactions at a wide network of service stations, easy to use management information for cost control and fraud monitoring, and a wide range of flexible purchasing options to suit your business. Call us on 0800 731 31 37 to find out more. www.shell.co.uk/euroshell euroShell

Card

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Putting fleets on the road to cutting costs Shell helps fleets cut costs with fuel cards and a new online tool uel prices are set to rise in January when the Government increases duty by 0.76p a litre and VAT jumps 2.5 per cent to 20 per cent, so its makes financial sense for businesses to implement cost-saving measures.

With fuel potentially accounting for at least 25 to 30 per cent of fleet expenditure, businesses that want to drive down cost in an area that comes with a ‘green’ halo must introduce resources to begin the process so they can see and understand how fuel is currently being used by drivers.

It is only once armed with that baseline information can they then compile a list of actions and establish reduction targets across the fleet and on a per driver basis, according to Phil Williams, UK sales manager, euroShell Card.

There are essentially three separate component action areas when implementing measures to reduce a fleet’s fuel bill: • Measures that can be introduced and impact on the existing vehicle fleet and on employees who drive their own cars on business • Initiatives to drive down mileage • Steps that can be taken when renewing vehicles - typically replacing gas-guzzlers with fuel-sipping, lower emission cars and vans.

Fleet experts recommend that the introduction of fuel cards is the simplest and most straight-forward way to obtain the management information required to achieve step one and enable fuel use to be accurately measured and mileage reduction and employees’ ‘smart driving’ targets set.

Step two then focuses on cutting both business and private mileage and typically involves the introduction of smarter working practices, journey planning, telematics/satellite navigation and almost without exception the ending of businesses providing a fully-expensed company car including paying for fuel used privately.

While, the final strand comes with ensuring that company car and van choice lists are packed with the most fuel-efficient, low emission models.

Help is at hand from Shell on all fronts as the world’s largest branded fuel retailer’s euroShell card can be issued to all car and van drivers thus allowing fleet managers to see up-to-the-minute information on their purchasing and spending patterns and vehicle MPG performance.

Poor MPG could be due to lapses in vehicle servicing or maintenance, for example, or an aggressive driving styling, or to fuel pilfering. All can be eliminated

F

through tight fuel management controls.

Additionally, euroShell cards can be married to Shell’s journey management system that enables employees to easily split private and business mileage to meet HM Revenue & Customs benefitin-kind tax reporting requirements.

Tracking both business and private miles enables fleet operators to even better identify cost saving opportunities; ease fuel and mileage administration including ensuring compliance with the Euro6 VAT directive and aid carbon footprint reduction.

“One monthly invoice detailing all fuel transactions, coupled with online mileage and management reports delivers significant opportunities for businesses to reduce fuel spend and cut fleet administration,” said Mr Williams.

In the UK, the euroShell card can be used at more than 850 Shell stations and 1,600 Esso and Total forecourts.

Having built up a detailed record of fuel use by individual drivers and vehicles, fleet managers can then turn to Shell’s newly launched online Fleet Optimiser to deliver an action plan to reduce petrol and diesel bills and their fleet carbon footprint.

By inputting data on the current profile of their fleet - petrol or diesel vehicles, CO2 emissions, fuel economy, mileage and the price paid for fuel - fleet chiefs will be able to see the total weight of CO2 emissions in a graphic format, how many trees would need to be planted to absorb the volume of emissions and their employer’s total fuel bill.

Then by making small changes to the profile of the fleet, switching to new Shell FuelSave petrol and diesel, encouraging employees to adopt fuel-efficiency driving techniques and improving mileage management, Fleet Optimiser will identify potential fuel and CO2 savings and deliver an action plan to help put the measures into practice (see case studies).

Mr Williams said: “In the current financial climate where cost management is the number one priority and every business is concerned about their carbon footprint, no fleet can afford to ignore such savings.

“By making their fleet more efficient, businesses can save money and reduce the amount of CO2 in the environment.

Fleet Optimiser helps identify measures that could improve every company’s fuel costs and their environmental impact.”

He concluded: “Using a combination of the euroShell Card and Fleet Optimiser is not only about utilising best practice management techniques, but together they deliver financial benefits to employers.”

Case study 1 • Fleet size: 100 company cars - 50 sub 120 g/km diesel cars, 20 petrol cars (121-160 g/km), 20 petrol cars (161-200 g/km), 10 petrol cars (201-250 g/km).

• Mileage: 20,000 a year; average MPG. • Fuel price: petrol 115p a litre, diesel 118p a litre • Annual fuel cost: £241,398 • Total CO2 emissions: 950 tonnes = the weight of 10 blue whales, enough to fill 53 per cent of the Empire State Building, New York; 798 trees would have to be planted to absorb the CO2.

Fleet Optimiser action plan: • Switch to an all-diesel fleet (80 cars sub 120 g/km, 20 cars 121-160 g/ km) - delivers a 14 per cent fuel bill saving • Cutting annual mileage by five per cent (down to 19,000 miles) will save three per cent in fuel costs • Encouraging employees to adopt fuel-efficient driving techniques will save a further two per cent in fuel costs • Switching to Shell FuelSave will also trim bills by two per cent Annual fuel cost: £175,494 (saving £71,235) • Total CO2 emissions: 720 tonnes = the weight of seven blue whales, enough to fill 39 per cent of the Empire State Building, New York; 603 trees would have to be planted to absorb the CO2.

Case study 2 • Fleet size: 50 diesel vans - 10, small vans, 20 medium-sized vans, 20 large vans • Mileage: 30,000 a year; average MPG • Fuel price: diesel 118p a litre • Annual fuel cost: £270,611 • Total CO2 emissions: 1,110 tonnes = the weight of 11 blue whales; enough to fill 60 per cent of the Empire State Building, New York; 929 trees would have to be planted to absorb the CO2.

Fleet Optimiser action plan: • Downsize the fleet to 20 small diesel vans and 30 medium-sized vans • Cutting annual mileage by five per cent (down to 28,500 miles) will save three per cent in fuel costs • Encouraging employees to adopt fuel-efficient driving techniques will save a further two per cent in fuel costs • Switching to Shell FuelSave will also trim bills by two per cent • Annual fuel cost: £209,287 (saving £61,324) • Total CO2 emissions: 858 tonnes = the weight of nine blue whales, enough to fill 47 per cent of the Empire State Building, New York; 718 trees would have to be planted to absorb the CO2.

Further information is available at www.shell.com or e-mail Generalcardrequests-uk@shell. com or call: 0800 731 3131.

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

133

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ALTERNATIVE FUELS

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The impact of a UK electric vehicle charging infrastructure ITS (UK) has created an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Working Group to assist in the research and development of a charging infrastructure for electric vehicles across the country TS (UK) recently demonstrated its commitment to assisting research and development in the development of infrastructure for electric vehicles through the establishment of the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Working Group (EVIWG).

The EVIWG, chaired by Professor Phil Blythe of Newcastle University, Andrew Pearce of Mouchel and Tony Mallichan of Logica, is concentrating its efforts on assessing the ITS implications and opportunities associated with the electricity recharging infrastructure that is currently being installed as part of the UK’s Plugged-in-Places programme.

Interest in this area followed ITS (UK)’s invitation to attend the Energy Technologies Institute’s (ETI) Stakeholder Group meeting where there was unanimous concern regarding the lack of coordination across the whole spectrum of electric vehicle development but in particular the dearth of attention towards the essential infrastructure.

ITS (UK) recognises that it has expertise in its considerable knowledge and experience in the ‘back-office’, fiscal charging and data transfer options.

I

A PLAN OF ACTION At its inaugural meeting the EVIWG confirmed its vision and ratified its terms of reference in addition to determining a plan of action and agreeing a structured programme for the next twelve months.

The plan of action includes regular progress reports to the ITS (UK) Council and liaison with interested governmental departments and related agencies, including CENEX, the UK’s centre of excellence for low carbon and fuel cell technologies, the Energy Technologies Institute (ETI) and the government’s Office of Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV).

The EVIWG, initially set up under the umbrella of the Smart Environment Interest Group, has close alliances with the Low Carbon Working Group and both groups are anticipating mutual benefits as the plan of action unfolds.

WORKING TOGETHER A range of private and public sector members have already become members of the EVIWG since its inception in early September and it is anticipated that collaborative efforts in this area will further assist ITS (UK)’s involvement Since the inaugural meeting a Strategic

Planning Roadmap workshop was held in Newcastle, under the direction of Dr David Beeton from OneNE, to help identify the ITS capabilities in relation to supporting electric vehicle infrastructure requirements. As Newcastle is one the UK’s current ‘Plugged-in-Places’ there is a vested interest in supporting this work. Although the full findings have to be circulated there is no doubt that there is considerable scope for ITS (UK) to make a significant contribution in the development of the electric vehicles through the provision of the related data exchange/transfer that will facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles as both publicly acceptable and commercially viable.

