GreenFleet 76

PARIS MOTOR SHOW

SCOTLAND EVs

www.greenfleet.net

ROAD TEST CITROËN RELAY

ISSUE 76

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

GREEN POWER

The commercial use of biofuels, electric, hybrid and hydrogen power explored EVENT PREVIEW

ARRIVE ‘N’ DRIVE D NLOA DOW EENFLEET R THE G APP

VISIT t.net e eenfle r app.g

ROAD TEST: VOLKSWAGEN e-GOLF

Beat the Sprig and get ready for informative workshops and low CO2 test drives at Rockingham

renault.co.uk

100% electric reNAUlt zoe

100% electric renault zoe Dynamique intens No fuel bills. No road tax. No congestion charges. No brainer.

• Best in class range* • Less than 2p per mile fuel cost** • Zero CO2 emissions whilst driving

• Rapid charge in just 30 minutes • R-Link controlled 7" touchscreen navigation • Z.E. interactive: remote battery charging and remote climate control from your smartphone

Renault Business Quality Commitments • Like for like vehicle replacement • Pro+ specialist fleet network • Free collection and delivery T&Cs apply. For full list of commitments visit renault.co.uk/business for details

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

Model shown is ZOE Dynamique Intens with optional metallic i.d. paint. CO2 while driving: 0. MPG: N/A

*Actual consumption and range may vary: Renault ZOE can travel up to 130 miles on a single charge, based on the new European Driving Cycle (NEDC). Renault also publish real life ranges of 63 miles (winter) to 94 miles (temperate conditions), reflecting range variations from driving style, road conditions, heating and other external factors. **Equivalent to 2p per mile based on (i) overnight electricity costs (British Gas Clear & Simple Economy 7 unit rates for a customer paying by direct debit as at 1 April 2014, assuming 7 hours of charging at the night rate and 1 hour on the day rate), and (ii) a range of up to 126 miles per full charge (based on 95% efficiency and 17˝ wheels). 26p per day standing charge applies.

SCOTLAND EVs

www.greenfleet.net

ROAD TEST CITROËN RELAY

ISSUE 76

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

GREEN POWER

The commercial use of biofuels, electric, hybrid and hydrogen power explored EVENT PREVIEW

ARRIVE ‘N’ DRIVE

Beat the Sprig and get ready for informative workshops and low CO2 test drives at Rockingham

LOAD DOWNEENFLEET THE GRAPP

VISIT .net enfleet app.gre

ROAD TEST: VOLKSWAGEN e-GOLF

COMMENT

PARIS MOTOR SHOW

Securing your fuel future The polluting effect, the rising cost, and the depleting supply of diesel and petrol have led many companies to look at alternatives – hydrogen, biofuels, natural gas and electricity. DHL Supply Chain has released an opinion paper on the matter, examining the commercial use of renewable fuels.

The paper cites examples from companies that are using waste from one part of their organisation to fuel vehicles in another part, such as JD Wetherspoon who turns waste cooking oil from their pubs into biodiesel, which is then used to fuel the trucks used for deliveries to its pubs. Read the full feature on page 22.

Another example of a company that has fully embraced alternative fuels is Commercial Group, whose latest venture into greening their operations involves a fleet of hydrogen hybrid delivery vans in London. The firm also uses local and sustainably sourced biodiesel and has a handful of electric vehicles.

We interview Commercial Group’s environmental strategist Simon Graham on page 12 to get the full story of their successful emission-reducing strategy.

Keeping on the theme of greener fuel, Peter Murphy examines the use of alternative fuels in the freight and logistics industry, especially now the European

Commission has launched its strategy to regulate HGV emissions, and Transport Scotland explains the country’s ambitious plans to make electric vehicles commonplace on their roads.

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 ACCOUNT MANAGER Kylie Glover ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

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Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

3

The new face of business

ÂŁ169

For just per month over 4 years from Ford Lease at your local Ford D e aler Advance of 6 monthly rentals ALL-NEW FORD TRANSIT COURIER

Business users only

Base 200 SWB 1.5 TDCi 75PS Visit ford.co.uk/All-New -Transit- Courier

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for Ford Transit Courier Van Base 200 SWB 1.5TDCi 75PS: urban 60.1 (4.7), extra urban 76.3 (3.7), combined 68.9 (4.1). Official C02 emissions 108g/km.

Example shown is a Ford Contract Hire rental. Finance subject to status. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. Example excludes VAT and is based on a 47 month non-maintained agreement. Profile 6+47, payment in advance of 6 monthly rentals, followed by 47 monthly rentals, with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicles must be returned in good condition and within agreed mileage, otherwise further charges will be incurred. Prices correct at time of going to print and are subject to change without notice. Subject to availability for vehicles with finance accepted and vehicle contracted between 1st July and 30th September 2014. Ford Contract Hire is provided by ALD Automotive Ltd trading as Ford Lease, BS16 3JA. The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

CONTENTS

Contents GreenFleet 76 07 News

Government pledges £900,000 for green transport; Tesla expands charging network for UK; electric cars join MPG Marathon; EVs used in air pollution project

12 Fleet interview 12

Policy makers in Europe have turned their attention towards lowering CO2 emissions from HGVs. Peter Murphy investigates

31 Paris Motor Show

GreenFleet speaks to Commercial Group’s environmental strategist Simon Graham about its successful and forward‑thinking carbon reduction programme

The Paris Motor Show in October will feature new car reveals, concept vehicles and revamped models, as well as a test drive centre for electric and hybrid vehicles

17 Alternative fuels: Scotland EVs

33 Arrive ‘n’ Drive

Transport Scotland’s Ewan Swaffield shares the Scottish Government’s efforts towards achieving a de-carbonised road transport sector in the country by 2050, with electric fleets playing a central role

17

25 Alternative fuels: HGVs

22 Alternative fuels: commercial usage

Logistics firm DHL Supply Chain has released a paper on the commercial use of alternative fuels, including the carbon reduction through the use of natural gas.

Managing director Phil Roe shares the report

This year’s GreenFleet Arrive ‘n’ Drive will host many new features, as well as the usual low-emission test drives

34 Road test: Citroën Relay 35 L3H2 HDi 130 The new Citroën Relay promises more fuel efficient engines as well as lower emissions

36 First drive: VW e-Golf

Richard Gooding sees if the e-Golf delivers zero emissions with the usual blend of qualities for which it’s known

36 22

33

35

GreenFleet magazine

www.greenfleet.net Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

5

Fiat 500S from only ÂŁ129 per month for business users*

For more information email fiat.fleet@fiat.co.uk or call us on 01753 519 442

fiat.co.uk

NEWS

News in brief FUNDING

Government pledges £900,000 for green transport The Department for Transport has given seven local authorities across England an additional £900,000 to support sustainable transport schemes. The local authorities set to receive the extra funding are: Bournemouth Borough Council, Dorset County Council, Hertfordshire County Council, Leicestershire County Council, Lincolnshire County Council, Shropshire Council and Wokingham Borough Council.

Schemes that stand to benefit include projects focusing on improvements to bus services and encouraging sustainable travel practice.

Transport Minister Baroness Kramer said: “We’re serious about making transport better for the environment, whether that is by cutting carbon or improving air quality.

Encouraging more people to cycle or use public transport makes sense for local economies, because it reduces congestion and improves public health. That’s why we’re providing record levels of funding

for communities wanting to make their transport networks cleaner and greener.

“Today’s announcement comes hot on the heels of the £440 million we announced for sustainable transport schemes last month.

This additional money will help communities to build on their success and see even more people making new travel choices.”

READ MORE tinyurl.com/mrt6nzd

Tesla expands charging network in UK of the fantastic support in the area.

We will open a store in coming months [offering] Midlands-based Model S owners a convenient local service.”

The company has also announced plans to increase its output from 35,000 cars this year to 100,000 in 2015, split evenly between the Model S and Model X. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has said that he expects production capacity to reach 300,000 cars a year eventually.

READ MORE

Electric truck for Newcastle University

READ MORE tinyurl.com/mtkjzff

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Electric cars to join MPG Marathon Electric vehicles will be included for the first time in this year’s MPG Marathon, an event devoted to demonstrating the benefits of fuel efficiency. Battery electric vehicles will take part alongside range extenders and plug-in hybrids, joining traditional diesel and petrol vehicles. The event takes place in the Cotswolds and the Brecon Beacons on 8-9 October.

The vehicles will travel a 360-mile route and will need to make optimal use of the recharging stations positioned along the way, as they will be judged on power consumption on a basis of 13p per kilowatt hour (hybrid vehicles will also have their carbon fuel usage measured).

Following the announcement from the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) that 11,260 claims have been made through the Plug-in Car Grant scheme, the total number of electric vehicles in the UK now exceeds 13,000 for the first time. This includes the 637 claims made through the Plug-in Van Grant scheme, and the 1,379 electric cars and vans which are not eligible for the Plug-in Grant scheme, but are nevertheless fully electric.

Dr Ben Lane, Director of Next Green Car said: “The EV market continues to grow exponentially in the UK as elsewhere, demonstrating that UK car buyers are fully embracing the EV revolution.

With the continuing investment from manufacturers the number of electric models continues to increase, making the future EV market look very secure.”

tinyurl.com/nj5vxo4

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has unveiled a number of new Supercharger locations across the UK as part of a planned network spanning the entire country. The chargers are compatible only with the company’s Model S saloon car, and recharge a car’s batteries to half capacity within 20 minutes free of charge.

The first of the new chargers is located at the Hyatt Regency London Hotel and the second at another Hyatt Regency hotel in central Birmingham.

Georg Ell, country director for Tesla’s UK and Ireland division, said: “This Birmingham location signifies our first move out of London in recognition

Over 13,000 electric vehicles now on UK roads

Event organiser Ross Durkin said: “This year’s MPG Marathon is showcasing the very latest developments in alternative-fuelled vehicles, including battery EVs, range extenders and plug-in hybrids, for the first time. They will compete in their own class alongside the more conventional but increasingly fuel-efficient petrol and diesel models.

