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Electric vehicle adoption in the North East of England gains pace
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ALTERNATIVE FUELS
Electric vehicle adoption in the North East of England gains pace
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The Department for Transport has released a report detailing its plans for an electric vehicle infrastructure. It states how this will not involve putting ‘a chargepoint on every corner’ but rather encourages charging at home or at work and putting in place a ‘targeted amount of public infrastructure’. While some consumer and motoring groups have criticised the strategy, seeing it as the government reducing its support for a national network of charging points, there are many positives to come out of the report. For example, proposals to take away planning permission for enterprises that want to install charge points and ensuring that smart metering is available for households to charge at the cheapest possible price will make it easier for motorists. So where do you stand on this? If you drive an electric vehicle, where do you mostly charge up? And if you’re considering buying, would this be dependent on there being a nationwide network of charge points? E-mail your views to editorial@psigroupltd.co.uk Moving back to the internal combustion engine, I took the ultra-frugal BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics Saloon all the way to Italy – and got there on less than a tank of diesel. Turn to page 56 to see how I got on.
Angela Pisanu, Editor
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226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk EDITOR Angela Pisanu PRODUCTION EDITOR Karl O’Sullivan PRODUCTION DESIGN Jacqueline Grist PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Reiss Malone PUBLISHER Jade Fisher KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Martin Freedman SALES ADMINISTRATION Jackie Carnochan, Martine Carnochan ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich GROUP PUBLISHER Barry Doyle REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media
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CONTENTS 06 NEWS The latest news on green motoring, alternative fuels, and low carbon transport
11 ALTERNATIVE FUELS Dr Colin Herron talks about the low carbon vehicle revolution taking hold of the North East of England
13 FLEET MANAGEMENT What factors should employers consider when planning staff business travel? ACFO chairman Julie Jenner gives her advice
19 TYRE MANAGEMENT How much difference can your choice of tyre make to the overall efficiency of a fleet? Carina Perkins from the Campaign for Better Tyres explains
25 FUEL MANAGEMENT TMC’S Paul Jackson gives organisations some coping strategies for dealing with today’s crippling fuel prices
29 TELEMATICS
53 GREENFLEET SCOTLAND
We take a look at the development of next generation Intelligent Transport Systems and the benefits this could bring drivers
Find out who’s exhibiting at this year’s GreenFleet Scotland, taking place 1 September at the Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh
33 ROAD SAFETY
55 GREENFLEET AWARDS
How big a part does safety play when buying new vehicles? Adrian Walsh, director of RoadSafe, investigates
This year’s prestigious awards ceremony will take place on 13 October at London’s Twickenham Stadium
38 INSURANCE
56 ROAD TEST
Graeme Trudgill from the British Insurance Brokers’ Association explains new changes to insurance legislation
The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon is driven from England to Italy to see how far it can go on one tank of fuel
41 ARRIVE ‘N’ DRIVE
58 PRODUCT FINDER
This year’s Arrive ‘N’ Drive on 26 May had more vehicles available for test drive than ever before
A round-up of the latest fleet products and services
Contents
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An in-depth look at the electric vehicles showcased in the EV Arena at this year’s Arrive ‘N’ Drive
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News
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FLEET MANAGEMENT
‘Cash for car’ arrangements falling out of favour, research finds ‘Cash for car’ incentives appear to be falling out of favour, according to the latest quarterly Company Car Trends research from GE Capital. The research, which surveys 300 fleet decision makers, suggests that the percentage of companies offering a cash payment instead of a company car has fallen from 36 per cent to 25 per cent in the last two years. Gary Killeen, fleet services commercial director for GE Capital UK, explained: “A key part of the appeal of ‘cash for car’ for employers was that they believed that it would allow them to potentially relinquish the responsibility of running company
vehicles and it would also be cheaper. “However, the emergence of duty of care legislation regarding company cars meant that they were unable to sidestep managerial responsibility. Added to this, many found that providing the cash option was often more expensive than normal company car provision.” Employees have also been opting back into company schemes in large numbers, as Killeen explains: “Many actually learned how much of the dayto-day hassle of running a car is taken away by having a company vehicle.”
ENVIRONMENT
London Assembly considers Clean Air Zone for inner London The London Assembly’s Environment Committee is looking into the feasibility of banning some of the most polluting vehicles from parts of London to help improve air quality in the capital. It has been suggested that London could follow the example of Berlin and create a low emission zone to exclude pre-Euro 4 vehicles from inner and central London. Transport for London presented a report to the Committee concluding that the social and economic costs of such a scheme would far outweigh any environmental benefits. Its feasibility report said older vehicles are more likely to belong to low income households, small businesses and the voluntary sector. It also said it did not consider a scheme
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GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 50
enforced using window stickers, as Berlin does, because the UK does not have a national vehicle classification scheme based on air quality. However Simon Birkett of Clean Air in London insisted that such a scheme could work in London and said the TfL research failed to consider the health impacts and costs of poor air quality, which is linked to an estimated 4,300 extra premature deaths in the capital annually. He also highlighted a recent report for the City of London which showed that 2015 emissions targets were technically achievable. The Committee has now agreed to contact the government to explore further the national framework within which a London scheme could operate.
NEWS IN BRIEF More charging posts would see higher EV take-up According to a survey by Elektromotive, 65.7 per cent of motorists would be more likey to buy an electric vehicle if there were more charging posts across the UK. Only 7.8 per cent said that the greater availability of charging posts would not make them more likely to buy an EV and 26.5 per cent of those surveyed said they were 'undecided', suggesting that a significant minority still need to be persuaded about the viability and benefits of EVs.
Car use down as fuel prices rise, survey finds Eighty per cent of drivers have changed their driving behaviour to save fuel, according to the IAM’s latest opinion poll. Of the 2,500 people polled, half said they had changed to a more eco-friendly driving style. Other changes included making fewer journeys (38 per cent); walking shorter journeys they previously would have driven (34 per cent); and using public transport more (21 per cent). TO READ MORE PLEASE VISIT... www.greenfleet.net/n/005
EMISSIONS Shift to SUVs holds back car CO2 reductions While recent EU data shows a 3.7 per cent decline in the average CO2 emissions of new cars in 2010, it also shows that the average weight of cars has risen by 28kg, or two per cent. This is blamed on the increasing number of SUVs and so-called crossover vehicles entering the market. Had weight not increased, the CO2 reduction would have been five per cent, or one third better, says Transport & Environment (T&E), the EU sustainable transport campaigners. Arne Richters, programme manager for clean cars at T&E said: "This report shows that cars are getting heavier again. After a drop in average weight linked to government subsidies which favoured cheaper, smaller cars, the 'SUV-isation' of the EU fleet is back. And that is no surprise as EU rules favour heavier cars by allowing them to emit more CO2. That needs to change. The EU should be favouring more efficient saloons, estates and hatchbacks rather than encouraging gas guzzling, tall and heavy SUVs. Promoting heavier cars is holding back CO2 reductions."
Government sets out vision for electric vehicle infrastructure in the UK The government has released a publication detailing its vision for a national recharging infrastructure. It sets out the steps that government and industry will take to support an infrastructure that encourages the majority to recharge at home, at night, and after the peak in electricity demand. It also outlines the need for workplace charging for commuters and fleets and a targeted amount of public infrastructure.
The strategy outlines how the government will aim to make electric vehicles an attractive choice to motorists by implementing smart metering so that cars can charge at the cheapest rate. It also highlights the need to make it easier for private enterprise to provide recharging infrastructure by removing regulatory barriers. TO READ MORE PLEASE VISIT... www.greenfleet.net/n/006
CYCLING
Hertz introduces electric bike rental for Londoners Hertz has become the first major car rental company to offer electric bicycles for rental, with the introduction of Ultra Motor electric bicycles in London. Twelve bikes are available for daily rental from Hertz’s Marble Arch location, for £20 per day. With every electric bike hire, customers will receive full training, a lock, optional helmet and a copy of the AA Leisure Guide to London with suggested bike rides around the capital. The Fast4ward Edge is a folding bike which offers the choice of using throttle and cruise power or pedals, while the A2B Hybrid 24 has a sensor that detects the amount of pedalling
and applies power in tune with that pace. Both models provide a fun and safe way to explore London in the fresh air, allowing riders to cover more ground than on foot or using a traditional pedal bike.
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COMMENT: ELECTRIC BODY AND SOUL How important is the life-cycle assessment of electric cars when measuring up their green credentials, asks Dr Ben Lane from NextGreenCar Whether or not the electric car succeeds in becoming the mainstream vehicle technology of the twenty-first century, electrification has already left its mark on power-train design. With early innovations including the starter-motor and alternator, the performance of the humble combustion engine has been improved beyond recognition with the addition of electric wizardry, ranging from ‘start-stop’ to full hybrid drive. Electric vehicles are also challenging regulations. With zero-emission vehicles now a reality, tailpipe-focused taxation makes little sense when there isn’t a tailpipe, the emissions being generated away from the vehicle. Non-standard materials used for battery and motor production, such as lithium and rare-earth elements, also cast doubt on the assumption that vehicle manufacturing emissions can be ignored (they currently contribute around 15 per cent for conventional vehicles). In a report just published for the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, Ricardo observes that: “Current tailpipe comparisons of car CO2 emissions will become increasingly inappropriate with the introduction of lower carbon car technologies.” It concludes that the development of a new life cycle metric is required to allow a realistic comparison of new vehicle technologies; one that includes both ‘well-to-wheel’ fuel emissions, and the embodied energy used for vehicle production. The study concludes that, on a life cycle basis, electric vehicles do reduce carbon emissions relative to conventional vehicles (by around 20 per cent), but by far less than is predicted by considering fuel use alone (around 40 per cent). The difference is due to the higher emissions associated with the production of plug-in vehicles, which for battery electrics can account for as much as 46 per cent of the total life cycle carbon. While consumer interest in vehicle emissions is growing, car buyers are becoming increasingly savvy about manufacturers’ green claims. A full life cycle metric that both represents real-world driving impacts and can accommodate new technologies can therefore perform an important function in providing an independent accreditation of new technologies – and is why we developed the ‘Green Car Rating’ at nextgreencar.com. In transferring some of their capabilities to conventional vehicles, battery electrics could be their own worst enemy. However, it may turn out that their greatest legacy will be a lasting impact on power-train design, technology policy, and environmental regulation. Whatever the future of electric vehicles, their soul will certainly live on. ©Dr Ben Lane, nextgreencar.com
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100% WRITE DOWN + 109g/km CO + 68.9mpg (COMBINED) 2
=
THE BMW 320d EFFICIENT DYNAMICS SALOON. A SIMPLE EQUATION FOR FLEET DECISION MAKERS. Matching premium cars with efficiency can be a difficult equation to balance. But when Dow Jones places BMW at the top of its automobile Sustainability Index for the sixth year running, it’s clear that the sums really do make sense. With outstanding fuel economy of 68.9mpg (combined) and exceptionally low CO2 emissions of just 109g/km, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon is the most efficient car BMW has ever made. It means your business benefits from 100% writing down allowance in the first year of ownership, along with surprisingly low running costs. It all adds up to make the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon a perfectly efficient formula. For more information please visit www.bmwcorporate.co.uk or email corporatesales@bmw.co.uk.
320d ED Saloon
68.9mpg 163hp
Official fuel economy figures for the BMW 320d ED Saloon: Extra Urban 78.5mpg (3.6l/100km). Urban 56.5mpg (5.0l/100km). Combined 68.9mpg (4.1l/100km). CO2 emissions 109g/km. BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.
BMW Group Corporate Sales
ALTERNATIVE FUELS
Stagecoach becomes first UK bus company to blend biofuel on site Stagecoach has become the first UK bus company to mix its own biofuel on site using a new bioblender installed at its Kilmarnock depot. Currently, the vast majority of Stagecoach’s 8,100-strong bus fleet operates uses a mix of five per cent biofuel and 95 per cent standard diesel. The new bio-blender will enable buses at Kilmarnock depot to run on a greener mix of up to 40 per cent biofuel and 60 per cent standard diesel. The bio-blender has a computerised control
unit which allows trained Stagecoach staff to set the blend of fuel that is required as this can change dependent on the air temperature. The new initiative follows the launch of the UK’s first bio-buses in Kilmarnock in 2007 – nine vehicles which run on 100 per cent biofuel made from used cooking oil and other food industry by-products. TO READ MORE PLEASE VISIT... www.greenfleet.net/n/007
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NEWS IN BRIEF Studies to improve battery recycling and re-use Six British companies have been awarded funding for feasibility studies into the recycling and re-use of batteries for low and ultra low carbon vehicles. Nearly £500,000 of Technology Strategy Board funding will be shared by the six companies – Axeon, Energy Cost Advisors Ltd, LiFeBATT Ltd, Narec, OXIS Energy Ltd and TRL (2 studies) – who will carry out seven studies between them. Andrew Everett, head of transport at the Technology Strategy Board, said: “The aim of the feasibility studies is to draw out innovative, market-focused UK research which has the potential to increase valuable battery life and enable cost-effective recycling, address concerns around the sustainable use and recovery of raw materials within automotive batteries, and contribute to the development in the UK of an automotive battery recycling industry.”
Used van market may suffer shortage of vehicles
ELECTRIC VEHICLES Large organisations see potential in electric vehicles New research shows that larger companies are still enthusiastic to introduce electric vehicles onto the fleet, mainly because of the opportunity to make cost savings. A third of the largest businesses in the UK (1,000 or more employees) believe that fully electric vehicles could make a suitable addition to their fleet according to independent research from the Corporate Vehicle Observatory (CVO) Barometer. The research also shows that over 20 per cent of companies with more than 100 employees also feel that electric vehicles could be a realistic option for their fleet. The research also identified the major motivations behind electric vehicles and the biggest reason for the uptake of electric is currently the opportunity to reduce costs (with nearly three quarters of UK companies identifying this as the main motivator). Government incentives and operational convenience also remain crucial in influencing the introduction of electric vehicles.
US pledges $101.4 million for clean fuel projects US transport secretary Ray LaHood has announced that transit providers will be able to compete for a share of $101.4 million in federal funding by proposing innovative projects that promote the use of clean fuels and create green jobs. “This money supports President Obama’s plan to improve the environment and secure America’s energy future,” said Secretary LaHood. “These investments will improve public transportation access for millions of Americans – all while reducing our dependence on oil, curbing air pollution, and easing pain at the gas pump.” Last year's 63 winning projects involved an array of environmental innovations, such as installing energy-efficient technologies at transit facilities, replacing traditional diesel-powered buses with low or zero-emission vehicles, and building compressed natural gas fueling stations.
Slower new van sales three years ago are now starting to impact the current used van market according to British Car Auctions. With fewer vans entering the contract hire market in the second half of 2008 as the recession began to bite, there are fewer coming back to the market today on three year cycles. The situation has been exacerbated by subsequent contract extensions, causing further delay in stock reaching the market. And when it does reach the market, it is often older, has higher mileage and is in poorer condition.
Next area for EV charge points identified in the North East of England The team leading the EV revolution across North East England is targeting Teesdale and Scotch Corner as the next locations for an electric vehicle quick charging point. A gap in the North East charging post network has been identified by One North East’s Charge your Car Team. Businesses or local authorities are being urged to come forward with suggestions for suitable locations around both Scotch Corner and the Barnard Castle area – to provide the southernmost link to the North East network. TO READ MORE PLEASE VISIT... www.greenfleet.net/n/008
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A new kind of motor show
S U N I JO
Welcome to the motor festival that makes eco-driving easy. Metro presents EcoVelocity, the UK’s first low-carbon motor festival, in association with EDF Energy. At EcoVelocity you will have the opportunity to test-drive eco-vehicles from 18 leading manufacturers around a purpose-built track. Everything you need to see, all in one place. Secure your ticket today at ecovelocity.co.uk.