THE IMPACT OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES Ongoing political interest and industrial commitment to the development of electric vehicles suggests that there is a drive for this mode to become a pivotal form of transport. Whilst the EVIWG initial focus is directed towards the recharging infrastructure, there is a realisation that its impact needs to extend far further, such as how the introduction of a large number of electric vehicles will interact with the existing UK fleet.

As an example TRL is conducting a project on the effect that electric vehicles will have on the roads network and how this could affect UTMC and other systems.

Historically vehicle refuelling has

tended to be an ad-hoc purchase and is based on user gauging range from the fuel gauge. Emerging philosophy suggests that electric vehicle recharging has a wholly different dynamic and has a closer correlation to how users regard mobile phone battery discharging rates.

However where this association varies is that the discharge of an electric vehicle battery can have a far greater significance and effect than a mobile phone battery where the consequences are minimal.

There is burgeoning global interest and commitment in this area and the EVIWG intends keep other interested parties, such as ITS America, ERTICO, ITS National Network of Associations and ITS (UK)’s Low Carbon Working Group, fully appraised of ongoing progress.

One of the EVIWG’s intentions is to establish Special Sessions at the ITS Europe 2011 Conference, Lyon, France and the ITS World Congress 2011, Atlanta, USA on the themes of electric vehicle infrastructures and the ITS implications.

It is believed that the development of electric vehicles is a UK strength with significant potential for economic importance; as a consequence it is anticipated that this schedule of work will promote this pioneering work and will guarantee that ITS (UK) remains at the forefront of expertise in this innovative business area.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Web: www.its-uk.org.uk

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

15

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

www.greenfleet.net

Reasons to be cheerful about the UK electric vehicle market The UK has made significant progress in preparing for the mass adoption of electric vehicles, writes Catherine Hutt, in charge of the SMMT’s Electric Vehicle Group year ago I wrote an article for Green Fleet magazine explaining how the UK was ahead of the world when it came to bringing electric vehicles to market. This year, I’m delighted to say, we still have reason to be cheerful – but we can’t afford to take our eye off the ball.

Significant progress has been made in the last 12 months. Behind the scenes, many aspects of the emerging electric vehicle (EV) market have been considered and, in some cases, resolved.

The jigsaw puzzle of the EV industry is starting to take shape; we have the purchase incentive programme, the infrastructure programme, technical issues are being resolved, manufacturers and suppliers have invested significant time and resource, battery technology is becoming better understood – the background work is well on its way.

There is, of course, still a great deal of work to do, but in general we have ‘set the stage’ for the EV market to grow.

It is worth mentioning at this stage that I am following the SMMT Electric Car Guide’s definition of Electric Vehicle (EV) as the umbrella term for any vehicle that is powered, in part or in full, by a battery that can be directly plugged into mains electricity, including pure-electric, plug-in hybrid and extended-range electric vehicles. I will focus on passenger cars for this article as the messages relate directly to the introduction of the consumer incentive for electric cars which begins in January 2011 (25 per cent off the price of the car, up to £5,000).

A

ALL ABOUT THE CONSUMER Having prepared for market growth, we need to grow the market. Now is the time to focus on the consumer.

It’s over 100 years since the automotive industry introduced a technology that changed the way people viewed transport. Back then, car salesmen had to convince customers they wanted a motor car instead of a faster horse. It was a hard sell. People were used to the horse, knew how to operate it, thought it met all of their transport needs and, frankly, didn’t see the appeal of the motor car.

Today we have a similar challenge.

People are used to using internal

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GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

combustion engine cars for every kind mass market from day one. Adapting of journey and don’t see the appeal of our approach according to the stage of adapting their transport habits in order industry development is vital. Currently to utilise different technologies. we are in the introduction stage We all know EVs aren’t and need to make the most of For the designed to travel long this, if the market is to grow in latest GreenFleet® distances, but they are a swift and sustainable way. news, events and ideal for the large majority If we embrace the early features please visit of journeys made in the adopter community and www.green UK on a daily basis. harness its feedback we will fleet.net Not many people be in a far stronger position know that the average to progress and mass market journey length in the UK can become a reality. is only 8.6 miles. Nor do they know the average daily THE UK IS THE IDEAL TEST BED mileage in the UK is just 25 miles.

Yet EVs are ideally suited to these Fortunately we have a relatively journeys and have the potential to small country. This means we drive improve urban environments by reducing relatively short distances, which noise and improving air quality. Until is ideal for the EV market. the average consumer understands their The UK’s infrastructure programme own transport pattern, EVs will continue is far ahead of many other countries, to be a hard sell. Accepting the fact thanks to government understanding that not many consumers understand of the need for infrastructure and their transport patterns should focus local knowledge of how to implement our efforts on the few who do. an infrastructure network. Again, the size of the country means it is simpler and more affordable to have a pan-UK WHY EARLY ADOPTERS ARE IMPORTANT network, which is inter-operable and Early adopters will test, feed back reassures EV drivers they can charge and help develop a product so that it their vehicle away from home. is ready for the mass market. On the In addition to our journey profile, other hand, the mass market will not our nation is particularly accepting of, understand, let alone accept, small and even welcoming towards, niche mistakes. Every new product needs vehicles. The proportion of prestige cars, refining and EVs are no different. kit cars, bespoke cars and many other Concentrating on consumers who are niche vehicles is particularly high on likely to be open to new technology is UK roads, which means the UK public far more valuable than aiming for the is used to seeing a variety of vehicles.

1947

In 1947 American engineers Douglas H. Ring and W. Rae Young described in detail a system of radio towers which formed a hexagonal cell structure and enabled the use of portable telephones across wide areas.

ALTERNATIVE FUELS In our built-up cities, particularly London, only a small number of vehicles is required to achieve critical mass and for new vehicles to be noticed. This means that the impact of having 100 EVs on UK roads will be far greater than having the same number on US roads, for example. The vehicles will be far more spread out in the US and the chances of the public seeing the EV enough to get used to it will be minimal. Again, this is important for the EV industry where initial volumes are likely to be low but where visibility is key to consumer acceptance.

STRONG GOVERNMENT SUPPORT The continued support for the EV consumer incentive, the Plugged-In Places programme and the Automotive Council are all significant signs that the new coalition government understands the link between the automotive industry, low carbon initiatives and the UK economy.

Cuts to public spending are common in today’s world. This makes it all the more significant that financial support for the EV market was not only upheld, but the consumer incentive was announced even before the Comprehensive Spending Review. The reason for this was the overwhelming and unanimous belief within Whitehall that supporting the fledgling EV market “just had to be done”. Despite a reduction in the overall amount committed to this particular policy, the impact it will have on the UK’s ability to compete in a global market is unquestionable.

The Office of Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) has been a key part of this success. The cross-Whitehall team, with people from the Department for Transport, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department for Energy and Climate Change, has worked extremely hard to understand the needs of the industry and how, with the right support, the industry can benefit the UK economy.

OLEV’s open and innovative approach has allowed industry and government to work closely and productively on a number of issues, which is why the UK is in a strong position.

THE EV MARKET IN 2011 The next few years will be an extremely exciting time in the EV industry. Many new vehicles will enter the UK market and the face of the automotive industry will have an even stronger low carbon look.

The table is taken from the SMMT Electric Car Guide and is a list of electric cars which will be available in the UK between 2010 and 2014. This is an impressive list, especially given the early stage of the industry.

But will these electric cars

18

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

www.greenfleet.net

be suitable for fleets?

Absolutely. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the first market segment to adopt EVs in significant numbers were the fleets. EVs are ideal for many fleet vehicles for a number of reasons: Predictability: A number of fleet vehicles are used for routine journeys, which means the mileage and duty cycle are predictable. Monitoring the fleet in this way makes it simpler to identify vehicles which are being used for short to medium length journeys and, therefore, where an EV might be ideal.

Profile: Companies have recognised the value of operating a low carbon fleet for many years. Some companies, such as Green Tomato Cars, have built their entire business model around a low emission vehicle, in this case the Toyota Prius. Operating an electric vehicle fleet is an ideal way to get your company noticed and to prove your organisation’s green and innovative credentials.

Driver perks: EV drivers thoroughly enjoy the experience of driving an EV, thanks to the quietness, light handling and swift acceleration.