“Drivers will have to plan their recharging stops very carefully and at pre-identified recharging points to ensure they keep their EVs as fully charged as is practically possible.”

READ MORE

Newcastle University has purchased a compact electric truck for its catering service which delivers food around the campus. The Flex L3 from ePower Trucks is produced in France and is heavily used by the French postal service, has a carrying capacity of 2.3m3, a payload of up to 400kg and batteries that provide up to 35 miles of range between charges.

Nicola Watkins, food and beverage manager at Newcastle University, said: “The catering team is committed to ethical retail, so it is fitting that the delivery vehicle we use is as sustainable as the food and Fairtrade drinks we serve.

We are delighted with the catering service’s first all-electric vehicle.”

READ MORE tinyurl.com/o7kbzag

tinyurl.com/q8ylt9c

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

7

Jeep with

It’s not busIness as usual.

®

So you think you know Jeep? Think again. The all-new Cherokee doesn’t just offer outstanding performance off-road, it’s also guaranteed to stand out in the office car park. Its efficiency figures catch the eye too, returning 53.3mpg on the combined cycle with CO2 from only 139g/km.* As well as low monthly payments, new Cherokee models are available with a range of fantastic features such as our award-winning 8.4” touch screen entertainment system, unique in-car wireless charging pad for mobile devices and adaptive cruise control. Hardly your average nine-to-five runaround, wouldn’t you say?

To book a test drive call our Business Centre on 01753 519442 or email us at fleet@jeep-comms.co.uk The all-new Jeep® Cherokee from only £259 per month† The all-new Jeep® Cherokee. Built Free.

jeep.co.uk/fleet Model shown is Cherokee 2.0 140 4x2 Longitude at £25,495 OTR excluding optional True Blue special paint at £625 OTR. FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE NEW JEEP® CHEROKEE DIESEL RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 55.4 (5.1) – 61.4 (4.6), URBAN 39.8 (7.1) – 44.1 (6.4), COMBINED 48.7 (5.8) – 53.3 (5.3), CO2 EMISSIONS: 154 –139 G/KM. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. *Figures based on 2.0 140 4x2 versions. †Business users only. Rentals based on Cherokee 2.0 140 4x2 Longitude on Contract Hire profile of 6 rentals in advance (equivalent of £1554) followed by 35 rentals of £259, excluding VAT and maintenance. Based on 10,000 miles p.a., excess mileage charges apply. Vehicles must be registered with Jeep Financial Services before 30th September 2014. Offer subject to status, guarantee and/or indemnity may be required. At participating dealers only. Jeep Financial Services, PO Box 4465, Slough, SL1 0RW. Chrysler and CNH Industrial are Official Global Partners of the Expo Milano 2015. Jeep® is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.

NEWS

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Electric vehicles used in air pollution project Electric vehicles fitted with specially developed air quality sensors are being used in a project to measure air pollution.

The University of Leicester is working with Bluesky, an aerial mapping company, to develop a mobile mapping system that can measure pollution at street level in the city. Scientists will be going out in the electric vehicles to assess the real extent of air pollution on the streets of Leicester, using information gathered by the sensors to investigate alternative travel solutions. The data will then be spatially referenced to enable its use in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

The initiative is part of

a programme which is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to team university research departments with small businesses in the East Midlands Region.

Dr Roland Leigh of the university’s Department of Physics and Astronomy said: “Electric vehicles are part of the solution to urban air quality issues. It therefore makes perfect sense to use them to collect data that will be used to monitor levels and aid research into other ways of managing this growing threat.”

READ MORE tinyurl.com/ljfjc8c

LowCVP’s Andy Eastlake Electric is only one of the options

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Writing this as the latest electric vehicle registration figures are published by the SMMT I am sure we are all very encouraged at the growth in the plug-in market, but we should not lose sight of the fact that these still only represent 0.33% of the burgeoning new car market in 2014. With this in mind it is even more important for us to embrace every opportunity and technology that gives us an edge in reducing the carbon impact of our transport. These opportunities come at us from every angle of vehicle type, use, design and fuel and at times can be overwhelming.

A recent example of the plethora of approaches came through the judging for our LowCVP Low Carbon Champions Awards, to be presented at the networking LCV2014 dinner in September. The standard and range of entries was higher and larger than ever before.

Charging infrastructure and vehicle price more important than vehicle range

They covered innovative biofuel production processes, heavy duty vehicles and operators, cars, vans, research publications, campaigns and travel schemes using ‘L’ category vehicles in shared rural operations. The innovation throughout, exemplified the creativity of British engineers and the appetite from the UK market for new low carbon solutions.

A recent study carried out at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee has concluded that lower vehicle prices and improved charging infrastructure are more important in helping the electric vehicle sector to grow than increased vehicle range.

Researcher Zhenhong Lin identified optimum vehicle ranges based on the driving patterns of 36,664 American drivers, finding that for most consumers cars offering a range of 100 miles or less are satisfactory – provided that charging infrastructure continues to grow.

The study suggests that the industry should change its

In this environment it is even more critical for our hugely important fleet market to have ambitious desires for the next generation of vehicles and really encourage these technology prototypes out of the lab and onto the road. The mainstream vehicle manufacturers are delivering a wider range of products and of course they represent the obvious and easy choice, but mainstream products are just that and are built for a global market.

approach from concentrating on higher-capacity batteries to rolling out more charging points, as until manufacturing costs drop to less than $100 per kWh of electricity, lower range vehicles make more economic sense.

The study, Optimizing and Diversifying Electric Vehicle Driving Range for U.S. Drivers, is published in the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS) journal Transportation Science.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/pxztuy3

For a truly bespoke approach, our UK SMEs (small and medium enterprises) in the automotive sector are second to none and UK fleets can give these companies the opportunity to succeed and themselves the competitive edge. So be adventurous when you search out the latest innovation and best advice because as Virgil said, “fortune sides with him who dares.”

FURTHER INFORMATION www.lowcvp.org.uk and follow LowCVP on Twitter: @theLowCVP and @aeastlake

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

9

FLEET INTERIVEW

Carbon-conscious operations Commercial Group, a business services company, has had a successful and forward-thinking carbon reduction programme in place for its fleet since 2007. GreenFleet speaks to the firm’s environmental strategist Simon Graham What structure does the company’s fleet have?

Commercial operates a diverse fleet of 100 cars and vans, which is expanding by about 10 per cent a year as the company grows.

In terms of carbon, the most significant parts of the fleet are the delivery vans used

by Commercial Office Supplies to deliver stationery and other products to customers nationwide. Commercial Interiors’ vans are used to provide a nationwide office fit out service, while cars operated by the engineers on Commercial IT Services install and maintain complex IT systems, including data centres, secure document management systems and print rooms. Vans are provided

by Ford, while cars are predominantly BMW and Volkswagen Group, with Skoda being a preferred brand for many of the engineers.

What environmental targets have you set for your fleet?

The company launched its carbon reduction programme in 2007 with an initial target

12

of reducing company emissions by 75 per cent by 2010. This ambitious target was achieved in fleet operations in 2009, through a three-pronged approach.

Firstly, we worked to eliminate unnecessary journeys. Actions like timetabling appointments so that journeys can be shared, modal shift and the use of web-based training have reduced the environmental impact of car journeys in real terms by over 50 per cent while discussing with customers ways to reduce the number of deliveries has enabled us to support company growth of over 50 per cent without increasing van mileage.

Efforts have also been made to optimise fuel consumption. From right-sizing vehicles and driver training to the Dynamic Routing System, that uses multiple inputs such as telematics, data from councils on half term holidays, road layouts and driver expertise to actively manage the routing network, the idea is to ensure that every mile travelled is completely optimised so that fuel use is minimised.

We also use renewable fuels. In addition to

the largest concentration of fast charge points for electric cars in the Borough, powered by our warehouse mounted solar array, we installed the first realtime blending system for sustainable biodiesel and operates one of the largest hydrogen powered van fleets in the world to reduce carbon emissions.

Since that time, the company has continued to grow as a business and so there has been a continued requirement to assess fleet operations to ensure that the footprint is minimised.

What type of biodiesel is used and where do you refuel?

The biodiesel system was introduced in 2008 after extensive research into alternative fuels as a way of reducing the environmental impact of the existing fleet. Biodiesel sourcing is from local sourced waste-derived fuel, providence assured by a process derived from our experience as a FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) certified company. The FSC Chain of Custody process is a robust way of ensuring that wood-based products are

You have six hydrogen vans in London – how is this going?

We have been exploring the potential of using hydrogen as a vehicle fuel for many years.

The initial trial of hydrogen power, in January 2012, proved that it was operationally viable

Initially, there were challenges around perception, as hydrogen fuel, despite being used in the first internal combustion engines in the 19th Century and powering the rocket that went to the moon in 1969, is not readily understood. To overcome this, our hydrogen vans look, feel, act and even sound similar to any other van sourced from responsibly managed forests.

The company utilises this mechanism informed by the FSC certification to ensure that the fuel delivers high carbon benefits and meets the quality and availability standards that the company requires. Biodiesel is delivered to the company’s operation in Cheltenham, where the realtime blending system is

to introduce the fuel into the fleet, and the company has been working with partners since that point to develop the system that will enable hydrogen to fuel normal deliveries.

The London based vans are being rolled out as you read this, but will be delivering products to customers across the capital. Fuelling is very simple, and not dissimilar to the process that is used by other gaseous fuels like methane.

London’s hydrogen refuelling network is expanding quickly and the company is actively working with a number of partners developing the infrastructure to ensure that it meets the needs of fleet operators.

Initially, there were challenges around perception, as hydrogen fuel, despite being used in the first internal combustion engines in the 19th Century and powering the rocket that went to the moon in 1969, is not readily understood by many. To overcome this, our hydrogen vans look, feel, act and even sound similar to any other van on the road. That is, until you take a close look at what comes out of the exhaust, because the product of burning hydrogen is not carbon dioxide but water.

Do you use any electric vehicles?

The company introduced its first electric car on fleet in 2009 and has worked with companies like Axon, BMW and Nissan to demonstrate the value of electric mobility.

