GreenFleet 84

FLEET FOCUS

CV SHOW

www.greenfleet.net

ROAD TEST NISSAN QASHQAI

ISSUE 84

FINANCE

PROCURING PLUG-IN POINTS

Practical advice for fleet operators looking to buy charge points ALTERNATIVE FUELS

GREEN FUEL FOCUS The past, present and future of electric and hydrogen vehicles BUSINESS TRAVEL

D NLOA DOW NEW THE EET APP NFL GREE de QR co e h t Scan

ROAD TEST: RENAULT CAPTUR 1.5 dCi

MOBILITY TRENDS

A look at the changing nature of corporate travel

CV SHOW

www.greenfleet.net

ROAD TEST NISSAN QASHQAI

ISSUE 84

FINANCE

PROCURING PLUG-IN POINTS

Practical advice for fleet operators looking to buy charge points ALTERNATIVE FUELS

GREEN FUEL FOCUS

The past, present and future of electric and hydrogen vehicles BUSINESS TRAVEL

MOBILITY TRENDS

LOAD DOWNNEW THE ET APP NFLE GREE code the QR Scan

A look at the changing nature of corporate travel

ROAD TEST: RENAULT CAPTUR 1.5 dCi

Comment

FLEET FOCUS

Testing for real-world emissions There have been headlines in the motoring press recently about how certain European car makers are seeking to delay the introduction of the World Light Duty Test Procedure (WLTP) – a more accurate way to measure emissions and fuel economy – by three years, to 2020.

This new approach would stop certain loopholes that ‘skew’ results, including the use of pre-charging the car battery, using unrealistic vehicle weight and rolling and aerodynamic resistance. Research suggests that real-world fuel‑efficiency figures are on average 38 per cent poorer than official claimed figures.

But Reuters has reported to have seen a paper from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) – which said that carmakers ‘cannot envisage vehicle testing beginning before 1 January 2020’.

and what’s claimed on paper, and I’m sure that most of us would appreciate a fairer and more accurate way of measuring.

It is said that car makers want to delay the new WLTP to help them meet the tough 95g/km of CO2 emissions target that’s been set for 2021. If manufacturers miss targets, they have to pay €95 for every car sold that’s over the target.

But if it turns out that the WLTP test results in higher emissions and lower mpg (which research suggests it would), then could this mean tax rises?

Read the full news story on page 9.

As motorists, we know there is a major gap in what can be achieved on the 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 PRODUCTION EDITOR Richard Gooding EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Michael Lyons, Sian Nagle, Tommy Newell PRODUCTION CONTROL Jacqueline Lawford, Jo Golding WEB PRODUCTION Reiss Malone EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Danny Wright PUBLISHER Martin Freedman ACCOUNT MANAGER Kylie Glover ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich, Vickie Hopkins REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

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© 2015 Public Sector Information Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. ISSN 1471-3713

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

3

Contents

Contents GreenFleet 84 09

09 News

Car makers seek to delay real-world mpg and emission tests; Tesla enters the energy storage market; Hyundai ix35 price

15 Procurement

Fleet managers and procurement experts must work together with other stakeholders in their businesses to secure the best terms for their organisations when appointing fleet suppliers

15

21 Procurement frameworks

The push to generate substantial savings in both central and local government procurement will continue throughout the next parliament. For fleets, opportunities to reduce costs exist through the Crown Commercial Services’ seven Framework agreements

25 Charging infrastructure A new procurement guide offers practical advice for fleet operators preparing to buy electric vehicle charge point

25

29 Business mobility

How is the continued growth of on‑demand services forcing companies to consider how to meet the changing needs of their employees and reducing costs?

32 Fleet focus 29

GreenFleet talks to Eoin Kenneally, e-commerce manager of myHermes about how a Hermes delivery initiative aims to reduce the carbon impact of last mile deliveries in the capital

35 Alternative fuels

While interest in electric and hydrogen‑powered vehicles has grown over the past few years, both concepts actually date back to the early 19th century. Richard Mochor from motor dealership Motorparks looks at the past, present and future of alternative fuels

41 CV Show 2015

Several new models and exhibitors were showcased at the CV Show this year

43 Emergency fleets

Fleet managers from the police, fire and ambulance services are invited to attend the Emergency Fleet Exhibition this June to view the latest vehicles and equipment, as well as debate the topics that matter at the National Association of Police Fleet Managers’ conference