Financial incentives: Electric vehicles are exempt from congestion charges,

benefit from free parking in a number of areas, have low running costs and qualify for 0 per cent benefit in kind tax. These financial incentives soon stack up to make the prospect commercially viable and appealing.

CONCLUSION In summary, the UK is well placed to continue leading the global EV industry.

Significant progress has been made to prepare the industry – our automotive expertise, the small size of our country and the coordinated efforts of industry and government have paid off.

The next challenge is to capitalise on this advantage and focus our efforts on growing the market swiftly and sustainably. Early adopters will be a crucial part of this growth and if we make sure we get the introduction stage of the market right, the UK industry has the potential to develop quickly to achieve the goal of EV mass market success.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Web: www.smmt.co.uk

ELECTRIC CARS COMING TO MARKET BETWEEN 2010 AND 2014 BRAND

MODEL

TYPE

ESTIMATED LAUNCH DATE

Allied Electric Vehicles

e-Bipper Tepee

Pure-EV

2010

Allied Electric Vehicles

e-Expert Tepee

Pure-EV

2010

Allied Electric Vehicles

e-Partner Tepee

Pure-EV

2010

ECC

ev’ie

Pure-EV

2010

Tesla

Tesla

Pure-EV

2010

Mitsubishi

iMiEV

Pure-EV

2010

Citroën

C-Zero

Pure-EV

2010

Peugeot

iOn

Pure-EV

2010

Tata

Vista

Pure-EV

January 2011

Nissan

Leaf

Pure-EV

February 2011

Hyundai

Ix-metro

Pure-EV

Winter 2011

Westfield (race car)

iRacer

Pure-EV

2011

Lightning Car Company

The Lightning GT

Pure-EV

Spring 2012

Renault

Fluence

Pure-EV

Spring 2012

Vauxhall

Ampera

E-REV

Spring 2012

Renault

Zoe

Pure-EV

Summer 2012

Audi

E-Tron

Pure-EV

2012

Chevrolet

Volt

E-REV

2012

Ford

Focus

Pure-EV

2012

Morgan

Lifecar2

E-REV

2012

Smart

ED

Pure-EV

2012

Tesla

Model S

Pure-EV

2012

Westfield

Sport-E

Pure-EV

2012

Axon

E-PHEV

PHV

2012

Toyota

Prius PHV

PHV

2012

BMW (sub-brand)

Megacity Vehicle

Pure-EV

2013

Ford

C-MAX

PHV

2013

Westfield

GTM Electric

Pure-EV

2013

Volkswagen

Up! blue-e-motion

Pure-EV

2013

Volkswagen

Golf blue-e-motion

Pure-EV

2013/ 2014

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ALTERNATIVE FUELS

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Hydrogen in the UK: where are we now?

The UK could be among the first European countries to receive fuel cell vehicles from 2015, but what needs to happen now to prepare for these vehicles? Cenex’s Dr Peter Speers investigates

H

considered to be a reasonable aspiration.

Hydrogen production and distribution costs are not the main barrier to this level of costing. Rather the capital cost of infrastructure is seen as a pressing issue, with potential operators needing assurance that their investment can be recovered by a reasonably high daily throughput of hydrogen sales for vehicle refuelling. This ‘chicken and egg’ argument on whether vehicles or infrastructure should lead market deployment affects all alternative fuels. However for hydrogen, the investments required can be daunting, and, at least until now, the prospects of the deployment of significant vehicle

GERMANY TAKES THE LEAD While various hydrogen initiatives are currently under way the UK is not expected to be the first country in Europe to be supplied with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles from 2015. That honour will likely belong to Germany for a variety of reasons, not least of which being the lead taken in fuel cell vehicle development by Daimler and the crosssector support (among car companies, gas companies, energy utilities and regional and national government) that has been established as part of the country’s H2 Mobility programme.

The evidence of Germany’s preeminent position is clear from the presence of Hydrogen postal van trial with Royal Mail

ydrogen and fuel cell vehicles are coming to a place near you. That’s the message sent out by the auto industry in September 2009, when eight of the world’s leading car companies signed up to a commitment to launch mass market hydrogen fuel cell vehicles from 2015.

Announcements about future dates for product launches for innovative technologies such as fuel cell vehicles are often met with stakeholder scepticism or indifference. However, one year on, the implications of this commitment are the subject of serious debate and dialogue not only across the auto industry, but also within the energy sector and in enlightened circles in governments across the developed world.

There are of course practical considerations: hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will be deployed initially where market conditions are conducive for fuel cell vehicle uptake and, crucially, where a workable refuelling infrastructure is in place. The UK could be among the first European countries to receive fuel cell vehicles from 2015, but what actions need to take place now to prepare for the arrival of these vehicles? What are the benefits and risks from early support for fuel cell vehicle deployment?

numbers has appeared remote. It is true that neither the motor manufacturers nor the gas industry suppliers can foresee the development of a market for hydrogen fuel without interventions by, and support from, national, regional or local governments. This type of support is already evident in California and elsewhere in the United States, as well as in Japan and Germany.

THE PROS AND CONS OF HYDROGEN

Fuel cell vehicle Honda Clarity at Cenex’s LCV2010

The main advantage of fuel cell vehicles is their ability to deliver the benefits of electric vehicles (such as zero emission at point of use, low noise and energy efficiency) coupled with quick refuelling. While battery electric vehicles may be favoured as a short distance commuter car, fuel cell vehicles have the potential to enable drivers to travel long distances with the same convenience of a petrol or diesel car.

There are of course risks facing the car companies as suppliers of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The first obvious risk is the current lack of hydrogen refuelling stations and the second is the lack of a robustly quantifiable market of consumers for these vehicles, particularly if cost of ownership cannot be brought broadly into line with that for conventional petrol or diesel cars.

The latter is partly dependent on the former in that a developing hydrogen infrastructure needs to be able to provide hydrogen at an affordable target price, with $5 per kg of hydrogen

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

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ALTERNATIVE FUELS

www.greenfleet.net multi-million pound ‘hand built’ fuel cell vehicle demonstrators based in Germany.

These vehicles make only occasional visits to the UK, as for example when Honda brought its fuel cell Clarity to the Cenex LCV2010 event at Millbrook Proving Ground this September.

UK HYDROGEN INFRASTRUCTURE The Greater London Authority has been a long time supporter of hydrogen use in transport. London had one of Europe’s largest operational hydrogen refuelling stations during the period 2001-2006, when Transport for London participated in the European Union-funded CUTE (Clean Urban Transport for Europe) trials, operating three fuel cell buses in the capital. Although this hydrogen station was subsequently decommissioned, another is being installed to support a second bus trial, called the CHIC (Clean Hydrogen in European Cities) trial, which is set to commence next year.

London is also seeking to participate in additional European funded projects, collaborating and sharing best practice with other major cities.

The London Hydrogen Partnership (LHP) has supported research to feed into the London Mayor’s plan to have up to 150 hydrogen vehicles in London by 2012. The fuel cell powered taxi developed by a consortium including London Taxi International, Intelligent Energy and Lotus Engineering represents the most obvious example of a London-friendly hydrogen fuel cell vehicle meeting the LHP aspiration to add fuel cells into its zero emission vehicle mix, alongside the roll-out of plug-in vehicles, including battery electric and hybrid vehicles.

REGIONAL ACTIVITIES For many years, there has also been a strong regional interest in hydrogen technologies, with technology clusters having grown up over a 20 year period in locations including Scotland, the North East, the East and West Midlands and in Wales.

Unlike Germany, the UK does not have a domestic world-leading automotive company investing in fuel cell vehicles. It is however home to a thriving network of niche vehicle manufacturers, a number of whom are looking at integrating fuel cells into their offerings. These companies are using the ten operational hydrogen stations across the UK regions to assist with their applied research activities at locations including the Universities of Birmingham, Loughborough, Coventry and Glamorgan. Examples of current niche vehicle fuel cell vehicle deployments include Microcab Industries, with its concept of an ultra light-weight vehicle that can be powered by a small fuel cell. River Simple has a

similar approach to vehicle development centred on the benefits of lightweight construction, with a fuel cell engine deployed in a quadricycle format. The early introduction of such lightweight vehicles mirrors the first generation of battery electric vehicles that are currently being used in the UK such as the GWiz from Mahindra REVA. As a link in UK regional hydrogen infrastructure, the UK will soon also have a large relocatable hydrogen station operated

by Air Products, based at Millbrook Proving Ground, to fuel vehicles for emissions and performance testing.