In 2011, Commercial hosted the first Future Zone at the Gloucestershire Motorshow, which showcased electric cars from the Toyota RAV4 EV of 1999, through electric dune buggies to the iMIEV and Smart ED while in 2013, we brought one of the first Tesla Model S electric cars to Gloucestershire to demonstrate to businesses that electric vehicles can meet business needs. The company has held Green Drive Days to promote the use of electric vehicles to the local community

and will be shortly launching a new scheme for staff to encourage them to look at electric cars for their own personal use.

How else have you reduced the environmental impact of your vehicles?

The company operates a rigorous Company Vehicle Policy that encourages sourcing vehicles from manufacturers that are showing environmental leadership in their own operations as well as providing low emission vehicles. Commercial actively works with companies that share a vision for a more sustainable world and so prefers manufacturers that can demonstrate that their operations are also low carbon. This integrated way of working is critical to Commercial’s relationships with staff, customers and suppliers.

FLEET INTERIVEW

installed. This system, which is integrated with the fleet management system, allows any diesel vehicle to run on an optimal blend of mineral diesel and biodiesel, enabling not just fleet vehicles but also employee’s own cars to realise the environmental benefits of using a low carbon fuel.

What challenges, if any, have you encountered?

When the programme was first discussed, there were those that were concerned that a focus on environmental performance would make Commercial uncompetitive.

As was quickly realised, the opposite has been the case. The savings from implementing measures to reduce carbon have dramatically reduced costs, improved staff wellbeing and enhanced the offering Commercial can provide to customers.

Essentially, running a low carbon fleet means running an efficient fleet, which means lower costs, higher service levels and a happier working environment.

Logistics is no longer considered a business cost; it is now one of the most forward looking and successful parts of the business.

Operating a low carbon fleet inspires drivers as the company honours them for their part in achieving a significant strategic goal. It also provides intangible benefits, as the company becomes more than simply a place to work.

What are your plans for the future in terms of reducing the CO2 of your fleet?

The hydrogen project has proven the value of collaboration and so the company is increasingly looking to work with other companies to reduce the impact of its operations.

Over the next few years, electric, plug-in hybrid and hydrogen vehicles will become more pervasive and so it is likely that zero-emission vehicles will become more common in fleets. Alongside improved processes and other technologies in the cab and in the cloud, these could enable fleets to become carbon positive. This is unlikely to be achieved by anyone alone.

Therefore, in the future it is likely that the company will be involved in more collaborative ventures and is looking forward to the opportunity of working with like-minded businesses to develop ways of working that will offer significant financial, social and environmental benefits. FURTHER INFORMATION www.commercial.co.uk

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

13

OPEN MORE DOORS FOR YOUR BUSINESS.

THE NEW MINI 5-DOOR HATCH.

Official Fuel Economy Figures for the MINI 5-door Hatch Range: Urban 35.8-65.7 mpg (7.7-4.3l/100km).

Extra Urban 58.9-88.3 mpg (4.8-3.2l/100km). Combined 47.9-78.5 mpg (5.9-3.6l/100km). CO2 Emissions 136-95 g/km.

Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

We’re excited to announce that later this year the new MINI 5-door Hatch will be joining the MINI line-up. Building upon the MINI 3-door Hatch the same distinctive styling and go-kart handling is delivered, but with the added benefit of 5 doors.

MINI customers can benefit from increased legroom plus bags more luggage space, taking it to a generous 278 litres. As well as all this extra space, the new MINI 5-door Hatch sets itself apart from competitors with the wide range of MINI technologies available. Standard specification includes Keyless Go, USB audio interface, Bluetooth and On-Board Computer.

With impressively low CO2 emissions and superior performance, the new MINI 5-Door Hatch provides fleet drivers with a proposition that’s truly hard to refuse.

The new Cooper D, for example, offers combined fuel economy of 78.5mpg while CO2 emissions start from only 95g/km, resulting in a BIK rate of only 15%.

For more information, please visit www.mini.co.uk/corporate or call 08081 280035.

J Fuel economy: from 78.5mpg (combined) J CO2 Emissions: from 95g/km J BIK: from 15%

MINI Corporate Sales

By RecoAuto

Driving down vehicle repair costs and reducing carbon footprints.

Contact our fleet team today. telephone. 0844 561 0576 email. hello@recoauto.com www.recoauto.com/fleets

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

Scottish fleets switch on to the electric agenda Transport Scotland’s Ewan Swaffield shares the Scottish Government’s efforts towards achieving a de-carbonised road transport sector in the country by 2050, with electric fleets playing a central role But there is no doubt that the challenge ahead is very difficult and complex to tackle.

Our ambition for 2050 is that Scotland will have a largely de-carbonised road transport sector. We want to demonstrate significant progress towards this by 2030. Our low‑carbon transport aspirations are focused on harnessing technology and changing people’s behaviour, as demonstrated by our investment in greener public transport infrastructure, intelligent transport systems, and enabling active travel – all of which encourages people to leave their cars at home whenever practical.

Switching to low carbon But for some journeys and purposes – both for business and pleasure – using a car or van is essential. Encouraging the transition from relying on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles for these roles toward low carbon alternatives is the responsibility of Transport Scotland’s Low Carbon Vehicle (LCV) team. Whilst carbon reduction is arguably the most important, it is not the only factor driving their work. Improving local air quality and reducing noise pollution; contributing 

Scotland is well plac to embrac ed e challenges the of the move t o cleaner transp for ourselvort es generationand s to come

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

Written by Ewan Swaffield, low carbon vehicles policy manager, Transport Scotland

De-carbonising transport The Scottish Government is firmly committed to decarbonising transport in Scotland as a vital element of its efforts to reduce the harmful impacts of climate change. This can seem an overwhelming task, but there is welcome evidence indicating progress. In 2012, the most recent year for which data is available, transport emissions fell by over one per cent compared to 2011. This is the fifth consecutive year in which transport’s emissions have reduced, suggesting the actions we are taking are on the right course.

17

Now available on your tablet device......

GreenFleet magazine is now available on iOS and Android platforms, offering an interactive experience for fleet managers and those responsible for keeping transport emissions to a minimum.

Download your free copy from

app.greenfleet.net

 to achieving Scotland’s renewable energy targets; and exploiting the potential economic opportunities from the shift to low carbon vehicles are also key areas where a move to cleaner transport options has huge benefit.

This means that the LCV team needs to work closely with people and organisations within the transport field. Closer links and joint working are becoming increasingly important with other teams in areas like renewable energy and environmental improvement, as well as with staff from Scotland’s two economic development agencies. Dealing with governmental bodies at a local authority, UK and European level is also an important feature of the team’s work, but some of the most important links are outside of government. A key piece of work for the team was Transport Scotland’s government/ industry partnership “E-cosse”. Through this, the ‘Switched on Scotland’ (SoS) policy roadmap was created and published last year.

The roadmap establishes Scotland’s vision for advancing electric vehicles and sets out the key challenges and enabling measures that will bring about this transformation. SoS focuses on pure battery EVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles – the best placed technologies to make the most immediate impact toward the required transformation (acknowledging that other technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles will play an increasingly larger role in the future).

The Scottish Government’s existing decarbonisation target is augmented by the Roadmap’s vision that, from 2040, almost all new vehicles sold will be near zero emission at the tailpipe, and that by 2030, half of all fossil-fuelled vehicles will be phased-out of urban environments across Scotland. Realising that vision requires an ambitious transformation extending well beyond what Government alone can

achieve. The roadmap draws on an extensive consultation and sets out what needs to be done across all the relevant stakeholders.

Fleets at the forefront GreenFleet readers will be interested to hear that whilst the penetration of EVs into the private vehicle market continues to gather pace, fleet operations are likely to be key in speeding up the mass move from ICE to electric motoring. Fleet operators are ideally placed to reap the benefits of EVs – in particular reduced fuel costs and improved driver experience. The Roadmap has specific coverage of this area, acknowledging that fleet operators of plug-in vehicles have specific recharging requirements that need to be supported to encourage increased EV adoption. For example, many fleet vehicles are parked at the driver’s residence overnight and are therefore subject to the same requirements for dedicated parking and recharging facilities as with individual drivers.

Employers will potentially need support in understanding the issues associated with providing infrastructure to such individuals.

Even when vehicles are based in depots and can be reliably recharged overnight, additional charging may be required during the working day to extend the range achievable. The key issue for fleet operators is to ensure completion of required business, which demands guaranteed access to recharging facilities at a desired location and time. Accordingly, some operators of electric fleet vehicles may find it necessary to deploy their own recharging infrastructure networks, adding a considerable cost to organisations wishing to invest in EVs. Charging infrastructure A more efficient long-term solution to support fleets would be the provision of shared public

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

Fleet operators are ideally placed to reap the benefits of EVs – in particular reduced fuel costs and improved driver experience

infrastructure. This would require faster charging technologies, real-time information on the availability of charge points and a facility to make reservations. Further analysis is needed to better understand the recharging needs of fleets operating plug-in vehicles across Scotland. Government and charge point operators will therefore need to engage with public and private fleet managers to establish usage patterns, the types of recharging infrastructure required and develop appropriate models of infrastructure provision.

This type of engagement is already well underway through a series of E-cosse forums and workshops. These provide opportunities to bring together a range of parties from across the electric vehicle community to discuss key issues and share good practice.

Transport Scotland already works with the Energy Saving Trust to provide an impartial and authoritative source of advice and support to fleet managers on greening their operations – from fuel efficient driving training, to reducing reliance on funding the use of grey fleet (privately owned) vehicles.

TS also funds EST’s Low Carbon Transport Loan Scheme – providing interest free loans of £500 to £50,000 to organisations that want to replace their transport with more carbon and fuel efficient alternatives. We have also committed to providing funding for a new initiative – working with partners on practical analysis of public sector fleets to identify where the best opportunities for the deployment of plug-in vehicles are. The first phase of this ‘Switched On Fleets’ initiative is currently being developed and we hope to have some more news on this soon, but there are already plenty of interesting examples out there from some early adopters.