45 GreenFleet events

We look back at the recent GreenFleet Capital event which took place on 6 May at White Hart Lane and look forward to GreenFleet West in Bristol on 5 June

46 Road test: Renault Captur Dynamique dCi

With sales in the rise, GreenFleet finds out what makes the Renault Captur so popular

48 Road test: Nissan Qashqai n-tec+ dCi

Richard Gooding sees why premium car drivers are switching to Nissan’s best-selling SUV crossover

48 32

GreenFleet magazine

www.greenfleet.net Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

5

WHY HAVE ACCEPTABLE, WHEN YOU CAN HAVE EXCEPTIONAL? DISCOVER THE PEUGEOT PROFESSIONAL DIFFERENCE

“ AS A COMPANY THAT OPERATES A LARGE FLEET, THE QUALITY AND RELIABILITY OF THE PEUGEOT RANGE IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THIS COMPANY.” SITA UK

At Peugeot Professional we understand the challenges businesses face on a daily basis. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing great vehicles, outstanding customer service and network support to those that demand more than just a fleet provider.

Visit business.peugeot.co.uk/passion or call 02476 884 644 and see the difference we’re already making to SITA UK and several other businesses.

Official Fuel Consumption in mpg (l/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km) for the 308 Range are: Urban 43.5 (6.5) – 80.7 (3.5), Extra Urban 51.4 (5.5) – 97.4 (2.9), Combined 54.3 (5.2) – 91.1 (3.1) and CO2 119 – 82 (g/km).

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.

THE PASSION TO MAKE IT HAPPEN

News

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

EMISSIONS

Latest order gives AVIS Europe’s biggest EV fleet AVIS Denmark has placed an order for 401 Nissan e-NV200 vans and 60 units of the Nissan LEAF. Along with the 400 Nissan LEAF electric cars ordered in 2014, AVIS now has the largest electric vehicle fleet in Europe with 861 vehicles.

Director of electric vehicles for Nissan Europe, Jean-Pierre Diernaz, commented: “We are very happy to be working with AVIS again to create a lease offering for customers in Denmark. With big companies like AVIS in Denmark and DHL in Italy placing significant orders for Nissan electric vehicles we can see that more people are realising the unique combination of driving comfort, low running costs and zero emissions is very appealing.”

AVIS Denmark managing director, Kasper Gjedsted, believes the company can build upon the previous success of the Nissan LEAF and appeal to new customers as a result of the deal: “We had great success already with the Nissan LEAF in Denmark and we leased all of the units we purchased from Nissan very quickly, which has led to us ordering more. To follow up that success we have decided to add the e-NV200 vehicle to broaden our offering and appeal to new types of customers.”

Car makers seek to delay real-world mpg and emission tests Manufacturers are seeking to push back the introduction of a new fuel and emission test cycle by three years, according to a new report.

The European Commission plans to introduce a new test cycle in 2017 – the World Light Duty Test Procedure (WLTP) – which would stop certain ‘loopholes’ that skew results, including the use of pre-charging the car battery, using unrealistic vehicle weight and rolling and aerodynamic resistance.

However, members of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) – which includes BMW, Volkswagen and Fiat Chrysler – are pushing to stop the introduction of new tests until 2020. Reuters has reported to have seen the ACEA paper, which said that carmakers ‘cannot envisage vehicle testing beginning before 1 January 2020’.

Recent research by T&E shows that fuel‑efficiency figures achieved by drivers on the road are on average 38 per cent poorer than official figures claimed by carmakers. This

divergence has increased from 15 per cent in 2008 when new CO2 rules were introduced.

Car makers want to delay the overhaul in order to keep using the existing NEDC tests to help them meet the tough 95g/km of CO2 emissions target that’s been set for 2021.

If manufacturers miss targets, they have to pay €95 for every car sold that’s over the target.

Greg Archer from campaigning group, Transport & Environment, said: “We all know by now that pumped-up fuel economy figures are the direct result of carmakers gaming the lab tests. David Cameron should do everything at his power to stop Merke [Chancellor of Germany]’s officials allowing carmakers to keep exploiting test flexibilities to weaken fuel efficiency laws.

British drivers will appreciate it.”

