GreenFleet 71

ROAD TEST BMW i3

FLEET INTERVIEW

www.greenfleet.net

LOGISTICS & FREIGHT

ISSUE 71

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

A CLEAN-BURNING FUEL FOR FLEETS

The benefits of converting your vehicle to run on LPG

FIRST DRIVE

VW E-UP

Behind the wheel of Volkswagen’s first electric vehicle ROAD TESTS KIA RIO 1.1 CRDi ■ LEXUS CT 200h HYBRID

Less fuel in.

More miles out.

Go further with the new Honda engine.

CR-V 1.6 Diesel

Civic 1.6 Diesel

Civic Tourer 1.6 Diesel

• Low fuel costs 62.8 mpg

• Low fuel costs 78.5 mpg

• Low fuel costs 74.3 mpg

• 119 g/km CO2

• 94 g/km CO2

• 99 g/km CO2

• Band C VED

• Zero VED

• Zero VED

• BIK rate from 18%

• BIK rate from 13%

• BIK rate from 14%

• Two wheel drive

• Insurance group from 15E

• Insurance group from 15E

honda.co.uk/corporate Fuel consumption figures for the Honda range in mpg (l/100km): Urban Cycle 23.2 – 70.6 (12.2 – 4.0), Extra Urban 40.4 – 85.6 (7.0 – 3.3), Combined 32.5 – 78.5 (8.7 – 3.6). CO2 emissions 201 – 94g/km. Fuel consumption figures sourced from official EU-regulated laboratory test results, are provided for comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving experience.

Models shown for illustrative purposes: Civic 1.6 i-DTEC S in optional White Orchid Pearl, CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC S in optional Passion Red Pearl and Civic Tourer 1.6 i-DTEC SR in optional Twilight Blue Metallic.

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GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE ROAD TEST BMW i3

FLEET INTERVIEW

www.greenfleet.net

LOGISTICS & FREIGHT

ISSUE 71

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

A CLEAN-BURNING FUEL FOR FLEETS

The benefits of converting your vehicle to run on LPG

FIRST DRIVE

VW E-UP

Behind the wheel of Volkswagen’s first electric vehicle ROAD TESTS KIA RIO 1.1 CRDi ■ LEXUS CT 200h HYBRID

Comment

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

HAND-OUTS FOR PLUG-INS It has been reported that around £170 million worth of plug-in grant subsidies will be left unclaimed by the time the offer expires in 2015.

This is because, ministers say, demand for this technology has been less than originally anticipated.

Up to the end of 2013, 6,709 plug-in claims had been made. The van grant scheme, which was launched in February last year, has seen 404 grants claimed. The fact that the business sector accounts for 47 per cent of all grants obtained shows that the fleet sector is leading the way in electric vehicle adoption.

Whilst demand may have been less than first thought, there does appear to be appetite for these vehicles as more is understood about the technology, more public charge points are added, and further electric vehicles come out.

What should also drive uptake is the amount of companies that are offering packages that address common concerns around electric mobility; the BMW i3 comes with an array of services, from being ‘rescued’ if you run out of battery, to having access to a conventional BMW for the occasional long-distance trip. Alphabet has launched an EV consultancy to help fleets examine the viability of electric vehicles; and Fleet Evolution has launched a salary sacrifice scheme where employees who opt for an electric vehicle can get the use of a conventional car for up to four weeks of the

year.

What’s more, the government has stepped up its marketing drive for EVs with its Go Ultra Low Campaign, which aims to dispel the common myths associated with such vehicles.

So with all these developments in the industry, I look forward to seeing what the uptake for electric vehicles will be like this year.

Angela Pisanu, editor

P ONLINE P IN PRINT P MOBILE P FACE TO FACE If you would like to receive 10 issues of GreenFleet magazine for £200 a year, please contact Public Sector Information Limited, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 GreenFleet® would like to thank the following organisations for their support:

PUBLISHED BY PUBLIC SECTOR INFORMATION LIMITED

226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk EDITOR Angela Pisanu EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Arthur Walsh EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Danny Wright PRODUCTION EDITOR Richard Gooding PRODUCTION CONTROL Jacqueline Lawford, Jo Golding WEB PRODUCTION Reiss Malone PUBLISHER Martin Freedman ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich ACCOUNT MANAGER Carl Skinner REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

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© 2014 Public Sector Information Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. ISSN 1362 - 2541

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

3

You know us for one thing.

Now know us for many.

Businesses have trusted us to provide market leading breakdown cover for many years. But today, we do so much more. RAC Business Services provide a range of innovative solutions to save you money and drive your business forward.

Call 0844 241 3023 to find out more or visit rac.co.uk/business

Contents

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

CONTENTS GREENFLEET 71 07 GREENFLEET NEWS

29 GREENFLEET EVENTS

14 ALTERNATIVE FUELS

32 ROAD TEST: BMW i3

£170m of EV subsidies likely to remain unspent; ACFO seminar looks at the future for UK electric fleets; UK faces legal action for poor air quality Cars running on autogas produce 14 per cent fewer CO2 emissions than petrol cars and 10 per cent fewer than diesel.

Rob Shuttleworth, chief executive at UKLPG explains the environmental and financial benefits that can be gained from engine conversion

07

19 INTERVIEW

14 23

Two new events have been added to the GreenFleet events diary, plus a second day to the hugely popular Scotland event

Roland Rendell relishes the opportunity to put BMW’s range-extending variant of the ground-breaking i3 through its paces

34 ROAD TEST: KIA RIO 1 1.1 CRDI ECODYNAMICS The Kia Rio doesn’t just shine; it really shows you all it can. Richard Gooding prepares to be dazzled

West Lothian Council secured two GreenFleet Awards last year for its innovative work to reduce the environmental impact of its vehicles. We spoke to fleet and community transport manager Joe Drew to learn more about the council’s green strategies

35 FIRST DRIVE: VW E-UP

23 LOGISTICS & FREIGHT

Angela Pisanu takes the Japanese hybrid hatchback for a spin

In a tough economic climate, the logistics industry should view green practices as more than just a marketing, PR or CSR tool and understand the bottom-line value they bring, writes Peter Murphy

The e-Up is Volkswagen’s first production electric vehicle based on its new city car

37 ROAD TEST: LEXUS CT 200H 38 PRODUCT FINDER A round-up of products and services for the fleet market

35

32

34

GreenFleet magazine

www.greenfleet.net Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

5

Business Mobility is Going Electric.

Electric vehicles are set to play an important role in the future of business mobility.

But are they right for you?

With AlphaElectric, we’ve applied some very clever thinking to help you answer that very question to incorporate EVs seamlessly into your fleet.

We can help you to discover if and how EVs can fit into your fleet, which vehicles to select and how to implement a workable charging infrastructure. And should your drivers require access to a combustion vehicle on occasion, we offer a choice of packages.

Talk to us today, plug into our expertise, and take your electric fleet a great deal further.

AlphaElectric. It’s all part of our vision for the future of mobility.

Find out more:

Tel: 0870 50 50 100 Email: alphabet@alphabet.co.uk www.alphabet.co.uk

WINNER Leasing / Fleet Management Provider of the Year

WINNER

Service Supplier of the Year

FINANCE

£170m of EV subsidies likely to remain unspent

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/po26973

The Plug-in Car Grant for electric vehicles has fallen short of government projections, with £170 million worth of subsidies predicted to remain unclaimed by the time the offer expires in 2015. £400 million was set aside in 2011 for the four year scheme, but it is now expected that only £230 million will have been claimed when the offer ends in 2015. A total of 6,709 claims had been made by the end of December.

But Robert Goodwill, the roads minister, said: “Sales of ultra low emission vehicles have

been increasing year on year, but at a slower rate than originally anticipated. We are currently projecting to spend circa £230 million over the period. Grant uptake in 2013 was 335 per cent higher than in 2011, grants in January 2014 were at a record level and 679 per cent higher than the equivalent month in 2013.”

A similar scheme offering £8,000 grants to those purchasing low-emission vans has been in place since 2012, but has had only 404 claims to date.

CHARGING

Alphabet unveils EV charge card Alphabet has launched a unique electric vehicle (EV) charge card in partnership with EV charging specialist Chargemaster. The AlphaElectric Charge Card enables drivers to top-up their vehicles at more than 85 per cent of the UK’s public charging points.

Business users of the AlphaElectric Charge Card will receive a monthly invoice, while private membership is also available via a monthly direct debit. All subscribers will be able to track and manage their account online, while information on compatible and available charging points can also

be viewed through Alphabet’s dedicated website and app. The card costs £20 per year, per card, plus pay-per-use fees.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Electric car club gets £500,000 investment E-Car club, the first wholly electric car club in the UK, has received £500,000 in funding from the social investment fund Ignite, backed by Centrica. The club, established in 2011, charges members upwards of £5.50 an hour to hire electric cars from bays with charging stations.

Executive chairman Andrew Wordsworth told BusinessGreen.com: “The funding is going to allow us to

extend from the 20 vehicles we’ve got at the moment to expand though 2014 and 2015 up to 100-plus vehicles.

“We work with social landlords, local authorities, organisations and businesses, but then use that to build a consumer base and provide affordable transport for those READ MORE: community tinyurl.com/nvemgw2 members.”