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ELECTRIC VEHICLES
ON THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE MAP The North East of England has wholeheartedly taken on the low carbon vehicle industry and weaved it into areas such as manufacturing, infrastructure and training, writes Dr Colin Herron The low carbon vehicle revolution has arrived in North East England. In areas such as manufacturing, infrastructure, training and research, the region’s leading position has already put us on the global map. The sector is set to create hundreds of jobs for the North East and has grown because companies like Nissan in Sunderland, Smiths Electric Vehicles, Sevcon and AVID have spotted the opportunities developing in the automotive sector. Pressure to find alternatives to fossil fuels and to meet climate change targets is not going to go away and clearly there are environmental arguments for encouraging the growth of industries like electric vehicles. But we also believe that this sector will be a real economic driver for the region. EARLY ADOPTERS The North East identified the opportunities for low carbon vehicles from a very early stage. From 2008, discussions have taken place with manufacturers in the region and in early 2009, Nissan and One North East formed a partnership to explore the development of a zero-emission programme in the UK. The announcement in March 2010 that Nissan had chosen its Sunderland plant as one of only three worldwide, to manufacture the Nissan LEAF, marked the start of an exciting time for both the region and this emerging industry. The production of Nissan LEAF and the
batteries represents a total Nissan investment of more than £420m in the Sunderland Plant and is expected to maintain about 2,250 jobs at Nissan and across the UK supply chain. Gateshead College is gearing up to provide essential skills in electric vehicle development, manufacturing, servicing and emergency response with the development of its Skills Academy for Sustainable Manufacturing and Innovation. The pioneering new £8.4 million facility, currently under development at Nissan Way in Washington, will provide world-leading training to apprentices and people seeking emerging jobs created in the industry. The Academy is the first of its kind in the UK and once open in September 2011 will take trainees through all the essential elements of working with electric vehicles, such as service and repair, battery manufacturing and handling, as well as health and safety and hazard management. The Academy will have excellent links to the region’s universities, including Sunderland University who is offering the UK’s first MSC in low carbon vehicle technology. TESTING, TESTING Next door to the new training facility, is the North’s first open access test track facility which will be used to trial and develop these new technologies. The test track and workshop building at Nissan Sunderland Plant has been signed
over to Gateshead College on a 20-year lease allowing these facilities to be used commercially. £2.4 million has gone into the new facility to fund the lease and refurbish the on-site workshop transforming the centre into a hub for low carbon vehicle development. This unique new facility will be a major boost for training, research and development in the low carbon vehicles sector in the UK. Our low carbon credentials are further strengthened with the region setting out a road map for the roll-out of electric vehicle infrastructure and the region was chosen as one of the trial projects for OLEV’s Plugged in Places programme. We know that over 40 per cent of all commutes in the region are under 8km so the North East has great potential in the adoption of EVs. The prime objective of the Plugged in Places project is to ensure that drivers are never too far away from a charging post and that is why we will be seeing charging posts popping up right across the region, from Berwick to Redcar and from South Tyneside to Hexham with a range of places in between. By 2013, an interconnected network of charging points will be in place.
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QUICK CHARGE A significant step forward has been taken at the start of this year when the UK’s first public quick charger was installed at the Metrocentre, Gateshead. The 50KW stations can recharge cars like the Nissan LEAF and Mitsubishi i-MiEV to up to 80 per cent of their capacity in 20-30 minutes and will be a major weapon for combating so-called ‘range anxiety’ in drivers using electric vehicles. Since then another two quick chargers have been installed in County Durham and in Berwick, Northumberland with a total of twelve being installed over the next year. New opportunities for businesses and individuals are already being created from this new landscape and it is vital that we spread the message that this is not just the economy of the future, it is happening here and now. L
Trevor Mann from Nissan, Colin Herron, Janet Snaith from Sunderland Council, and Mick Brophy from Gateshead College at the signing of the Test Track lease
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Welcome to The Green. Helping you put sustainability at the heart of your fleet.
Looking for ways to run a greener fleet? Why not visit The Green, the new sustainability website from Lex Autolease, the UK’s leading fleet management and fleet funding specialist. Get help at The Green www.lexautolease.co.uk/theGreen Find free help and advice on sustainable issues, including: • choosing the right vehicles • tax and budget • fuel strategy and how to cut your fuel bill. Visit The Green at www.lexautolease.co.uk/theGreen today, and see why we’re Green Fleet Leasing Company of the Year.
Or you can call us for more information on 0800 389 3690.
BUSINESS MOBILITY
THE ART OF TRAVEL PLANNING When it comes to corporate travel, employers should consider a variety of factors before making a decision – namely cost, carbon footprint and risk. ACFO chairman Julie Jenner explains further Cost management, carbon footprint reduction, risk management, business efficiency and time management are all issues that impact on business travel. Historically, the car has always been the preferred form of travel for the vast majority of business meetings and appointments. But it is not always the optimum option in terms of cost, time, reducing risk exposure or carbon-cutting, for example. To help public, private and voluntary sector organisations make the correct choice and employees in charge of corporate travel implement positive changes that lead to improved corporate efficiency, ACFO has published ‘From A to B: The ACFO Guide to Journey Planning.’ FINDING AN ALTERNATIVE The 28-page guide is not about reducing business travel or differentiating between ‘right and wrong.’ Indeed, it can be argued that there is no ‘right or wrong? Instead, the guide suggests that corporate travel – whether by company car, employee’s own car, hire car, public transport, motorbike, bicycle or indeed car share – should be overseen by a business mobility manager, who could also influence the increased use of technology-based solutions to travel, for example telephone and video conferencing, instant messaging and Voice over Internet Protocol, as well as smart working. Central to the business mobility decisionmaking process should be a desire by employers to reduce travel costs, reduce their carbon footprint and reduce the risk exposure of their organisation and staff. That means for the majority of employers a radical overhaul of how workrelated travel is presently conducted. A BIG EXPENSE A report by the influential employers’ group the CBI argues that time and money wasted on Britain’s congested roads can be saved.
The report – 'Tackling congestion driving growth – a New Approach to Roads Policy’ – calculates that with vehicle traffic having grown by a quarter in just 20 years, road congestion now costs the economy an estimated £7-8 billion a year, which is likely to more than double by 2025 unless action is taken.
There are a number of different kinds of business mobility. Some, such as the traditional company car fleet, are in the main aimed at enabling employees such as sales people to travel on company business. However, in the 21st century we are seeing the increasing availability of alternatives to the company car, the uptake of flexible benefits, the launch of car clubs and the increased use of technology to conduct business meetings without the requirement for those involved to leave their office. Against that background how can
employers weigh up which option is best for each employee when they find the need to conduct some form of business meeting? The decision-making process is made even more complex by a variety of other factors. These include cost, time of journey, distance of journey, associated risks for both employer and employee, environmental considerations, and business flexibility.
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FINDING THE BEST FORM OF TRAVEL Therefore, employers must ensure that both they and their employees have all the information available to make a clear decision on whether to travel by car, train or plane; whether to use a company car, their own vehicle or a hire car; for short journeys whether to walk, cycle or use public transport; or alternatively whether car share, taxi or one of the many technology options such as video or teleconferencing are viable. Almost certainly many organisations will already be using many of the business mobility options outlined in the guide to a greater or lesser extent. However, it is highly likely the options will have been introduced in a fragmented way. That is not to say that business mobility is disorganised, simply that old habits die hard and neither employers nor employees may be too certain as to how the decision-making responsibilities should work in the new age of business mobility. That fragmentation may also be apparent across departments. For example, it is quite probable that in larger organisations the decision-making process will reside not in one department but across many – fleet, HR, finance, corporate social responsibility and procurement to name just five. Which one of those departments takes responsibility for deciding whether, at its simplest, car or train is best for a specific journey will almost certainly be unclear. Equally if it is a car journey, is it a trip made in a company car, an employee’s own car or a hire car. Who decides? There may also be conflicting agendas between the employer and the employees. For example, the employer may expect a meeting to take place utilising inhouse video conference facilities, but an individual employee may decide a face-toface meeting is required not necessarily through business necessity but the fact that they want to claim mileage. When it comes to business mobility the law of unintended consequences is most definitely at work. Therefore, should the business mobility strategy – taking into account cost, risk and E
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GREEN ECONOMICS... Finding new ways to reduce costs without putting longer term goals at risk is a real challenge. Many organisations find that whilst there may be a desire to create a sustainable low carbon fleet, delivering savings in the short and medium term becomes a higher priority. So, do you have to choose between environmental goals and budgetary demands? Not when you talk to the right people. As LowCVP's Low Carbon Champions 2010, we can help you create and implement a green fleet policy that does far more than care for the environment. It protects your drivers, minimises risk and reduces the overall cost of running your fleet. To find out more, just call: 0844 493 5840 Text: Prove it AL to 82727 Email: marketing@automotive-leasing.co.uk Visit: www.automotive-leasing.org
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Trip modelling at Arcadia group saves money, increases safety and reduces travel CO2 emissions
Ultimately organisations that want to optimise mobility solutions must take a flexible multi-modal approach that mixes a wide cross-section of options while stressing to employees and their line managers the multitude of variables that must be considered in making the final travel decision. E environmental issues – based on business need and operational effectiveness and efficiency, not be designed and managed with a business mobility manager at the head of their own department? In planning travel – or deciding to use alternative options such as telephone or video conferencing – numerous other factors must be considered. Critically they include journey cost, but also employee duty of care and an organisation’s carbon footprint. Therefore, every single journey made by each employee must be considered on its own individual merits taking into account the issues highlighted above. LOCAL FACTORS But, that is not all. Local factors must also be added into the mix, such as: • If an employee is travelling by train how will that individual travel to and from the station and what will the cost be, if any – station car parking, taxi, bus, walking, cycling? On leaving the train what will be the mode of travel to the final destination – taxi, bus, walk or underground? • If travelling by car then issues such as car parking at the destination must be considered and if travelling to central London then the cost of the congestion charge must be accounted for • Depending on the duration of the journey and length of the meeting/appointment an overnight stay may be required. Therefore hotel bills and a subsistence allowance need to be factored in to the cost/time equation • Employee welfare is also essential so
organisations must consider whether lone workers should be allowed to travel early in the morning or late at night. As can be seen, there is much more to mobility management then simply considering whether a journey should be made by car or train or another option. To a large extent this is simply an extension of the best-practice technique of whole life costing used by many fleets to identify and optimise vehicle selection in respect of total cost to the business. Ultimately organisations that want to optimise mobility solutions must take a flexible multi-modal approach that mixes a wide cross-section of options while stressing to employees and their line managers the multitude of variables that must be considered in making the final travel decision. The opportunities for employers to implement a diverse, multi-faceted, sustainable mobility plan and display corporate social responsibility have never been greater. But, it is not only vital to implement a business mobility policy, it is critical to fully communicate it to staff addressing the relevant issues relating to cost, safety and environmental matters set against whether the need for a journey is essential. Alternatively, can the objective be achieved equally successfully using technology while always focused on ensuring optimum business efficiency? L FOR MORE INFORMATION ‘From A to B: The ACFO Guide to Journey Planning’ is available from the membership office on 01730 260162 or by emailing info@acfo.org
Business mobility is a balancing act with no right answer and many variables, according to John Pryor, ACFO director and group facilities manager of Arcadia Group, headquartered in London. The company is the UK's largest privately owned clothing retailer with more than 2,500 outlets. Fleet and travel management are all part of Mr Pryor’s wide-ranging job brief giving him a complete overview of who travels, how, when and where they travel and the cost of travel. “My job is to ensure that the group policy is implemented and the best value is given to the traveller to make their trip, while also taking into account other factors such as duty of care,” explained Pryor. “For example, our policy is lowest price but we don’t want to save a few pounds on a hotel bill if it means young female staff having to take taxis late at night when a more suitable hotel is conveniently located for the meeting/appointment.” The company has undertaken a ‘trip modelling’ analysis that highlights that, if possible, tickets for plane and air travel should be booked at least 14 days in advance of the scheduled trip to deliver financial savings. In March 2011 almost 2,400 train tickets were booked by staff – more than 1,100 at 14 days notice with the remainder closer to the time of travel. On average advance booking saved £7 per ticket (£7,252 for the month) – a significant saving given the number of rail journeys made by staff in the course of 12 months. Similar rules exist for airline travel but the savings are less pronounced due to the mis-match between the volume of short haul and long haul flights. Pryor explained: “We aim to explain the trip cost to employees so they make the wise choice. If four people are travelling from London to Birmingham the preferred option would be to travel by hire car and not by train. But almost every trip is different. With offices in London, Leeds and Hong Kong, both video and tele-conferencing play a role in reducing business travel if deemed appropriate for use." Pryor concluded: “As a company we have joined up mobility policies and procedures, but the key to successful implementation is how they interrelate and how they are taken into account by employees when they make their travel-related decisions.”
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Tyre Management
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TYRE PROCUREMENT
BURNING RUBBER
When it comes to greening the fleet, tyres are often overlooked. After all, how much difference can your choice of rubber make to the overall efficiency of a fleet? Well rather a lot, explains Carina Perkins, campaign manager for the Campaign for Better Tyres As the only part of the vehicle that touches the ground, tyres play a big role in determining fuel efficiency, rolling noise and safety characteristics such as handling and braking. Developments in tyre technology mean that tyres are becoming more energy efficient, quieter and safer than ever, but there is still huge variation in the performance of the tyres currently on sale in the UK. By choosing better tyres you can cut fuel bills and CO2
emissions whilst also reducing vehicle rolling noise and improving the safety of your fleet. ROLLING, ROLLING, ROLLING The most important aspect of tyre design relating to fuel efficiency is rolling resistance. Rolling resistance is the friction that a tyre creates as it rolls down the road. It is caused when the tyre tread deforms as the wheel rotates, losing energy as heat. The greater
the rolling resistance, the more power that the engine needs to drive the vehicle along and the more fuel it consumes. On average, tyre rolling resistance accounts for 20-30 per cent of a vehicle’s fuel consumption. Low rolling resistance tyres are designed to minimise the heat loss, thus reducing fuel consumption. Great strides have been made in this technology recently and the best performing car tyres on the market are ten E
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TYRE PROCUREMENT E per cent more fuel efficient than the worst performing tyres. Van and truck tyres can achieve even bigger savings. PERFORMANCE WHEN WET When choosing low rolling resistance tyres it is also vital to consider their wet grip performance, which reflects the tyre’s ability to brake on wet roads. Balancing rolling resistance and wet grip has been a big challenge for tyre manufacturers because grip is best served by rubber compounds which absorb high levels of energy, while reducing rolling resistance requires compounds which absorb low levels of energy. Developments in tyre technology – such as the addition of silica to the tyre tread compound – means that there are now energy efficient tyres on the market which can match and even exceed the safety performance of standard tyres. However, not all tyres perform equally and the best tyres on the market can stop a massive 18 metres earlier than the worst in wet conditions. Longevity is another important consideration when selecting tyres for a green fleet. Longer lasting tyres will reduce raw material consumption and related carbon emissions. Hard wearing tyres also emit fewer particles, which has benefits for air quality. In the
past there were concerns that low rolling resistance tyres were less durable than standard tyres but evidence suggests that the latest generation of low rolling resistance tyres perform well in durability. VEHICLE NOISE A final consideration for sustainable fleets is tyre rolling noise, which is the dominant source of vehicle noise above speeds of around 25 mph. At present the quietest tyres on the market can cut rolling noise almost in half. By choosing these tyres for your fleet you can make an important contribution to reducing traffic noise – which currently affects six million people in the UK, leading to sleep disturbance, increased stress, raised blood pressure and even heart attacks. From November 2012 it will be easier to buy better tyres because new tyre labelling legislation recently agreed by the EU will be implemented in the UK. This will require all tyres to be labelled at point of sale with information on rolling resistance, rolling noise and wet grip. Tyre manufacturers will also have to display this information on their websites. Rolling resistance and wet grip will be measured on a scale from A to G, with A being the best performers and G being the worst. Rolling noise will be measured in decibels
split into three categories represented by black sound waves. One sound wave will demonstrate that the tyre is 3dB less than the future tighter European limit. Two black sound waves will demonstrate that the tyre is already compliant with the future European limit and three black sound waves will demonstrate that the tyre is compliant only with the current European limit. COMPARING PERFORMANCE In the meantime, the Campaign for Better Tyres is working with UK and European partners to provide fleet managers with data to help them compare the performance of tyres currently on sale in the UK. We recently published some tyre comparison data from the Dutch government, which commissioned the testing of tyres in terms of rolling resistance, rolling noise and safety performance. The data is available to download for free from the Campaign for Better Tyres website at www.bettertyres.org.uk/whybetter-tyres/buying-better-tyres. L
Tyre Management
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
FOR MORE INFORMATION Please visit www.bettertyres.org.uk or contact Carina Perkins at carina.perkins@ environmental-protection.org.uk
Buying Tyres From November 2012, it will be easier to buy better tyres because new European legislation will require all tyres to be labelled with information on fuel efficiency, rolling noise and wet grip. This information will also be available on tyre manufacturers’ websites. In the meantime, ask your tyre supplier for tyres which have: • Low rolling resistance • Low rolling noise • Good wet grip • Good longevity
The Campaign for Better Tyres The Campaign for Better Tyres is dedicated to promoting energy efficient, low noise and safe tyres with the aim of cutting transport related emissions, reducing traffic noise and improving fuel safety. Partners of the campaign include the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, the Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders, the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety, Motor Codes, the Institute for Car Fleet Management, Green Transport Network, and the National Business Travel Network.