Sustainable principles Of course, whether it’s within fleets or for private travel behaviour, all our efforts to advance low carbon vehicles are aligned with wider strategies to promote active and sustainable travel principles – such as smarter working; active travel modes; public transport; and shared vehicle use. Lots of information on this is available from Transport Scotland’s website, and those of our partner organisations like Sustrans, Paths for All and Cycling Scotland. Where plug-in vehicles replace existing petrol and diesel cars, it is within an overall ambition to reduce total vehicle numbers. Fewer vehicles on our crowded roads means reducing emissions and congestion, and increasing space for all – with all the environmental and social benefits that brings.

For many reasons, from the need for lower‑emission options to limited physical space and better use of resources, our transport systems of the future will be rather different to what we currently see as the norm.

The status quo is simply not an option. That accepted, Scotland is well placed to embrace the challenges of the move to cleaner transport and enjoy all the benefits for ourselves and for future generations to come.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.transportscotland.gov.uk

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

19

STEAM ENGINE

THE WHEEL 3500 BC

1712 NAVIGATIONAL CLOCK

ELECTRICITY 1752

1740

ALUMINIUM 1825

ENVIRONMENTALISM JET ENGINE 1930

WE HAVEN’T JUST MADE HISTORY.

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1960’s

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1. Official EU MPG test figure shown as a guide for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. 2. 5% BIK compared to average rate of 25%+. 3. 32 mile EV range achieved with full battery charge. 510 miles achieved with combined full battery and petrol tank. Actual range may vary depending on driving style and road conditions. 4. Low-cost British Gas plug-in vehicle charging package available – ask your dealer for more information. Offer ends 31st March 2015. 5. Domestic plug charge: 5 hours, 16 Amp home charge point: 3.5 hours, 80% rapid charge: 30mins. 6. Prices shown include VAT (at 20%), exclude VED and First Registration Fee. Metallic paint extra. Model shown is an Outlander PHEV GX4h at £33,399 including metallic paint. Prices correct at time of going to print. For more information about the Government Plug-in Car Grant please visit www.gov.uk/plug-in-car-van-grants.

Outlander PHEV range fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Full Battery Charge: infinite, Depleted Battery Charge: 48mpg (5.9), Weighted Average: 148mpg (1.9), CO2 Emissions: 44 g/km.

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

The road ahead for greener fuels Logistics firm DHL Supply Chain has released a paper on the commercial use of alternative fuels, exploring how advances in natural gas are driving carbon reduction, and how businesses are finding ways to convert waste to fuel their vehicles. The company’s managing director Phil Roe shares the report The transport industry has turned a corner in the past decade. Looking at commercial vans and trucks from thirty years ago, some might think there are just minor aesthetic differences – but under the bonnet and in the cab, things today are quite different.

Technological advances are creating exciting opportunities, as well as increasing the pressure to keep up, requiring continuous investment and adaptation. Businesses are dedicating more time, money and resources to innovate to make sure they’re not only trying to deliver the fastest, safest and best value service but they’re also striving to provide a service that is clean, quiet and sustainable too.

It is now vital that industry asks itself what do we need to do or change to get there and what are the potential risks that will stop us?

As part of this industry-wide conversation this summer DHL has launched a series of ten opinion papers that explore how changes in transport are impacting UK businesses. The topics range from looking at ways to prevent empty running vehicles to the design of future transport to the future of fleet management.

Our first paper, which is explored in detail in this article, looks at what the future holds for the commercial use of alternative fuels.

It explores how advances in natural gas are driving carbon reduction, how businesses are finding ways to convert waste in one part of their operation to fuel vehicles in another, as well as analysing what needs to be done to get to where we want to be.

The future of alternative fuels Many businesses face a future where the lifeblood of their operations no longer exist. As supplies of diesel and petroleum decrease, it’s only logical that companies are increasing investment and innovation in fuel technology, especially when you consider the sheer number of vehicles on the road.

Oil depletion, however, is not the only pressure driving the search for alternative fuels. The latest official figures from the Department for Transport show that just over one fifth of UK greenhouse gas emissions are created by transport. And while HGVs make up about 1.5 per cent of all transport they account for around 20 per cent of emissions.

This is addressed by The Climate Change Act, which set the greenhouse gas emissions reduction target for the UK at 34 per cent by 2020, and is the baseline objective that many businesses are working towards. In

22

tandem with penalties, incentives have been recognised as an effective agent of change.

While regulation and environmental responsibilities are key motivators for driving fuel innovation, it is the desire to replace profit-eating diesel and petrol with a more environmentally and economically sustainable option that is the primary motivation for finding alternatives.

The search for alternative fuels to future proof fleets needs dedicated research and development from industry, to advance the alternatives that already exist, as well as find completely new and innovative solutions.

Electric and hybrid A technology that is making waves in the personal car market is the electric-powered car, with models such as the Nissan Leaf proving popular. However this technology is not that innovative – electric vehicles have been around since the nineteenth century but due to their low speeds, interest in internal combustion engines grew instead.

Electric vehicles work by running solely on an electric motor powered by a battery, or if it is a hybrid car, in conjunction with a smaller petrol-powered engine. These vehicles do have a role to play in the future of transport and are useful for city transport solutions where there is a lot of stop-starting, unlike diesel‑powered engines which are typically very inefficient for shorter urban journeys.

Nevertheless, electric vehicles are still limited in speed and power, making it commercially unsuitable to roll-out electric vehicle technologies for multi-tonne HGVs. The batteries are still not capable of providing enough power to sustain these huge vehicles causing scepticism in the technology with a recent study from TrackCompare revealing that only six per cent of fleet operators plan to invest in electric technology. Although it’s unlikely that electric will be widely rolled out across fleets in the near future, government is backing the technology and investing £40 million in rapid charging networks, so in just a few years it could be a different story.

There is one example of a direct replacement to diesel that can be used in existing engines – bio-fuels. Bio-fuels are completely carbon-neutral and are made from plant sources, such as rapeseed oil, or can be created from food waste.

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

lies As suppl and of diesedecrease, m petroleuy logical that it’s onl panies are com asing incre in fuel ent investm nology A joint tech report recently

produced by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) found that fuel made from waste could replace 12 per cent of all the fuel used on European roads by 2030.

Large companies such as McDonald’s, as well as smaller dedicated bio-fuel companies such as Bio Bean, which turn waste coffee into bio-fuel are making headway. JD Wetherspoons, a UK pub chain, is one such company that DHL has worked with to look at alternative fuels as a way to improve its carbon footprint. The two companies worked together in conjunction with Argent Energy, and made use of waste cooking oil from JDW’s pubs into bio-diesel, which is then used to fuel the trucks used for deliveries to its pubs.

The downside to bio-fuels is that they

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

they can cut their carbon footprint, not only because of regulation and environmental concerns but mostly because they are realising the economic potential of switching to more sustainable, alternative fuels. We are working with a range of businesses to spot where dual fuel might be appropriate, or identify where experimentation with bio-fuels as we did with JD Wetherspoons, is an option.”

Design and technology While finding a direct replacement to diesel is the ultimate goal, there are other technological innovations that are being invested in to help reduce fuel consumption, which will at least reduce the reliance on diesel and the carbon footprint of businesses. For example, GPS systems incorporated into vehicles that capture driving data, can help ensure the most efficient routes are taken.

Equally important to fuel consumption is vehicle design. Providers such as Scania and Volvo are working hard to make advances in the design of vehicles, and are experts in advising what vehicles should be used for particular businesses and purposes, whether that be to make a trailer that is double-decker, or larger in size to make trips more efficient such as Lidl’s recently launched extra long semi-trailer.

can be expensive to produce, which is why businesses, whether that be in automotive, aviation or shipping industries are working hard to negate this barrier and understand its potential. Earlier this year, aviation company Boeing, said it had made it biggest breakthrough in bio‑fuels to date, after it discovered a plant, which survives on saltwater and can be grown in the desert, can also be turned into fuel, resulting in a bio-fuel source that can be grown cheaply.

Dual fuel Dual fuel currently serves as a good compromise for companies that need a commercially viable fuel that is cheap to buy, can be used or easily installed in existing infrastructure, while also reducing their carbon footprint. The technology works by allowing natural gas to be used in conjunction with diesel, reducing the total consumption of

diesel and cutting CO2 emissions. Additionally it is designed to operate with weights of up to 44 tonnes, and crucially the basic architecture of a diesel engine doesn’t have to change.

DHL’s 147-strong dual fuel fleet will result in an annual CO2 reduction of around 1,200 tonnes on its current emissions. However, DHL recognises that dual fuel is not a solution for the long-term, because ultimately the vehicles are still partially running on diesel. It is however a great solution for the medium term and is backed by the Department of Transport which recently published a report (‘Low Emission HGV Task Force Recommendations on the use of methane and biomethane in HGVs’) which recommended the greater use of methane in dual fuel vehicles and HGVs. Ian MacAulay, Innovation & Efficiency Manager at DHL Engineering and Fleet Services, says: “We’ve seen customers from all industries come to DHL to ask about how

Driving forward With hydrogen-powered vehicles now trialled in cities across the world, and naturally found produce such as fruit acid, animal waste, and water, forming just some of the potential bases for new fuels we now see being developed, the possibilities for the fuels of the future are endless. However, the infrastructure to make these developed and developing fuels commercially viable is key, which is why the EU is currently working towards creating a network of Natural Gas fuel stations in Europe. Whether or not regulations make natural gas fuelling stations compulsory, given the growth in its popularity it’s likely that by 2020 LNG stations around Europe will certainly be more commonplace.

Beyond 2020, electric, hydrogen and hybrid vehicles will be used more widely in both the personal and commercial transport markets as battery technology improves and costs come down. However the importance of infrastructure cannot be underestimated.

Even if these technologies and new fuels are developed, they are only truly viable if wider industry and government work together to deliver the supporting infrastructure needed to facilitate and encourage wide-scale adoption.