News

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

INFRASTRUCTURE

Kent rolls out electric charging points The Kent borough of Ashford and Tenterden is to install five double electric vehicle charging points before the end of March, it has been announced. This comes after a successful bid

by Kent County Council to secure £237,000 in funding for 43 double charging points, each costing around £7,500 to buy and install. The grant covers £5,500 per unit, with match funding provided by local authorities.

Portfolio holder for transportation, highways and engineering Cllr Bernard Heyes said: “Although there are currently only a small number of owners of electric vehicles in the county, statistics suggest that this will increase over the coming years so it is important for us to provide the necessary infrastructure to run (and re-charge) READ MORE: the tinyurl.com/qynvlrb vehicles.”

TAXIS

Minicab operator pulls out of electric taxi scheme Green Tomato Cars, the second-largest minicab company in the capital, has exited a plan to put 50 electric taxis into use in London. It had signed a deal in 2012 with the Chinese manufacturer BYD whereby it would have used the e6 electric car.

It was announced that the two companies had “mutually decided that we will not pursue this venture further.” Although no reason was given, Green Tomato cars said last year that London’s inadequate charging infrastructure was causing delays in the roll-out.

Twenty BYD e6s have been introduced in London by READ MORE: private hire tinyurl.com/ocnp37e firm Thriev.

INFRASTRUCTURE

More charging points for Birmingham Birmingham City Council has installed 36 Evolt charge points at 18 sites throughout the city, in both on- and off-street locations. The charging stations inform drivers of their energy consumption and charge point status, and feature both a three pin socket and a seven pin Type 2 socket. Funding was provided in part by the government body Plugged-In Midlands. The number of charge points around East and West Midlands is READ MORE: expected to tinyurl.com/pa8yrv6 reach 500.

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

7

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

ACFO seminar looks at the future for UK electric fleets Attendees at the ACFO Electric Vehicle Seminar (18 February, Oxford) heard a variety of speakers sharing their ideas on the current state of the EV fleet market and where it is likely to go in the future.

ACFO director Phil Redman spoke of the coming benefit-in-kind tax hike for zero emission company vehicles, warning that the proposed increase from zero to five per cent in 2015/16 and seven per cent in 2016/17 could “hamper” the trend of growing company demand for EVs. He said: “The tax rises should not be coming in before 2020 to enable electric vehicles to become established.”

OLEV’s head of consumer initiatives Anna West hinted to delegates that government incentives to support the uptake of low emission vehicles are likely to stay in place after 2015. She said: “We have had a fantastic response from fleets so far with almost 50 per cent grant uptake being from the business sector,” adding that “we think there will be some form of purchase incentive available from April 2015.”

The Energy Saving Trust’s Karl Anders spoke about the flexibility of electric fleets, with research showing that electric vehicles can be utilised by many different fleets operating across a wide cross-section of age and mileage profiles. As part of the Plugged-in Fleets Initiative (PIFI), which is funded by the Department for Transport and Transport for London, the Energy Saving Trust is undertaking

Ollie Parsons, BMW (left) with ACFO's Julie Jenner & Damian Jones

a free bespoke analysis on 100 fleets to help them understand where ultra‑low emission vehicles could work for them.

Jim McNally, asset risk manager with Alphabet, told delegates that Electric vehicle residual value setting is the single biggest leasing industry challenge. He advised that the fact that electric vehicles were a step into the unknown with no meaningful volume in the marketplace coupled with a lack of historic data on which to base used vehicle values, were all reasons why residual value setting was proving to be a challenge.

He said: “There is a risk, but also an opportunity. The safest residual value is the one you READ MORE: never www.acfo.org write.”

News

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

NEWS IN BRIEF Energy firm offers 1,000 free green electric miles The UK green energy company Ecotricity is offering electric vehicle drivers a discount equivalent to 1,000 miles of free energy per year as part of its Electricity + Car tariff, which offers 100 per cent renewably-sourced energy.

Drivers will also have access to the company’s Electric Highway, a network of AC and DC rapid chargers spread across the UK. New Volkswagen e-Up customers are offered an opt-in to the scheme at the point-of-sale when they buy the all-electric city car. Ecotricity is the official energy supplier to the German car maker.

E Volkswagen e-Up first drive, p35 READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/kfnjrhj

BMW invests in carbon fibre It has been announced that BMW, in partnership with SGL, is to invest £100 million in carbon fibre production. The move is aimed at doubling production to 6,000 metric tons annually. Carbon fibre is used in the production of the BMW i3 and BMW i8 models.

E BMW i3 road test p32

FINANCE

Company car scheme combines both electric and traditional vehicles Fleet Evolution, a company specialising in salary sacrifice car schemes, has launched a package for employees using electric vehicles which will allow them to use a normal car for up to four weeks a year. The Electric Flex package will allow customers to use the second car at minimal notice, and at the customer’s discretion – in a full week block or just for a day at a time.

Fleet Evolution director Andrew Leech said: “Our new scheme means customer can take an electric car safe in the knowledge there is an alternative car available if they need it. While electric cars are great for the environment and provision for them is improving, they are simply not practical for long distances.

This is an issue for our customers when choosing a salary sacrifice car.”

VEHICLE-TO-GRID TECHNOLOGY

Steady growth predicted for vehicle-to-grid market A recent report by Navigant Research predicts that sales of plug-in cars using vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies will increase as the benefits become more widely understood. The researchers predict that over 250,000 V2G enabled plug-ins will be sold worldwide between 2013 and 2022.

An analyst from the company said: “Plug-in

electric vehicles can provide services to the grid by changing the rate at which they consume power, thereby reducing peak loads, or by providing power back to the grid, helping to balance loads on the grid. The benefits to operators also include smoothing the integration of renewable energy resources and generation revenue from ancillary services markets.”

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/qgq7wmb

Toyota working on wireless charging Toyota is due to start verification testing of a wireless charging system for its plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles in Japan.

The system will allow cars to charge when parked in alignment over a coil built into the road surface, utilising magnetic‑resonance technology.

The tests will involve three plug-in hybrid vehicles and will have criteria such a satisfaction, ease of use and misalignment rates.

9

Proof, you can please all the people all the time.

NEW FORD MONDEO ZETEC BUSINESS EDITION Touchscreen Navigation

There is a lot to the new Mondeo Zetec Business Edition. As well as Touchscreen Navigation you also get USB Connectivity Port, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Privacy Glass, LED Daytime running lights, Power folding door mirrors, Silver scuff plates and 17´´alloys.

That’s pretty much something for everyone – including an astute Fleet manager.

For more information please email info@fordfleet.co.uk

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Ford Mondeo Zetec Business Edition range: urban 34.5-55.4 (8.2-5.1), extra urban 52.3 -74.3 (5.4-3.8), combined 44.1- 65.7 (6.4 - 4.3). Official C02 emissions 149-112g/km.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. Please see your Ford Dealer for details. Vehicle shown is Ford Mondeo Zetec Business Edition.

News

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

POLLUTION

UK faces legal action for poor air quality The European Commission has launched legal proceedings against the UK for failing to achieve air pollution limits.

The EU restrictions were meant to come into effect in 2010, but member states were able get an extra five years’ grace if they put in place plans to cut levels of NO2. The UK admitted that the limits relating

to 16 of its zones, including London, could not be met by the revised deadline of 2015.

For many of these areas, the government believes the levels can be reached by 2020. In London, they admit it is likely to be 2025.

For the EU, this is far too long.

It has decided to launch the first case against a member state for breaching the limits on NO2.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Power storage facility made with used batteries Sumitomo Corporation in Japan has developed the world’s first large scale power storage system using used batteries from electric vehicles. The system, based on Yume-shima island in Osaka, will begin operations in spring.

The project has been chosen by the Japanese Ministry of the Environment as a model project for achieving renewable energy through battery storage.

It presents an opportunity to utilise the growing number of used EV batteries. Sumimoto teamed up with Nissan in 2010 to investigate how used

lithium-ion batteries could be incorporated into power storage systems.

The scheme’s general manager Norihiko Nonaka said: “We are pleased to be a part of such an important verification project that can both utilise used EV batteries, and provide a large‑scale power storage facility, which are important issues that need to be addressed for the future of renewable energy.”

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/nzr323w

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/mrtckka

New electric car for wheelchair users The first electric car built for wheelchair users is going into production in the US. Kenguru vehicles measure seven feet long and five feet high (making them smaller than Smart Cars), and have no seats – drivers roll their chair into the car through a door that pops up at the back. The concept was originally developed in Hungary, but the founder relocated to the US in order to secure venture capital. The car, which has a 60-mile range and a maximum speed of 25mph, is expected to be available in 12 to 18 months.

LowCVP’s Andy Eastlake LowCVP plays cupid An important aspect of the work LowCVP do is working with the small companies developing the technology ideas way before they make it into the mainstream market for fleet vehicles. Old romantics that we are, I’m glad to report that the LowCVP was able to celebrate Valentine’s week by helping to bring innovators and investors together at a match-making event in London.