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ING GreenCARE: We’ll help you get the right balance
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
A RED DRAGON WITH SOME GREEN POINTS Peter Jones is all about making the right business decisions. Now he’s here to talk about his experience with the Alfa Romeo brand I have a real passion for cars. Ever since I felt that freedom when I sat behind the wheel of my Alfasud I’ve been hooked. My passion for cars also spills over into my business world in another way. It’s probably a bit sad, but I reference car terminology a lot when I’m talking to my employees. I’m often heard saying things like "let’s get the key in the ignition" or "come on let’s get the engine started." I’ve even been heard to say "let’s get on that journey, come on where are we going? Who’s got the vision?" As I said, a little sad, but hey everyone knows what I’m talking about. MY FIRST CAR My first car was a bright orange Alfasud. I was about seventeen and a half, and my parents had to help me buy it. That first car was something special, it gave me something I’ll never forget, freedom. I was able to
just drive and drive and I must have spent hundreds of pounds on petrol in those first few months, I think I probably even slept in it. LET’S GET DOWN TO BUSINESS The Alfa Giulietta rewards on so many levels. Flair, style, performance, and of course financially. Naturally belonging to the Alfa Romeo family it comes with great design, marrying coupé looks with five door practicality. There’s also Alfa D.N.A., best in class safety and fuel efficiency to admire. The Giulietta comes with a range of technologically advanced engines including two JTDM-2 diesels and the 1.4 TB MultiAir 170 bhp Petrol. It’s the newly launched 2.0 JTDM-2 140 bhp Lusso facts and figures that are truly hard to beat though. With CO2 emissions at 119g/km, and low fuel consumption (62.8 mpg combined) it makes it ideal for company car drivers. It also boasts alloy wheels, Blue&Me™ combining
iPod connectivity and Bluetooth® hands free technology, rear parking sensors, front armrest and cruise control as standard. With a BIK of 13 per cent it has the lowest band for a diesel engine that equals to £92 a month for company car drivers in the 40 per cent bracket. Who says there are no easy business decisions? JOINING FORCES Throughout 2011, Alfa Romeo is joining forces with Dragons’ Den star Peter Jones CBE, to support his charitable foundation and his personal mission to ignite entrepreneurship among Britain’s young people. Watch ‘The World of Peter Jones and Alfa Romeo’ video at www.alfaromeo.co.uk/corporate L FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit www.alfaromeo.co.uk/corporate or call our business centre on 08446 623 622.
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from knowing where to start. In fact, shockingly, around 25 per cent of the average fleet’s fuel and mileage spend is simply wasted on unproductive journeys, excessive payment rates and paying claims for mileage that only ever existed on paper. This figure comes from Mileage Audit, TMC’s proactively monitored journey reporting product. It is the average reduction that customers’ see in their fuel and mileage expense bills when they make sure that journey information is completely transparent.
MINIMISING FUEL COSTS
THE ANSWER TO SOARING GLOBAL FUEL PRICES
Organisations that use fleets need to rethink traditional approaches to fuel management in the face of a paradigm shift in global energy prices, advises TMC’s Paul Jackson Last month’s short-lived drop in the price of oil – the biggest one-day fall in history – caused plenty of excitement in the markets. However, how many businesses noted that this record "plunge" merely moved the base price of oil from $120 a barrel to $108, even though either figure would have been considered stratospheric four years ago? Oil prices are now three times higher, in real terms, than they were in 2002, although the UK’s high fixed fuel taxes mean that British businesses now pay "only" 45 per cent more for diesel and petrol than they did then. FALLING OIL EXPORTS Even so, 45 per cent is still a big cost increase to absorb or pass on to customers, and the fundamental reason for it is that there is not enough oil to go round. It’s all to do with exports. Although total world oil production is still increasing fractionally, the exporting countries use more and more of their own production domestically every year to support their own growing economies. Jeffrey Brown, a Dallas-based geologist, calculates that world oil exports reached a peak of 46 million barrels per day (mbpd) in 2006 and have since fallen by four per cent. However, because China and India have rapidly increased their share of exported oil in recent years, the actual volume of exports available to the rest of the world has reduced
by around 20 per cent since 2006 and shows no sign of making a significant recovery. That certainly helps to explain why we’ve seen a paradigm shift in energy costs since 2005. Global oil consumption wants to grow by some 4mbpd every year while supply increases by only 0.8mpbd. Businesses everywhere face a paramount requirement to prepare themselves for further increases in the price of imported oil. Britain is a net oil importer and, as petrol and diesel will continue to power virtually all fleet vehicles for at least the next decade, effective fuel management will be critical for fleets. ACCURATE MEASUREMENT At this point, articles often shift the focus on to practical actions fleets can take to minimise their fuel costs, such as driver training, targeting low-cost fuel sites, capping vehicles’ CO2 ratings, and so on. Don’t get me wrong, they are all valid responses to the growing fleet fuel cost crisis. But for them to be effective, fleets implementing them need to know, in detail, what they currently achieve in terms of journeys, purchase price of fuel, volume of fuel used and, of course, mpgs and pence-per-mile for all cars and drivers. Unfortunately, the traditional method of processing fuel and mileage costs actively prevents a majority of businesses
Fuel Management
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
THE KEY TO CONTROLLING FUEL COSTS It goes without saying that mileage activity drives all other fleet costs. However, this lack of clear, checkable journey data is frequently the Achilles Heel of companies’ efforts to manage their fuel use. Traditional expenses processes, as well as being tremendously opaque, deliver extremely poor oversight of actual journeys and costs. Let’s face it, if you were tasked to design a fuel procurement process from scratch, would you come up with one where your company bought its fuel from employees instead of fuel retailers, and didn’t ask them what they paid for it? Even more bizarrely, would you also ignore the actual cost of the fuel used on business and instead ask the taxman to tell you what you should pay via the HMRC Advisory Fuel Rates? Does the taxman set your company’s stationery costs, its heating bills or office rents? VITAL DATA HIDDEN Of course not. Pay-and-reclaim, especially when used in conjunction with fixed-rate fuel mileage payments, is almost guaranteed to hide the true cost of business mileage. It is often impossible for businesses to know what they’re spending as a whole, let alone at the level of individual vehicles and drivers. Audited, mileage-driven fuel management enables businesses to spot rogue vehicles and employees easily; identify unproductive journeys; streamline the expenses process; pay no more than actual cost for business fuel; involve drivers in campaigns to cut fuel volume and CO2 emissions; fine-tune choice lists, and avoid stiff fines for failing to comply with HMRC mileage recording requirements. In other words, to prevent unnecessary costs. POWERFUL TOOLS It’s what businesses don’t know that prevents them achieving their goals. And the reason why so many businesses struggle to contain mileage bills is that they rely on processes that pre-date computers and the internet. Fortunately, powerful tools such as mileage audit and the new generation of fuel cards now offer fleets the ability to respond swiftly and decisively to the effects of the new fuel price paradigm. Wise businesses will move quickly to take advantage of it. L
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get the full package with the euroShell card Whether your fleet is large or small, national or international, choose a fuel card that gives you the full package:
A convenient network High quality fuels at every Shell station Tight control over your fuel spend Secure transactions Great value for money Ask us for a quotation and we will be happy to explain how Shell is helping customers like you to reduce their fuel costs. www.euroshell.co.uk
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KEEPING COSTS UNDER CONTROL
Fuel Management
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
Fleet operators must use every tool in their armoury to keep fuel costs under control and eliminate any unnecessary expenditure
Fuel, after car or van acquisition/depreciation, is the second largest vehicle expense facing all businesses, potentially accounting for at least 25 per cent of fleet expenditure and rising. But having introduced fuel-sipping models to the fleet, it is crucial that companies have in place a robust fuel management strategy to ensure that petrol and diesel bills are kept to a minimum otherwise potential savings will not materialise. Anecdotal evidence suggests that some fleet decision-makers believe that fuel is an unmanageable cost and that few cost-saving actions can be taken in the face of rising prices. But, the opposite is true with fuel cards and the online management reports emanating from them enabling fleet bosses to take control over forecourt expenditure, gather accurate data about vehicle use, and then analyse that information to deliver savings. Consequently, even when pump prices are rising, the impact on fuel bills can be minimised by issuing the euroShell card to company vehicle drivers as well as employees that drive their own cars on business allowing managers to see upto-the-minute information on purchasing patterns and vehicle MPG performance. The majority of companies already use CO2 emission figures in deciding vehicle choice with the trend having a positive influence on fuel consumption as, generally, the lower the CO2 figure the better a vehicle’s MPG. But, while the CO2 tax benefits of choosing low emission company cars will remain in place for the duration of the vehicle operating cycle, promised fuel savings could be lost without vigilant management. With industry figures revealing that some company car drivers use up to 20 per cent more fuel than the most efficient employees, a fuel management action plan to cut costs underpinned by a disciplined fuel card regime is a fleet management essential.
Industry experts suggest that by taking note of the ‘fuel eternal triangle’ – miles driven, the volume of fuel purchased and the cost of fuel – valuable financial savings of around 15 per cent can be achieved by savvy fleet chiefs. FILLING UP WITH SHELL FUELSAVE Having selected low CO2-emitting vehicles, savings continue by ensuring vehicles are fuelled with Shell’s FuelSave unleaded petrol and diesel, which promises more miles at no extra cost. The fuel – available with no price premium over main grades of petrol and diesel – is Shell’s most advanced economy formula ever, helping to save fleets and drivers up to one litre per tank based on a minimum tank size and fill up of 50 litres with up to a two per cent improvement in MPG over standard main grade fuels. Fuel cards enable managers to police drivers by prescribing which fuel is purchased, from where and at what price. Additionally, based on real world fuel consumption data, managers can calculate their fleet’s carbon footprint using Shell’s online CO2 calculator. CAPTURING MILEAGE DATA Capturing accurate business and private mileage data is vital for organisations to get a handle on exactly how many miles are being travelled by staff in companyprovided and privately-owned vehicles. With mileage captured each time employees uses a fuel card, web-based management reports enable fuel policies to be set, compliance monitored, mileage reduction and employees’ ‘smart driving’ targets to be set, and savings identified. Poor MPG could be due to lapses in vehicle servicing or maintenance, for example, an aggressive driving styling, or fuel pilfering. All can be eliminated through tight fuel management controls.