Although it will be difficult to remove our reliance on diesel entirely, the industry has made significant advances in attitude and level of investment in the last decade. The rate at which new technologies are developing means that the industry is not only continually discussing completely new fuel innovations, but it is undoubtedly racing towards a much greener and more sustainable future.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.dhl.co.uk

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

23

THE KONFORT 780R BI-GAS

FOR R134a OR R1234yf REFRIGERANTS

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The KONFORT 780R provides a solution for all workshops that will need to work with both refrigerants.

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

The benefit for our customers and the environment is an overall reduction of 9 million miles a day, saving tons of CO2 and fuel costs. www.ptvgroup.com/carbonreduction 15.04.2014 12:29:25

ALTERNATIVE FUELS Written by Peter Murphy

Alternative fuels for haulage?

Policy makers in Europe have turned their attention towards lowering CO2 emissions from HGVs, with greater efficiency being the starting point. But what role will alternative fuels play? Peter Murphy investigates I’m writing this article in Worcester right next to the River Severn, which for hundreds of years served as the key route for goods to get to & from the centre of England to our West Country ports and onto the world. Back then wind and water provided the sources of energy except in seasons when the river would dry up, when alternative energy equalled teams of rugged men that dragged laden boats through the mud past Worcester and beyond. The ‘bow-hauliers’ were paid and fuelled mostly in ale. Horses, then roads, did away with the bow-haulier, replaced by HGVs and their addiction to fossil fuel-derived diesel.

The Oxford English Dictionary tells us that haulage is ‘the commercial transport of goods’. As an island race we would be in deep trouble without our goods being hauled from sea or airport to warehouses, to shops or direct to our doorstep.

The scale of UK haulage is immense. The Freight Transport Association (FTA) 2014

Logistics Dashboard has an array of figures, most of them huge: 139 billion tonnes km of goods carried by HGVs; 66.4 billion van km driven; 28.7 per cent of HGVs running empty; average price per litre of diesel excluding VAT £1.09. Some numbers are small like the use of alternative fuels in HGVs, which has fallen each year since 2010 from 1.2 metric ton of oil equivalent to 1.0 mt of oil equivalent; the percentage of inland freight moved by rail (billion net tonne kilometres) at nine per cent; and the average fuel consumption for an HGV at 7.6 mpg. Road transport dominates and fossil fuel dominates that.

In 2008 the OECD’s Joint Transport Research Centre posed a worrying question: ‘Oil Dependence: is transport running out

of affordable fuel?’ If the answer to that is yes, then why have we not accelerated the development of alternative fuels?

Let’s explore some of the reasons.

Engineering improvements DEFRA figures for emissions of air pollutants in the UK from 1970-12 show significant reductions in ammonia, nitrogen oxides, non-methane volatile organic compounds, particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) and sulphur dioxide.

Vehicle manufacturers and fuel producers have generated these gains in response to EU and UK government directives without large-scale adoption of alternative fuels.

From January 2000 EU directive (98/70/EC) mandated that ultra low sulphur petrol and diesel (sub 10ppm) be used from 2005 and be complete

by January 2009. The UKPIA cite £1 billion investment in plant by the oil industry as the key enabler.

As d an islan ould w race werouble be in t ur goods to withou auled from being h r airport sea o s or our op to to shorstep do

Old fuel vs new fuel Alternative fuels have been proposed as a source of fuel security. The oil shocks of the 1970s and King Herbert’s ‘peak oil’ predictions of a world where maximum oil production has been reached and reserves run down led to a search for a substitute. Alternative fuels  Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

25

- SEMINAR-

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Spend half a day to make an informed decision.

Budget 2014 set company car tax Scale Charges to rise 25% for Diesel drivers over the next 4 years and by 50% for petrol cars.

Companies are saving over £10,000 per driver in adopting alternatives to the traditional company car across a typical 3-year view. ~ Company Car Funding Options ~ Salary Sacrifice for Cars

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

 had been penciled in to fill this gap but in recent times old-fuel has had resurgence.

The sustained high price of oil means it is economically possible to exploit non‑conventional fossil‑based oil reserves.

Canada’s tar sands has 300 billion barrels, Venezuela’s Orinoco Belt holds 250 billion barrels. There are large tar sand deposits in Russia, the Middle East & the USA. $40 per barrel makes exploitation viable. In July 2014 crude prices are north of $100 per barrel.

Oil shale estimated to be in excess of 3,000 billion barrels by OECD’s Joint Research Centre dwarfs tar sand potential, with Brazil, Russia and USA as the key winners. Non-conventional sources of oil mean that alternative fuels face a steeper climb to acceptance. The old fossil fuels exploited from new sources have stepped into the gap. There are environmental concerns with ‘new oil’. Getting tar and shale oil to refinery grade consumes greater amounts of energy and deforestation occurs when tar sands are stripped, and both scenarios increase CO2 emissions.

Is HGV the villain?

Whilst the HGV is perceived as the villain of the piece, the layman is mostly unaware of the impact of private car ownership.

We need our goods to be carried to our point of purchase, but do we always need to make the personal car journey? FTA’s Low Carbon Review 2014 provides DECC figures for the split of emissions by vehicle type. HGVs account for 20 per cent of GHGs compared to passenger cars at 58 per cent.

Alternative fuels would have a greater impact in the private car fleet with progression to HGVs & this has an impact on adoption.

EU targets HGV CO2 In May 2014 the European commission set out its strategy to tackle CO2 emissions from HGVs for the first time. Connie Hedegaard Koksbang the European Commissioner for Climate Action outlined the aim: “We first regulated cars and vans, and we can now see the results: emissions have been reduced, air pollution in cities is in decline, and more innovative, fuel-efficient vehicles are now available to consumers. That is why we turn now to trucks and buses.”

The response from the European Automobile Manufacturer’s Association’s Secretary General Erik Jonnert highlighted efficiency rather than lower carbon fuels. He said: “Fuel efficiency is a top priority for the transport companies who buy and use trucks and buses, because fuel accounts for over one-third of their total operating costs…Fuel efficiency is therefore the number one competitive factor in developing and selling heavy-duty vehicles.”

The policy of prioritising efficiency over alternative fuel is echoed in FTA’s 2014 Logistics Carbon Review, which incorporated the Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme (LCRS). The list of efficiency indicators includes monitoring carbon intensity of fuels and reducing the amount of carbon emitted for an equal output of power.

This is the fourth of five points listed.

The LCRS Efficiency Indicators are: greater fuel efficiency – better driving skills, better

engine performance and better aerodynamic styling; payload maximisation – fuller vehicles mean fewer journeys for the same amount of goods; empty running – lessen the occasion of wasteful empty journeys; carbon intensity of fuels – reduce carbon emissions for an equal power output to move goods using gas, biofuels and electricity; and modal split – harness rail and waterways as lower carbon methods of transport.

The LCRS second Annual Report gives a straightforward assessment of the barriers to greater uptake of alternative fuels, which remains relatively small but stable in terms of volumes consumed: “Factors holding back the take-up of these fuels beyond limited scale industry trials reflect: the cost of refueling infrastructure; a limited availability of public sites; and high and uncertain whole life operating costs (higher vehicle capital costs, and uncertain vehicle residual values).”

Alternative fuels – good vs bad Notwithstanding the low take up of alternative fuels, bio-diesel, dimethyl ether (DME), natural gas and alcohols have the potential to reduce engine emissions significantly.

Let’s take a look at some of the options.

Biodiesel can be generated from soybean, rapeseed, sunflower seed, coconut palm and used frying oil. The oils get converted to methyl esters before conversion to diesel oil.

Peter Murphy is owner & MD of Tiercel Europe Ltd, a consultancy business that focuses on competitive strategy and renewable energy.

He is currently helping one of the largest City Councils implement a programme of reforms to make it a leader in community generation of clean energy. He was the Interim Commercial Director for the Logistics Sector Skills Council and launched the Logistics Guild and the Logistics Credit Union. He has an MSc in Renewable Energy, Waste Management & Water Treatment.

He holds a Warwick MBA.

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

About the author

to store the gas. The majority of use is in the compressed state, requiring special refueling stations that can store and pressurise gas enough for in-vehicle use. Benefits include low particulate emission versus regular diesel, lower NOx and zero SOZ & sulphate emissions. Downsides include significantly larger tanks and up to 20 per cent lower efficiency than regular diesel engines.

Methanol and ethanol have positive combustion and emission properties.

Agricultural crops such as sugar cane or corn are processed to produce ethanol, whilst

Whilst there are positive environmental aspects to alternative fuels, with the lack of a refueling infrastructure it is difficult to see greater adoption taking place The market price of biodiesel is two-to-three times higher than regular diesel. Volume production and technology maturity should lower prices. There are blends of biodiesel and regular diesel on sale, typically five per cent biodiesel to 95 per cent regular.

This allows for its introduction to engines and fuel systems that were not designed for biodiesel. Advantages include a high combustion value, good lubrication, zero SO2, zero sulphate emission & lowered particulate toxicity. Its disadvantages include a higher freezing point, more potential to corrode, a lower heating value, higher NOx and increased odour.

DME can be produced from renewable energy sources, from waste, from natural gas or from coal. DME has been shown to be an alternative for diesel engines with little engine modification required to achieve similar combustion values. Advantages include low particulate emission, zero sulphate & SO2, emissions, quieter engines and with after treatment low NOx. The downsides include lower viscosity and the injection system is in its early stages of design.

Whether compressed (CNG) or liquefied (LNG), it consists mostly of methane at 90 per cent and a smattering of other hydrocarbons.

Gas is produced from gas wells or crude production. Energy is required to reduce temperatures to form the liquefied state and

methanol can be produced from urban waste, biomass or from crude oil. Cold starting issues mean that pure alcohols need to be blended with other fuels to be useful for automotives.

Alcohol has a high combustion and energy value, low NOx & lowered evaporation losses. On the negative side, cold start issues, higher corrosion than fossil fuels, larger tanks and increased safety handling issues.

Barriers to adoption Whilst there are positive environmental aspects to alternative fuels, with the lack of a refueling infrastructure, lower costs or favourable engine developments it is difficult to see greater adoption taking place. The big oil companies will harness economically viable shale and sand tar reserves. EU policy pressure will force acceleration in CO2 & GHG emission reduction but these will in the first instance be achieved with greater efficiency in the engine and fuel systems and across industry practices.