READ MORE tinyurl.com/ote98vr

ALTERNATIVE FUELS FURTHER INFORMATION tinyurl.com/o68cuak

LOW CARBON TECHNOLOGY

British low carbon technology showcased in Japan Seven UK-based automotive businesses that have won funding from Innovate UK are heading to Japan to exhibit low carbon technology at the Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan (JSAE) Engineering Conference 2015.

Advanced Innovative Engineering (AIE), Artemis Intelligent Power, MIRA, Nissan Technical Centre Europe, Productiv, Romax Technology and the Manufacturing Technology Centre will present to an international audience of investors and engineers.

Hyundai announces price of ix35 fuel cell vehicle Hyundai Motors UK have officially announced the public pricing of their ix35 fuel cell model, which will retail for £53,105.

This is inclusive of part-funding offered from the HyFive project, which offers customers a saving of nearly £15,000.

HyFive is a consortium of companies that includes vehicle manufacturers Honda, BMW, Daimler, Toyota and Hyundai, with the aim to bring 110 hydrogen powered vehicles to European roads. The project will also see another three hydrogen refuelling stations deployed in the London area, which will contribute to a total of five public refuelling stations by the end of 2015.

The manufacturer’s specification outlines that the ix35 is powered by a 100kW (134bhp) electric motor with a maximum speed of 100mph (160km/h). The vehicle comes equipped with two hydrogen storage tanks, with a

total capacity of 5.64kg, providing a range of 369miles (594km) on a single fill up.

The latest ix35 is a fourth‑generation fuel cell powered electric vehicle from Hyundai, which it reports has fuel efficiency gains of more than 15 per cent and an extended driving range of more than 50 per cent while maintaining zero tailpipe emissions.

Hyundai ix35 fuel cell to cost £53,105

READ MORE tinyurl.com/puhb8mt

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

9

BE RENEGADE

THE ALL-NEW JEEP RENEGADE.

The Jeep Renegade with its unmistakable styling and road presence is an SUV unlike any other. With its wide choice of fuel efficient engines, luxurious interiors and legendary off-road ability it’s a Jeep which is ready to redefine fun.

Get ready to Be Renegade.

BUSINESS CONTRACT HIRE EXAMPLE JEEP RENEGADE 1.6 MULTIJET E5+ SPORT Excluding optional Omaha Orange paint at £500 OTR*

Monthly Payment

MPG Combined

CO2 Emissions

£169

Up to 61.4

120g/km

5" Touchscreen DAB Radio Security Alarm Tyre Pressure Monitoring 16" Alloy Wheels

All-New Jeep Renegade from only £169 per month on Business Contract Hire.** To book a test drive visit jeep.co.uk/fleet or contact our Business Centre on 01753 519442 or via email at fleet@jeep-comms.co.uk jeep.co.uk/fleet

MODEL SHOWN JEEP RENEGADE 1.6 MULTIJET E5+ SPORT WITH OPTIONAL SPECIAL PAINT AT £500 OTR. OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR JEEP RENEGADE RANGE MPG (L/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 48.7 (5.8) – 70.6 (4.0), URBAN 32.1 (8.8) – 51.4 (5.5), COMBINED 40.9 (6.9) – 61.4 (4.6), CO2 EMISSIONS: 160 – 120 G/KM. Fuel consumption and CO figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance *

Jeep with ®

2

with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a significant effect on fuel consumption. **Business users only.

Rentals based on Renegade 1.6 MultiJet E5+ Sport (excluding optional Omaha Orange paint at £500 OTR) on Contract Hire profile of 6 rentals in advance (equivalent of £1014) followed by 35 rentals of £169, 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 June 2015. 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 FCA US LLC.

News

ENERGY

News in brief Record entries for FTA everywoman Transport and Logistics Awards The FTA everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards reported record entries for their 2015 ceremony, which is due to take place on 3 June. The awards were established eight years ago and hope to encourage more women into the transport and logistics sector, in which they currently make up less than a quarter of all employees.

Tesla enters the energy storage market Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Motors, has said the company “will change the way the world uses energy” with the introduction of the Powerwall, a large lithium-ion battery capable of storing energy from solar panels or the national grid.

Although not available in the UK, the ability to save power to be used at a later point resolves the limitations of solar panels, which depend on fair weather. The Powerwall can also charge during low rate periods and discharge during peak hours, ensuring lower tariff energy is always utilised.