Additionally, euroShell cards can be married up 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; trim fuel and mileage administration including ensuring compliance with the Euro6 VAT directive and aid carbon footprint reduction. FINGERTIP CONTROL OF FUEL COSTS Shell Card Online is a recently developed fuel card management solution that provides decision-makers with even greater control over budgets alongside flexibility and convenience when managing their fleet. Managers can improve fuel management by: • Ordering new cards and, if necessary, blocking the use of current cards • Creating personalised fuel card activity reports and reports on individual vehicle/driver consumption rates • Obtaining invoices when required • Using a number of ‘smart settings’ to improve control over the type of fuel purchased, fuel price and forecourts used • Using ‘smart alerts’ to prevent fraud by keeping tabs on refuelling patterns and invoices. Phil Williams, UK sales manager, euroShell Card, said: “Every organisation looking to reduce petrol and diesel bills should issue fuel cards to drivers and use the related management reports as the basis for implementing a fuel-saving strategy. Significant financial savings can be made by acting upon data gathered from fuel card reports.” L FOR MORE INFORMATION For more about Shell’s products call 0800 731 3131 or visit www.shell.co.uk/euroshell
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INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS
Telematics
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
NAVIGATING UNCERTAINTY Vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications have been widely heralded as the next big thing in urban transportation. We take a look at the benefits this could bring ‘If you can’t see my mirrors, I can’t see you!’ So reads the warning sign on the back of so many trucks across Europe and North America, informing following motorists that their own safety relies on their presence being known to the vehicle’s driver. In India they have a local variation ‘Horn Please!’ warning following motorists to make their presence known audibly in the traditional manner. These simple warnings underscore the inescapable fact since the dawn of motorised transportation, that the driver’s line of sight and auditory range have been the primary sensing and monitoring mechanisms for collision avoidance. They also hold a lesson for engineers of future Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) – if safety related signals are interrupted, the increased risk of a collision is obvious. In recent times automakers have been able to add many more sensing mechanisms to the portfolio of primary safety systems on their products. In the very latest generation of autonomous emergency braking systems, for example, short range radar and camera based ranging technologies such as LiDAR, are used to provide automatic collision avoidance and mitigation benefits, intervening in vehicle emergency braking at a reaction time much faster than would be possible by a human driver. But even these are seen by many as being merely the tip of the iceberg in terms of what can be achieved by ITS innovations harnessing the availability of satellite positioning, telecoms and WiFi systems. These technologies have had a clearly transformative effect on our lives in their own primary domains of use – in mobile phone communications, satellite navigation and computer networking – but applied collectively in an integrated manner, they offer the prospect of profound changes in transportation. GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEMS Navigation is perhaps the most obvious of these, where the humble road atlas – once an essential automotive glove-box accessory – is now arguably all but superseded by the satellite navigation system. In the fifteen years since the Clinton administration made the United States’ Global Positioning System (GPS) available on a world-wide basis for civilian applications, our collective reliance upon the signals received from such global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) has extended into almost every aspect of infotainment. While mobile phones have long been able to betray their position via triangulation of signals from network masts, pretty much any
smart phone as well as a good number of digital cameras and watches for example, now know exactly where they are at any instant thanks to their in-built GPS receivers. But if we’re happy to use such positioning systems to get an accurate fix on our cars current location and use this to navigate to our desired location, would we be as comfortable in the future to use such external signals as the basis of safety-critical autonomously acting collision avoidance systems? EXCHANGING SAFETY INFORMATION Cooperative vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications have been widely heralded as the next big thing in urban and extra-urban transportation. If implemented effectively, traffic management systems and individual vehicles would be able to communicate in order to optimise road network efficiency based on real-time information about each vehicle’s location, bearing, speed and intended destination. Personalised routing guidance, safety alerts and speed recommendations to groups of vehicles using instantaneous traffic information would all be possible, and the deployment of technology on vehicles would
the cost of more conventional automotive technologies and traffic management strategies, including the currently politically unfashionable and least environmentally attractive alternative of new road building. PUBLIC ACCEPTABILITY But even if the communications infrastructure is now becoming available, is society really ready to accept the risks of delegating safety-critical decision making and control to such autonomous systems? Well, the airline industry offers us some fairly promising lessons. At over 10,000 metres altitude and 800 Km/hr, no-one questions that avoiding collisions is an imperative in the operation of a commercial airliner. Modern on-board traffic collision avoidance transponder systems on commercial jets will automatically instruct flight crew to take specified coordinated preventative evasive action if an immediate risk of collision is detected – even if the manoeuvres so demanded run contrary to air traffic control instructions. We accept implicitly that the system is there to protect us from impending disaster and that the instructions of human controllers are potentially fallible and may from time to time
"The potential of cooperative V2V and V2I technology to improve the sustainability of transportation through reduced carbon footprint and improved efficiency of road space utilisation is immense" – Roger Wilson extend beyond the domain of mere collision avoidance and into the realm of optimisation of traffic movement. After all, if a vehicle knows exactly what traffic is over the brow of a hill, around the next corner, or approaching the same junction and is able to cooperate and communicate with it, the benefits for the safety and efficiency of travel are obvious. With the consequent increases in effective road network capacity and reductions in localised congestion, traffic would flow more smoothly with fewer stops, thus improving air quality and improving safety. Special priority could be given to certain classes of vehicles, such as emergency services or public transport, and the increased efficiencies of vehicle operation would deliver a potentially substantial contribution to reductions in transport CO2 emissions. Moreover such ITS innovations could generally be implemented at a fraction of
need to be over-ridden. In the same way, perhaps public acceptability of autonomous vehicle control systems based on V2V and V2I will ultimately gain acceptance once their value in avoiding or mitigating the effects of road collisions has been demonstrated. But two fundamental considerations remain: how to ensure safety and integrity in all potential modes of failure and what to do in the event that the very channels of communication on which the system is based are interrupted or unavailable? FAULT TOLERANCE The motor industry is well used to the implementation of development processes for safety-critical control systems and software in which no fail-safe condition can be guaranteed. In such circumstances the philosophy of fault tolerance, as opposed failsafe operation, is built-in from the concept E
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INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS E stage onwards. Typically, systems are classified prior to development in terms of a required Safety Integrity Level (SIL), which defines the nature of the design rules and processes to be followed in development. For example, basic infotainment and informational navigation systems would be at the lowest level – while systems for controlling brake or steer-by-wire that have no mechanical back-up or full authority active driveline control would carry the highest SIL, requiring the most thorough standards of inherent fault-tolerance. In 2009 the development frameworks that apply to safety-related electrical and electronic systems for road vehicles moved a significant step forward with the publication of the draft international standard ISO/DIS 26262 (Road vehicles – Functional safety). This standard aims to bring regulations covering the development of safety critical systems up to date by focusing on the specific needs of road vehicles and encompassing state-of-the-art design processes increasingly used by the automotive industry, including model based control system development. INTEGRITY OF COMMUNICATIONS Many processes of safety-critical automotive vehicle systems development have been created with the help of a solid body of knowledge and experience drawn from the aerospace sector, in some cases existing tools such as SCADE that have been directly adapted for automotive application. But ITSbased V2V and V2I system developments, which by definition go beyond the boundary of the vehicle, present an entirely new and more complex development challenge. In the operation of these systems the integrity of data provided by external systems – as well as the mode of exchange between systems – is of crucial importance. And while in-vehicle systems can be considered largely in terms of direct operational considerations, V2V and V2I are inherently more exposed to external threats arising from physical interruption of signals or even malicious attacks. System robustness and resilience in the face of network interruption and signal degradation is thus a completely new development challenge for the automotive industry, taking the concept of fault tolerance to a new and more complex level. While the urban environment offers a potentially rich mix of potential channels of network interoperability – from standard GSM, GPRS and 3G mobile coms to the extensive mesh based WiFi networks controlling infrastructure, such as traffic signals and CCTV monitoring systems – this same environment provides some of the biggest challenges to signal degradation in the form of cross network interference and the obstructions caused by the buildings themselves. The need for a dedicated centre at which ITS technologies including V2V and V2I systems can be developed in a highly controlled manner and in complete safety
will be addressed by the creation of innovITS ADVANCE, the world’s first such dedicated facility. The ‘city circuit’ of this new facility provides a unique environment for the highly controlled testing and development of ITS innovations. Located in the UK West Midlands, innovITS ADVANCE comprises a comprehensive road network designed to be configurable to replicate an urban driving environment anywhere in the world with numerous junctions, intersections, roundabouts and multi-lane highways. This is equipped with roadside architecture including traffic signals configured for both left and right side traffic circulation, CCTV and catwalk gantries allowing installation of overhead equipment for testing, monitoring and signage. The road network is combined with an open architecture of multi-zoned Wi-Fi, and GSM, GPRS and 3G private stand-alone mobile telecoms networks and WiFi mesh system that can be configured according to the precise needs of particular tests. Each telecom base station transceiver is directional enabling specific enhancement or degradation of regional site coverage. OPEN-ARCHITECTURE ENVIRONMENT As the centre’s business development manager Roger Wilson explains: “In creating the innovITS ADVANCE city circuit, we wanted to provide an open-architecture environment in which development teams can recreate exactly the scenarios they require in order to develop new ITS products, services, equipment and systems. It would not be possible – and in many cases neither would it be legally permissible – to carry this type of work out in a real town or city, and it would clearly be impossible to take control of the urban communications infrastructure and carry out all of the ‘what if’ development tests that will be crucial in enabling next generation V2V and V2I innovations to be developed.” But what about the ever-present GNSS signal – how can this be controlled to enable the effects of degradation or denial to be replicated to model the influence, say, of high rise buildings and their associated ‘urban canyons’? Here too, innovITS ADVANCE has some state-of-the-art testing technology available to its customers. “We’ve partnered with NSL to implement their ‘Skyclone’ system,” Wilson continues. “This enables our customers to effectively replicate the effects of a wide variety of urban built environments surrounding our city circuit. So while it has the visible appearance of a network of urban roads surrounded by grassed level ground, the conditions of GNSS denial can be made to precisely replicate those, for example, of a high rise environment similar to New York’s Lower Manhattan or London’s Docklands.” The Skyclone system works by creating a computer model of the track and then sub-dividing each region or neighbourhood in the vicinity of the road network. On the computer screen the model resembles
Telematics
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
the architectural models used by large-scale property developers the world-over. But in this case, Skyclone uses this 3D model to create a highly resolved spatial map of the GNSS signal attenuation that would be expected of the chosen mix of development across the circuit. By importing this map to a vehicle based processor between the GPS or Galileo antenna and the on-board receiver, GNSS signals are varied according to the chosen scenario. CATCHING UP WITH AEROSPACE While the aerospace sector might be considered more advanced than road transport in terms of the operation of advanced V2V systems and autonomous operation, it too is struggling with the development needs of such new systems. Only last year there was controversy over the forced withdrawal from service of a regional UK police force’s UAV surveillance drone, which was unlicensed for use in public airspace by the country’s Civil Aviation Authority. The fact that the aerospace industry appears to be struggling to demonstrate the safety case for the telemetry and other systems that support the non-military operation of such remotely controlled UAVs in civilian airspace, is perhaps indicative that the automotive sector is now tackling very similar issues in attempting to implement V2V and V2I systems. In this uncharted territory, the cooperative systems development frameworks used for road transport must be no less rigorous than those that have delivered the safety critical vehicle and aircraft systems that we all enjoy today. “The potential of cooperative V2V and V2I technology to improve the sustainability of transportation through reduced carbon footprint and improved efficiency of road space utilisation is immense,” asserts Wilson. “And when these clear benefits are considered alongside the safety improvements that could be enabled, the case is clearly very compelling. But telecoms companies, automakers and highway authorities need to work together to develop the required systems and prove their safety case in a secure environment where almost all and any real-world scenario can be replicated. With the innovITS ADVANCE facility we have created exactly that type of blank canvass – a web-controlled ‘city’ that can be configured and instrumented in any manner, allowing such new products and innovations to be tested in a plug-and-play manner.” So the trucks of the future – and for that matter the cars, coaches and motorcycles – may not need to carry signs warning following traffic to be seen and heard. If the V2V and V2I innovations envisaged by Wilson and his colleagues at innovITS are developed and brought to market, the vehicle and infrastructure will know exactly where other traffic is, even if the driver is distracted. L FOR MORE INFORMATION www.innovits.com
Volume 50 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE
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The hare never wins. Is your fleet driving smarter, reducing fuel costs and environmental impact? Everyone knows the story. Fast is not always better, as the hare found out to his cost. It’s the same with your fleet. At IAM Drive & Survive, we know time is of the essence, but did you know that poor vehicle control can burn up costly fuel, eat into your profits, increase your overheads and harm the environment? Our Ecolution and Fuel Wise programmes are just two of the ways we can help your fleet to drive smarter, reduce costs and improve your green credentials. IAM Drive & Survive - Naturally better risk management.
Visit: www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk Alternatively, call us on 0870 120 2910 or email: enquiries@iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk
VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES
Road Safety
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
IN-VEHICLE LIFE SAVING SYSTEMS AND DEVICES Adrian Walsh, director of RoadSafe, looks at how big a factor safety is when it comes to choosing new vehicles A recent survey from the European eSafetyAware campaign, which is supported by RoadSafe, reveals that fleets and private new car buyers in Britain are in the slow lane compared with some other European countries in accepting life-saving e-safety technologies. The findings come in a new study across ten European countries investigating car users’ acceptance of e-safety technologies carried out to coincide with this year’s eSafety Challenge.
E-safety refers to vehicle technologies that can assist drivers in an emergency situation by providing vital information and warnings to help avoid crash situations occurring. Although awareness levels of e-safetyrelated systems on a European level have increased by ten per cent since a similar study two years ago, safety chiefs are concerned that the technology is not more widely accepted. LEADING DEMAND At last year’s eSafety Challenge event in the UK, fleet managers – who are responsible for buying the majority of new cars in Britain – were urged to lead demand for e-safety technologies such as electronic stability control
Although awareness levels of e-safety-related systems on a European level have increased by ten per cent since a similar study two years ago, safety chiefs are concerned that the technology is not more widely accepted.
(ESC), blind spot monitoring, lane support systems, speed alert, warning and emergency braking systems and adaptive headlights. The survey also reveals that when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle, safety is the number one purchasing criterion, followed closely by fuel consumption and running costs. The two latter indicate that car buyers are also relatively cost-conscious when it comes to buying a new car. It is worth noting the relatively lowly position of vehicle brand. NOTEWORTHY SAFETY DEVICES Devices such as ESC, which is to be compulsory in all new cars from 2012, have the potential to save 4,000 lives and 100,000 injuries annually alone in Europe, according to eSafety Aware, one of the organisations behind this year’s eSafety Challenge. In Germany, research by insurer Allianz has revealed that as much as 330 million euros could be saved by preventing small rear impact accidents and that almost three out of four rear impact accidents with injuries and fatalities could be avoided with the 100 per cent introduction of E
eSafety Challenge 2011
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Road Safety
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES E advanced emergency braking systems. Meanwhile, in the UK, the Department for Transport has concluded that ESC-equipped vehicles are 25 per cent less likely to be involved in fatal crashes than those without. That equates to 380 fewer fatalities and 7,800 fewer people injured on UK roads. WHO KNOWS? The study shows that familiarity with these life-saving technologies is increasing but far too slowly; awareness levels are only ten per cent greater in 2011 than two years ago. Europe’s car buyers are still not purchasing e-safety systems in sufficient numbers. Thousands more lives could be saved and injuries avoided if these systems were more widely used. Additionally, many businesses are still not taking safety management seriously and are allowing employees to drive company vehicles that are not fitted with these lifesaving e-safety systems. Corporate buying accounts for around two-thirds of new car sales in the UK annually and the vast majority of LCV sales. Therefore, if we can convince fleet managers and company finance directors to focus their decision-making on vehicles equipped with the range of e-safety technologies, it will infiltrate the used car market quicker as businesses change their vehicles. The study conducted across Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the UK, revealed that when purchasing a new vehicle, safety was the number one purchasing criteria followed closely by fuel consumption and running costs. Speed alert, ESC and advanced emergency braking systems were revealed as the bestknown of the six e-safety technologies being promoted by the eSafety Challenge. The study also showed that Britain is last in a league table in terms of awareness of four of the six systems being promoted. The survey also showed that: • Awareness levels of speed alert in Britain is just 45 per cent compared with 80 per cent in France • Awareness levels of ESC in Britain is just 41 per cent compared with 89 per cent in Germany • Awareness levels of adaptive headlights in Britain is just 41 per cent compared with 76 per cent in Germany • Awareness levels of lane support in Britain is just 27 per cent compared with 71 per cent in Germany. • Awareness in Britain of the other two e-safety technologies – advanced emergency braking and blind spot monitoring – is 51 per cent (Spain ranks the highest at 68 per cent) and 28 per cent (Germany and the Czech Republic rank equal first at 62 per cent) respectively. Although half of survey respondents said they were willing to pay more for safety