The LowCVP recognised participants presenting low carbon and fuel efficient road transport innovations at ecoConnect’s Cleantech Innovate 2014 Showcase. A wide range of British growth‑oriented and venture‑ready technology companies presented their ideas to an audience of investors, corporate buyers and others at what is the largest innovation showcase of its kind in the UK. Speaking at the event, the energy and climate change minister Greg Barker said that the UK now has the sixth biggest share of the £3.4 trillion global market for low carbon goods and environmental services. Cleantech, indeed, is the UK’s most dynamic and growing sector, estimated to be worth over £120 billion and a key driver of this country’s future economic success. The sector as a whole already employs almost a million people and the low carbon automotive and fuels sectors have been an important part of this emerging success story.

From super-efficient electric powertrains to liquid‑air engines and advances in fuel cells and refrigerated transport, the showcased innovations demonstrated the potential to cut carbon emissions, improve efficiency and lower costs in the road transport sector.

The winner of a LowCVP commendation as most impressive of the road transport-focused entries was Evolute Drives (Drive System Design) who, in recognition, have received free membership of the LowCVP for the coming year.

Evolute Drives is working to bring a new generation powertrain for electric vehicles to the market.

The heart of the system is an alternate approach to powershifting (no torque interrupt) achieved by separating the existing functions of a synchroniser. The system, say Drive System Design, can mean a 10‑15 per cent improvement in the range of electric vehicles.

The innovations showcased at the event were selected by an independent expert panel. I applaud the work of all of them, and particularly those – like Evolute Drives – with a road transport application.

These included innovations from Amalyst; Autotrip Ltd; Dearman Engine Co Ltd; E-Car Club; Epicam Ltd; Revolve Technologies Ltd and Teva Motors. Watch out for these in the future as you select your next fleet of vehicles.

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.lowcvp.org.uk or @theLowCVP on Twitter

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

11

The E-Class.

CO2 from 109g /km.*

A Daimler Brand

The numbers work.

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg ( litres per 100km) for the new E- Class range: urban 20.3 (13.9 ) –68.9 (4.1), comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. *Model featured is a new E 300 BlueTec Hybrid SE Saloon at £40,525.00 on-the-road including be available. Price correct at time of going to print 01/14.

extra urban 36.2 (7.8) –70.6 (4.0), combined 28.3 (10.0) –68.9 (4.1). CO2 emissions: 234 –109 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for automatic transmission and optional metallic paint at £645.00 (OTR price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Some combinations of features/options may not

Alternative Fuels Written by Rob Shuttleworth, chief executive, UKLPG

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS

A CLEAN-BURNING FUEL FOR FLEETS

Cars running on autogas produce 14 per cent fewer CO2 emissions than petrol cars and 10 per cent fewer than diesel, as well as a significantly less nitrogen oxides. Rob Shuttleworth, chief executive at UKLPG explains the environmental and financial benefits that can be gained from engine conversion

There are currently over 16 million vehicles powered by LPG autogas globally and this figure continues to grow year-on-year. Within the UK, there are around 150,000 vehicles running on LPG autogas and there is a full infrastructure already in place, with over 1,400 refuelling points, currently representing more than five per cent of forecourt fuel volume. So, with a national network already in place, it is ideally placed to reduce vehicle carbon emissions and tackle the growing problem of UK urban air pollution.

Air quality, particularly in urban areas, is a continuing issue and although today’s vehicles

With al a nation hich kw networ xists, LPG e alreadyly placed to is ideal ehicle carbon v reduce ons and tackle emissi oblem of air the pr llution po

14

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 71

produce a great deal less pollutants than they used to, they still contribute significantly to air pollution. However, vehicles converted to run on LPG produce far fewer of the harmful emissions associated with traditional fuels and so offer the best environmental alternative.

REDUCING POLLUTION As a cleaner-burning fuel, cars running on autogas produce 14 per cent fewer CO2 emissions than petrol cars and 10 per cent fewer than diesel. They emit 50 per cent fewer nitrogen oxides than petrol and 20 per cent less than diesel. This can contribute to an improvement in local air quality, helping to safeguard public health. LPG also produces up to 120 times less of the small particulates found in the tailpipe emissions of some diesel vehicles which are associated with other health hazards including respiratory problems and developmental difficulties in babies.

According to a report from The Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Pollutants, air pollution in 2008 was responsible for about 29,000 deaths in the UK, which is attributable to long-term exposure to particulate matter, with an average loss of life of 11.5 years.

Over 4,250 of these premature deaths occur in London, where air pollution is the worst in the UK. In addition, Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) represents a major health risk. A major source

About UKLPG UKLPG is the national trade association and voice of LPG within the UK, representing a membership of companies who are producers, distributors, equipment and service providers and vehicle converters.

UKLPG’s LPG Autogas consumer website – www.drivelpg.co.uk – provides a useful calculator for individuals to see what they can save as well as information on conversions and the companies approved to convert vehicles. vehicle, the annual savings increase to £1,389.90. In these harsh economic times, investing in a conversion could significantly improve the profitability, as well as the environmental performance of the fleet.

THE CONVERSION PROCESS Around 90 per cent of petrol cars currently registered in the UK can be converted to run on LPG. While diesel cars can also

While diesel cars can be converted, the process is a lot more complicated and is not recommended given the current technology of both these dangerous pollutants is diesel exhaust, which the World Health Organisation (WHO) has recently classified as a carcinogen.

REVIEWING THE FIGURES However, despite these statistics and the environmental and financial benefits that can be achieved, there seems to be a slight reticence amongst fleet managers to convert vehicles. One of the main reasons behind this is that they believe it is costly and complicated. However, although converting a vehicle does require some work and the vehicle will only be off the road for around three days, it should only cost around £1,200.

Despite the miles per gallon when running on LPG, which is usually around 20 per cent less than petrol, significant savings can be made very quickly across a fleet of vehicles.

In fact, when looking at the average fuel prices across the UK, LPG autogas costs around 45 per cent less than unleaded petrol and is even cheaper when compared to diesel. If you take the average mileage of a fleet vehicle being 20,000, with an average fuel consumption of 38mpg, the annual saving that can be made for each vehicle is £1,220.20, when compared to petrol. When looking at a typical diesel

be converted, the process is a lot more complicated and is not recommended given the current technology. The process involves having a second, independent fuel system, including a secondary fuel tank, which is usually fitted in the spare wheel well, but can sometimes be installed underneath the vehicle.

They are available in different sizes, so loss of boot space can be kept to a minimum.

Alternative Fuels

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

MAKING SAVINGS Vehicle conversion is classed as an engine modification and, as such, it is necessary to notify the insurance company. The only way to guarantee insurance is by having the conversion undertaken by a UKLPG Approved Autogas installer who has been designed specifically to demonstrate their ability to undertake installations and other related work in a safe and satisfactory manner. This safety standard helps to ensure that the fuel remains a safe and reliable part of the future energy landscape for years to come.

In fact, the autumn statement that was delivered by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 5 December 2013 has set out a positive and clear 10 year duty trajectory for LPG and other gaseous fuels. Whilst we welcomed the announcement, which removes any doubt that consumers will suddenly be faced with a fuel duty increase. In fact you will still continue to make savings with LPG until 2024.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT UKLPG continues to lobby for LPG to be included alongside Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). Whilst LPG remains the cheapest, most widely available fuel on the market, the industry strongly believes that it should receive the same level of support as other gaseous fuels.

We want the Chancellor to recognise the importance of industry investment and consumer choice and provide the same level of support as he has done to other green road fuel gases.

This level of support would encourage greener motoring and reward fleet managers who make that choice. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.uklpg.org

What is Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)?

Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LPG, is a derivative of two large energy industries: natural gas processing and crude oil refining. It is used across the world as a source of energy for heating, cooking and vehicles.

LPG can be transported, stored, and used virtually anywhere in the world.

It does not require a fixed network and will not deteriorate over time.

It is very clean burning and has lower greenhouse gas emissions than any other fossil fuel when measured on a total fuel cycle. LPG can be accessible to everyone everywhere today without major infrastructure investment. Nothing needs to be invented and there are enough

reserves to last many decades. LPG is cost-effective, since a high proportion of its energy content is converted into heat and it can be up to five times more efficient than traditional fuels, resulting in less energy wastage and better use of our planet’s resources.

LPG is a multi-purpose energy. There are more than a thousand applications, from cooking, heating, and transportation, to agricultural grain drying and powering fork lift trucks.

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

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fiat.co.uk

FLEET EFFICIENCY

A WINNING GREEN FLEET STRATEGY

West Lothian Council secured two GreenFleet Awards last year for its innovative work to reduce the environmental impact of its vehicles. We spoke to fleet and community transport manager Joe Drew to learn more about the council’s green strategies West Lothian Council uses a Vauxhall Ampera range extender which can be driven on short journeys within the boundary, but also further afield

Interview

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

33 per cent reduction in business miles. What’s more, the introduction of our green transport strategy has delivered recurring savings of £1.2 million and a reduction of 1.8 million grey fleet miles.

DOES THE COUNCIL USE ANY ALTERNATIVELY FUELLED VEHICLES? West Lothian Council has tried and tested various alternative fuels over the years ranging from LPG, CNG, and LNG, to early electric vehicles.

We currently operate Peugeot and Citroën full electric cars which are used for journeys within the boundaries of West Lothian, usually between Council premises, where there are charging points.