I like the LCRS’s drive to shift haulage mode to less carbon intensive routes. Who knows? Perhaps in time we will see a shift to the historic waterways and the Severn might have a role to play once more.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.tierceleurope.co.uk

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

27

CUT YOUR FUEL NOT YOUR BOOT SPACE NEW PEUGEOT 308 SW

1.6 BlueHDi 120 FAP 6-speed manual stop start

CO2 MPG

from 85g/km up to 88

Boot space

up to 1775 litres

SMR costs

improved by 11%

SENSATIONS EXTENDED You CAN have it all. The lowest CO2 for this kind of car – and no road tax to pay. The biggest boot in the market, with one-touch folding seats and a flat boot floor. Excellent driving dynamics due to a strong, light chassis. And inside a sleek, technologically-advanced interior including the Peugeot i-Cockpit with 9.7" touchscreen+. The 308 SW is your new business leader. To find out more please visit business.peugeot.co.uk/308sw or call 02476 884 644 for more information.

Official Fuel Consumption in mpg (l/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km) for the 308 SW range are: Urban 44.8 (6.3) – 78.5 (3.6),

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 Active e-HDi 115 vs. the New 308 SW Active BlueHDi 120. Independent data sourced from KeeResources’ Kwik Car Cost at 3 years 60,000 miles: April 2014.

NEW PEUGEOT 308 SW

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Extra Urban 68.9 (4.1) – 94.2 (3), Combined 57.6 (4.9) – 88.3 (3.2) and CO2 129-85.

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The Paris Motor Show in October will feature new car reveals, concept vehicles and revamped models, as well as a test drive centre for electric and hybrid vehicles 250 manufacturers from 18 countries have already registered to take part in the Paris Motor Show, with many new world premières scheduled.

The Paris Motor Show takes place on 4-19 October at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

It is a vibrant show where each visitor is an active participant. The show will, once again, be equipped with a test drive centre for electric and hybrid vehicles. After an indoor circuit in pavilion 2/1, the visitor will take the passenger seat while the instructor talks through the vehicle features. The test drives will first take place within the exhibition park and then on an urban circuit in Paris. A dozen manufacturers have confirmed to participate in these test drives, such as BMW, Courb, Kia, Mercedes, Nissan, Renault, smart, and Tesla.

The Paris Motor Show will also hold workshops organised by the CCFA (The French Automobile Manufacturer Committee). These round-table discussions will bring a new dimension to the different considerations concerning the Automobile World. Essential topics will be discussed, such as social, technical and economical issues.

New unveils Following its reveal in London in September, the Jaguar XE will be shown to the public for the first time in Paris. The XE has over 75 per cent aluminium content, which allows for a body structure with unrivalled low weight. This weight reduction makes the XE the most fuel-efficient Jaguar yet with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions on the NEDC combined cycle of over 75mpg and less than 100g/km respectively.

The smart fortwo and forfour will be unveiled following a string of concept cars dating back to 2011. The smart fortwo has undergone improvements in virtually all areas to make it more comfortable, and the rear engine concept is being offered for the first time in the four-seater smart forfour as well.

The new Volvo XC90 is the first Volvo to be based on the firm’s Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, which creates a far wider range of design options, improves driveability and permits the inclusion of the latest safety features and connected in-car technologies, while at the same time increasing interior space.

Volvo also say the new interior is the most luxurious to have been designed for a Volvo.

Volvo’s own four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines will power the car, while a petrol-electric hybrid version also be available from launch.

Updated models Vauxhall’s fourth-generation Corsa will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, which has new engines and transmissions.

A 1.0-litre, three-cylinder ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo will headline in the petrol offerings, while a much-improved 1.3 CDTi, which meets stringent Euro-6 regulations, will appeal to diesel buyers.

Volkswagen will also be revealing the eighth-generation of the Passat, with weight reductions of up to 85kg and fuel economy figures that have been improved by up to 20 per cent. For the first time, there will also be a Passat with a plug-in hybrid drive system.

Hyundai will reveal its new generation i20, which the firm hopes will open its appeal to an even wider audience. The new generation model has better interior space, a host of high-technology, is more comfortable and has a new distinctive, refined design.

Cars and fashion As it does every year, the show will once again host a historical exhibition. This year the chosen theme is ‘Automobiles and Fashion’, in partnership with INA (the French Broadcasting Institute), and takes place in Pavilion 8.

Media partnerships include Paris Première, Vogue as well as the Studios Harcourt.

Both born at the heart of the Industrial Revolution, Automobiles and Fashion have never stopped intertwining thanks to their shared taste for Style. Concours d’élégance,

PARIS MOTOR SHOW

All eyes on Paris

craftsmanship, icons, a passion for shapes, colours and lines are all the shared interests which have brought them closer together.

The exhibition sequence will follow the timeline of the great eras which have left their mark on the history of Automobiles and Fashion. These include pre-war (Haute Couture and Concours d’élégance), post‑war (the Automobile dream), the Pop Art years, the Seventies and Eighties combining futuristic concept cars and legendary advertisements, up until our contemporary era marked by the boom of niches, eco‑friendly design and customisation.

In harmony with this theme over 50 cars will be displayed, including the 1936 Delahaye 135 MS by Figoni-Faslaschi, the 1968 Peugeot 404 Cabriolet Pininfarina, the 1975 Matra Bagheera Coupe by Courrèges, the 1981 Vogue Range Rover, the 1995 Renault Initial Concept Car with Vuitton Luggage, the 1998 Paul Smith Mini, the 2008 Citroën 2CV by Hermès, the 2014 Nissan CC by Lolita Lempicka.

Prepare your visit to the show Tickets are available to buy on the website, and you can print them at home, which is a good way for visitors to avoid long lines at the show.

The show offers a free app in partnership with Auto Plus to discover new releases, visit the Show in pictures and videos, follow events and access all useful information with maps, lists of exhibitors and geolocation within the pavilions. It will be easier for you to find your favorite stands. Available on the App Store before the opening of the show.

The event is open to the public 4-19 October from 10.00 am – 8.00 pm, with late openings on Thursdays 9 & 16 October and Fridays 10 & 17 October, from 8.00pm- 10.00 pm. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.mondial-automobile.com

250 ers car makstered gi have re ris Motor Pa for the -19 October), 4 Show ( ith many w mières e r p d l r wo led schedu

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Electric utility vehicles to suit your company needs

Award-winning greener vehicles for fleets

Goupil Industrie was established in 1996 and the company has been operational for more than 10 years. Today, Goupil Industrie is a leading provider of electric vehicles in Europe.

With up to 60 miles range, 700 kg payload and 3M turning radius, the Goupil G3 can be fitted with a wide range of attachments such as watering systems, high pressure cleaners, tipper or box van. The G3 is only 1.1 metres wide, making it ideally suited to urban and city operations.

Another vehicle in the range, the Goupil G5 is bringing electric vehicles into a new area. Operators can now benefit from the 100 per cent electric drive for town centres but are not limited in range or speed for suburban journeys.

In full electric mode, the G5 benefits from zero per cent CO2 emissions and zero per cent acoustic nuisance. In hybrid

Vauxhall Motors, the UK’s original British brand with over 110 years’ experience in the automotive industry, has long been a favourite choice for cars and commercial vehicles alike.

Its forward-thinking philosophy and drive for excellence has resulted in an extensive line of innovative vehicles. New Insignia, winner of both Fleet News and Fleet World Honours ‘Best Upper Medium Car’ award for 2014, delivers class-leading emissions of just 98g/km.

Meanwhile Vauxhall’s award winning Ampera, an ExtendedRange Electric Vehicle (E-REV), offers emissions of just 27g/km, mpg of 235.4 and a range of up to 360 miles. In addition to its core models like Insignia, Astra and Corsa, Vauxhall continues to revolutionise with models like ADAM – a personalisable city car and Mokka – a stylish SUV with excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

Available to fleet decision makers and company car drivers

mode, the junction of both electric and petrol drives make up a rechargeable propulsion.

The G5 has a 400km total range including 80km in electric mode and reaches speeds of up to 70km/h. The G5 can generate up to 70 per cent savings on petrol compared to a conventional vehicle.

FURTHER INFORMATION sales@goupil-industrie.com www.goupil-industrie.eu

Leading the way in fleet software Improve efficiency, organise data better, reduce resource required, increase visability and highlight cost savings Chevin FleetWave 2.2

alike, Vauxhall’s 3 Day Test Drive programme gives you the opportunity to experience a model line-up for free, including Vauxhall’s new ‘whisper quiet’ diesel engines, with class-leading noise, vibration and harshness.

The company’s continuous efforts to provide the best level of service in the industry, has lead to Vauxhall achieving an industry-leading 3 Day Test Drive programme and Lifetime Warranty, and award-winning fleet website, all which will support fleet decision makers at all fleets – regardless of size – in its aim to become the fleet provider of choice.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.vauxhall.co.uk/fleet

2 3 0 9 2 0 1 4

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32

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

Highly flexible and configurable

Integration with other systems

ARRIVE ‘N’ DRIVE

Arrive ‘n’ Drive around Rockingham As well as the usual impressive round-up of eco-friendly vehicles, this year’s GreenFleet Arrive ‘n’ Drive will host many new features, such as the Freight Transport Association’s workshop on van compliance and the Crown Commercial Service’s session on purchasing public sector fleets Taking place on 23 September at Rockingham racing circuit, this year’s GreenFleet Arrive ‘n’ Drive has a host of new informative sessions for fleet managers, as well as the opportunity to test drive the latest electric, hybrid and ultra-low emission vehicles. Set to be test track sell-outs are Volkswagen’s electric e-Golf (see pages 36-37 for a first drive report) and e-Up, BMW’s electric i3, and Nissan’s electric van, the e-NV200.

FTA van excellence Are you confident that you and your van drivers are competent? This year the Freight Transport Association (FTA) will have an interactive workshop on the day, designed to inform you of the benefits of having your van fleet accredited, and the pitfalls of not.