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features, they expected manufacturers to fit them to vehicles. One quick look at what is available in the fleet market will show that safety features and specifically e-safety features such as ESC, which are proven to save lives and reduce casualties are readily available, so it is vital that fleets operate cars and vans equipped with such technology. CORPORATE DRIVERS Every day of the year more than 150 vehicles driven on company business crash. Every year there are 14,000 road deaths and serious injuries involving people at work. Business pays for this. With the new Road Safety Act on the statute book and the advent of the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act in April 2008, the issue of Health and Safety in the workplace – the business vehicle – is something business employers are no longer able to ignore. With about a quarter to a third of road deaths and injuries incurred during work
pound paid on insurance claim. Some items cannot be covered by insurance, including loss of company reputation and contracts, fines and costs of prosecution, and staff down-time for medical appointments/attendance at court etc. Managing these risks goes much further than simply sending drivers on defensive driving courses – in fact many employers now believe that such courses alone do nothing to improve matters. Driving for Better Business champions a belief that a thorough management-led approach is what makes the difference. PRACTICAL STEPS Key elements of their policies include such areas as: taking all practicable steps to ensure the safety of drivers, passengers and the public with regard to vehicles used on company business, emphasising the application of the best safety practices in driving and vehicle management, and extending policies to contractors and families. Real time management of business
Managing these risks goes much further than simply sending drivers on defensive driving courses – in fact many employers now believe that such courses alone do nothing to improve matters. Driving for Better Business champions a belief that a thorough management-led approach is what makes the difference. time, employers have a wake-up call. There is therefore an important role for all businesses where their employees drive for work. Not only do directors have a duty of care, but there are good business reasons for investing in driver safety management. The preparation and implementation by employers of policies to make driving safer not only reduces casualties, it can cut costs. There are a growing number of examples of good practice – from the largest companies down to small businesses which the Driving for Better Business campaign delivered by RoadSafe highlights. The Driving for Better Business case studies, available at www.drivingforbetterbusiness. com, come from some sixty ‘champion’ companies drawn from across all business sectors and each shows a basic business case for safety investment. EXPENSIVE BUSINESS Work-related road accidents are much more expensive than many employers realise. The cost is much more than the garage bill for fixing the minor damage and much less might be covered by insurance than is often realised. Even with a low number of bumps and scrapes, it has been estimated that the full cost to the employer might be £8 to £36 for every
journeys, coaching by line-managers, and equipping cars with crash-avoidance e-safety technology all helps to reduce risk and enhance the bottom-line. Good investment in sound policy development, management training, monitoring what a driver is doing and investment in crash-avoidance e-safety technology therefore has significant spinoff benefits for organisations in terms of financial savings from fewer incidents and therefore reduced business disruption. Road safety is important across the world – a decade of Action for Road Safety was launched May 2011 with the aim of saving millions of lives. So these survey results are a welcome sign that employers see safety as important and want to ensure that they provide safe cars for their people. But we still need to do all we can to further increase awareness and take-up of the importance of e-safety technology at director level, amongst fleet managers, company car and van drivers, as well as private new car buyers. The technology is available now and more will follow in the next few years – it will do much more than save life, it will help to avoid crashes too. L FOR MORE INFORMATION www.drivingforbetterbusiness.com
EVENT REVIEW
FLEET SAFETY RECOGNISED THROUGH ANNUAL AWARDS
Road Safety
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
The Fleet Safety Forum Awards, run by road safety charity Brake’s Fleet Safety Forum and sponsored by Arval, recognised the achievements of those working in the field of road risk management The Fleet Safety Forum Awards for Excellence took place on Thursday 9 June at a prestigious gala dinner in Staffordshire in front of more than 270 fleet professionals. The annual awards, run by road safety charity Brake’s Fleet Safety Forum and sponsored by Arval, recognise the achievements of those working in the field of road risk management. It is vital that companies take their road risk management responsibilities seriously, particularly as research shows that collision rates for people who drive for work are 30-40 per cent higher than private drivers1. At-work drivers are also more likely to take risks behind the wheel such as eating food while driving, talking on a mobile phone or driving tired2. The practical, financial and emotional damage that results from crashes far outweighs the comparatively small costs that come with implementing best practice road risk management. As many of the companies who enter the Fleet Safety Forum Awards have discovered, better crash rates cut costs by lowering insurance premiums, reducing repair bills and avoiding vehicle and employee ‘down time’ after a crash. Properly maintained vehicles, driven safely within speed limits, will also use less fuel. GAINING RECOGNITION Now in their ninth year, the awards provide a fantastic opportunity for companies to showcase and gain recognition for their fleet safety initiatives or products. At the Fleet Safety Forum Awards 2011 35 companies were recognised for their achievements through winning an award or being highly commended in one of the 11 categories on offer, including two new categories for 2011, for innovation in fleet safety, and partnership working between fleet operators and suppliers. Iron Mountain won the popular Company Driver Safety category in the small to medium fleet sub-category. This award recognises initiatives that do the most to promote and ensure safe driving among employees. Iron Mountain developed a highly-comprehensive approach to driver safety through ongoing driver assessment and remedial training, a training prospectus and driver handbook and regular communications with drivers, all of which have helped them to a reduction in vehicle collisions of 47 per cent. Rory Morgan, Iron Mountain’s national logistics general manager said of winning the Award: “The teams have worked hard on our road safety message and we feel that being recognised
by a group of people who are so dedicated and passionate about the subject is extremely gratifying.” The company were also highly commended in the Eco Fleet category. Addison Lee were also recognised in two categories, winning the Eco Fleet Award for their ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions, achieved through major improvements to journey management and driver training. Their efforts have resulted in a 30 per cent reduction in greenhouse emissions. The company were also highly commended in the Safe Vehicles category for their use of vehicles with a range of safety features, a GPS system that pinpoints vehicles’ exact location, and rigorous servicing. Chairman John Griffin said the Awards were “a tribute to the hard work of the staff at Addison Lee in ensuring we discharge our responsibilities as a large transport company in London.” He added: “We intend to continue with our efforts as we consider the reduction of pollution in London a critically important issue.” FLEET SAFETY PRODUCTS There were two winners in the Fleet Safety Product category, TISS Security Systems for the TankSafe ‘Impregnable’ Security & Safety Device, and SmartDrive Systems Ltd for SmartDrive Safety, a fleet safety programme which enables fleets to identify and correct risky behaviour, reducing collision frequency and costs. Steve Cowper, SmartDrive’s UK managing director said they were “delighted” to receive the award and see it as “another validation of how the innovations in the SmartDrive programme are enabling fleets to better understand their driving risk and improve performance.” Other winners included Ocado, who won the Safe Vehicles Award; Tesco Dotcom, who received the Fleet Safety Innovation Award; and Balfour Beatty Plant & Fleet Services, who won in the Analysis and Action category. Two individual awards were also presented. Road Risk Manager of the Year went to Richard Hill of VolkerRail for his achievement of a 66 per cent crash reduction since starting in post two years ago, whilst the prestigious Kevin Storey Award for Outstanding Commitment to Road Safety was presented to Dave Abbott of Cardinus Risk Management. The Fleet Safety Forum is a not-for-profit subscription service by Brake, which provides regular guidance and best practice case studies to help companies improve their road risk management and ultimately cut costs. In addition to running the awards,
Brake also hosts regular workshops on key road safety topics, and a number of flagship annual events, including the long-standing Best of the Best Fleet Safety Forum annual conference. The conference showcases best practice from winners of the Fleet Safety Forum Awards, as well as updates on policy and research developments. L
1. Road Research Report no. 51: Safety Culture and Work Related Road Accidents, Department for Transport, July 2004. 2. The Green Flag Report on Safe Driving, Brake, September 2007. FOR MORE INFORMATION To find out more about the Fleet Safety Forum and other events, go to www. fleetsafetyforum.org, or contact Brake on 01484 559909 or forum@brake.org.uk.
Volume 50 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE
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Insurance
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
LEGISLATION CHANGES
FULLY COVERED Life for uninsured drivers is going to get tougher thanks to the biggest change in motor insurance law for 70 years, explains Graeme Trudgill from the British Insurance Brokers’ Association This is a momentous year for motor insurance and in particular for the estimated 1.4 million motorists in the UK who drive uninsured. Life for them is going to get tougher thanks to the biggest change in motor insurance law for 70 years in the form of the new Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) regulations. The CIE regulations create a new offence for keeping a vehicle without insurance. An additional enforcement scheme is also being introduced from 20 June 2011 to make sure that all vehicles are insured or a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) is made. CIE differs from existing police on-road enforcement of uninsured driving in that, unless a SORN declaration has been made by the vehicle keeper, the keeper is required to insure the vehicle at all times. All registered vehicle keepers must ensure that their vehicle has statutory minimum third party motor insurance. Failure to comply could result in a series of escalating penalties. All motor insurance records will be registered on the Motor Insurance Database (MID), if records are not correct the keepers of legitimately insured vehicles could be at risk of receiving notification that they appear to be uninsured. This is a fundamental improvement to the previous practice (before an uninsured driver needed to be ‘caught’ on the road to face enforcement measures) therefore BIBA is keen to raise awareness of how these changes in law will affect motorists. HOW DOES CIE WORK? CIE systematically compares records between two databases, the Motor Insurance Database (MID) with those held on the DVLA Registered Vehicle Database to identify keepers of potentially uninsured vehicles. This will clearly identify any vehicle keepers who do not have a valid insurance policy on the MID. If it appears that a vehicle has no insurance or no SORN, then an Insurance Advisory Letter (IAL) will be sent to the registered keeper. If the registered keeper takes no action, the keeper faces a fixed penalty fine of £100; having the vehicle clamped, seized and destroyed; and court prosecution with a possible fine of up to £1,000. Starting in June 2011, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) will issue and cover the cost of the new IALs to registered keepers informing them that their vehicle appears to be uninsured. The letter will advise the keeper what they need to do to comply with the law and will result in hundreds of thousands of letters being sent to vehicle keepers,
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some of whom may be insured but have not had correct details loaded onto the MID. DVLA will be responsible for the cost of enforcement, which will take the form of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPN) followed by the possibility of prosecution and/or wheel clamping should the vehicle’s keeper fail to heed the warnings. The cost of enforcement will be more than covered by fine income and is due to commence a short while after the first IALs are distributed. Uninsured drivers cost the UK about £500 million annually, which adds up to an average cost of an extra £30 per car insurance policy. Drivers using their vehicle on the road without insurance are already committing an offence – so the need to get insured immediately. Those drivers with insurance whose record does not appear on the MID should contact their insurance provider to get the MID updated immediately. This will mean that they avoid the inconvenience of being unnecessarily contacted by MIB and DVLA, or being stopped by the police. Insurance records on the Motor Insurance Database can be checked for free at www.askmid.com A SORN declaration has to be submitted to the DVLA if the vehicle is being kept off of the road. If the vehicle is taxed return the disc (including nil value discs) to DVLA using a V14 form. There are some occasions when a vehicle can have no insurance. A vehicle can have no insurance if it: • Has a valid SORN • Was exempted from SORN (as untaxed on or before 31/01/1998 and has had no tax or SORN activity since) • Is recorded as ‘stolen and not recovered’ by the police • Is between keepers • Is scrapped • Is held in stock by an authorised motor dealer One common question BIBA is asked is: if someone uses a company car and is therefore not the official owner, will their company get a letter if the car is not insured? If the company is listed as the vehicle’s registered keeper, they will receive a warning letter, followed by a penalty if there is no valid insurance policy. Drivers should make a point of checking the MID to see if the details of cover are recorded correctly when insuring the vehicle. Although most insurers process the information promptly on the MID it is best to allow a week for this to update.
CIE is an important change to the motor insurance landscape. The MIB will be sending tens of thousands of IALs a month. CIE benefits will include safer roads, greater premium income for the insurance industry, a reduction in the number of claims made to the MIB, a reduced levy to insurers and an increased IPT income to government. BATTLING INSURANCE COSTS Another important development with motor insurance follows BIBA’s appearance before the Transport Select Committee's inquiry into the cost of motor insurance – which had increased by 40 per cent in the previous year – affecting vehicle owners of all types. BIBA submitted an eight point plan to the Transport Select Committee into driving down the cost of motor insurance: • Government must introduce Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) • Signpost people to a relevant broker where they can find competitive cover (particularly young or non-standard drivers) • Regulate comparison sites to the appropriate standard • Review Pass Plus • Review the driving test • Engage with Lord Justice Jackson’s review of civil litigation costs • Refrain from any further increase in insurance premium tax E
About the Author
Insurance
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
Graeme Trudgill’s career began in 1989 as a broker in general insurance. He joined BIBA in 2001. Graeme leads BIBA’s Public Affairs lobby with Government and he is the author of the BIBA manifesto. Graeme is regularly a source of expertise for journalists and often appears on radio and TV programmes representing the industry. Graeme runs the BIBA motor committee and professional indemnity insurance initiative. He sits on the CBI Trade Association Council, groups at the Department for Transport, the DVLA and the Motor Insurers Bureau Continuous Insurance Enforcement programme board, as well as the HM Treasury Signposting steering group, the Treasury Flood group and the industry Electronic Trading Practices Group.
Uninsured drivers cost the UK about £500 million annually, which adds up to an average cost of an extra £30 per car insurance policy. Drivers using their vehicle on the road without insurance are already committing an offence – so the need to get insured immediately. E• Provide access to driving licence records. BIBA was pleased that the committee’s recommendations included many of the points that were in its eight point plan. The recommendations from the committee's report tackled issues of fraud, personal injury claims, young drivers and uninsured driving. The report recommended that insurers, brokers and comparison websites should work together more proactively to combat fraud. BIBA is committed to this and will work to achieve access for the industry to driving licence information held by the DVLA in order to reduce fraud when applying for insurance. Currently around 20 per cent of endorsements are not correctly disclosed to the insurance provider and this can lead to problems in the event of a claim as insurers could refuse to pay out if the customer had not told them of a 'material fact.' Motor insurance fraud
accounts for £44 on every policy and so any initiative to reduce that is welcomed by BIBA. YOUNG DRIVERS BIBA also supports the call to investigate means of deploying and publicising new technology which can assess how cars are driven by young drivers and help reduce the cost of motor cover. There are already several new insurance broker 'black box' telematics products that have been recently launched and BIBA welcomes further discussion and wider debate on this technology. BIBA welcomed the Transport Select Committee’s conclusion that the driving test should be more rigorous and that an advanced driving course would be made available which can effectively signal to insurers that drivers who have completed it are safer. It is now time to
review the Pass Plus test and BIBA looks forward to the proposed consultation. The report calls for the government to sponsor a research project on the international experience of restraining the number of personal injury claims with the aim of publishing a discussion paper. The report referred to one of BIBA's key reasons for the higher cost of motor insurance as the increase in the propensity to claim, the increase in the amount awarded, the impact of claims management companies and the increases in the number of whiplash claims. The propensity to claim for a non-fault injury following a motor accident has tripled in the last seven years and this has led to more claims and higher premiums. BIBA is also pleased that the Government Equalities Office (GEO) consultation paper 'Equality Act 2010: Ending age discrimination in services, public functions and associations' issued on 3 March 2011 recommends its signposting proposal for motor insurance in relation to age. This is so that younger or older drivers struggling to find insurance will be helped to find a more suitable provider rather than just be rejected. So there will be a lot of motor insurance issues on BIBA’s agenda as well as the government’s. A busy year lies ahead in the motor insurance world once again. L
Volume 50 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE
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Electric Vehicle Recharging Solutions for your Fleet
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Call: 01273 428635 or Email: electricvehicles@edfenergy.com
Arrive 'N' Drive
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
EVENT REVIEW
GREEN CAR FEVER HITS ROCKINGHAM This year's GreenFleet Arrive 'N' Drive on 26 May was buzzing with activity with fleet managers test driving the latest lowcarbon vehicles around Rockingham's first class race track With fuel prices crippling for many organisations, buying greener vehicles is no longer just something that enhances your corporate image but a necessity which deeply affects your bottom line. In recognition of this, GreenFleet’s Arrive ‘n’ Drive, which took place on 26 May at Rockingham, Northamptonshire, opened its doors to fleet managers and allowed them to test drive the latest green vehicles on a first-class race track to prove that buying green doesn’t have to mean a compromise in performance. Attendees were also able to take in a huge range of products and services that help reduce the running cost and CO2 emissions of their transport operations.
EVENT FIRSTS A new layout meant that the manufacturers taking part this year had more vehicles available for test drive than ever before, with the likes of Citroen, Honda, Vauxhall, SEAT, Volkswagen, Kia, Peugeot, Mitsubishi, Ford, Volvo, Toyota, Lexus, Hyundai and TATA all displaying their latest low-carbon offerings. The event was the first opportunity for UK fleet managers to see and test drive the dynamic Ampera, Vauxhall’s rangeextended electric vehicle, due out in 2012. Fully booked all day, the Ampera was a hit with visitors curious to see how the rangeextended electric vehicle takes to the road. The Vauxhall Ampera fixes the shortfalls
associated with conventional electric vehicles, mainly ‘range anxiety’ – the nagging question “will the battery get me to where I need to go and back again?” The Ampera works as a standard electric vehicle in that it is always driven by an electric motor. It has a Lithium-ion battery which delivers up to 30 miles on a full charge. But once the battery has depleted, a petrol engine kicks-in, driving an onboard generator to supply electricity to sustain the battery. And in this mode, the car can go on for another 310 miles. Ford gave the event yet another UK first – the opportunity to test drive the new Transit Connect Electric, developed with Azure Dynamics. The 192-cell 28kWh lithium-ion battery pack is housed under the load floor so that the standard van’s 3.8m3 load space potential is retained. Plugged into a 13A domestic socket it takes around eight hours to charge the pack fully. MAIN SHOWCASE ARENA SEAT showcased its new Ecomotive range, including the Ibiza, Leon and Altea, as well as the new Exeo Multitronic. The award winning new Alhambra Ford was present on the day, as was the Fiesta ECOnetic, E
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Greener Fleet Management It’s all in the detail TRACKER Reporter provides you with the detail of your fleet activity to enable you to both save money, protect the environment, plan your business and provide a better service to your customers. With fleet usage, cost reports and all of the information you need to analyse, plan and control your fleet activity at your fingertips, TRACKER Reporter provides businesses of all sizes with a flexible and greener fleet management service.