The Powerwall has a continuous power of 2kW and a peak power of 3.3kW with a round trip efficiency of 92 per cent. At present, the battery is available in two different sizes - 7kWh ($3,000) for daily use when there is no sunlight and no solar power; or 10kWh ($3,500) for weekly use that can be a backup when the grid goes down.

It has been predicted that the battery’s manufacturer, Gigafactory, will be consumed with orders until mid-2016 after receiving 38,000 from business and individuals in the US. However, the Gigafactory’s manufacturing plant is still in construction. When finished, the building will occupy 10 million square feet at a cost of $5bn. It is set to be completed by 2020 and will be capable of producing 500,000 lithium-ion batteries a year.

Since being founded in 2003, Tesla has made a massive contribution to the EV sector.

In 2012 it launched the Model S, the first premium electric sedan with all-wheel drive dual motor, paring a high performance rear

motor with a high efficiency front motor to achieve acceleration from 0-60mph in 3.1 seconds. Tesla have now introduced a ‘PreOwned’ tab on the Tesla Motors website, which is offering certified pre-owned Model-S vehicles throughout 11 U.S. markets in Atlanta, Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Florida, Hawaii, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco/ Bay Area, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. Every Pre-Owned Model S receives a full inspection and a four year, 50,000 miles limited warranty with 24 hour road side assistance, which comes in addition to the remainder of the car’s eight year battery and drive warranty.

At the time of this writing, the website is offering a number of Model-S variations, including the Model-S 60, 85, P85 and P85+, with prices ranging from $50,250 for a 2013 Model-S 60 with 15,761 miles in the Florida area, to $100,700 for a 2014 Model-S P85 with 13,236 miles in the New York area.

Moving into late 2015 and early 2016 Tesla is looking to expand their offering, with the seven seater Model X SUV scheduled to open for configuration in July, and already available to reserve on their website. In addition to this, the Model 3 is set to be unveiled to the public in March 2016 – a more affordable option from Tesla, smaller than the Model S and priced at around $35,000 before incentives.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/bnwz9zk

SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT

Green Transport Week runs 13-21 June Green Transport Week is a celebration of sustainable transport and an opportunity to spread awareness of the relationship between transport and the environment in schools and workplaces and takes place between 13-21 June 2015. The Environmental Transport Association set up the first Green Transport Week in 1993 in a bid to raise awareness for personal safety, quality of life and health and

the broader global effect on our environment.

The Car accounts for 81 per cent of drivers journeys and is being used for increasingly short journeys, 24 per cent are less than two miles and 58 per cent are less than five miles.

READ THE REPORT

READ MORE tinyurl.com/pgw9yl6

DriveNow introduces BMW i3 to London Fleet Car sharing service DriveNow has introduced 30 BMW i3 electric vehicles to its London fleet. The car sharing service currently operates in the boroughs of Hackney, Islington, Haringey and Waltham Forest. The i3s will join DriveNow’s fleet of 240 other BMW and MINI models.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/o8aqj4j

Toyota and Mazda agree long-term partnership Toyota Motor Corporation and Mazda Motor Corporation have entered into a long term partnership which will leverage the resources of both companies to complement and enhance each other’s products and technologies. The partnership will result in more appealing cars that meet the diverse needs and tastes of customers internationally. A joint committee will now be set up to evaluate how best to utilise each company’s respective strengths. The committee will encourage broad and meaningful collaboration across a range of fields, including environmental and advanced safety technologies.

Representing Mazda, President and CEO Masamichi Kogai said: “Toyota is a company that has shown steadfast resolve in acting responsibly on global environmental issues and the future of manufacturing as a whole.

tinyurl.com/oyqyyn2

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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News

ECO DRIVING

Eco-unfriendly driving costs UK motorists £700 million a year Nigel Trotman Another turning point for fleets?

The recent Supreme Court ruling stating that the Government must take urgent steps to tackle air pollution in cities and the subsequent press reaction (diesels could be banned) set me thinking.

It doesn’t seem long ago (though it is actually 15 years) that we were starting to get used to the “new” approach to company car taxation based on CO2 emissions. The Government of the time saw this as a way of meeting their commitments under the Kyoto Protocol and it has had a massive influence on the current UK fleet scene.