The Van Excellence initiative is open to van operators of all sizes and business sectors and includes non FTA members. It aims to enhance standards of van operator compliance, it celebrates operators who demonstrate excellence, and represents the interests of the van industry.

On the day, you can learn more about their two half-day training 2 courses based upon the best practice guidelines for the operation of vans, light commercial vehicles and passenger vans. Delegates can then take part in a Van Mastermind quiz to

be in with a chance to win a sat-nav system from technology partner TomTom. TomTom Telematics will also demonstrate how their technology can help make your more efficient, save you money, and make your fleet safer.

Public sector fleets This year, representatives from the Crown Commercial Service (CCS – formerly Government Procurement Service and BuyingSolutions), and public sector leasing specialist, Alphabet, will host a dedicated workshop giving visitors the most up to date changes and developments to the Fleet Frameworks.

The CCS will stage a morning and afternoon workshop to help all public sector professionals understand the latest changes, and how they effect the way they purchase and lease fleet related goods and services. E

Taking n place ober at tem 23 Sepgham, this Rockin rive ‘n’ Drive r year’s A s informative feature ns and low sessio hicle test CO ve ives dr

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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ARRIVE ‘N’ DRIVE  Beat the Sprig The fleet industry’s most renowned eco‑driver, the Sprig is back to challenge visitors on their green driving skills.

Just a 10 per cent improvement in fuel consumption can save companies a substantial amount of money.

The tuition will take place in a fuel-friendly Citroën DS3, which is officially capable of 78mpg. However, last year the Sprig beat that figure, setting the benchmark at 87mpg.

What’s more impressive still is that the winner of last year’s competition achieved 99mpg.

Arrive ‘n’ Drive this year has a new Driver Training Partner, AA Drivetech, who will teach each participant with real-world practical driving techniques that will reduce their fuel consumption and therefore fuel costs and carbon emissions. TomTom Telematics is the Official Technology Partner for the competition.

Each car will be fitted with its technology and once participants complete their drive, they receive detailed feedback, highlighting mpg, CO2, harsh braking and acceleration.

The participant achieving the best MPG figure will go home with a TomTom sat-nav system.

Get driving Most of the major manufacturers will be present on the day, allowing visitors to get behind the wheels of their latest emission-friendly offerings.

Visitors will be among the first in the UK to drive the Volkswagen e-Golf, launched this summer, and the e-Up, which was released earlier in the year. It will also be one of the first times that the public will be able to get behind the wheel of the Nissan e-NV200 electric van, with its best in class cargo space of 4.2m³ and 106-mile range.

BMW’s first electric vehicle, the i3, which was released last year, will also be available on the day to test drive. It comes as a pure electric model, or with a range‑extender, giving you up to 185 miles in range.

A brand debut comes to Arrive’n’Drive this year, in the shape of the stylish Infiniti.

The Q50 sedan is now gunning for the BMW 3-series, Audi A4 and Volvo S80

ECOnetic has a modern, sleek design with great fuel consumption and fuel efficiency of 44.8mpg. Add the Stop-Start technology and you can why this van is still at the top of the commercial vehicle charts.

The new, funky-looking Citroën C4 Cactus will be also be at the event. This car is set to take the compact SUV sector by storm, with a ‘back to basics’ approach, and the French company has stripped out many of the luxuries they think buyers in this market aren’t bothered about. This keeps the price down, as the Cactus starts at less than £13,000. All the weight saving has resulted in great economy, with even the most powerful petrol version (a 109bhp 1.2 turbo) pumping out just 107g/km, while the 99bhp 1.6 Blue HDi diesel, that’s expected to be the biggest seller, emitting as little as 82g/km.

GreenFleet visitors can also get behind

Most of the major manufacturers will be present on the day, allowing visitors to get behind the wheels of their latest emission‑friendly offerings segment, and at 115g/km, from a 2.2-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine, it looks set to be a very popular drive on the day.

The Peugeot Partner Electric is now starting to make some noise in the EV sector. It is Ideal for a fleet that operates around the cities and towns, doing up to 106 miles on a charge.

Mini will also be present on the day, showcasing its new five door hatch, which should widen the firm’s appeal to the fleet market due to its added space and practicality.

Innovative technology The all-electric Zoe, from Renault, is set to become the French manufacturers best-selling EV to date, outstripping the already successful Kangoo ZE van (also at the show). It is compact, stylish, has innovative technology and is priced at just £13,995 inc. VAT. The ever-popular Ford Transit Custom

the wheel of the latest range of D4‑powered Volvos which combine speed with fuel efficiency and low carbon.

The V40 D4, for example, has 190HP with carbon emissions of just 99g/km and fuel consumption at 74.3mpg.

Toyota will be showcasing its all‑new Yaris hybrid – the first non-electric/ plug-in car to beat the demanding 75g/km CO2 emissions target. At just five per cent BIK / £15 a month and Congestion Charge free, it will also provide significant whole life cost savings.

For a full list of exhibitors, visit www.events.greenfleet.net. Refreshments, including a buffet lunch, are provided free-of-charge on the day.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.events.greenfleet.net

Pollute less, save more with the all-new Yaris petrol hybrid Responsible for more deaths than road traffic accidents, poor air quality is now the number one environmental cause of premature death in the EU. When a statement like that comes from the EU Commissioner, the responsibility drivers and companies face for their vehicle emissions really hits home.

In the UK alone, 5,000 premature deaths a year are linked to combustion exhaust.* Excessive levels of harmful nitrogen dioxide in cities caused largely by traffic pollution and principally from diesel vehicles, means the UK government faces fines of up to £300m a year.

Combining power from both petrol and electric engines, petrol hybrid engines

34

generate near-zero NOx and zero particulates.

MPG is typically greater with lower CO2.

That’s why more and more, fleets are quitting diesels in favour of cleaner petrol hybrid vehicles – enjoying tax breaks and lower whole life costs in the process.

Just how far this technology has come is illustrated by the arrival of the all-new Yaris hybrid – the first non-electric/plug in car to

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

beat the demanding 75 g/km CO2 emissions target. At just 5% BIK / £15 a month^ and congestion charge free, it will also provide significant whole life cost savings.

For an extended test drive of the new Yaris hybrid or any of the 13 Toyota and Lexus petrol hybrid models, simply call 0844 701 6186 or visit brilliantforbusiness.co.uk. * 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 ^20% taxpayer

The new Citroën Relay promises higher levels of standard equipment, extended service intervals and more fuel efficient engines as well as lower emissions. Richard Gooding loads it up suspension lowers this by a further 70mm.

Full-height large sliding side doors are up to 1.25m wide and there is 1.42m of space between the wheel arches. Overall interior width is 1.87m. Every Relay can swallow a minimum of three Euro pallets.

The cargo bay is lined with anti-drum panelling, has lighting and a 12V socket as well as lashing eyes. Occupants in the cab are protected by a full-height steel bulkhead.

Practical touches The fourth-generation Relay adopts more car‑like frontal styling. There’s no denying that the LED running lights in the headlamps add a smart, high-tech look.

With a load volume of 13m3 and payload of 1525kg in this 35 L3H2 version, there’s a lot of space for carrying cargo. If that’s not large enough for your needs, the Relay comes in four lengths and three heights. There are also panel vans, chassis and chassis crew cabs, as well as specialist bodywork conversions to choose from. Practical touches include rear swing doors which are up to 2.03m high and open up to 270 degrees wide. Load length can be up to 4.07m depending on version, while load volumes range from 8 to 17cm3.

A sill height of under 605mm means easy loading and optional pneumatic rear

Lower emissions Citroën reports that all 2014 Relays enjoy lower emissions and 15 per cent better fuel consumption than the models they replace.

The 35 L3H2 HDi 130 tested here emits 195g/km and is officially capable of 38.2mpg on the combined cycle. During our 287-mile test, we achieved a real-world average of 34.9.

The Relay shows trip computer information and driving data such as fuel consumption in the instrument panel. A gearshift indicator also informs when the best time is to change ratios.

All Relays with a maximum weight of 3.5 tonnes emit less than 200g/km of CO2, the smallest being 175g/km.

The 35 L3H2’s 2.2-litre HDi diesel engine uses its 130bhp and 236lb ft (320Nm) of torque to

Citroën Relay 35 L3H2 HDi 130 Enterprise GROSS PAYLOAD: LOAD VOLUME: ENGINE:

1525kg 13m3

2,198cc, four-cylinder diesel

CO2: MPG (combined): VED: PRICE (ex-VAT):

Written by Richard Gooding

Launched at the 2014 Commercial Vehicle Show, the new Citroën Relay is the latest in a line of panel vans to bear the name. First appearing in 1994, all versions have been products of the Sevel joint venture between Fiat and PSA Group (Peugeot and Citroën) and both the Relay and its Peugeot Boxer sister share certain body panels with the Italian company’s Ducato panel van. Production takes place at the Sevel Sud factory in Val di Sangro, Italy.

Well-placed controls The three-seat interior features well-placed controls and the five-inch colour touchscreen has a nice gloss finish to the surround.

Under-seat trays aid storage, along with an overhead cab-width shelf, door bins and two large gloveboxes. The largest is capable of holding A4-sized documents and is lockable.

‘Enterprise’ specification brings a high standard of equipment. The touchscreen shows driving data, as well as audio and system controls. It also shows the view from the (essential) rear camera where fitted. Mounted above the rear doors, the system not only shows the reversing path but also the outline of the door openings. The camera can also monitor loading, while rear sensors further aid parking. An optional £300 lane departure warning system is also available.

The inclusion of cruise control as part of the Enterprise pack can bring fuel-saving benefits and all Relays feature a Teletrac Smartnav satellite navigation system – ideal for fleets.

A Trafficmaster telematics platform also allows new Relay operators to specify Fleet Director, a real-time fleet management system. Benefits include efficient vehicle routing and the security of vehicle tracking if stolen.