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01895 455045
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EVENT REVIEW E which offers astonishing fuel economy of 76.3 mpg (combined cycle) and exceptionally low CO2 emissions of just 98 g/km. GreenFleet LCV Manufacturer of the Year, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, was joined by the Passenger Car Division to showcase the latest BlueMotion technology from their range. Citroën displayed its all electric C-ZERO, as well the advanced new C3 and DS3 Airdream models which are under 100g/km CO2 emissions. Toyota presented its range of groundbreaking hybrids, such as the Prius and Auris and were joined by Lexus, with a hybrid showcase of RX450h, GS450h and CT200h models. Meanwhile, Mitsubishi Motors displayed vehicles from its Intelligent Motion range including the pure electric i-MiEV, the Colt ClearTech, the ASX Crossover and the Outlander Crossover. Volvo allowed visitors to experience its nine DRIVe models with improved aerodynamics and rolling resistance, improved interiors and efficient engines. Honda’s new CR-Z hybrid coupe was also a hit on race track, with visitors keen to see how this sporty looking car with low emissions of 117 g/km and fuel economy of 56.4 mpg takes to the road. Hyundai showcased its current best sellers, the i10, i20 and i30, which emit below 120 g/km of CO2. Delegates were also able to test drive Peugeot's new 3008 which was awarded What Car?'s Car of the Year 2010. The practicality and desirability of this vehicle is further enhanced by low CO2 emissions starting from only 130g/km. Kia demonstrated its EcoDynamics range, which has cutting-edge Intelligent Stop and Go technology fitted as standard and TATA Motors demonstrated the Vista EV on the race circuit. SMARTER DRIVING Research suggests that if staff adopted 'smarter driving' practices every time they got behind the wheel, organisations could save 15 per cent on their fuel bills – a benefit that the drivers could also enjoy with their private mileage. To explain exactly how to become a 'smarter driver' – that is, someone who adopts a fuel friendly driving style, the Energy Saving Trust (EST) was present as the event's smarter driving partner. The training incorporated a test route on the real roads where driving style and fuel consumption was observed and recorded. EST then gave simple advice on how to drive smarter to reduce fuel use. Armed with this knowledge, participants then repeated the route, putting into practice EST’s eco driving tips to see how simple changes to driver behaviour can reduce fuel consumption. Technology partner TomTom Business Solutions provided the fuel consumption data to give participants feedback on their 'smarter drive'.
GOING ELECTRIC Duty of care for vehicle operators when recharging either a pure electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle is of paramount importance and it is the fleet manager’s responsibility to ensure that an employee is in a situation where they know that they are recharging safely, whether the car is at work or at the employee’s home. As the country’s largest producer of low carbon electricity and with a wealth of knowledge of working with electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, EDF Energy were on hand in the EV Arena to advise attendees on issues such as where and how to charge, technical reporting and usage tracking. mia-electric also exhibited in the EV Arena and displayed its range of plug-in electric vehicles which were launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2011 to wide acclaim, mainly for their innovative approach to urban mobility. The distinctive, next generation urban sports bike from Agility Saietta was also available at the EV Arena, along with electric motorbikes from Swiss company QUANTYA. Aixam Mega, Europe’s largest supplier of ultra-light electric vehicles, showcased its vehicle selection, as did E-Power Trucks with its range of electric utility vehicles, electric tugs and multi passenger vehicles. TATA Motors' electric ACE EV, a half-tonne commercial vehicle, was also on display. Euromec Contracts attended this year and gave visitors the chance to experience the Powerflex TASK M50EV, the first utility vehicle to encompass lithium technology with a range of up to 100km and 60km/h speed. Meanwhile charging bay innovators Elektromotive were be on hand to demonstrate the award winning Elektrobay, as the event's Recharging Technology partner. Allied Electric showcased its modified Peugeot vehicles, which have been recognised for their Outstanding Contribution to the Scottish Environment at the Scottish Green Awards 2010, while EVC (UK), the electric vehicle specialists, also displayed a range of electric vehicles such as fork trucks, milk floats, tow tractors, personnel carriers, utility vehicles and locomotives. Low emission technology development company, Ashwoods Automotive, displayed a range of hybrid and LPG vans and were on hand to discuss how its vehicles and technologies can contribute to real and substantial CO2 and fuel usage savings.
Arrive 'N' Drive
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
INDOOR EXHIBITION Complimenting the extensive selection of ecovehicles, visitors took to the indoor exhibition to familiarise themselves with the products and services available to green your fleet, network with peers, and pick the brains of the many industry experts present on the day. Award-winning, low carbon rental company, Greenmotion, was on-hand to discuss its green contract hire, while Lex Autolease gave advice on fleet management and funding issues. E
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Products you trust
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EVENT REVIEW
Research suggests that if staff adopted 'smarter driving' practices every time they got behind the wheel, organisations could save 15 per cent on their fuel bills – a benefit that the drivers could also enjoy with their private mileage. ETRACKER demonstrated products that provide businesses important details of their fleet activity, enabling them to make better decisions about how to run their fleet. CMS SupaTrak demonstrated its award winning EcoTrak fuel saving technology throughout the day, while Trimble showcased a range of telematics and tracking products, such as DriverSafety™, which monitors driver behaviour, fuel use and CO2 emissions. Michelin exhibited its low rolling resistance tyres and ATS Euromaster were on-hand to talk about their tyre management solutions. Meanwhile RL Automotive displayed its portable and drive-over tyre wear diagnostic equipment using laser and Bluetooth technology. And for better tyre maintenance, TAC-Scan demonstrated its products that deliver fast, laser precise measurements of tyre tread and wear. Schneider Electric was also available to
discuss how the company can help enable the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, by ensuring that users and installations are safe, and making charging stations accessible and easy to use within existing infrastructure. Autodrain exhibited its depollution products and systems that enable businesses to maximise profit potential from the petrol and diesel in their vehicles. For a whole range of green services, Big Green Book – the UK’s premiere environmental and promotional business network – was on hand to help attendees align their business operations with environmental management. ROCKINGHAM With over three miles of race circuits available, Rockingham is an inspirational venue offering amazing backdrops for the ultimate driving events. Centrally located,
Rockingham is easily accessible from the A1, M1 and A14, within easy reach of London and 30 minutes from Bedford. The venue is the first purpose built race track in the UK since Brooklands in 1907 and has transformed the industrial wasteland left by the British steel works into an asset that the people of Corby and Northamptonshire are justly proud of. Rockingham has been designed with safety as a foremost concern, and proudly holds one of the best safety records of all European circuits, as well as offering carbon neutral conferencing facilities, driver training courses and track days. Rockingham offers multiple in-field circuit configurations, featuring hairpins, straights and chicanes with ample passing and run-off areas. Unique to the UK, the Wet Grip facility can simulate a variety of driving conditions including ice, rain and slippery wet leaves. These different road conditions are simulated at much slower speeds than in normal driving and in a fully controlled environment. The area is designed to give drivers a greater understanding of the latest ABS, traction control and crash mitigating technologies, and the way that they affect vehicle control. L
Arrive 'N' Drive
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
FOR MORE INFORMATION www.arrivendrive.greenfleet.net
TomTom Business Solutions teamed up with EST’s smarter driver training programme at Arrive ‘N’ Drive to monitor attendees’ eco-driving style in real time The training programme at Arrive ‘N’ Drive proved to be a successful and thoughtprovoking exercise for everyone involved. Thousands of pounds in fuel savings can be made annually by eliminating private or unauthorised mileage through enhanced routing and the better allocation of vehicles to jobs. What’s more, the ways in which this can be achieved are becoming ever smarter. WORKsmart™– eco from TomTom Business Solutions is the latest innovation to help businesses promote greener, safer and more efficient drivers. Fleet managers are now able to measure and reduce fuel costs and carbon footprint by taking live data direct from vehicles. This information – from fuel consumption, CO2 emission and RPM, to gear selection and idling – is relayed to management so they can view performance at any time during a driver’s journey. Dashboard and reporting functions in TomTom’s WEBFLEET fleet management system enables the data generated by the EcoPLUS On-Board Diagnostic system to be measured against pre-defined business targets. Not only does this directly impact the bottom line, it can help managers
establish safer, greener driving policies. According to the Department for Transport driving at 70mph uses 15 per cent more fuel than at 50mph, while cruising at 80mph can use up to 25 per cent more fuel than at 70mph. Vehicle tracking systems not only allow fleet operators to monitor driver speeds by offering detailed speed analysis reports, but TomTom’s system now allows this information to be monitored by road speed limits. Further recent advancements, in the form of Active Driver Feedback™, mean that drivers themselves can see their fuel efficiency, or be warned of speeding, excessive steering or braking, at a glance of their in-cab sat nav devices. When businesses use this technology in conjunction with
driver training, they are able to establish sustainable driver programmes for their fleet. HD Traffic information meanwhile can reduce their average journey times by up to 15 per cent. Overall these solutions can save fleets upward of 20 per cent on fuel by giving the visibility and control required to really effect change. TomTom Business Solutions is the fastest growing telematics company in Europe making more than 150,000 vehicles more efficient and keeping them moving and therefore productive with Live HD traffic. Innovation is key to the TomTom strategy and its customers are integral to this, from product development through to customer service and support. These areas are being constantly developed in an ongoing drive to excel in operational excellence. Whether companies are operating a fleet of trucks, vans or cars there is a system that can help. TomTom Business Solutions enables business to improve productivity and maintain control of vehicles and drivers, whilst cutting costs from the bottom line. FOR MORE INFORMATION www.tomtom.com/business
Volume 50 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE
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Hyundai i30 Comfort 1.6 Crdi man • 119 g/km CO2 emissions • 62.8 MPG* • Band C VED • 13% BIK
FreepHone HyunDai 0800 981 981 * Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Combined (Urban/Extra Urban) fuel consumption figure of 62.8MPG. VCA figures are not a guarantee of the fuel consumption drivers will achieve. dealers. 5 Year Triple Care terms and conditions apply. Please see www.hyundai.co.uk/owners/Triple5 or ask your local dealer for full terms and conditions. Warranty cover for cars
Fuel consumption in MPG (l/100km) for Hyundai i30 Comfort 1.6 CRDi Manual: Urban 53.3 (5.3)
Cutting your carbon footprint doesn’t have to mean compromising on style. The Hyundai i30, for instance, delivers 62.8 miles per gallon and emits 119 grammes of CO2 per kilometre. Which means, it’s easier on the planet and your wallet. And also, like every car in the Hyundai i-series, it comes with stylish good looks and more standard equipment than you might expect. To discover more and to find your local Hyundai Dealer call 0800 981 981.
nual
Be
st
Car M ufactur an
er
www.hyundai.co.uk
Unlimited mileage Warranty
All information is correct as at time of going to press. Warranty only available on new cars purchased in the UK and sourced from Hyundai Motor UK Limited through its authorised used as taxis or for private hire is subject to a 100,000 mile limit.
Extra Urban 68.9 (4.1), Combined 62.8 (4.5), CO2 Emissions 119g/km.
S A I E T TA
Mia-electric, born from Heuliez electric, have made electric vehicles since 1984. In March 2011 we launched our new range of plug-in electric vehicles at the Geneva Motor Show to wide acclaim. These plaudits came not only from the industry professionals but also the public – delighted to see such an innovative approach to urban mobility.
The next generation fleet motorcycle... Now.
The Ecovelocity Event in Battersea in September , with the participation of Greenfleet , will be the launch of the cars in London and we are delighted to have been asked to take part.
> Cutting edge, assertive and confident. > Unrivalled road presence and ability. > 100 mile range for the Saietta R. > Running costs 1/4 of an equivalent petrol bikes. > Zero emissions, zero tax. > Growing charge point networks nationwide. > Competitive discounts available for fleet sales.
The design of mia cars is unlike any other because it reflects faithfully the needs of the urban driver as shown by a huge array of statistics. 70% of urban journeys are made by lone drivers ; where there are passengers they are rarely more than two etc, etc. This allowed the designers to change conventional design and turn a small car into an astonishly comfortable car for its size. Come and test drive the mia and see what, after whole vehicle M1 homologation will be available in the UK from September 2011.
From the heart of one of the world’s great cities.
saietta.com
+33 6 0916 7097 | richard.deslandes@mia-electric.fr | www.mia-electric.com
XT Road Legal Electric Vehicle
M 50 EV
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4,000kg Towing 1,000kg Payload Locking Glove Box Radio with CD Player
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Central Locking 12v Socket Air Suspension Alloy Wheels
ECOLOGIC, 100% ELECTRIC, EMISSIONS-FREE
www.ePowerTrucks.co.uk info@ePowerTrucks.co.uk +44 (0) 161 626 9628
Euromec Contracts Ltd. Valley Way, Market Harborough, Leicestershire. LE16 7PS Tel: 01858 434011 email: sales@euromec.co.uk
www.euromec.co.uk
EV ARENA OVERVIEW
CHARGE YOUR WAY TO GREENER OPERATIONS The EV Arena at this year’s Arrive ‘N’ Drive demonstrated other areas where zero-emission electric vehicle technology can be utilised within public and private sector organisations The government has recognised electric power as one of the answers towards cutting transport carbon emissions and creating a sustainable future that's not dependent on fossil fuels. While the main showcase area of Arrive ‘N’ Drive displayed many mass-production electric vehicles such as the Mitsubishi iMiEV and the Citroen C-Zero, at the EV Arena, electric vehicles of a different sort were showcased. Electric motorbikes and scooters, utility vehicles, vans, tow trackers and burden carriers were all available for public and private sector professionals to see in action at the event, which took place
26 May at Rockingham, Northants. Meanwhile EDF Energy, sponsors of the EV Arena, were on hand to advise attendees on issues relating to electric vehicles, such as where and how to charge, safety, technical reporting and usage tracking. Charging bay innovators Elektromotive were also available to demonstrate the company’s award winning Elektrobay, as the event's recharging technology partner. UTILITY VEHICLES Many public and private sector organisations use a variety of vehicles on site as an essential part of their day-to-day operations, such as
on-site transportation, waste management and groundscare. Electric vehicles are particularly well suited for this application; because they remain on site and have short distances to travel, range limitations and recharging concerns are generally not an issue. They are also silent and fume free meaning they do not cause disruption to day-to-day operations, and in many cases can enter indoor areas such as warehouses or depots. In addition, by choosing electric power over a diesel engine, organisations can make sure their operations are as ecofriendly and purse friendly as possible. At Arrive ‘N’ Drive’s EV Arena, ePowerTrucks showcased a range of electric trucks, tow tractors, electric utility vehicles and electric tugs which are utilised by many industries. Looking at their application within the health sector, Wishaw General hospital has recently purchased a new Alke ATX electric utility vehicle from ePower Trucks to transport waste around the hospital. With a towing capacity of up to three tons, this vehicle helps with heavy towing applications on site, such as towing various 1100 litre bins all at one time. Meanwhile Perth Royal use an electric job master pedestrian tug for its pharmaceutical department to safely transport pharmaceutical products. A customised cylinder trailer was added so that porters can utilise it for the safe transportation of cylinders around the hospital. E
Volume 50 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE
Arrive 'N' Drive
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THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE COMPANY - UK from PARKERS-GROUP
Plug into low cost motoring NOW The Electric Vehicle Company is an exciting new entrant into the world of Electric Vehicles and associated technologies. The company provides private purchasers and businesses with all they need to benefit from low cost motoring. The Electric Vehicle Company is a new division of the Parkers Group and supplies all types of electric vehicles to private purchasers, tradesmen, small businesses and local authorities. EVC has recently become a distributor for DFSK the Chinese manufacturer of Mini Trucks. The company will also supply charging points and charging bays to businesses and local authorities through its sister business, The Solar Electricity Company. All EVC Electric Vehicles emit zero emissions - the sealed lithium-ion batteries used to power emit NO pollutants. This means NO carbon monoxide, NO nitrogen oxide and NO carbon dioxide, resulting in a cleaner environment and an improved carbon footprint for the user. Cars: Nissan LEAF, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, smart EV, Peugeot 107 EV, Citroen EV’IE, Fiat Panda EV Commercial Vehicles: DFSK Pickup, DFSK Tipper, DFSK mini-van, DFSK twin-cab, DFSK box van, DFSK minubus, DFSK bespoke vehicles, Citroen Nemo EV, Fiat Forino EV, Peugeot Bipper EV THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE COMPANY - UK 289 London Road • Burgess Hill • West Sussex RH15 9QU Tel: 01444 247101 • Fax: 01444 232569 • www.evc-uk.com
Nanotol® is the world’s most advanced nanotechnology surface sealant producing a lasting professional high gloss quality finish on all vehicles. This easy to apply invisible coating prevents dirt from bonding, making future washing easier. A protective layer will help to maintain the quality of all paintwork, chrome and glass. Nanotol® is a revolutionary 100% eco-friendly solution that can be incorporated into all your current washing facilities. To reduce your vehicle cleaning costs call us for the options available to suit your needs. Econano UK Tel: 01628 940002 www.econano.co.uk info@econano.co.uk RF.Tipping-Edge86x125 12/12/08 09:38
vRone (right)
Pronounced V-R-One this is new for 2011 – a stylish scooter perfect for inner city travel and commuting. Large cities have always been full of scooters but vRone owners will also benefit from zero rate road tax, and are excluded from congestion tax. (RRP: £6379)
vRcross (below)
This is an evolution of the Evo1 Strada. It is an enduro style motorbike which is totally road legal but still capable of going off road. It is the basis for the Quantya Track and QuantyaparX edition off road bikes. (RRP: £7780) For more information see www.quantyabikes.co.uk or call 01531 890955
Page 1
R U O AD Y IS YLO G PAIPPIN ER T U OV E? G O D Y EE TH EW N
Omniweigh is designed to provide accurate weighing information especially for tippers to keep both driver and business legal.