The Council also uses an extended-range Vauxhall Ampera which is also used for journeys within the boundary but can be used for longer journeys such as visiting other Local Authorities as range is not an issue. We also use an electric road sweeper.

HOW DOES THE COUNCIL USE TELEMATICS TO OPTIMISE ITS FLEET? The Council will install telematics to most of the fleet in April this year. One of the aims is to reduce fuel usage with better route optimisation, better vehicle utilisation, possible vehicle reductions, identify driver training issues and reduce insurance claims.

Also, from a health and safety perspective, the council will improve staff security for lone workers.

West Lothian as h Council ked at loo always t ways to differen missions – e reduce ys uses the it alwa t engine lates logy techno

West Lothian Council celebrated double success at the 2013 GreenFleet Awards, taking home Public Sector Fleet of the Year Award (medium to large fleet), while the council’s community transport manager, Joe Drew, scooped Public Sector Fleet Manager of the Year for his personal efforts in making carbon reduction a commitment.

GreenFleet spoke to Joe Drew to find out more about their winning green fleet strategies.

DESCRIBE YOUR FLEET OF VEHICLES. West Lothian Council runs a mixed fleet of approximately 1,000 vehicles. The make up of the fleet is vans and cars of up to 3500kg GVW, of which there are approximately 700. This includes 300 pool cars. There are 150 vehicles over 3500kg GVW, including refuse collection vehicles, graters, road sweepers, tippers, and skip vehicles.

The remainder are tractors, trailers and plant.

The main manufacturers are Daf, Volvo, Mercedes, Vauxhall and Iveco.

IN WHAT WAYS HAS THE COUNCIL GREENED ITS FLEET? West Lothian Council has always looked at different ways to reduce emissions over the years.

We have always used the latest engine technology available. When Euro 5 was the standard, we re-mapped engine management systems so that the vehicle was EEV compliant.

All pool cars are to have a CO2 emission limit of below 100 g/km and utilise stop/start technology if available, and all vehicles up to 3500Kg GVW have speed limiters fitted. We have developed an in-house driver training programme which focuses on safe and fuel efficient driving, and are currently developing a software package for route optimisation of our fleet.

HOW SUCCESSFUL HAS THIS BEEN AT LOWERING CO2?

Since 2012 CO2 has been reduced by 8.3 per cent. This will increase with the introduction of telematics in April 2014 and a planned

WHAT CHALLENGES HAS THE COUNCIL COME ACROSS? One of the challenges we faced was a lack of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

It was equally important to get staff to buy into and embrace our scheme and provide them with vehicles fit for purpose.

We are currently carrying out an internal transport review encouraging services to reduce their fleet and increase utilisation.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER FLEET MANAGERS WHO WANT TO GREEN THEIR FLEET? Don’t rush in – arrange demonstrator vehicles for your own use, not for a week but for a minimum of four weeks so that all services can use the vehicles. Benchmark against other councils and discuss their experiences.

Electric vehicles are not the answer to everything but they certainly have a part to play.

Lastly, ask yourself, do you need a vehicle at all? Is alternative transport an option or car sharing? Can alternative technologies be utilised and reduce the need to attend meetings in person (e.g. video conferencing)? L FURTHER INFORMATION www.westlothian.gov.uk

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

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THE UK’S BIGGEST COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW The number one road transport and logistics event in Britain, catering for every operator’s business needs, the CV Show has become the leading meeting place for suppliers and operators alike – a true one stop shop for the industry.

Located at the NEC, at the heart of the motorway network, the CV Show is open from 8.30 to 5.30 April 29 - May 1.

www.cvshow.com

GET YOUR FREE TICKET REGISTER TODAY WWW.CVSHOW.COM Exhibitor enquiries call +44 (0) 1634 261 262

ENERGY SAVINGS

In a tough economic climate, the logistics industry should view green practices as more than just a marketing, PR or CSR tool and understand the bottom-line value they bring, writes Peter Murphy The logistics industry works on such tight margins that ‘free’ is a word we should pay attention to. Changes have to be practical for the transport manager who needs to make daily, weekly, quarterly targets. They don’t have the ‘luxury’ to think about planet saving carbon reduction. Shrinking ice caps and struggling polar bears matter less in the here‑and-now than keeping the company alive in an intensely competitive arena. But what they need to understand is that green initiatives can help them.

A good friend of mine is a really clever economist for Bloomberg. Before that he was senior economist at National Grid. He knows a lot about electricity generation and has a keen understanding of green-energy. A couple of years ago we worked together on a business plan to install megawatts of solar capacity on university rooftops, giving free electricity to the uni and making a decent return from the government

backed feed-in-tariff. Part way through that process he said: “You know this renewable stuff – it’s regarded as a luxury item. We are in the midst of the worst financial crisis for 70 years and companies see the green agenda as marketing, PR or corporate social responsibility, not a bottom line priority.” I spoke to him last week as prep for this article, he still thinks corporate world is blind to the financial benefit of greening their operations.

PEOPLE & SKILLS We need to do more with the same or fewer resources, the same or less headcount, the same or less money. The key is to get your people excited about closing loading bay curtains to keep the heat in; getting them to turn lights off around the depot to save electricity and easing up on the accelerator pedal to save fuel.

I did a series of consulting assignments for the Sector Skills Council for logistics E

For the ed ess hard‑pr ompany, sc logistic ess energy using l st and grows co lowers t – that’s not profi us, that’s luxurio practice good

10% fuel reduction equates to saving a month’s money per driver Articulated vehicle consumption

7.6mpg

The UK fleet consumes

2.09 billion gallons of diesel Fuel price

£5.09 per gallon

The UK’s fleet fuel bill is

£10.67bn (£10,670,000,000) Professional drivers in the UK

330,000

Average diesel per driver

£32,402 per annum Average wage range

£28,000-£35,000 10 per cent of wage range

£2,800-£3,500 10 per cent diesel saving

£3,240

Written by Peter Murphy

WHY GREEN ENERGY IS NOT A LUXURY ITEM

Logistics & Freight

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Scotland’s Premier Low Emission Vehicle Event Thursday 24 April 2014 Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh

Register for FREE at www.greenfleetscotland.co.uk

ENERGY SAVINGS  and was repeatedly surprised by the lack of investment in our people. We worked with CRH Transport Training Ltd to take 98 soldiers through their DCPC including a Safe and Efficient Driving Module. CRH MD, Chris Hetherington underlined the importance of getting the driver behind the wheel to be conscious of the fuel he or she is burning: “Trucks are great these days. The brakes, the gearboxes, the latest technical developments are like night and day to even a decade ago. Unfortunately, if you have a heavy footed driver, who brakes sharply or who does not anticipate the road ahead, your fuel consumption can dramatically increase.”

is a low-tech solution that saves heat & money; it has a short payback time and should be considered for sheds & offices. Walls lose at least one-third of a building’s heat & given that warm air rises, the same again or more goes through the roof. Insulate your buildings, it makes sense.

SOLAR Getting ‘free’ electricity from the sun has always appealed to me. The sun is a massive nuclear fusion reactor converting hydrogen into helium at a rate of 4 million tonnes per second. On earth we get 10,000 times more energy from the sun than our current fossil

Many businesses have huge rooftops and even bigger lorry parks that sit there idly whilst they could be generating money and free electricity I did a calculation based on FTA figures for the national fleet. If we could get a 10 per cent reduction in fuel, we would get a month’s money per driver – the equivalent a free month of wages. That’s not a luxury (see ‘Projected fuel savings’ panel).

Using less energy and getting more out has the beneficial side effect of lowering your carbon footprint. More important for the hard‑pressed logistics company, it lowers cost & grows profit – that’s not luxurious, that’s good practice.

TECHNOLOGY Logistics has a lot of vehicles, sheds, lorry parks, offices, warehouses and land, all of which could be harnessed to save and generate power.

About a year ago I was given a tour of car spares warehouse in the Midlands. It had the lot – motion sensors controlled the lighting in the office building, if people were not in the lights went out; spray-foam insulation lined the internal walls and roof space trapping warm air in, keeping cold out; thermostats controlled the heating based on weather conditions and sensors that counted the number of people in the building; the roof had a solar-thermal system warming the building’s hot water before it hit the immersion tank; there were water butts capturing rainfall and a system to filter the reclaimed, grey-water back into the taps and cistern flushers of the toilet; a PV array was being installed a few weeks later which would generate ‘free’ electricity.

My tour guide could talk me through the operation, with figures for the CO2 saving.

He could not however, tell me what this brilliance had cost or how much, if any, money was saved. Payback was a mystery to him, as was return on investment. This information was known only at the German HQ, in the Marketing department.

Was this site a luxury that only a global player could afford? I don’t think so. Insulation

and nuclear capacity. In the UK we can get free electricity because of the feed-in-tariff (FIT), which allows you to get paid for turning sunlight into electricity.

FIT had a rocky start but by first week of 2014 there were 501,100 sub 50 kW solar PVs registered. A quick Google search ‘free solar panels’ will throw up companies prepared to give you free electricity. They take the FIT money to cover the supply and installation of the panels and give you free electricity in return. A leading FIT installer surveyed 100 of their customers and found 25-37 per cent less electricity was consumed. A quarter to a third off your electricity bill for free is not a luxury.