BRISTOL ACCORD UKHyNet PROJECT The most recent, and perhaps most significant, UK hydrogen initiative is the Bristol Accord. This is an agreement between the regional and devolved administrations in four UK regions – the North East, South West, Wales and the West Midlands – signed in June 2010 to foster collaboration in support of the accelerated uptake of low and ultra low carbon vehicles.

The Bristol Accord partners have invited Cenex to lead the first project being carried out under the Accord banner. The partners have signalled their intent to commence a project (the Bristol Accord UKHyNet Project) to establish a first implementation plan for the creation of a hydrogen infrastructure able to support the commercial introduction of fuel cell vehicles across the UK. This project will focus on testing the ‘UKHyNet’ concept, which envisages the rollout of relatively small scale hydrogen fuelling stations on a regional basis, which will then be linked to form national fuelling corridors along strategic routes. Proponents of the UKHyNet model estimate that a comprehensive national fuelling network could be achieved by the deployment of less than 100 stations.

Cenex will be working with regional organisations, gas companies and car companies to contribute to the development of an infrastructure implementation plan for the Accord Partners, as well as providing national leadership and continuity, with the ultimate aim of positioning the UK as one of the world’s leading hydrogen economies and a country where automotive manufacturers can launch hydrogen vehicles with confidence.

HYDROGEN VEHICLE FLEET TRIALS So what does this mean for the UK fleet? Although there is demonstrable enthusiasm from a wide range of stakeholders in the UK for the take-up of low carbon vehicles, and increasing enthusiasm from the EU, there is an ongoing need to provide an evidence base for the wider public acceptance through vehicle deployment trials.

Cenex’s experience shows that while passenger cars make the largest contribution to GHG emissions in the UK, they are also a challenging sector in which to carry out a vehicle trial as passenger cars display a highly fragmented ownership. In terms of early deployment of technology, by virtue of their return-to-base operation, captive fleets and vehicles that are given to people as part of their jobs make the best targets for early intervention.

There is growing evidence of UK enthusiasm for hydrogen vehicle fleet trials. For example, Sheffield-based electrolyser developer ITM Power has developed a Hydrogen On-Site Trial (HOST) project concept, whereby ITM Power delivers an on-site electrolyser to produce hydrogen and a hydrogen van for the company to operate within its fleet. The van is a converted petrol van, with the conversion developed by Revolve Technologies.

A number of public and private fleet operators have signed up to the HOST trial including the London Borough of Camden and Stansted Airport, as well as Scottish and Southern Energy. The project provides arguably the best opportunity at present for fleet operators to get experience of hydrogen vehicle operation.

The HOST trials follow on from an earlier collaboration between Cenex and Revolve Technologies that produced two demonstrator vans, one of which was recently deployed in a postal van trial conducted with Royal Mail in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland.

CONCLUSION Commercial availability of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles is going to be a reality sooner than many people think. While the rollout of hydrogen infrastructure is often cited as a major barrier to the adoption of hydrogen vehicles, the Bristol Accord UKHyNet project is expected to show that a relatively limited number of fuelling stations at strategic locations could position the UK as a significant player in gaining the advantages of early adoption of these vehicles.

The German H2 Mobility programme illustrates that these initiatives will succeed if there is sufficient buy-in and commitment from all relevant stakeholders, from government to vehicle and infrastructure suppliers to the crucial early markets of fleets. It will be in the fleet market that these vehicles will prove their value, and it is vital that the UK fleet operator community takes the opportunity to participate in early trials of these vehicles to provide a robust evidence base for wider adoption.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Web: www.cenex.co.uk

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

23

ROAD SAFETY

Written by Kevin Clinton, RoSPA’s head of road safety

The risky business of driving for work Unfamiliar vehicles, new locations, deadlines, time restraints – all these factors make driving for work more dangerous than driving in your own time. But what can organisations do to effectively manage road risk? riving is the most dangerous activity that most of us undertake in the course of our working lives.

Between 25-30 per cent of the 2,222 people who were killed on Britain’s roads last year are likely to have been on the road as part of their work at the time. It is likely that more people are killed in “at work” road accidents than in any other type of occupational accident.

Car and van drivers who cover 25,000 miles or more per year in the course of their work are thought to be at the same risk of being killed at work as those in acknowledged high hazard sectors such as construction or quarrying.

The pressures faced by “at work” drivers are vastly different to those experienced when driving during their own time. Unfamiliar vehicles, time constraints, new locations, deadlines, pressure to answer work-related phone calls - all these factors can lead to divided attention and other forms of performance impairment on the part of the driver.

D

with a wide range of businesses and organisations. In fact, the safety charity is now joined by more than 100 other organisations in the Occupational Road Safety Alliance (see www.orsa.org.uk).

DUTY OF CARE ON THE ROAD When it comes to managing occupational road risk, employers must conduct suitable risk assessments and put in place all “reasonably practicable” measures to ensure that: • Work-related journeys are safe • Staff are fit and competent to drive safely • Vehicles used are fit for purpose and in a safe condition.

The effective control of such risk is a matter covered by employers’ duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations. All employing organisations need, therefore, to ensure that they fully integrate their management of occupational road risk into their overall health and safety management arrangements.

In controlling the risk of work-related road accidents, organisations can put in place a range of practical and

cost-effective control measure such as: exploring safer alternatives to road travel, for example, taking the train or video-conferencing; specifying safest routes; insisting on compliance with speed limits; setting standards for safe schedules, journey times and distance limits; specifying the use of vehicles with additional safety features; ensuring safe maintenance; and, ensuring drivers are fit to do the task, which includes driver selection procedures, assessment, training and continual development.

However, MORR is not about one-off, isolated interventions. Instead, it needs to be focused on developing a system (policies, people and procedures) to deliver sustainable and measurable safety performance improvements as well as other business benefits. It must be led from the top by senior managers and involve effective workforce participation and consultation with employees and their representatives.

Line managers too have a key role to play in ensuring that staff are not put at risk and that they drive safely.

In short, MORR should be part of your organisation’s whole health and safety system and culture.

WHY IS MORR SO IMPORTANT? The ethical reasons for taking workrelated road risk seriously hardly need emphasising. The potential for pain and suffering caused by at-work road accidents is substantial, with effects for the employee, his or her family, colleagues and wider society.

WORK PRESSURES And it appears that such pressures are impacting negatively on safety.

For example, research cited on the Occupational Road Safety Alliance (ORSA) website (www.orsa.org.uk/ facts-figures/accident-evidence.htm) found that business drivers have collision rates which are 30-40 per cent higher than those of private drivers – and that company car drivers have nearly twice as many at-fault accidents than drivers in general.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has continued to stress that work-related road risk is a major road safety and occupational safety issue, which affects not only vocational drivers (those whose job is driving), but also the vast range of workers who cannot do their jobs without travelling on the roads at some point.

Since the inception of its managing occupational road risk (MORR) campaign in 1996, RoSPA has developed links

The pressures faced by “at work” drivers are vastly different to those experienced when driving during their own time GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

25

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toyota.co.uk/aurishybrid Model shown Auris Hybrid T Spirit 1.8 VVT-i £20,700, pearlescent paint £610 extra. Price correct at time of going to press & includes VAT, delivery charge, number plates, 1 years road fund licence and £55 first registration fee. Subject to availability. The 5 year warranty is a 5 year/100,000 mile manufacturer warranty. To maintain the warranty, customers must service their vehicle in accordance with the standard Toyota service schedule for the full 5 year period. For more information on the terms and conditions please contact Toyota (GB) plc on 0845 275 5555. Terms and conditions apply.

Auris Hybrid T Spirit 1.8 VVT-i Official Fuel Consumption Figures in mpg (l/100km): Urban 70.6 (4.0), Extra Urban 70.6 (4.0), Combined 70.6 (4.0). CO2 Emissions 93g/km.

ROAD SAFETY

www.greenfleet.net Addressing road safety also makes good business sense. Indeed, the business case for preventing accidents is stronger during tough economic times.

If sales and turnover reduce, cutting the costs associated with easily-avoidable accidents becomes an increasingly crucial way to defend the bottom line.

Research by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into workplace accidents suggests that for every £1 recovered through insurance, between £8 and £36 may be lost through uninsured costs.

Occupational road accidents are likely to cost firms in terms of lost business, administrative and legal fees and rising insurance premiums. Particularly when they involve liveried vehicles, they can also adversely affect corporate reputation and this, in turn, can bring further adverse financial implications.

SAFER AND GREENER With the growing focus on managing the environmental impact of business, there are clear overlaps with the safety agenda, including between driving technique, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Indeed, some driver-training providers now offer “eco driving” courses, which explicitly highlight these overlaps.