An advertising campaign states that the new Relay has been ‘Thumped. Pounded. Pummelled’ and that it’s tougher than before. Add in improved refinement as well as smarter looks and the new French contender can only build on the standards set by previous generations. L

ROAD TEST

Relay switch

good effect. It’s a swift accelerating van when it needs to be, slotting into traffic with little fuss. Once settled at a cruise, the Relay is quiet and all models have six-speed gearboxes.

Citroën reports 14 20 that all y lower njo Relays e ns and 15 emissio better fuel t per cen ption than consum utgoing the o els mod

195g/km 38.2 £225 £26,005 (£27,185 as tested)

35

FIRST DRIVE Volkswagen e-Golf ENGINE:

85kW AC electric motor

ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION: CO2: RANGE: VED: BIK: PRICE (OTR):

12.7kWh/62 miles 0g/km 118 miles Band A 0%

£25,845 (inc VAT, after government grant)

The electric version of Volkswagen’s best-selling hatchback looks little different to its fossil-fuelled relatives

36

Efficiently electric The all-electric Volkswagen Golf has finally arrived. Promising zero emissions with the blend of qualities the German hatchback is famed for, Richard Gooding sees if the e-Golf delivers The mass-production electric Volkswagen Golf has been a long time coming. The first electric version of Volkswagen’s hallmark hatch was made in 1976 and throughout the decades that followed, zero-emission Golfs were developed further. A version of the production e-Golf was trialled in 2011 but it’s only now that an electric variant of VW’s ubiquitous C-segment car is available to buy.

The 2014 Volkswagen e-Golf takes the contemporary Mk 7 version of the German hatch as a starting point. It adds an 85kW / 113bhp AC electric motor driven by a single‑speed gearbox. A 264-cell, 318kg lithium-ion battery is integrated into the Golf’s floor. Rated at 323 volts and 24.2kWh, it can be fully charged in 13 hours on a 2.3kW UK home electricity supply. An optional 3.6kW wallbox takes this down to eight hours.

Volkswagen has fitted the popular European

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

combined charging system (CCS) to the e-Golf for rapid charging. This adds DC supply capability and recharges the battery to 80 per cent capacity in 30 minutes. Official range is 118 miles, depending on ambient conditions, charging level and driving style. An optional £825 heat pump adds up to 20 per cent more range in colder climates.

More range, more practicality The e-Golf is the second fully-electric car in the Volkswagen range after the e-Up city car and promises not only more range but also more practicality due to its larger footprint.

Just as with the smaller car, the e-Golf looks little different to the standard model.

‘C’‑shaped LED daytime running lights, full‑LED headlamps (with blue stripe insert), a blue-trimmed front grille and ‘e-Golf’ badging visually decipher the electric Golf from its

Futuristic fuel-sipper: drving the VW XL1 Interior is as well-built as any other Golf

fossil-fulled siblings. Sixteen-inch ‘Tilleves’ alloy wheels add a signature touch, while the rear features a streamlined spoiler and LED tail lights.

The e-Golf is only available with five doors and in one high-specification trim level.

Standard equipment includes an eight-inch colour touchscreen ‘Discover Navigation Pro’ with satellite navigation and e-Manager functions; rain sensors; an auto-dimming rear view mirror; and blue-stitched leather trim on the steering wheel, gearshift and handbrake lever. There’s also a heated front windscreen for less energy use; a multifunction computer; parking sensors and 2Zone climate control, as well as numerous driving assistance and crash safety systems.

Not much is lost in the translation from fossil-fuelled hatchback to EV. The luggage boot is only 39 litres smaller (down to 341 from 380 litres), while the interior is just as well-built as any other version of the popular VW. The Mk 7 Golf was designed from the outset to take multiple powertrain options and the e-Golf is built on the same production lines as the petrol and diesel versions.

Volkswagen switches components as and when the all-electric model is specified. Due to the current (pun not intended) nature of the EV market, the e-Golf will be customer order only from any of VW’s nationwide 24 e-Retailers.

pedal is released. The regenerative braking is immediately felt, subtly getting more severe as the programmes are increased. Lastly, ‘B’ slows the car down similarly to the driver applying the brake pedal. In urban traffic the e-Golf can be slowed to a standstill, therefore negating the need for the hydraulic braking system. Provided a set level of retardation is achieved, the brake lights are automatically applied in all of the e-Golf’s regenerative braking modes. To obtain further range, the e-Golf’s satellite navigation system has three route options – Fast, Short, Eco – as well as Traffic Sign Display and no overtaking zones.

The e-Golf’s running gear is largely the same as that of other Golfs. It handles with a nimbleness which makes it feel more agile and flowing than a regular model, no doubt in part to the low centre of gravity afforded by the battery location. The 205/55 R16 low rolling resistance tyres cushion road imperfections well. The ride is on the firm side but never uncomfortably so. Only a slight whine from the electric motor and more omnipresent wind and road noise give the electric game away.

The olf VW e-G kW, 5 has an 8electric 113bhpro tailpipe e motor, z ns and an emisisol range of officia miles 118

Three driving profiles As with the e-Up, driving the e-Golf needs little adjustment. Three driving profiles can be selected. ‘Normal’ unleashes the full 113bhp and 270Nm (199lb ft) of torque, while keeping the top speed at 87mph. The e-Golf accelerates to 62mph from rest in 10.4 seconds, around the same time as a Golf BlueMotion TDI. For increased range, ‘Eco’ sees the air‑conditioning functionality reduced, along with a cut in power to 93bhp and 220Nm (162lb ft). Top speed is decreased to 71mph. Finally. ‘Eco+’ limits power to 73bhp, torque to 175Nm (129lb ft) and top speed to 56mph. Air-conditioning is also switched off entirely when ‘Eco+’ is selected.

However, full power can be accessed in both ‘Eco’ and ‘Eco+’ modes though by kicking down the gearbox if overtaking is required.

Five levels of regenerative braking can also be selected. ‘D’ – the default mode – uses no regenerative braking at all, instead reclaiming energy through the hydraulic braking system.

Flick the gear lever into the ‘D1’, ‘D2’ or ‘D3’ modes and the electric motor switches into generator mode when the accelerator

Well-resolved The e-Golf follows VW’s fixed service regime. The first service is due after two years or 20,000 miles and thereafter every year or 20,000 miles. An eight-year or 160,000km (100,000-mile) warranty applies to the battery in addition to VW’s standard three‑year, 60,000-mile guarantee.

Volkswagen’s all-electric vehicles also come with a three-year subscription to the Car‑Net service which gives control over vehicle charging status, battery management, driving data and air‑conditioning.

The e-Golf is priced at £25,845 after the government’s £5,000 plug-in car grant. That makes it £165 more expensive than the more powerful and more radical £25,680 BMW i3, its most obvious rival. Both the Bavarian EV and the e-Golf have the same official range and both are rated at 0 per cent BIK. The Volkswagen sits in a lower insurance group, but the BMW has undoubtedly more avantgarde looks if making an EV statement appeals.

Overall, the e-Golf is a well thought-out and extremely well-resolved EV designed to make the transition from fossil-fuelled transportation to zero-emission motoring as painless as possible. Simple to use, practical, well-built and emission-free: the e-Golf has the capability to be all things to EV fleet drivers – with an added dash of familiarity. L

As well as driving the e-Golf, GreenFleet was granted an audience with the exotic-looking Volkswagen XL1 hybrid. The production version of the German company’s ‘1-litre’ car, it only uses one litre of fuel every 100km (in UK terms, upwards of 200mpg).

FIRST DRIVE

Specific instruments inform of e-Golf’s performance

In fact, the XL1 achieves a 0.9l/100km fuel consumption (313mpg) figure.

A low weight of 795kg (around half that of a contemporary Golf), a body made from carbonfibre reinforced plastic, low Cd value of 0.189, emissions of 21g/km, and a plug-in hybrid system help the XL1’s cause.

Driving the coupé requires some adjustment. With a low centre of gravity and only 1153mm of height, you’re immediately aware of the shrunken shape when compared to other vehicles. In almost all cases the XL1’s roof is barely level with most cars’ headlights.

There are no door and rear view mirrors. A tiny pair of door-mounted cameras relay pictures back to large smartphone-sized screens embedded in the interior door skins.

In all-electric mode, the XL1 is quiet, bar some road noise from the magnesium wheels and low rolling resistance tyres. A faint whine from the 20kW 26bhp electric motor lets you know the car uses a high-tech powertrain. In addition, a small dash-mounted touchscreen displays an energy flow diagram.

The XL1 can go over 50km (30 miles) on lithium-ion battery power alone but to increase the range to 310 miles, the mid-mounted, 800cc two-cylinder, 35kW 47bhp TDI engine can be kicked in. Battery regeneration occurs when the car slows down with the electric motor acting as a generator. Impressively, the XL1 will happily coast far on large downhill stretches of road.

UK order books for the XL1 opens in October, with first deliveries expected in March 2015. At £98,515 after the government’s plug-in car grant, exclusivity will be a given.

The XL1’s plug-in hybrid may filter down to more affordable production models

Volume 76 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

37

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FLEET MANAGEMENT: FLEET COST REDUCTION

CAR AND VAN RENTAL

Green Motion 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

Schneider Electric

sgfleet

Run Your Fleet

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

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

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.

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.

FLEET MANAGEMENT REPORTING

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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.

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AMC Promotion 30, 31 BCS Partnership 26 Chevin Fleet Solutions 32 Fiat 6 Ford 4 Goupil Industrie 32 Haweka UK 38 Jeep 8 Lex Autolease OBC Lift Safe 26 Mini 14, 15 Mitsubishi 20, 21 Nissan 10, 11 Peugeot 28, 29 PTV Planung Transport Verkehr AG 24 Reco Auto 16 Renault UK IFC SV Tech 26 Texa 24 Toyota IBC, 34 Vauxhall 32

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

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.

DRIVING THE FUTURE

At Lex Autolease, we do more than just help you choose the most efficient vehicles. We can help structure your policy, manage your mileage and enable your drivers to use their vehicles more efficiently.

Our aim is lower emissions and costs for you – which is good for the environment and your business.

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