POLICY & GRANTS The Energy Act received Royal Assent on 18 December 2013. Included among issues such as decarbonisation and nuclear regulation, the sell off of the government pipeline and storage system is an amendment to the Secretary of State’s powers that will allow the FITs scheme to include installations with capacity of up to 10MW (an increase on the current ceiling of 5MW) to receive FITs. Many businesses have huge rooftops and even bigger lorry parks that sit there idly whilst they could be generating money and free electricity. Even if you lease the land or roof, get together with the landlord and offer up your site to one of those nice free-to-install, free electricity companies.

Another scheme you should pay attention to is the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

Administered by DECC and Ofgem, the RHI helps businesses meet the cost of installing renewable heat technologies. Included in the scheme are biomass, heat pumps (ground source and water source), geothermal, solar thermal collectors, biomethane and biogas.

You will get a quarterly payment for 20 years, with the value determined by the technology installed, the capacity of what is installed and how much you use.

FUELS H2 will be great when it gets here. Hydrogen vehicles can combust the gas or use it in a fuel cell. However, there is yet to be mass take-up leading to production efficiencies and lower costs. Diesel and petrol have pumps in virtually every town and village, H2 has not really ventured beyond the realm of demonstrator facilities. If you cannot get a fuel to your vehicle, that fuel will struggle to take hold. I look forward to the day when we use hydrogen, but we are not there yet.

Gaining a little more traction is bio-methane.

Tesco for example has trialled the use of fuel derived from landfill on a fleet of delivery vehicles for its shopping service. Gas vehicles emit lower NOx, CO2 and make less noise. The fuel costs less and if you are near a refueling station there is a lot to commend bio-methane. One downside is the resale value of gas vehicles is, as yet lower than standard diesel, making the business case for gas vehicles harder, but the gap is shortening.

Bio-methane is well worth keeping an eye on.

Logistics & Freight

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

GETTING MORE FOR LESS I’m a big fan of spending time getting your people to think about getting more from less.

Spend some time looking at the grants that could be harnessed to get you free energy, FITs and RHI are a good place to start. Keep a weather eye on alternative fuels, as volume sales increase prices will fall. A tight focus on the financial benefits will move green energy from luxury to practical item. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.skillsforlogistics.org

About the author Peter Murphy has an MSc in Renewable Energy & Resource Management and an MBA from Warwick Business School.

He is the founding member of the Logistics Guild and the Logistics Guild Credit Union, currently with the Bank of England for approval, was his idea. He has recently completed executive-consultancy projects for the Sector Skills Council for Logistics focussed on up-skilling people in logistics and with Unipart Logistics looking at mergers and acquisitions. He created the Military Work Placement Scheme, working with industry luminaries such as TNT, K+N, Culina, Unipart, DHL, Scania and many others to give logistics work experience to 1,000 soldiers that are transitioning out of the Forces.

His points of focus are, people, skills, technology, renewable energy and resource management.

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

25

WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR GOLF? NEW PEUGEOT 308

Data provided by KWIKcarcost New Peugeot 308 1.6 BlueHDi Active

Volkswagen Golf MK 7 BlueMotion 1.6 TDi

82g/km

85g/km

BIK at 40%

£83

£92

P11D Value

£19,040

£21,215

(combined drive cycle)

MPG

91.1

88.3

BHP

120

110

CO2

One look at its impressive numbers tells you exactly how the New 308 stacks up against the Volkswagen Golf.

But what you don’t get from the figures is just how dynamic the driving experience feels. Or how sleek the new interior looks, with its unique Peugeot i-Cockpit featuring a 9.7” touchscreen with satellite navigation+ and smaller steering wheel – for more intuitive handling. If you want to see how the New 308 compares to the competition, with independent data provided by KWIKcarcost, visit peugeotcompare.co.uk. You can also find out more by visiting business.peugeot.co.uk/New308 or calling 02476 884 644 for more information.

Official Fuel Consumption in mpg (l/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km) for the 308 Range are: Urban 35.8 (7.9) –80.7

MPG figures are achieved under official EU test conditions, intended as a guide for comparative purposes only, and may not reflect actual on-the-road driving conditions. Model shown is

NEW PEUGEOT 308

business.peugeot.co.uk /New308

(3.5), Extra Urban 61.4 (4.6) – 97.4 (2.9), Combined 48.7 (5.8) - 91.1 (3.1) and CO2 134-82 (g/km).

a 308 Feline with 18” Saphir alloy wheels. +9.7” touchscreen and satellite navigation available on Active level and above. Data shown in the table is independently provided by KWIKcarcost.

We’re driving the future of fleet.

At Lex Autolease, we help you choose the most efficient vehicles that are fit for purpose. We look into your journeys to reduce mileage. And we help your drivers use their vehicles more efficiently.

It all adds up to lower emissions and costs. Which can’t be bad for the environment or your business.

Take a look at our ‘Green Papers’ and get in touch with our team.

For more information, please contact us today.

Call: Email: Visit:

0845 769 7381 marketing@lexautolease.co.uk lexautolease.co.uk/thegreen

GreenFleet Events

EVENTS DIARY

ALL CHANGE FOR THE GREENFLEET EVENTS CALENDAR

This year’s GreenFleet event diary has seen some significant changes, with two new events created, two date changes, a new venue for the Awards, and a second day added to the hugely popular Scotland event

DON R LON GY FO ES HNOLO MIRATM C E E T IN STADIU PLUG D N A CAR

Y 2014 R A U R 27 FEB

being taken by Transport Scotland, with details of the programme announced soon.

This year, a second date has been added for the general public, called EVOLUTION: The Future of Scottish Motoring.

With some of the strictest carbon reduction targets anywhere in Europe, it was felt that the time is right to engage with Scotland’s general public and showcase the latest in low carbon vehicles.

CAPITAL GREENFLEET The event calendar kicks off with our first new event, CAPITAL GreenFleet. This new SCOTT ISH MO Electric Vehicle (EV) event is designed for TORIN HIGHL G – TH AND H EF those that manage a fleet that operates in 2 ALL, R 6 A PRIL 2 OYAL HIGHULATUNRE IS NOW London (either based there, or is frequently 0 DC 14 ED in and out of London). This “Forum” will INBURENTRE GH take place at The Emirates, home to Arsenal FC, on Thursday 27 February, and the idea is GREENFLEET to highlight the viability of EVs in London.

NORTH WEST Staged in association with OLEV and The third event for the year, and new TfL, and hosted by journalist and presenter for 2014 – is GreenFleet North Quentin Willson, fleet operators will get the West, taking place on 19 June at The chance to discuss their issues with experts in Etihad, home to Manchester City. the areas of infrastructure, leasing, recharging Manchester was the latest region to receive technology and, of course, the vehicles OLEV Plugged-in Places grant money to install themselves. Part of the overall experience public EV recharging infrastructure. That phase will be test drives, including the BMW i3. of the project is due to be completed in March, The event aims to answer all those questions so the next step is to engage with fleets and fleet managers may have when it comes to businesses in the Greater Manchester region adopting electric vehicles. to discuss the viability of EVs, workplace GREENFLEET SCOTLAND & EVOLUTION GreenFleet Scotland returns for its sixth year, but this time at an earlier date than usual, Friday 25 April.

The event will once again take place at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, but will be staged in the bigger Highland Hall.

Following requests for a “more real life experience,” test drives this year will take place on part of the internal track, but also take in the open road. As usual, there will be keynote speaker seminars, with the lead

charging, and so on. Again we are delighted to confirm that the event will be staged in association with OLEV, as well as TfGM, and will be hosted by Quentin Willson. As per the CAPITAL event, there will be a discussion forum, breakout sessions and test drives (including the BMW i3), all designed to answer your EV questions.

GREENFLEET ARRIVE ’N’ DRIVE Our flagship event, the Arrive’n’Drive, has moved to the autumn to accomodate the needs of our delegates. As an added benefit, the manufacturers featuring at the show will be able to bring vehicles that you may not have got to see until 2015.

The event is returning to Rockingham on Tuesday 23 September. We will have a workshop running a few times during the day for public sector fleet professionals, with expert advice on hand from Government Procurement Service on the new OGC Fleet Framework.

The event gives delegates a chance to experience the latest vehicles and solutions that can help run a more efficient transport operation.

All GreenFleet events are free to attend and you will receive breakfast on arrival, all day refreshments and a buffet lunch.

GREENFLEET AWARDS The GreenFleet Awards, which recognises pioneers in environmental fleet management, takes place on 30 October, this year at a new venue, the Motor Heritage Centre in Gaydon, Warwickshire.

This black tie event sees fleet operators as well as manufacturers compete for such coveted titles as Public and Private Sector Fleet Manager, and Electric Vehicle Manufacturer of the Year. To enter the awards, visit www.greenfleetawards.co.uk. L FURTHER INFORMATION Register at events.greenfleet.net/ and-register to reserve your place

2 3 0 9 2 0 1 4

THE FLEE T

Rocking

SUSTAIN ABILITY EVENT rth

ham, No

amptons

hire

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

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NO JOB TOO BIG

MOVANO CORE CONVERSIONS Whatever your trade demands, no job is too big for the Vauxhall Movano. With tipper, dropside and Luton models available, the Movano is big on choice. And because every Movano comes with a full 3 year/100,000 mile warranty, whichever model you choose, it will be fit for purpose.