Using less fuel typically means spending less money - bolstering the business case for keeping your employees safe on the road.

And if the ethical and business reasons are not enough - there are significant legal prompts too.

Guidance issued by the HSE and DfT in Driving at Work: Managing Occupational Road Safety (INDG382, published in 2003) clearly states that, in addition to road traffic law, health and safety law applies to on-the-road work activities as to all work activities.

The police look at work-related factors when road crashes are investigated and action has been taken against employers. For example, we have previously seen company directors successfully prosecuted for manslaughter after crashes which could be linked back to working practices, including where drivers had spent excessively long hours at the wheel.

And there continues to be a great deal of speculation about the potential use of the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act, implemented in 2008, in relation to work-related road deaths. The Health and Safety Offences Act 2009 will also have significant implications with regard to work-related road safety.

Changing the attitude and behaviour of at-work road users can also make an important contribution towards reducing the overall number of deaths and injuries on our roads.

Employers can also organise general educational programmes such as

refresher driver training for employees and their family members.

There is tremendous potential for employers to get involved in this, for example, introducing motorcycle safety schemes into the workplace. Due to so-called “time poverty” experienced by people outside of work, they are more likely to take part in safety programmes delivered within the workplace than those offered in the community. So, besides helping to reduce risks to employees while they are at work on the road, employers are also well placed to make a valuable input towards reducing the tragic toll on our roads through the attention they give to road safety.

The best place to start managing your organisation’s road risk is with a comprehensive review of specific risks faced by individual organisations and

1,000 vehicles. BT has reduced their incident rate from 60 incidents per 1,000 vehicles to 30 during 2008.

Motorcyclists have not been forgotten

by BT, which is keen to develop the relationship with RoSPA in the future, with the safety of motorcyclists in mind.

YELL AND RoSPA Yell, the directories business, is taking steps to keep its people safe when they are driving for work by linking up with RoSPA to manage occupational road risk. The organisation has undergone a Managing Occupational Road Risk Review with the safety charity in 2009 and launched a three-year programme of driver assessment, training and education for 1,700 of its people in the UK who drive on company business.

The potential for pain and suffering caused by at-work road accidents is substantial, with effects for the employee, his or her family, colleagues and wider society individuals within the company. This will enable a longer-term programme to be implemented - as has been done, for example, by two organisations who have worked closely with RoSPA in the past.

BT AND RoSPA With a commercial fleet of 44,000 vehicles, BT is well placed to understand the challenges and opportunities associated with managing occupational road risk. For a number of years, the firm has led the way in developing a systematic approach to keeping its employees – and others - safe on the road.

In 2001, BT began using an interactive risk management tool to assess its drivers, which was followed by computer-based training for employees identified as being “at risk”. And last year saw the development of a partnership between BT and The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, through which subsequent on-road training is provided from drivers who would benefit from further input.

RoSPA’s Driver and Fleet Solutions department trains these drivers as part of the Government’s Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving (SAFED) for Vans programme. BT’s safety adviser for travel and transport chose RoSPA because they wanted to put their drivers through an approved Government course - and the SAFED training enabled them to do that.

BT’s investment in driver assessment and training has resulted in benefits for individual employees and the company as a whole. The standard form for looking at how well they are doing is the number of incidents per

For the first stage of the programme, those who drive as part of their job are undertaking a RoSPA Driver Profiler assessment. Driver Profiler 20:20, an online psychometric risk assessment, helps to establish which training interventions are most appropriate to individual drivers, helping Yell move away from a blanket approach to driver training.

Depending on the assessment result, drivers will then take part in either an “e-learning” interactive online training session or have 1:1 in-vehicle driver development training.

Yell’s head of human resources in the UK believes that this bespoke approach to driver training is of great benefit to those who drive for work, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and practical skills to drive safely and efficiently in their day-to-day roles.

At first glance, managing occupational road risk might seem like a daunting task. But many organisations are successfully addressing the issue without it being over-burdensome, and service providers are generally happy to help meet the specific requirements of individual firms.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is a registered charity and has been at the heart of accident prevention in the UK and around the world for more than 90 years.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.rospa.com/drivertraining/ www.rospa.com/roadsafety/ resources/employers.htm www.orsa.org.uk

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

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PARIS MOTOR SHOW

www.greenfleet.net

Highlights from Paris 2010 For the green enthusiasts amongst the crowds, this year’s Paris Motor Show did not disappoint with an exciting display of the latest green vehicles and concept cars spanning the show floor issan used this year’s Paris Motor Show to premier its Townpod concept, a quirky looking all-electric vehicle that has been designed to offer drivers plenty of flexibility so they can tailor it to their exact needs. Or to put it in Nissan’s words: “This genre-busting vehicle mixes the comfort and style of a passenger car with the businesslike utility of a commercial vehicle.”

The Townpod achieves this by incorporating both elements from a car and a van. It’s split rear doors are on

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GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

innovative hinges that allow them to slide, then open in confined spaces and then fold to the side of the car so as not to obstruct passing traffic or pedestrians.

The ultra-slim design of the seats means that the rear bench can fold and slide right into the back of the front seats, freeing the entire back space to carry bulky cargo.

The Townpod uses the same zeroemission technology found in the Nissan LEAF. Charging points are hidden behind an automatically retracting cover at the front of the car.

RENAULT ZOE Renault showcased its Zoe concept, a clio-sized electric vehicle scheduled for 2012.

The electric motor has a 100 mile range and is said to take between six and eight hours to charge. It’s a pleasant looking car, with fluid lines creating a smooth, rounded shame decorated with the occasional futuristic feature.

The car has some enticing features, not necessarily associated with conventional motoring but that will make driving all the more pleasurable. This includes a scent diffuser which releases different scents depending on the needs of the moment. For example, if driving is not demanding, a relaxing fragrance will be

PARIS MOTOR SHOW

www.greenfleet.net released. But for night driving, a scent to stimulate driver vigilance is released.

It also has a toxicity sensor which monitors air quality and closes the air vents to trap harmful substances so that cabin air stays clean at all times.

A smart climate control system will adjust the humidity level inside the car so that you don’t get the usual skin drying effect from conventional air conditioning. All these ‘spa’ features, as uncoventional as they are, could be a God-send for those who do long journeys, and could be the start of something wonderful in the motoring world. After all, it shouldn’t just be the outside environment we look after.

RENAULT TWIZY Renault also chose the 2010 Paris Motor Show to unveil the definitive version of its

miles and can be fully charged in three-and-a-half hours.

It is scheduled for release in the UK in early 2012.

MINI SCOOTER E CONCEPT The MINI Scooter E Concept was unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. It combines that comforting MINI feeling but in two-wheel electric form.

It is driven by an electric motor integrated in the rear wheel and is fed by a compact lithium-ion battery. The charging cable is integrated on a spindle at the rear of the scooter, where it can be pulled out and plugged into the mains. The battery can be charged at any conventional power socket.

It has striking features immediately identifiable

with the MINI brand, such as chrome features, the circular instrument panel with wraparound speedometer and the visually accentuated indicators in classic MINI style. ŠKODA OCTAVIA GREEN E LINE Twizy, the manufacturer’s innovative answer to urban motoring.

It resembles a conventional car in that it has four wheels, a steering wheel and pedals. But its bodywork is open on either side to give it that scooter feel, while the roof will keep the elements out and makes it safer. And because of the protected bodywork, occupants do not have to wear protective gear, such as a crash helmet or protective clothing.

The Twizy has space for two occupants sitting one behind the other. It is an all-electric vehicle with a range of 60

Škoda used the Paris Motor Show to unveil its first electric concept car, the Škoda Octavia Green E Line.

It’s a strong, good looking car which uses a pearly white paint to demonstrate its ‘purity’. This whiteness contrasts stylishly with the black trim of the window and darkened sunroof.

The electric Octavia Green E Line has a range of 87 miles, which is plenty for urban driving. When connected to the ordinary 230 V grid, recharging takes about eight hours, but if plugged into a 400 V electrical current the Octavia Green E Line can be fully recharged to

its normal range within four hours.

Other green features include regenerative braking and solar panels in the sun roof.

Before this car becomes commercially available, Skoda will conduct a trial next year to understand the practicality, reliability and safety of electric vehicles to help aid its development.

HONDA JAZZ HYBRID The hybrid version of Honda Jazz made its debut at the Paris Motor Show.

The petrol-electric Jazz features the same IMA system as in the Insight and CR-Z hybrids. With emissions predicted to be 104 g/km of CO2 it has the lowest CO2 output of any automatic car in the B-segment.