Tel: 01527 526112
www.redforge.co.uk
Providing highly accurate readings of both payload and total vehicle weight the UK manufactured, and easy to install Omniweigh is VTS compatible and is available with optional extras including USB memory connection.
Robust, Reliable and Realistic
EV ARENA OVERVIEW
Arrive 'N' Drive
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
includes single cab pick ups, tippers, box vans, and 6/7 seat MPVs. The company can also supply charging points and charging bays to businesses and local authorities through its sister business, the Solar Electricity Company. Tata Motors Limited, India’s largest automobile company, demonstrated its newly launched Tata Ace EV, a halftonne commercial vehicle powered by electricity. The ACE is ideal for local authority and local fleet operations where reduced environmental impact and silent operation are paramount. The vehicles will be assembled in the Midlands and comply with UK Construction and Use Regulations allowing full registration as an EU Category N1 vehicle. Aixam Mega’s range of Multitrucks were also on display. Awarded the title European Light Commercial Vehicle Manufacturer of the Year at the European GreenFleet Awards in 2008, the electric trucks are particularly well suited for local authority applications such as cleaning, street maintenance, and groundscare.
EDF Energy, sponsors of the EV Arena, were on hand to advise attendees on issues relating to electric vehicles, such as where and how to charge, safety, technical reporting and usage tracking. E Likewise, Forth Valley Royal Hospital use an electric ride-on tow tractor with trailer from ePowerTrucks to transport goods around the hospital. An electric pedestrian platform truck also enables staff to transport small items within the hospital without the need of any manual effort whatsoever. This electric vehicle allows the operator to cover an amazing 16km on a single charge and carry weights of 300kg therefore taking away then need for transporting goods with a manual trolley. As they are 100 per cent electric, staff can operate these vehicles in and around the hospital without any noise or fumes. Euromec Contracts also exhibited at the EV Arena and showcased its new TASK M50EV, the first utility vehicle to encompass lithium technology with a range of up to 100km and 60km/h speed. FLEXIBLE AND LOW CARBON Mia Electric showcased its zero-emission vehicle Microbus. With just three seats and plenty of space around them, this vehicle can be a flexible company car or a box van with a cargo volume of 1,500 litres. The arrangement of the driver’s seat in
the middle ensures a perfect all-round view allowing the driver to easily manoeuvre through city traffic. The space between the two back seats provides additional storage areas. The economic mia manages up to 90 km without having to recharge the battery and is fully operational again after just three hours of charging. In the event of shorter charging times, a ten minute charge equals a range of eight km. Allied Electric showcased its modified Peugeot vehicles, which have been recognised for their Outstanding Contribution to the Scottish Environment at the Scottish Green Awards 2010. Allied Electric’s products combine the latest in Lithium-Ion and polymer battery technology with the complete range of Peugeot light commercial vehicles. Allied Electric’s vehicles are currently being adopted into fleets of various public and private sector clients. This innovative new range includes goods vans and passenger carrying vehicles which are ideal for daily working life in busy town or city centres. The Electric Vehicles Company was also present at the EV Arena and gave attendees the opportunity to test drive some of its DFSK vans and commercial vehicles. The wide range
TWO WHEEL ELECTRIC POWER Many fleets are recognising the benefits of being on two wheels. The Swiss Post for example, one of the most efficient postal organisations in the world, operates 1,000 electric scooters, making this the largest electric scooter fleet in the world. Electric motorbike manufacturer QUANTYA showcased its advanced battery expertise through a range of electric motorbikes and scooters in the EV Arena. The vRone for example is a stylish scooter perfect for inner city travel and commuting. It is an electric scooter which makes it quiet and economical with almost no running costs and very low maintenance. It is rechargeable at home or at work using a regular three pin socket. Users also benefit from zero congestion charges and road tax. The newly launched, unconventional electric sports bike, the Agility Saietta, was also available at the EV Arena. The work of London-based motorbike start-up company Agility Global, the striking bikes come in two variants; the Saietta S is a 50 mile range bike with sub-four-second 0-60mph, while the Saietta R covers 100 miles, and sprints to 60 in less than five seconds. The EV Arena at this year's Arrive 'N' Drive successfully demonstrated to professionals in the public and private sectors that there is a far greater scope for electric vehicles than just fleet vehicles – electric tow trucks, utility vehicles and burden carriers can make the day-to-day operations of organisations greener, more efficient and cost effective. To read the full review of GreenFleet's Arrive 'N' Drive, please see pages 41 to 45. L FOR MORE INFORMATION For information on any of the companies exhibiting, visit www.arrivendrive.greenfleet.net
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Interest free loans available to help reduce your transport costs and emissions With funding from Transport Scotland, interest free loans from ÂŁ500 to ÂŁ50,000 are available from the Energy Saving Trust. The loans can support organisations in Scotland that want to reduce the carbon impact and fuel costs of their transport and travel arrangements with new, more efficient alternatives. Your loan can be used to fund a wide range of sustainable transport measures such as video and teleconference facilities, pool cars and cycle facilities.
To find out more call your local Energy Saving Scotland advice centre on 0800 512 012 and ask to speak to a specialist advisor or visit energysavingtrust.org.uk/lowcarbontransportloans
EVENT PREVIEW
SCOTLAND ROUNDS-UP THE LATEST GREEN VEHICLES
GreenFleet Scotland
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
Procuring greener vehicles? Come along to GreenFleet Scotland on 1 September to see the latest eco-vehicles, products and services, and arm yourself with knowledge in the topical seminar theatre A fleet manager's role has become increasingly more complex. They are now under constant pressure to deal with a range of issues, such as reducing costs, increasing safety and minimising carbon emissions. In recognition of this, GreenFleet Scotland aims to help fleet managers by bringing together a range of planet-friendly vehicles, products and services – as well as industry experts in the seminar theatre – to help fleet managers make confident purchasing decisions and get advice on how to effectively manage a fleet. ECO-DRIVING EXPERIENCE Taking place at the Royal Highland Centre near Edinburgh on Thursday 1 September 2011, GreenFleet Scotland will prove to be a must attend event for fleet managers and
those responsible for vehicle procurement. The fuel-efficient driving experience will start the day’s proceedings and will involve teams navigating their way to a number of checkpoints in the Edinburgh area in order to test their eco-driving skills. The Energy Saving Trust will first brief teams on how to drive fuel efficiently before teams take to the roads in the same model of car, provided by partner ING Car Lease. O2 will supply the fuel consumption and emission data, as well as making sure that teams stick to the pre-set route. The data will then be measured and analysed by Millbrook Laboratories, one of Europe’s leading organisations for the testing, development and demonstration of vehicles, to determine which team drove the most fuel efficiently.
SEMINARS A range of topical seminars will take place throughout the day. Kicking off, John Curtis from Transport Scotland will give an overview of the Scottish Government's policies for low emission transport. Ian Murdoch from the Energy Saving Trust will explain the interest free loans for companies wanting to adopt fuel saving devices and training, as well going over what it takes to be a fuel efficient driver. Nigel Dutton from O2 will give a seminar on how technology can aid eco-driving and John Curtis will be welcomed back to discuss strategies for bringing electric vehicles into fleets. The Energy Saving Trust is supporting GreenFleet Scotland to compliment the E
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GreenFleet Scotland
GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE – www.greenfleet.net
EVENT PREVIEW E work it has been doing with a number of public and private sector bodies to help them understand how they can save money and reduce their impact on the environment. With funding from the Scottish government, the Energy Saving Trust already manages carbon reducing initiatives such as green fleet reviews and travel planning. The Energy Saving Trust encourages the adoption of travel alternatives, such as video conferencing or using public transport, but it also appreciates that there are times when travel by car or van is necessary. That is why the Energy Saving Trust is supportive of GreenFleet Scotland’s plans to bring together a selection of low carbon vehicles, so that fleet managers and other transport professionals can ‘touch, taste and feel’ the low carbon alternatives, and assess their suitability for purpose. EXHIBITORS GreenFleet Scotland will host a comprehensive exhibition of the latest eco-friendly vehicles, technologies, products and services. General Motors will be present, showcasing a range of Vauxhalls, including the hugely anticipated Ampera, a range extended electric vehicle, due out in 2012. The Ampera works as a standard electric vehicle in that it is always driven by an electric motor. It has a Lithium-ion battery which delivers up to 30 miles on a full charge. But once the battery has depleted, a petrol engine kicks-in, driving an onboard generator to supply electricity to sustain the battery. And in this mode, the car can go on for another 310 miles. Also on display will be a range of BMWs, Volkswagens, Minis, Toyotas, Luxus and Smart cars provided by Eastern Holding. SEAT will be offering test drive opportunities from a line up of its Ecomotive range of efficient and ecological vehicles. Peugeot will be displaying its all-electric iOn which has a range of up to 80 miles and a maximum speed of 80 mph, while Citroën will be demonstrating its all-electric C-ZERO, as well as a selection of sub 100g/km CO2 emissions cars, such as the advanced new C3 and DS3 Airdream models. Further electric vehicles will be supplied by Allied Electric. Elektromotive, the world’s leading provider of recharging stations for electric vehicles, will be demonstrating its Elektrobay charging station, which can be installed at the kerbside or in multi-storey car parks. Also on the exhibition floor, Charging Solutions will be presenting its battery charging solutions while APT Controls will show off its range of electric vehicle charging solutions. Axeon, Europe’s largest independent supplier of lithium-ion battery systems, will also be exhibiting Schneider Electric will be in attendance to discuss its solutions to enable the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, such as ensuring that users and installations are safe, and
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making charging stations accessible and easy to use within existing infrastructure. Looking at eco-friendly vehicles of a different type, Double A Trading will be showcasing a range of its groundscare equipement while Lift Safe will showcase its electric handling equipment. E-Power Trucks will be presenting a range of electric powered vehicles, such as utility vehicles, tugs and multi passenger vehicles and Green Machines will be demonstrating its electric road sweepers. Scottish Motor Auctions will also be present on the day to talk about its auction centres that sell cars, light and heavy commercials and plant vehicles. PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Ashwoods Automotive, the UK’s largest supplier of hybrid LCVs and retro-fit hybrid technology, will be exhibiting at GreenFleet Scotland, as will Garmin, the global leader in satellite navigation, consumer electronics and communication technologies. Michelin will also be present to show off its energysaving, low rolling resistance tyres. Lex Autolease are also exhibiting to give advice on fleet management and funding issues. And for a whole range of green services, Big Green Book – the UK’s premiere environmental and promotional business network – will be on hand to help you align your business operations with environmental management. With all these resources under one roof, GreenFleet Scotland will be invaluable in promoting greener and more cost-effective fleets. Attendance if free of charge to those in the fleet and transport professions and will include free refreshments and buffet lunch, plus the chance to win one of many Garmin satnavs throughout the day. THE VENUE The Royal Highland Centre is a multi-purpose venue located on the outskirts of Edinburgh and is one of the largest venues of its kind in the UK. It currently hosts over 200 events. The Centre features a range of facilities, from exhibitions halls, banqueting and conference suites, small meeting rooms to large outdoor landscaped areas. Also described as Scottish National Showground, the venue is home to the renowned annual Royal Highland Show; a four day summer event attracting over 150,000 visitors. More than one million people visit the venue each year, attending trade and public exhibitions, concerts, sports and corporate hospitality events, award ceremonies, banquets and weddings. It is situated 800 metres from Edinburgh International Airport, and sixty per cent of Scotland's population live within a one hour drive. L FOR MORE INFORMATION To register, visit www.greenfleetscotland.co.uk
EVENT PREVIEW
ENVIRONMENTAL MOTORING GATHERS MOMENTUM This years GreenFleet Awards will once again recognise the heroes in environmental fleet management and green motoring
Many car manufacturers and fleet managers are taking great strides to combat climate change. There has been an explosion of ultra-frugal vehicles come onto the market and many organisations are using such vehicles, along with pioneering environmental strategies, to reduce the carbon output of their transport operations. Recognising the success of such organisations, the 2011 GreenFleet Awards, sponsored by O2, will see 18 awards given out to deserving public and private sector fleet organisations and manufacturers for their efforts in environmental fleet management and low carbon motoring. The glittering award ceremony will take place at Twickenham Stadium on 13 October and will be presented by world famous impressionist and comedian Alistair McGowan. GREEN MOTORING The City Car Manufacturer of the Year Award is presented to the manufacturer that has increased takeup of its range of smaller cars that produce CO2 emissions under 120 grams per kilometre (g/km). The award for Electric Vehicle of the Year, sponsored by EDF Energy, is 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. The Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year
Award is presented to the car manufacturer that has improved CO2 ratings of its standard fleet offerings and expanded the range of lower CO2 models and alternatively fueled options available to fleet customers. The LCV Manufacturer of the Year Award, sponsored by Michelin, will recognise the efforts made by manufacturers to reduce CO2 and incease fuel economy in the Light Commercial Vehicle Sector. Meanwhile the LGV Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by Garmin, recognises advancements in the Large Goods Vehicle Sector (Over 7.5 Tonnes). INNOVATIONS The Award for Industry Innovation 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. The IT Innovation award examines the latest advancements in fleet technology, including fleet management software, telematics, route tracking and other IT related transport technology. The Driver Training Company of the Year, sponsored by Big Green Book, is 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 its other driver awareness programmes.