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES The Wheels of Business 3 Years Warranty up to 100,000 miles. The warranty will expire when the vehicle has reached either 3 years or when the mileage limit has been exceeded, whichever occurs first. The warranty The warranty excludes wear and tear and serviceable items, and the vehicle has to be serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s servicing schedule. Terms and conditions apply. Available at

BEST CHASSIS CAB

For more information call 0845 740 0777 or visit www.vauxhall.co.uk/vans includes Vauxhall’s standard Customer Care Commitment of a one-year unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranty and a second and third year manufacturer’s warranty with 100,000 mile limitation. participating Retailers only. Warranty only available on vehicles sourced from General Motors UK Limited. Full details available from your Vauxhall Commercial Retailer.

Road Test

BMW i3 RANGE EXTENDER

Written by Roland Rendell

i3 cabin is uncoventional and futuristic, in keeping with the rest of the car

BMW i3 Range Extender ENGINE: 125kW electric motor, 650cc two-cylinder four-stroke petrol engine CO2:

EYE-OPENING i3

Roland Rendell relishes the opportunity to put BMW’s range extending variant of the ground-breaking i3 through its paces

32

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 71

Range:

13g/km 150 miles

VED:

Band A

BIK:

5%

PRICE (OTR):

£28,830 (inc VAT, after government grant)

Road Test

I have driven almost all EVs launched over the last couple of years, yet there remains the belief that until the Germans get involved, the market will not take off. Well, that time has come. 2014 sees Volkswagen and Audi enter in to the EV arena (the Volkswagen e-Up is tested on page 35), but it’s BMW that has perhaps re-shaped this fledgling market with the introduction of the i3.

Winner of the GreenFleet Award for Industry Innovation, this game‑changing BMW i3 is like no other. Its rivals are a mix of purpose-built EVs and existing models with an electric motor dropped in the front or back.

But they all have one thing in common – they’re wrapped in one kind of metal or another. Not the i3.

The programme that spawned this model – Project i – has given us a few tasters. The first phase included the Mini E, which began field testing in 2009. This was succeeded in the second phase by the ActiveE, a 1-series that previewed the i3’s electric motor and entered two years of global testing in 2012 with a fleet of 1100 cars, including use during the London Olympics.

The i3 represents the result of all that was learned in that period. There are two versions to choose from – a pure electric car with a range of between 80 and 100 miles, and the Range Extender (i3 REx), which offers the same electric powertrain but with the addition of an on-board petrol‑powered generator. So, when the battery becomes depleted, the generator kicks in to ensure that you can continue your journey.

BMW 3 i calls theremium different look indeed. p ‘ t BMW has done away s r fi the . It is ’ r with the instrument a c c i r elect lt of all the cluster completely, opting instead for the resuny learned a pin‑sharp screen a comp ts ‘Project i’ ahead of the driver.

Most other functions during ictric car are displayed on a ele me larger 6.5-inch widescreen program display controlled by the

ITS GENES The i3 is constructed predominantly from Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic which allows the car to counterbalance the 230kg of the 22kWh lithium ion battery pack from which the i3 draws its power.

The REx is the heaviest i3, weighing 1,315kg, yet that’s 150kg lighter than the Renault ZOE Dynamique Intens!

A twin-cylinder bike engine is secreted beneath the boot floor, designed to ease range anxiety. As part of the weight‑saving mission, this car also has hollow driveshafts, lightweight cabin fittings (even a honeycomb windscreen wiper) and forged aluminium suspension and wheels, which measure just five inches wide but 19 inches in diameter, all designed for better aerodynamics and low rolling resistance.

familiar iDrive twiddler.

When I looked at the ‘Drive Selector’, poking up off the steering column, almost American-style, I wasn’t overly impressed. But having now used it, what’s most pleasing is that for the first time, if you want to go forwards, you flick it forwards. If you want to reverse, you flick it backwards.

Some will find the doors on the i3 frustrating. The removal of B-pillars and use of coach doors is modern, stylish and unusual, but the opening is slender and the space they access isn’t particularly roomy.

The size of the i3’s boot is impressive, even if you’ve opted for the range extender. Certainly big enough for a sales rep’s bits and pieces.

The i3 will stand out from the crowd, not because it’s ugly, but because it looks like nothing BMW have ever produced.

THE DRIVE The drive is as silent as you’d expect, and kind of spooky. I am used to driving EVs, but the initial movement within one always throws me out somewhat. A few hundred yards down the road, I lift off the accelerator

Interior touchscreen shows useful displays about i3’s status and usage

INSIDE The i3’s interior is quite a change. You almost ‘perch’ upright on firm, flat seats that are quite elevated. The enlarged windscreen gives a sense of airiness and space. The ‘recycled fibre’ look of the trim, coupled with the ash‑like wood, certainly gives the car a very

The i3 was designed from the ground up as an EV/REx and has bold styling

– and I honestly thought I had hit the brakes.

The regenerative braking on this car is like nothing I have ever experienced. And if you can glance at the display in front of you, you can see the system capturing that energy and ramming it back in to the battery.

Because only the BMW i3’s electric motor is connected to its (rear) driven wheels, this city car has the kind of power delivery that we’ve come to expect from a pure EV. With peak torque from zero revs, you put your foot down and the i3 responds immediately and strongly.

The 0-62mph sprint is claimed to take 7.9 seconds in the REx, and is accompanied by a seamless, prolonged push in the back. The top speed may be only 93mph, but how it gets there is amazing. The all-electric model, which weighs 120kg less, shaves 0.7sec off that, and has the same top speed.

Unlike most plug-in hybrids, the range‑extending petrol engine never drives the wheels. Normally, I would be frightened to use a heavy foot in an EV because of the rapidly reduced range it brings. And on battery power alone, the i3, in my hands, returned a typical range of about 75 miles. But, I needed to see what happened when the range-extender kicked in. As the range dwindled away, I heard the gentle rumble of what sounded like a muffled pneumatic drill from a distance. Accompanied by the gentle vibration through the steering wheel, I realised the REx had roared in to life and a moment later, it was forgotten about. It provides a reassuring additional 80-mile comfort blanket.

With a fresh charge and a fresh tank, you can expect to comfortably do over 150 miles before having to find a power source.

MONEY TALKS The i3 is not cheap. Without the government grant, the model starts at just over £30k for the all-electric version and almost £34k for the REx. Even with the government’s scheme taken into account, the REx will cost you a bit more than a BMW 120d SE. It is also nearly £5k more expensive than the Nissan Leaf.

However, BMW calls the i3 the first ‘premium electric car’, and I believe that the description is justified.

Financially, it can still stack up too; it can save thousands on fuel over its lifecycle, if you drive it properly. The battery, bought with the car rather than leased, comes with an eight year or 100,000-mile warranty.

The i3 will become the benchmark for other OEMs to strive to. It oozes class, drives like a dream, is a head-turner, and, despite a relatively high initial outlay, you can still make this machine work out financially. L

Topped up with electricity and petrol, the i3 has a potential range of 150 miles

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

33

KIA RIO 1 1.1 CRDi

RIO’S GRAND

Written by Richard Gooding

Road Test

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Not necessarily the first car to spring to mind when thinking of an economical small hatchback, the Kia Rio doesn’t just shine; it really shows you all it can. Richard Gooding prepares to be dazzled 1,786. That’s the number of cars Kia sold in 1991, the first full year of sales in the UK. Last year, 72,090 Kias found UK homes. Its star is shining ever brighter thanks in part to cars like the rejuvenated Rio tested here.

Launched in 2000, this third-generation car came along in 2011, and with it brought a much‑needed dose of style. Kias of the 2010s include many technological advancements, too, and the Rio 1 1.1 CRDi EcoDynamics boasts a range of fuel-saving technologies.

Add keen pricing to the equation, and the economically-minded Rio seems an ideal candidate to appear on the GreenFleet radar.

CD/MP3/RDS radio system with aux-in and iPod inputs, Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Hill-start Assist Control, six airbags, and remote central locking all feature. EcoDynamics variants are equipped with fuel-saving technologies: Intelligent Stop & Go technology (ISG), low rolling resistance tyres, gearshift indicator, as well as a gloss black extended rear spoiler.