Visually, the hybrid is distinguished from the current Jazz range with revised headlights, clear rear lights, new front grille, restyled bumpers and a

chrome tailgate. It will be available in a range of colours as well as a new bespoke lime green colour. The dashboard includes a version of Honda’s ‘Eco Assist’ function, which uses the ambient lighting of the speedometer to advise the driver on how fuel efficiently they are driving.

The hybrid version of Jazz will go on sale in the UK in early 2011.

Renault chose the 2010 Paris Motor Show to unveil the definitive version of its Twizy, the manufacturer’s innovative answer to urban motoring GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

29

WON, TWO, THREE. The benefits of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies continue to impress as BMW drives down CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption while improving performance across the range. With models like the 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon, which is the most efficient BMW ever, it’s no surprise that we have just picked up the prestigious GreenFleet Magazine Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year Award for the third successive year. For more information on how EfficientDynamics can benefit your business, please visit bmwcorporate.co.uk/bmwjoy

JOY IS AWARD-WINNING TECHNOLOGY.

Official fuel economy figures for the BMW range: Extra Urban 26.2-78.5mpg (10.8-3.9 l/100km). Urban 12.8-56.5mpg BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the BMW range.

BMW Corporate Sales

bmwcorporate.co.uk Tel. 0800 777 113

2008

(22.0-5.3 l/100km). Combined 19.2-68.9mpg (14.7-4.4 l/100km). CO2 emissions 352-109g/km.

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GREENFLEET® AWARDS

www.greenfleet.net

Celebrating the UK’s success in lowering fleet emissions The 2010 GreenFleet Awards celebrated shining examples of environmental fleet management and green motoring ith the UK government committing to reduce the country’s greenhouse gas emissions by 80 per cent by 2050, many vehicle manufacturers and fleet managers have whole-heartedly taken on the challenge to combat climate change, demonstrating successful ways to reduce their carbon output.

Applauding the success of such pioneering environmental manufacturing and fleet management, the Greenfleet Awards, sponsored

by Renault Business, took place on 7 October at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium in London.

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CELEBRATING GREEN SUCCESS The Awards were judged by representatives from the Institute of Car Fleet Management, NextGreenCar? (formerly WhatGreenCar?) and GreenFleet magazine. Presented by comedian Rufus Hound, the 18 awards were given out to deserving public and private sector fleet organisations for their efforts in environmental fleet management and low carbon motoring.

Winning the Outstanding Achievement Award was Paul Everitt, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, who has played a major role in launching and developing the motor industry sustainability report, the annual CO2 report and took a lead on a range of high profile policy campaigns, including the End of Life Vehicle directive, Block Exemption and the Climate Change Levy. Commenting on

believe the industry can look forward to new and exciting opportunities at the heart of a low carbon future.”

WINNING MANUFACTURERS City Car Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by Metro, was awarded to Ford for its Fiesta ECOnetic. Since its launch in 2008, the new Fiesta has been an outstanding success, and over 110,000

Applauding the success of such pioneering environmental manufacturing and fleet management, the Greenfleet Awards, sponsored

by Renault Business, took place on 7 October at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium in London the award, Everitt said: “I am extremely grateful to the team at GreenFleet for giving me this award. The UK motor industry is making significant progress in delivering cleaner, safer and more fuel efficient vehicles. There remains some challenging times ahead, but I

have been sold to fleet customers. The ECOnetic version offers astonishing fuel economy of 76.3 mpg (combined cycle) and exceptionally low CO2 emissions of just 98 g/km, making it exempt from road tax. The ECOnetic has a tweaked ECU, low-viscosity engine oil, taller gear

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

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Zero emissions in use.

The production of electricity in the UK generally produces CO 2 .

DRIVE THE CHANGE

www.greenfleet.net ratios and a dash light that tells the driver the best point to change up.

The Mitsubishi iMiEV scooped the Electric Vehicle of the Year award, sponsored by Elektromotive. The i-MiEV is a fully electric city car with zero emissions, no compromise in cabin space and comfortably seats four adults with room for luggage. It has a top speed of 81 mph, a range of up to 80 miles and can be trickle charged from flat to full in under six hours at any UK three-pin socket.

The i-MiEV is currently playing a major role in the government’s Ultra Low Carbon Vehicle Demonstrator projects.

Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by Garmin, was awarded to BMW for its EfficientDynamics models.

The benefits of low emission fleet vehicles are epitomised by the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon, launched in March 2010. This groundbreaking 163hp, 137mph model emits just 109 g/km of CO2 . Other fleet-focused vehicles launched in 2010 include the BMW 520d Saloon emitting just 129g/ km of CO2 . Throughout the UK and Europe, BMW also provides facilities for recycling for all end of life vehicles.

GREENFLEET® AWARDS

Presented by comedian Rufus Hound, the 18 awards were given out to deserving public and private sector fleet organisations for their efforts in environmental fleet management and low carbon motoring

INNOVATION IN THE INDUSTRY The Industry Innovation Award, sponsored by Rockingham, was awarded to Zeta Automotive.

Zeta Automotive, designer and manufacturer of vehicle control systems, has now patented ‘EconoSpeed’, a dynamic throttle control system that pro-actively limits the ability of a driver to accelerate harshly, speed, or over-rev the engine. Trials with major fleets have shown verified savings of between three per cent and 14 per cent. Waitrose tested the device on their home delivery vans over some 22,000 miles and achieved an average seven per cent fuel saving.

Volkswagen scooped the award for LCV Manufacturer of the Year.

Environmental improvements to the new Transporter include a new range of common rail TDI engines. Two new Caddy BlueMotion Technology models feature a 1.6TDI engine with Start/ Stop and battery regeneration systems to help deliver CO2 at 129 g/km and an average fuel consumption of up to 57 mpg. The gas-powered EcoFuel model is designed to operate on gas (CNG or Biogas) as well as conventional petrol.

Colin Boyton, event marketing manager said: “GreenFleet were delighted to Award VW Commercial Vehicles with the title of LCV Manufacturer of the Year this year for a number of reasons. The environmental improvements made to the new Transporter, coupled with the two Caddy BlueMotion Technology models featuring Start/Stop and battery regenration systems will make a massive difference to anyone

operating a commercial fleet. In such difficult times, fuel economy is pivotal in reducing the operational costs of running any fleet, and when you add the environmental benefits that VW can add, it really is a win-win fleet solution. On this basis, VWCV were worthy winners of the Award this year”.

The LGV Manufacturer of the Year Award went to Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

The Mercedes-Benz Econic, normally used for waste collection, fire and emergency purposes, is available in a natural gas engine version.

The first Mercedes-Benz Econic refuse trucks to be fitted as standard with ultra-clean EEV engines have now entered service in the London Borough of Camden. Recycling and waste management specialist Veolia ordered the 39 vehicles after winning a sevenyear extension to its existing contract.

DRIVER TRAINING IAM Drive & Survive won the award for Driver Training Company of the Year.

IAM Drive & Survive’s Ecolution training has demonstrated realistic, achievable results year on year. In 2010 IAM Drive & Survive extended the green fleet reach to incorporate three new audiences: LGV, LCV and PCV drivers.

The Eco-safe driving course provides realistic, everyday eco-friendly driving skills to drivers of traditionally high emission vehicles, and is available as part of a five year development plan.

Simon Elstow, IAM Drive & Survive head of training and field operations

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

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Information is your domain.

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GREENFLEET® AWARDS

www.greenfleet.net

said: “We are really excited to have received this award. As a company we are proud of our eco-friendly credentials, which are always underlined by our dedication to road safety.”

Leasing Company of the Year, sponsored by Renault Business, was awarded to Lex Autolease. Part of Lloyds Banking Group, Lex Autolease is the UK’s largest fleet leasing and management company. Since 2008 it has reduced fleet emissions by over 12 per cent.

Lex Autolease and supplier Ashwoods have pioneered the introduction of a retro fit hybrid system for May Gurney’s LCV fleet, reducing emissions by an unprecedented 14.9 per cent.

Green Motion scooped the Rental Company of the Year Award, sponsored

by Shell. Since its launch in 2007, Green Motion has enjoyed an overwhelming interest in its environmental car and van rental services, and has expanded to 18 locations operating throughout the United Kingdom, servicing many of the major business gateways.

Green Motion has been responsible for setting the precedent within the industry with its average fleet emissions now falling under 115gkm.

The IT Innovation Award, sponsored by Renault Business, was awarded to CMS Supatrak.