GreenFleet Awards
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The award for the Leasing Company of the Year will be presented to the leasing company that has made the biggest strides towards environmental considerations in its leasing policies. Meanwhile, the Rental Company of the Year 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. PRIVATE SECTOR ACHIEVEMENTS The Private Sector Fleet Manager of the Year Award, sponsored by Elektromotive, recognises an individual currently working as a fleet manager in a private sector company that has demonstrated a commitment to making carbon reduction a priority in their day to day duties, and has promoted green fleet practices to other parts of their organisation. There will be three awards for Private Sector Fleet of the Year, based on the fleet size of the company – below 250 vehicles, between 250-500 vehicles, and above 500 vehicles. The award will be presented to the UK private sector organsation that can demonstrate a reduction in CO2 and other pollutants through fuel efficiency programmes, green fleet management and driver awareness training. PUBLIC SECTOR ACHIEVEMENTS The Award for Public Sector Fleet Manager of the Year, sponsored by Green Motion, will recognise 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. There will be two Public Sector Fleet of the Year Awards – one for companies with over 250 vehicles (sponsored by Enterprise Rent-a-Car) and one for companies below 250 vehicles. The award will be presented to the UK public sector organsation that can demonstrate a reduction in CO2 and other pollutants through fuel efficiency programmes, green fleet management and driver awareness training. The Outstanding Achievement Award is taken home by an individual in the motor transport industry whose efforts to promote and encourage greener transport have achieved considerable success. L FOR MORE INFORMATION To enter the GreenFleet Awards, submit your entry statement at www.greenfleetawards.co.uk before 19 August.
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Road Test
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BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon
ESSEX TO ITALY ON LESS THAN A TANK Curious about claims the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon can potentially do 1,000 miles on a single tank, GreenFleet editor Angela Pisanu drives it to Italy – and gets there with fuel to spare With impressive fuel consumption figures of 68.9mpg on a combined cycle and claims it could potentially do 1,000 miles on a single tank, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon was my car of choice to take me and my fiancé across Europe to Italy for our wedding. And the car did not disappoint. Filling up in Loughton, Essex, the car completed the 784 mile trek to Bergamo, near Milan, with 79 miles of fuel to spare. The majority of the journey was on the motorway, but also included the odd higgledy-piggledy village in the Alsace region of France and a wasted hour in the obligatory Milan traffic. We were driving at an average speed of 55.6mph and achieved an average of 64.2mpg. And this was ‘real world’ driving; we were not altering driver behaviour in anyway to get the fuel consumption down – when speed restrictions allowed us to, we put our foot down, and the air con and radio
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were blasting out for most of the journey. The car was also heavily loaded with boxes, suitcases and outfits needed for the wedding. Indeed there were times when the mpg got to 74mpg which suggest that in the right conditions and with the right driving style, the car could achieve 1,000 miles on a single tank. With the average motorist said to cover 10,000 miles annually, being able to travel over 800 miles on a single tank could mean drivers of the BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics having to fill up just 12 times
a year, which given today’s crippling fuel prices, is not to be taken lightly. PLANET FRIENDLY The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics emits just 109g CO2 per km, which is outstanding given the size and performance of the car; it has a 2-litre turbodiesel engine, achieves 163bhp and hits 62mph in eight seconds. Being able to get all the way to Italy with fuel to spare – and keeping CO2 emissions down to 109g/km – shows that there is still enormous potential in the internal combustion engine, at a time when everyone seems to be moving towards hybrids and electrically-powered cars to go green. So what makes the car so efficient? Well, it is packed full of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies, including auto start-stop, brake energy regeneration, optimum gearshift indicator, and electric power steering. More crucially, it has innovative engine construction, a longer transmission ratio, lowered suspension and the use of specially designed aerodynamic alloy E
The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics emits just 109g CO2 per km, which is outstanding given the size and performance of the car; it has a 2-litre turbodiesel engine, achieves 163bhp and hits 62mph in eight seconds.
Alsace, France
E wheels with energy saving tyres. The BMW 320d was powerful, held the road well and felt confident throughout, even at high speeds. It was also very responsive – a major plus when reacting to the often temperamental driving styles of the French and Italians. Inside it was extremely comfortable; the seats were snug and supportive, the cabin was roomy and all the dials and buttons and were within easy reach, making driving as effortless as possible. A feature that deserved particular note was the integrated satnav. The wide, split screen showed a map on one side and a clear diagram of your next manoeuvre on the next. It clearly guided us hundreds of miles across Europe without us once taking a single wrong turn because of an unclear command. The car also comes with the reassurances of a full list of safety features, such as belt tensioners and belt force limiters, dynamic stability control, traction control, corner brake control, anti lock brakes, and numerous airbags. THE BOTTOM LINE While we were shy of reaching 1,000 miles on one tank, seeing what the car can do, I have no doubts that it could reach that far with a more economical driving style and the right conditions on the road. But this was a real world test and for us to reach Italy with fuel to spare was remarkable. And the best bit is that it achieves such fuel efficiency without compromising on driving performance, comfort or safety. What’s more, thanks to its sub 110g/ km emission value, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon has lower tax implications; there is no VED to pay for the first year of purchase, it has a 13 per cent benefit-in-kind company car tax rating, and benefits from 100 per cent first year writing down allowances. Surprisingly, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon shares exactly the same retail price as the 320d SE Saloon at £26,480 (£27,245 OTR) and has an identical specification. So for those that want a car that can go further for less, has lower tax and low emissions – and still enjoy a premium segment car – it would be hard to find fault in the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon. L
Road Test
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Molsheim, Alsace, France
Molsheim, Alsace, France
BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics Saloon Engine: 2.0-litre diesel MPG: 68.9mpg (combined) CO2g/km: 109g/km RFL: B BIK: 13% 0-62 mph: 8 seconds Model price range: £27,245
Bergamo, Italy
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Product Finder
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BREAKDOWN COVER
The AA Address: Fanum House, Basing View, Basingstoke, RG21 4EA Tel: 0800 55 11 88 fleetenquiries@theAA.com www.theAA.com/business Whether you have a small fleet of cars or a single commercial vehicle, making sure your vehicles are roadworthy is crucial to a smooth running business. If you’re considering business breakdown cover, who better to trust than the AA. Roadside assistance in the UK and Europe for cars, vans, trucks, specialist vehicles and minibuses. CAR HIRE
ELECTRIC CHARGING SOLUTIONS
LeasePlan UK
Schneider Electric
Address: 165 Bath Road, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 4AA. Tel: 0844 493 5810 marketing@leaseplan.co.uk www.leaseplan.co.uk
Address: Stafford Park 5, Telford, Shropshire, TF3 3BL Tel: 0870 608 8 608 Fax: 0870 608 8 606 gb-customerservices@ schneider-electric.com www.schneider-electric.co.uk
LeasePlan UK was established in 1979 and now operates a UK fleet in excess of 125,000 vehicles (32,000 commercial vehicles). LeasePlan UK provides dedicated services to specific market segments through its four brands – LeasePlan, FleetLine, Network and Automotive Leasing. LeasePlan UK combines market leading, innovative, yet practical, vehicle leasing solutions with operational efficiency through total fleet cost management and market leading customer service. DRIVER CPC
As a global specialist in energy management with operations in more than 100 countries, Schneider Electric offers integrated solutions across multiple market segments. With the current adoption of electric vehicles, we have pooled our expertise to develop and offer you the right charging solution for today’s changing transportation landscape. ENERGY/ INFRASTRUCTURE
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
EDF Energy
Address: Enterprise House, Delta Way, Egham, Surrey, TW20 8RX Tel: 01784 221 300 Fax: 01784 221 377 www.enterprise.co.uk
Tel: 01273 428635 Fax: 01273 428494 electricvehicles@edfenergy.com www.edfenergy.com/electricvehicles
Enterprise Rent-A-Car is an international car rental company with more than 7,000 locations and 900,000 vehicles worldwide. Enterprise is firmly established as the largest rental car company in the UK. With more than 3,000 employees across the UK and over 350 rental branches, three quarters of the UK population live within five miles of an Enterprise location. CONTRACT HIRE
Novadata Tel: 01376 552999 bob@novadata.co.uk www.novadata.co.uk Novadata has been delivering training courses for over 20 years. These courses range from Driver CPC, Management CPC, ADR and DGSA, and the latest addition PTLLS, an essential requirement for anyone planning a career in training. Novadata is a City & Guilds, SQA, Edexcel and OCRS accredited centre. DRIVER RISK MANAGEMENT
EDF Energy, Britain’s largest producer of low-carbon electricity actively supports the development of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. We believe the take-up of electric transport is key to Britain meeting its carbon reduction targets set by government and we are working with motor manufacturers, charge point manufacturers, central and local government and investing in home, workplace and public EV charging points. FUEL CARDS
IAM Drive & Survive
The Fuelcard Company UK
Address: Swansea Road, Swansea, SA4 4LL Tel: 0845 296 4423 Fax: 01792 896482 contracthire@days.co.uk www.dayscontracthire.co.uk
Address: IAM House, 510 Chiswick High Road, London, W45RG Tel: 0870 120 2910 Fax: +44 (0) 20 8996 9701 enquiries@iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk
Address: St James Business Park, Grimbald Crag Court, Knaresborough HG5 8QB Tel: 0845 4561400 Fax: 0845 4561700 info@fuelcards.co.uk www.thefuelcardcompany.co.uk
Days Contract Hire has a proud history of service excellence, whether it be the private or public sector we conduct business on a personal level. We provide trusted advice based on our in-depth knowledge finding the most cost effective vehicle solution whatever the fleet size.
IAM Drive & Survive is a leading occupational driver risk management provider and part of the IAM, a leading road safety charity with the sole aim of improving road safety for all. IAM Drive & Survive is here to work with businesses to reduce incidents, minimise costs and look after your drivers.
The Fuelcard Company is one of the largest commercial fuel card resellers in the UK and we enjoy partnerships with most commercial fuelling networks, these networks include Shell, Esso, Texaco and Keyfuels. The Fuelcard Company currently serves over 30,000 business fleets UK-wide.
Days Contract Hire
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FLEET MANAGEMENT AND FUNDING
LEASING
LONG TERM CAR HIRE
Automotive Leasing
3 Month Car Hire.com
Address: Blake House, Hatchford Way, Birmingham, B26 3RZ Telephone: 0800 389 3690 marketing@lexautolease.co.uk www.lexautolease.co.uk
Address: Dominion Way, Rustington, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN16 3HQ Tel: 0844 493 5840 Fax: 0844 493 5850 marketing@automotive-leasing.co.uk www.automotive-leasing.org
3 Month Car Hire.com C/O Avail, PO Box 153, Ross on Wye, HR9 9AY Tel: 01285 610003, fax: 01285 658610 3monthcarhire@avail.co.uk www.3monthcarhire.co.uk
Lex Autolease is the UK’s leading vehicle management and funding specialist. We have in excess of 300,000 vehicles currently under management, making us the UK's largest leasing company. But it’s through delivering World Class Customer Service and developing a true partnership with businesses and public sector organisations, to help them face the challenges of running a fleet, which gives us our competitive edge.
Automotive Leasing specialise in delivering innovative, yet practical, vehicle leasing solutions for the public sector. As part of LeasePlan, the world's leading supplier of vehicle management solutions, Automotive Leasing delivers all the benefits you would expect from a market leading organisation. Yet, whilst benefiting from big company innovations, the positive values of a small business have consciously been maintained.
Lex Autolease
FUEL CARDS
TOTALCARD green Address: 40 Clarendon Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1TQ Tel: 0800 988 8908 Fax: 0870 111 8943 totalcard@total.co.uk www.totalcardgreen.co.uk TOTALCARD green is the fuel card from TOTAL that will help you cut your CO2 emissions by reducing the fuel consumption of your vehicles. Not only will this help you to act responsibly towards the environment, but you will also save money. Please take the time to find out about the benefits of TOTALCARD green. GPS, TELEMATICS & NAVIGATION
Garmin Address: Liberty House, Hounsdown Business Park, Southampton, SO40 9RB Tel: 02380 524001 Fax: 02380 524004 sales.europe@garmin.com www.garmin.com Since 1989, Garmin has delivered 72 million GPS enabled devices – far more than any other navigation provider. Garmin’s market breadth in the GPS industry is second to none, having developed innovative products and established a leadership position in each of the markets it serves, including automotive, aviation, marine, fitness, outdoor recreation, tracking and wireless applications.
LEASING
ING Car Lease Address: Phoenix House, Cookham Road Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 1RR Tel: 0870 4028 229 mark.gibson@ingcarlease.co.uk www.ingcarlease.co.uk ING Car Lease provides a full range of funding and fleet management services to both private and public sector organisations and can offer advice to customers on all issues relating to both car and commercial fleets. Sitting within the top 10 largest leasing companies in the UK, ING has the expertise and ability to support a full range of vehicle management requirements. LOW COST, LOW CARBON LCVS
3 Month Car Hire.com does what you need, when you want it. We can supply vehicles for new employees, contract staff, special projects, pool vehicles, and pre-contract vehicles. There is no deposit and no advance rental to pay and we offer nationwide delivery to home or business. Vehicles are fully maintained with full breakdown cover and have a 36,000 miles PA allowance. We have a comprehensive range of vehicles – choose by engine size and body style. VEHICLE HIRE
Northgate Vehicle Hire Tel: 0844 8262800 Fax: 01325 363471 info@northgatevehiclehire.co.uk www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk Northgate Vehicle Hire operates in the UK and Ireland with a national network of more than 60 branches and with a modern fleet of c.60,000 vehicles available for short-term or long-term hire. Northgate pioneered the development of Norflex providing customers with the flexibility of hiring vehicles without the constraints of a fixed period contract, or the risks of ownership. Customers can return or change vehicles without notice or penalty to meet their changing business requirements. VEHICLE TRACKING
Ashwoods Automotive
TomTom Business Solutions
Address: Hybrid House, 80 Summerway, Exeter, Devon, EX4 8DS Tel: 01392 340412 Fax: 0207 900 3317 david.balchin@ashwoods.org www.ashwoods.org
Address: 20th Floor, Euston Tower, 286 Euston Road, London, NW1 3AS Tel: 020 7255 4684 uk.business@tomtom.com www.tomtom.com/business
Ashwoods design, develop and manufacture low cost, low carbon light commercial vehicles. Our vans achieve up to 25 per cent greater mpg than the standard equivalent. We supply vehicles to the Royal Mail, Environment Agency, Transport for London and councils the length and breadth of the UK.
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TomTom Business Solutions is the fastest growing telematics company in Europe keeping over 135,000 live connected vehicles moving every day. Our solutions keep your drivers moving and helps promote greener, safer driving whilst reducing cost by increasing efficiencies – so whether you have trucks, vans or cars there is a solution for you.
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Advertisers Index
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Watch the whole event online, on-demand! Did you miss the Electric Vehicles seminar on 2 June? Why not attend online? You will be given full access to all presentations to allow you to watch what you want, when you want.
Hear from these EV experts Tim Nicklin, ULCVD Project Manager, FORD Andrew Heiron, Head of Electric Vehicle Programmes, RENAULT UK David Dossett, President, CENELEC (EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR ELECTROTECHNICAL STANDARDISATION) Rolf Adam, Director Sales & Business Development – Utilities Smart Grid Europe, CISCO Charles Bradshaw-Smith, Head of E-Mobility, Research and Development, E.ON
Exhibitors
Supported by
Media partners
The Institution of Engineering and Technology is registered as a Charity in England & Wales (no 211014) and Scotland (no SCO38698). The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Michael Faraday House, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, SG1 2AY.
Register to view the conference on-demand at www.theiet.org/electricvehicles IET_Electric_Vehicles_AD_NEW_GF_V3.indd 1
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ADVERTISERS INDEX
The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service Agility Global Alfa Romeo Ashwoods Automotive
60
48 2, 23 30
LeasePlan
14
Lex Autolease
12
Mia Electric
48
BMW
8
Quantya
50
Brake
35
Renault
18
Citroen
36
Schneider Electric
44
Ecovelocity
10
Shell
26
EDF Energy
40
The AA
20
The Electric Vehicle Company
50
The Institute of Engineering and Technology
60
Energy Saving Trust
52
TomTom
28
ePower Trucks
48
Total
24
Euromec Contracts
48
Tracker
42
Hyundai
46
Vauxhall Commercial Vehicles
16
IAM Drive & Survive
32
Volvo
ING
22
Econano
Insurance
38
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