LOWEST EMISSIONS Powered by a new 1,120cc three‑cylinder diesel engine, the Rio ‘1’ 1.1 CRDi EcoDynamics has, at 85g/km, one of the lowest emissions figures in its class. Beating CONFIDENT STYLE the Vauxhall Corsa 1.3CDTi (88g/km) and The latest Kias are styled by Peter Schreyer, the Peugeot 208 Access+ 1.4 e-HDi Stop & former Audi design chief and designer of the Start EGC 70 (87g/km), the Renault Clio Eco² first-generation TT. That pedigree shows. While dCi 90 Stop & Start is only marginally cleaner the Rio is undoubtedly a conventional (83g/km). But at £14,545, the French supermini to look at, it has a bold, contender is £2,650 more expensive. confident and assured style. The Developing 74bhp and 125lb ft of ‘Tiger-nose’ grille looks good, torque at 1500-2750rpm, the while the window line rises Rio accelerates well, the towards the rear, where a three-cylinder unit producing a Mk 1 SEAT Leon-inspired rear pleasing thrum typical of the end almost gives a coupé‑like breed. The engine does sound ‘Eco’ in EcoDynamics stance. Its a handsome a little thrashy when revved means fuel-saving car, even in basic ‘1’ trim. hard, but the performance is technologies The good news continues smooth. The standard six-speed inside. The large cabin is well‑built manual gearbox operates with and features a nicely‑styled precision and the Rio lives up to dashboard. Highlights include the row the ‘dynamics’ in its EcoDynamics name, of toggle-like switches for the more basic too. The Korean supermini handles well functions and a multifunction steering wheel with accurate steering and good damping, with audio and trip computer controls. There soaking up imperfections with impunity. many be lots of plastic, but that makes the The ISG stop/start system works in the same Rio more ‘honest’. It has no pretensions and way as systems from other manufacturers, and lots of room, feeling half a size above rivals can be turned off via a dashboard switch. such as the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo.

For the price, the Rio ‘1’ 1.1 CRDi EcoDynamics For its £11,895 price, the Rio is well‑equipped. is quite technological – Kia has developed Even though the ‘1’ is on the lower rung of a kick-down switch for the accelerator to the Rio ladder, electrically-adjustable door prevent unintentional full-throttle use, while mirrors, steering wheel-mounted audio and the power-steering system is driven by multifunction computer controls, four‑speaker motors and not directly off the engine, further

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GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 71

Kia Rio 1 1.1 CRDi EcoDynamics ENGINE: 1,120cc, three-cylinder diesel CO2: MPG (combined):

85g/km 88.3

VED:

Band A, £0

BIK:

13%

PRICE (OTR):

£11,895 (incl VAT)

promoting better fuel economy. The ISG system is also well thought-out with ‘intelligent’ alternator management which reduces the drain on the battery during acceleration and recharges it when coasting or braking.

CONVINCING PACKAGE Of course, all of this technology would be of no consequence if it didn’t yield good fuel economy returns. So it’s rewarding that it does.

During a week of mixed route commuting, I managed to coax a high of 73.6mpg out of the Rio, while the week’s ‘real-world’ average of 63.0mpg isn’t to be sniffed at. With a 43-litre fuel tank, that’s a potential range of almost 570 miles. Kia quotes an official combined cycle fuel economy figure of 88.3mpg, which, if achieved, would extend fill-ups still further.

The Rio saves on other costs, too; VED is £0, BIK is a competitive 13%, and it sits in insurance group 3. Add in a 100,000-mile, seven-year warranty, as well as 20,000-mile servicing intervals, and the Rio puts forward a convincing package. The previous Rio owned a 1.1% share of the fleet market and Kia is confidently predicting that this will improve further. Its confidence isn’t unfounded. I found the Rio to be an unpretentious, honest and hugely enjoyable small car. Kia’s slogan is ‘The Power To Surprise’. Rio did. And then some. L

VOLKSWAGEN E-UP

CHARGED UP

Volkswagen has been testing electric and hybrid powertrains for some years but it’s only now that the results of these testing programmes are being seen. An e-Golf will make an appearance in the summer, but right now the e-Up’s job is to get drivers used to an electric Volkswagen. So, what is there to get used to exactly?

Not much on the outside. The e-Up keeps the cute looks of the standard car. Available as a five-door only, the electric version adds ‘C’-shaped LED running lights at the front, blue-tinged roundels and 15-inch ‘Tezzle’ alloy wheels. At the rear there is pair of ‘C’-shaped lights. ‘e-Up’ badges add the finishing touch.

LITTLE DIFFERENCE Inside, special ‘Grid’ upholstery and Volkswagen’s excellent Garmin-made ‘Maps & More’ portable infotainment device is fitted.

There’s also DAB radio and climate control.

Further highlights include cruise control, a heated windscreen and heated seats.

In the e-Up, the ‘Maps & More’ five-inch touchscreen can display vehicle information including range and can preset vehicle charging as well as vehicle heating or cooling.

The e-Up is powered by a small AC electric motor which produces 80bhp/60kW and 155lb ft/210Nm of torque. The motor drives the front wheels via a single-speed gearbox. Power comes from a 204-cell, 230kg

lithium‑ion battery pack which is rated at 374 volts/18.7kWh and mounted under the floor.

FAST-CHARGING CIRCUIT Charging time is nine hours from flat, but with an optional and free British Gas wallbox and 3.6 kW supply, this time drops to six hours. All e-Ups come with a DC fast-charging circuit as standard. Using the Combined Charging System (CCS) as used on the Renault ZOE among others, a flat battery can be recharged to 80 per cent in 30 minutes at levels of 40kW from a DC supply.

The e-Up comes with a 3-year 60,000-mile warranty, with the e-components guaranteed for five years, while the battery has an 8-year, 99,360-mile warranty. There are no leasing costs. The e-Up’s official driving range on the NEDC cycle is 93 miles. VW states in the summer 103 miles may be seen but in the winter range will be cut to 50-75 miles.

THREE DRIVING PROFILES Three driving profiles potentially affect range.

‘Normal’ is the default setting, while ‘Eco’ cuts the car’s peak power to 50kW, reducing the air conditioning output and accelerator pedal response. ‘Eco+’ reduces pedal response and power further and disables the air conditioning entirely. In addition to these, five levels of regenerative braking can be selected, further affecting range.

Three driving profiles affect range

CO2: Range:

60kW AC electric motor 0g/km 93 miles

VED:

Band A

BIK:

0%

PRICE (OTR):

£19,250 (inc VAT, after government grant)

BRISK PACE The 210Nm of torque surges the car along at a brisk pace. As with other Ups, it’s very quiet and refined at speed, the only noise being a very slight electric car ‘whine’. The car copes with motorways well, keeping up with traffic.

The range diminishes quicker if the car is driven around town and it’s on urban roads where the e-Up really shines. It’s fun keeping the needle swinging into the green area of the charge meter when regenerative braking and there’s the instant power hit every electric car enjoys when the accelerator pedal is pressed.

The e-Up keeps the same agile handling as the standard car meaning its fun to drive.

The regenerative braking function works well, too, with well-judged levels of response.

A three-year subscription to Volkswagen’s Car-Net mobile app service is included in the price of the e-Up. This provides remote battery charging management, remote pre-trip interior climatisation and departure time programming as well as vehicle statistics and status updates. The e-Up will be sold through 24 specially‑trained e-Retailers in the UK. THE BOTTOM LINE At £19,250 including the £5,000 Government Plug-in Car Grant, the e-Up isn’t cheap, but that price does buy 20,000-mile servicing intervals and the most up-to-date technology. And of course there are no battery leasing costs. The electric baby VW is more expensive than the £13,995 Renault Zoe and £15,990 Nissan Leaf, but cheaper than the £25,680 BMW i3. On contract hire with free electricity when charging away from home, a P11D value of nil and 0 per cent BIK from the 2015/16 tax year, fleet drivers may be able to make the e-Up’s sums work.

Volkswagen acknowledges the electric car market is currently small and has set modest sales targets. But with the e-Up, it has stated its electric car intent and on this showing alone, it is a very serious one indeed. L

Volkswagen e-Up ENGINE:

Mode D sees a coasting function engaged when the accelerator is lifted. Each further mode – D1, D2, D3 and B – engage increased levels of regenerative braking.

Driving the e-Up couldn’t be simpler. As it’s based on a standard production car (unlike BMW’s bespoke i3), a driver new to electric car technology would feel at home. Turn the key and the only obvious difference is the lack of noise. Select a driving mode and off you go. Gears are selected via the automatic-type lever. Increased recuperation levels are chosen by pushing the gear stick to the left.

Driving profiles are selected by button next to the gear stick. A tell-tale display in the instrument pack informs the driver which profile is selected. Ahead of the driver, a charge meter replaces the rev counter and the ‘fuel’ gauge measures battery power.

Written by Richard Gooding

Volkswagen’s first production electric vehicle, the e-Up is a technologically and ecologically-advanced version of its new city car. Richard Gooding went to Volkswagen UK’s technical centre in Milton Keynes to find out more

First Drive

Charge meter replaces rev counter

e-Up uses the Combined Charging System (CCS), meaning it can be recharged on DC rapid charging points

Volume 71 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

35

Why our award-winning services should get your vote

Whether your fleet consists of cars, vans or trucks you need those vehicles on the road helping your business succeed. And as the AA was recently voted number one for Vehicle Recovery, Risk Management and Accident Management by readers of Business Car magazine, you can be sure that AA Business Services can provide all the support you’ll need. After all, we don’t just have more of our own patrols* than all other UK breakdown services put together, we can help in a lot of other ways too. If you’ve just one commercial vehicle or several thousand, we’ll help keep the wheels of business turning. *Source: Mintel – UK Vehicle recovery report, September 2013

AA Business Insurance 0800 107 8175 theAA.com/business

AA AutoWindshields 0800 054 2463 OutboundTeam@theAA.com

AA Accident Management AAAM@theAA.com

AA Fuel Assist FuelAssistEnquiries@ theAA.com

AA Key Assist Fleet.Enquiries@ theAA.com

Fleet Risk Management from AA DriveTech tellmemore@AAdrivetech.com www.AAdrivetech.com

Provided by Automobile Association Developments Limited (trading as AA Breakdown Services).