The company’s EcoTrak technology provides real time information on how a vehicle is being driven, including analysis of parameters such as speed, MPG, over revving, harsh braking, and harsh accelerating. In response

to customer feedback, CMS have now included the development of the Safer Driving Assistant, an interactive in-cab display that reacts in real time to the driving style, displaying alerts when the vehicle is being driven inefficiently.

CELEBRATING FLEET SUCCESS London Freight Operator of the Year sponsored by FORS, the Freight Operators Recognition Scheme, was won by Keystone Distribution.

Keystone Distribution UK manages the complete supply

in the last 18 months. Fuel savings through increased driver training and fleet management software equate to nearly 258k litres of fuel. The company is participating in the Carbon Disclosure Project and has recently been assessed to gain the Carbon Trust Standard.

The Private Sector Fleet of the Year Award (below 250 vehicles), sponsored by TRACKER, was won by Commercial Group.

Between 2006 and 2010, fleet emissions at Commercial fell from 910 tonnes CO2e to 332 tonnes CO2e, a huge 63.5 per cent drop. A detailed fuel and

The Awards were judged by representatives from the Institute of Car Fleet Management, NextGreenCar? and GreenFleet magazine chain and distribution for all 1,200 McDonald’s restaurants in the UK. To fuel its fleet, Keystone collects used cooking oil from the fryers at McDonald’s and converts it into biodiesel. From late 2008 to date, vehicles have used the biodiesel equivalent of 269,965 litres of used cooking oil.

The award for Private Sector Fleet of the Year (+250 vehicles), sponsored

by Michelin, went to Iron Mountain.

Founded in 1951, Iron Mountain manages billions of information assets.

Improved routing and utilisation has reduced its fleet by over ten per cent

mileage monitoring system used for the delivery fleet has helped to achieve this and has now been implemented across the whole company fleet. The system has removed the need for three van routes, with remaining vans travelling over 140,000 less miles.

The Private Sector Fleet Manager of the Year, sponsored by Trimble MRM, was taken home by Zoe Powers from Greater London Hire.

In 2007, GLH took the decision to go for IS0 14001 accreditation and to become carbon acknowledged. This has culminated in emissions cuts of 30 per cent and a financial saving of over

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

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ecolution driving cost down

Ecolution from IAM Drive & Survive: Helping to reduce your corporate carbon footprint and improving your fleet fuel consumption by up to 25%.

IAM Drive & Survive is a leading occupational driver risk management provider We’re here to help you take the necessary steps to comply with your duty of care towards your drivers, whilst reducing costs.

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Winner of the GreenFleet Awards Driver Training Company 2010

GREENFLEET® AWARDS

www.greenfleet.net £300,000 per annum. In partnership with C-Change, Zoe delivers awareness sessions to the sales team on addressing environmental impact internally and supporting its clients to do the same.

n Electric Vehicle of the Year Presented to the manufacturer of either a commercial or consumer EV that has demonstrated the best performance and best suitability for purpose in its class.

Winner: Mitsubishi - iMiEV

PUBLIC SECTOR FLEETS The Public Sector Fleet Manager of the Year, sponsored by Green Motion, was awarded to Mick Farmer from Yorkshire Ambulance Service.

Working with the Carbon Trust, Yorkshire Ambulance Service has become the first Ambulance Trust in the country to commence a carbon reduction programme, and has identified a potential to reduce the carbon emissions of the fleet by at least 2,500 tonnes.

Fleet Manager Mick Farmer has been at the forefront of the carbon revolution as he has implemented innovative technologies throughout the YAS fleet.

Southwark Council scooped the Public Sector Fleet of the Year Award (+250 vehicles), sponsored by ING Car Lease.

Southwark Council continues to build its reputation for local environmental sustainability through its management of its vehicle fleet. To date 150 of its 320 vehicles have been updated with a mixture of Citroen dispatch and Berlingo LPG vehicles together with Mercedes sprinters and Ford fiesta vans. The council is also working with Transport for London on the introduction of Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) units to fleet vehicles.

The Public Sector Fleet of the Year Award (below 250 vehicles), sponsored

by Fiat, was awarded to Camden Council.

Camden council has made huge strides in lowering its fleet emissions.

Its green fleet mix includes electrics (two per cent), hybrids (two per cent), biomethane (one per cent) and liquid petroleum gas (65 per cent).

During 2009, the Council worked in partnership with Veolia Environmental Services, Iveco and Gasrec to trial compressed bio-methane, demontrating it as a commercially competitive and environmentally sound fuel that can be substituted for natural gas.

n LGV Manufacturer of the Year Previously HGV Manufacurer of the Year, this award recognises advancements in the Large Goods Vehicle Sector (Over 7.5 Tonnes).

Winner: Mercedes-Benz Trucks

n Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year This category will be presented to the car manufacturer that has improved CO2 ratings of its standard fleet offerings and expanded the range of lower CO2 models.

Winner: BMW (EfficientDynamics)

n Industry Innovation Award This award is presented to the organisation that has introduced a new technology, practice or method that reduces fuel consumption and emissions and demonstrates innovation in its design and/or implementation.

Winner: Zeta Automotive

n LCV Manufacturer of the Year This award recognises the efforts made by manufacturers to reduce CO2 and incease fuel economy in the Light Commercial Vehicle Sector.

Winner: Volkswagen

THE AWARDS

n IT Innovation Award The IT Innovation award examines the latest advancements in fleet technology, including fleet management software, telematics, route tracking and other transport related IT. Winner: CMS Supatrak

n City Car Manufacturer of the Year This award is presented to the City Car manufacturer that has increased takeup of its range of smaller cars that produce CO2 emissions under 120 grams per kilometre (g/km).

Winner: Ford (Fiesta ECOnetic) n Driver Training Company of the Year Presented to the Driver Training organisation that has been successful in promoting and diversifying its green driving instruction courses, and has incorporated fuel economy training modules into other driver awareness programmes it offers.

Winner: IAM Drive & Survive

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

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GREENFLEET® AWARDS

www.greenfleet.net n London Freight Operator of the Year This award recognises the efforts made by London freight organisations to prioritise safety and reduce their impact on the environment.

Winner: Keystone Distribution

n Private Sector Fleet Manager of the Year Recognising an individual that has demonstrated a commitment to making carbon reduction a priority in their day to day duties, and has promoted green fleet practices. Winner: Zoe Powers - Greater London Hire

n Private Sector Fleet of the Year (over 250 vehicles) Awarding the UK private sector organsation with a fleet of more than 250 vehicles that can demonstrate a reduction in CO2 and other pollutants. Winner: Iron Mountain

n Private Sector Fleet of the Year (below 250 vehicles) Awarding the UK private sector organsation with a fleet of less than 250 vehicles that can demonstrate a reduction in CO2 and other pollutants.

Winner: Commercial Group

n Public Sector Fleet Manager of the Year Recognising an individual currently working as a fleet manager in a UK public sector organsation that has demonstrated innovation, dedication and a commitment to making carbon reduction a priority in their day to day duties. Winner: Mick Farmer - Yorkshire Ambulance Service

n Public Sector Fleet of the Year (above 250 vehicles) Awarding the UK public sector organsation with a fleet of more than 250 vehicles that can demonstrate a reduction in CO2 and other pollutants.

Winner: Southwark Council

n Public Sector Fleet of the Year (below 250 vehicles) Awarding the UK public sector organsation with a fleet of less than 250 vehicles that can demonstrate a reduction in CO2 and other pollutants.

Winner: Camden Council

n Rental Company of the Year This award recognises the efforts of the car rental sector to offer lower CO2 models and incorporate a robust environmental policy into its present and future operations.

Winner: Green Motion

n Leasing Company of the Year This award is presented to the leasing company that has made the biggest strides towards environmental considerations in its leasing policies.

Winner: Lex Autolease

n Outstanding Achievement Award Awarded to an individual in the motor transport industry whose efforts to promote and encourage greener transport have achieved considerable success.

Winner: Paul Everitt, Chief Executive, SMMT FOR MORE INFORMATION Please visit www.greenfleetawards.co.uk for information about next year’s entries.

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

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ROAD TEST

www.greenfleet.net

Written by Angela Pisanu

ROAD TEST

MINI Countryman

Distinctly MINI, decisively different As the first four-door MINI, the Countryman is a fun and exhilarating drive with new levels of space and practicality he MINI Countryman is instantly recognisable as a MINI, but at the same time it is distinctly different. It’s longer, wider and taller, and for the first time, it has four wide-opening doors and passenger capacity for five adults.

It is also the first MINI to offer fourwheel drive on two of its models.