For AA Business Breakdown Cover call 0800 55 11 88 quoting 0747 Or visit theAA.com/business

Road Test

LEXUS CT 200h PREMIER

With CO2 emissions of 94g/km, the Lexus CT 200h is a premium badge car with attractive tax benefits for company car drivers and fleet operators The Lexus CT 200h’s hybrid system is similar to that used in a Toyota Prius. It has a 1.8‑litre petrol engine which is helped out by an electric motor, boosting the engine when more power is needed, and taking over completely at low speeds.

The electric motor is used when starting up, pulling away and in slow moving traffic and is very quiet, as you would expect from an electric car. But, when putting your foot down, the engine becomes noisy and the car lacks urgency when getting up to speed.

When in ‘sport’ mode, this is improved but not overwhelmingly so. That said, when at speed, the car cruises along nicely without much noise.

COST OF OWNERSHIP The CT 200h has two major selling points for fleets. It’s a premium badge car, and it enjoys low cost of ownership. CO2 emissions of 94g/km mean zero VED, 10 per cent benefit‑in‑kind rating and exemption from London’s congestion charge. Plus fleet Lexus Hybrid Drive system consists of 1.8-litre petrol engine and electric motor delivering 134bhp

managers can write down 100 per cent of the car’s value against corporation tax. And with a decent level of equipment as standard, company drivers do not need to necessarily increase their P11D value by adding on costly extras.

Service intervals are annually or at every 10,000 miles. Plus the hybrid system is engineered for low maintenance requirements and the hybrid battery is designed to last the lifetime of the car.

The official fuel consumption figure is 68.9mpg but I only managed an average of 47mpg over the week. It is worth noting that the entry level S grade model has emissions as low as 87g/km and claimed fuel consumption of 74.3mpg.

NOx emissions are very low at 3.3mg/km and the powertrain produces no particulates. And of course, when operating in electric mode, tailpipe CO2, NOx and particulates emissions

ENGINE:

1,798cc, four-cylinder petrol with Lexus Hybrid Drive

CO2: MPG (combined): VED: BIK: PRICE (OTR):

94g/km

Written by Angela Pisanu

A LUXURY HATCH HYBRID

Lexus CT 200h Premier

68.9 Band A 10% £25,995 (inc VAT)

are cut to zero. In fact, the levels already meet the proposed Euro 6 emissions standards due to be implemented in 2015.

The driver can choose to drive in pure electric mode, but it will only get you about a mile, and at speeds of up to 25mph. And there is no need to charge the hybrid battery as it is done during deceleration and under braking thanks to the regenerative braking system.

SAFETY The CT 200h has a good amount of safety features. It has a pre‑emptive, Pre-Crash Safety system with Adaptive Cruise Control.

Eight airbags, including knee airbags for driver and front passenger, are fitted to all versions of the CT 200h, along with whiplash injury-lessening front seats. The upgraded Electronically Controlled Braking Regeneration system incorporates ABS, Brake Assist, Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Control.

ATTRACTIVE FLEET PROPOSITION In summary, the Lexus CT 200h is an attractive proposition for the fleet market, with its appealing cost of ownership figures.

In stop-start traffic, it’s silent and smooth as it operates in electric mode, and really this is where this car shines – in urban environments. It has a good level of equipment as standard, and uses high quality materials in the cabin to give it that premium feel. So if you can live with the noisy and coarse ride when getting up to speed, then the Lexus CT200h makes a lot of sense for the corporate market. L

37

Product Finder

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

BUSINESS FLEET SALES

CAR AND VAN RENTAL

Green Motion Perrys Amersham Perrys Amersham Chesham Road, Amersham Buckinghamshire HP6 5EX www.perrys.co.uk/amersham-alfa-romeo Tel: 01494 958813 Perrys Alfa Romeo Amersham boast a wealth of experience within both our sales and service departments. Our aim is to create a hassle free car buying experience. Our dedicated business to business team have the commitment and knowledge to cater for all of your business fleet needs.

FLEET MANAGEMENT: FLEET COST REDUCTION

2 Redman Court, Bell Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AA Tel: 01844 222333 reservations@greenmotion.co.uk www.greenmotion.co.uk Green Motion is the UK’s leading provider of low CO2 vehicle hire. Through our national network, we offer both leisure and business customers the opportunity to enjoy great value vehicle rental, while helping to reduce the impact of global CO2 emissions associated with road travel. Providing reporting and advice to management and staff, Green Motion can highlight savings in cost and impact on the environment.

FLEET MANAGEMENT

sgfleet

Run Your Fleet

SG Fleet UK Ltd Tel: 01228 564 455 pcrabtree@sgfleet.com

Forward House, High Street, Henley In Arden, Warwickshire. B95 5AA Tel: 08445 733111 sales@runyourfleet.com www.runyourfleet.com

sgfleet is a professional fleet management company with a strong pedigreee. Our focus is to work in partnership with our clients to help them operate their vehicle fleets as efficiently as possible and drive down costs. Robust systems and state of the art on line reporting functionality and capability help us to deliver an exceptional customer experience.

Run Your Fleet delivers innovative on-line fleet management solutions for fleets of all sizes. Services include: Maintenance control, managed breakdown cover, risk management, daily rental, contract hire and flexible leasing. Our industry leading telematics service – www.runyourtracking.com delivers full driver behaviour and unrivalled fuel and CO2 reporting.

INSURANCE

COMPLETE VEHICLE RECHARGING SOLUTIONS

Schneider Electric Tel: 0870 608 8608 www.schneider-electric.com/uk

As a global specialist in energy management, Schneider Electric has contributed to the electric vehicle (EV) market for more than a decade.

We have partnered with leading professionals and research organisations to deliver efficient and safe residential, parking and fast charging solutions for EVs. FLEET MANAGEMENT REPORTING

Alphabet Form One, Bartley Wood Business Park Hook, Hampshire RG27 9XA Tel: 0870 50 50 100 alphabet@alphabet.co.uk www.alphabet.co.uk GreenCARE is Alphabet’s comprehensive online reporting, analysis and modelling tool designed to help customers reduce their CO2 emissions, fuel and fleet costs, while benchmarking performance against ‘average’ and ‘best in class’ fleet performers. Speak to us today to find out more about how GreenCARE can help to reshape your fleet.

ADVERTISERS INDEX

The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service

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Our experienced staff can find the best policy to suit your needs. Whether it is premises, liability, fleet or private car you can be confident it is the right policy for you.

Please contact us for a quotation.

38

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 71

Alphabet 6 Citroen UK 20, 21 Commercial Vehicle 22 Fiat 16, 17 Ford 10 Honda IFC Lex Autolease 28 Mercedes 12, 13 Peugeot 26, 27 RAC 4 Renault UK OBC Seat 8 The AA 36 Toyota IBC Vauxhall Vans 30, 31 Volvo 18

Quit smoking for good

Clean up and save thousands with petrol full hybrid

Desirability Reliability

Poor air quality kills*. Reduce CO 2 and NOx emissions and eliminate particulates whilst saving thousands of pounds by switching from diesel to petrol hybrid. Challenge us to prove it with our personalised fleet financial health check.

Rangeability

Sustainability Serviceability Affordability

For help to quit, call 0844 701 6186 or visit brilliantforbusiness.co.uk.

brilliant for business *5000 premature UK deaths a year due to combustion exhaust. Environmental Science Technology – Public Health Impacts of Combustion Emissions in the United Kingdom 21/03/12 (COMEAP – Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Pollution) Hybrid range fuel economy (mpg) Comb. 134 - 32.8; Urban 91.1 - 26.9; Extra Urban 80.7 - 37.9; CO 2 49 - 199g/km.

The mpg fi gures quoted are sourced from offi cial EU-regulated test results. These are provided for comparability purposes and may not refl ect your actual driving experience.

renault.co.uk

100% ELECTRIC RENAULT ZOE

No company car tax. No road tax. No brainer.

With the 100% electric Renault ZOE we’ve thought of everything. You’ve fewer things to pay and more added extras, including R-Link touchscreen navigation and remote activated pre-conditioning function.

Visit renault.co.uk/business or call the Renault Business Team on 0800 040 7344.

The official consumption figures in mpg ( I/100km ) for the Renault ZOE core range are: Urban N/A; Extra Urban N/A; Combined N/A. The official CO 2 emissions for the range are 0. EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008 test environment figures. Fuel consumption and CO 2 may vary according to driving styles, road conditions and other factors.

Warranty applies to new vehicles up to a period of 4 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first (first 2 years unlimited mileage). Renault Assistance Roadside Cover is provided in association with AXA. Cover from months 0 to 36 includes assistance at the roadside and home, national recovery, onward travel and European cover. Cover from months 37 to 48 includes Roadside and Homestart (including a local tow to an authorised Renault dealer). The provider of this cover is the AXA UK.