It’s a thrilling ride that puts a smile on your face. But it is also practical and spacious which will make it more appealing to a broader market, including fleets.

T

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE I test drove the high-spec petrol MINI Cooper S ALL4 Countryman, which is one of the options that has four wheel drive. Cleverly, the four-wheel drive is not active all the time, but when a slip is detected on the front wheels, or if the car is being driven enthusiastically, an electro-magnetic clutch, located on the rear axle, engages drive to the rear wheels to improve traction.

This makes the car safe to go off the beaten track. And the fact that the four-wheel drive is not active all the time is better for fuel economy.

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GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

The CO2 emission level on the Cooper S All4 Countryman is 157g/km, while for the Cooper D All4, CO2 emissions go down to 129g/km, making it the cleanest 4x4 in its class. For the standard front-wheel drive derivatives, carbon emissions go as low as 115g/ km for the One D and Cooper D, which will be popular with fleets.

GREEN TECHNOLOGY The Countryman has many features to make it greener. These include Brake Energy Regeneration, which recycles wasted energy during braking to charge the battery, and auto start/stop which cuts out the engine when at a standstill.

Meanwhile, a Shift Point Display advises the driver of the optimum gear to encourage fuel efficient driving.

The interior is fun and quirky. The trademark central speedometer lights up in a fun, muted orange colour and gives the interior a retro feel.

When ordered with a four seat configuration, as mine was, a metal rail runs from the front to the rear and can be equipped with various

accessories such as a cup holder, glasses case, and mobile phone case, which can slide up and down easily.

This metal rail is underlit with a cool blue light, adding to the funky, stylish look and ambience. When the Mini is ordered as standard with the rear bench seat, the centre rail stops between the driver and passenger seats.

The boot space of 350 litres is more than double that of the Hatch and 90 litres more than Clubman offers.

The Cooper S model is an extremely punchy drive, sprinting from 0-62 in 7.9 seconds thanks to the twinscroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection. The model I drove cost £22,030, £1,220 more than the standard Cooper S because of the four-wheel drive capability. But it is worth noting that the range starts from £16,000 for the Mini One.

MINI Cooper S ALL4 Countryman Model price range: from £16,000 Engine MPG CO2 g/km RFL

P11d BIK 0-62mph

1.6 42.2 mpg (combined) 157g/km G £21,820 20% 7.9 seconds

All figures quoted were correct at the time of going to press. Please visit www.mini.co.uk for more information quoting GreenFleet®

ROAD TEST

www.greenfleet.net

ROAD TEST

MAZDA6 2.2D Sport

A confident performer Reduced CO2, improved looks and generous equipment makes the revamped Mazda6 a serious contender in the upper-medium car segment. Angela Pisanu takes the 2.2D Sport for test drive he refreshed Mazda6 was released this Spring with better looks, fuel economy and lower emissions – making it stand out amongst the competition.

Its striking and sleek appearance, strong performance and endless mod-cons gives it a premium market feel that turns heads. It is therefore surprising that the rangetopping 2.2D Sport 180ps that I drove is a modest £23,185.52 While on paper, power has reduced 5ps since its predecessor, thanks to modifications to the turbocharger, Mazda have skillfully kept performance as strong as ever, with the added benefit of reducing CO 2 emissions from 149g/km to 142g/km. The fuel economy figure of 52.3mpg (combined) is good and realistic as I achieved 52.2mpg on a 50 mile round trip.

T

GENEROUS EQUIPMENT The cabin is spacious and comfortable and has all those wish-list gadgets that make driving as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. These include heated seats, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill hold assist, and parking sensors, to name just a few. What strikes me about Mazda is their generosity when it comes to the equipment fitted as standard, while other manufacturers have such gadgets as costly extras.

In terms of safety, Mazda has all bases covered, with an extensive list of safety features including Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, Emergency Stop Signalling, and numerous airbags.

The acceleration is excellent, sprinting

Looking across the range, it’s worth noting that the CO2 emissions level goes down as low as 138g/km for the entry-level 2.2 diesel, putting it in the 19 per cent company car tax bracket in 2010/11 effortlessly to 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds.

For a large car, the Mazda6 feel quite light to drive, but at the same time it feels sturdy and confident at high speeds, with good handling and response, and little road noise.

The reduction in CO 2 also has the added benefit of knocking the 2.2D Sport down a BIK band, which is good news for company drivers.

Looking across the range, it’s worth noting that the CO 2 emissions level goes down as low as 138g/km for the entrylevel 2.2 diesel, putting it in the 19 per cent company car tax bracket in 2010/11.

Mazda6 2.2D Sport Model price range: from £17,428 Engine 2.2 D Sport 180ps MPG 52.3 mpg (combined) CO2 g/km 142g/km RFL

F P11d £23,005 BIK 20% 0-62mph 8.7 seconds All figures quoted were correct at the time of going to press. Please visit www.mazda.co.uk for more information quoting GreenFleet®

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

43

GREENFLEET® PRODUCT FINDER ELECTRIC VEHICLES

www.greenfleet.net TELEMATICS

VEHICLE TRACKING/TELEMATICS

MiX Telematics UK Limited Mitsubishi i-MiEV Electric Car Mitsubishi Motors in the UK Web: www.mitsubishi-cars.co.uk The journey has begun to a new world where cars are clean and quiet, and i-MiEV is leading the way. 100% electric, yet offering surprising power and a smooth, quiet ride, i-MiEV is redefining the way the world drives. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV plug-in electric car goes on sale January 2011. Book a test drive by visiting our website and experience the future of motoring.

TYRE BALANCING

Counteract Balancing Beads Europa Lda

Address: 6180 Knights Court, Birmingham Business Park, Birmingham, B37 7YB Tel: +44 (0)121 717 5385 Fax: +44 (0)121 717 5399 E-mail: info@mixtelematics.co.uk Web: www.mixtelematics.co.uk MiX Telematics is global provider of vehicle tracking and fleet management solutions to customers in over 75 countries across six continents. The company’s solutions are used to ensure driver and passenger safety, reduce fleet running and fuel costs, comply with industry regulations and improve customer service.

VEHICLE RACKING & STORAGE

Tevo Limited

Pinpointers Telematics Address: Discovery Court, 551-553 Wallisdown Road, Poole, Dorset, BH12 5AG Tel: 01202 853310 Fax: 01202 853103 E-mail: sales@pinpointers.com Web: www.pinpointers.com We maximise the fuel efficiency of your fleet more than any other company with the industries only combined tracking and engine optimisation system. We guarantee to improve your engines fuel consumption by a minimum of seven per cent, and often attain as much as 12 per cent. Further savings through the applied use of tracking and CANBUS data ensure that you can reduce your fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent.

WASTE HANDLING VEHICLES

Zoeller FAUN

Address: Rua Direita, 183, Aveiro, 3810-839, Portugal Tel: +351 234 941294 Fax: +351 235 944246 E-mail: europa@counteractbalancing.com Web: www.counteractbalancing.com

Address: Unit 14 - 16 Wooburn Green Industrial Estate, Thomas Road, Wooburn Green, Bucks. HP10 0PE Tel: 01628 528034 Fax: 01628 525449 E-mail: sales@tevo.eu.com Web: www.tevo.eu.com

Address: Zoeller Waste Systems Ltd, 4/5 Colemeadow Road, Redditch B98 9PB Tel: 01527 594700 Fax: 01527 584168 E-mail: info@zoeller.co.uk Web: www.zoeller.co.uk

Counteract Balancing Beads provides an automatic re-adjusting trouble-free lifetime balance of the tyre and complete wheel assembly, for all wheel locations. Counteract is quick and easy to install.

Balance all wheels in the time of two, resulting in decreasing the rolling resistance and resulting in increased tire tread life and improved fuel economy.

Tevo Limited provides modular vehicle racking and storage solutions from a basic racking system through to a custom design complete with accessories and specialist equipment. Supply options include self-assembly, ‘while you wait’, on-site and factory fitted installations for a single vehicle up to a whole fleet.

Zoeller Waste Systems Limited and FAUN UK are names synonymous with the manufacture of high quality, high specification waste collection solutions to the private and public sectors. Our mission is to exceed customer expectations in terms of product performance, innovation, reliability, service and support, as well as reduced whole life costs.

ADVERTISERS INDEX Arval

20

Mazda

BMW

30

Peugeot

22

Citroen

24

Renault

14, 34

Fiat

4

IAM Iron Mountain Kia

44

GREENFLEET® ISSUE 46

IFC, 10

Rockingham Motor Speedway

32

38

Shell

12

36

Volkswagen

40

17, 19

Volvo

8