Have we now, I thought, reached another of those significant turning points, where the accepted thinking has to change, and what will that mean for all of us in fleet? Could this spell the end of all-diesel policies, as if cities become no-go areas for diesel many fleets will no longer be fit for purpose? Will Fleet Managers need to change policies to embrace lower-emitting petrol vehicles, as well as EVs and petrol hybrids? How will we face the challenges of a transitional period?

In my personal opinion any transitional approach is likely to start by fiscally penalising diesel vehicles whose drivers wish to access city centres (a kind of congestion charge in reverse). This would be more practical – and of course would raise revenue – during any transition. From a Fleet Manager’s perspective therefore, we need to understand the potential implications and start to think about how to manage the change – ideally the earlier the better.

The bigger challenge however is likely to be one of understanding – how many of us can honestly say we understand the effects of NOx and whether the figure quoted for a particular vehicle is good, bad of indifferent? Start the research now, the change will come before we know it.

Nigel Trotman is an experienced former fleet manager and fleet consultant FURTHER INFORMATION

Follow Nigel Trotman on Twitter @NigelTrotman or email nigel.trotman@talktalk.net

12

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

Research released by Barclaycard Fuel+ has found that British motorists are wasting £700 million on their fuel bills every year because they aren’t using eco-friendly driving techniques.

On average British drivers are wasting over 636 million litres of petrol a year that could be saved if they drove more efficiently, and one in three motorists (36 per cent) do not use any eco‑driving techniques that could save them fuel and money.

It seems the older generation of motorists are the most likely to practice eco-unfriendly habits, such as leaving the engine running when stationary, accelerating unnecessarily and failing to use the right gear.

Over half (55 per cent) of those aged over 65 admit they don’t drive in ways that might save fuel and more than two in five (44 per cent) of those aged

between 44 and 64 say the same. Meanwhile, the research found that motorists aged 17-24 are the most eco-friendly whilst driving, with nine in ten (89 per cent) consciously using several fuel-efficient driving techniques.

John Bostock, account development director, Barclaycard, which has pioneered Barclaycard Fuel+, said: “with such a huge amount of money wasted on fuel, we would benefit massively as a nation if we were more mindful when it comes to driving in a more eco-friendly way. We keep a close eye on our grocery spending, so shouldn’t we do the same here when it’s apparent how much we could save just by driving more efficiently?”

Golf world premiere at Wörthersee

READ MORE tinyurl.com/n9o4wku

READ MORE tinyurl.com/odmtbay

Volkswagen is showcasing two Golf GT models at Lake Wörthersee in Austria – the Golf GTI Clubsport and the Golf GTE Sport. As a concept car, the Golf GTE Sport features a carbon body, completely new cockpit design, an “electric propshaft” and 397bhp plug-in hybrid drive. By contrast, the Golf GTI Clubsport – also presented as a concept car – offers a glimpse at the 262bhp anniversary model which will mark the 40th birthday of the Golf GTI next year.

For more than three decades, the south bank of Lake Wörthersee in Austria has become the home for GTI fans from around the world, and it has become a tradition for Volkswagen to present an automotive surprise for the 200,000 visitors.

News

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Dangers of silent EVs and hybrids highlighted

LowCVP’s Andy Eastlake Changing buyer perceptions of low carbon vehicles

Guide Dogs has been working with the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and the World Blind Union (WBU) to ensure that concerns about the dangers that electric and hybrid cars pose to pedestrians with sight loss are fully represented in the EU. Research undertaken by the TAS Partnership has shown that quiet cars are 40 per cent more likely to be involved in a collision with a pedestrian than conventional cars.

Paralympic sprinter and guide dog owner Libby Clegg has petitioned the UN on making quiet vehicles audible. The campaign has been gathering momentum, with almost 6,000 signatures gathered

over the course of a few weeks.

It recommends that artificial sound generators, or Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems, are fitted to EVs and hybrids so that people with sight loss can cross the road safely and confidently.

Any legislation will come as welcome news to Karl Denning, a blind man from Birmingham who was hit twice by the same hybrid car in the space of a month.

READ MORE Sign the petition: tinyurl.com/q2nqbtp Guide dogs – silent by deadly: tinyurl.com/oun4hjp

NEW MODELS

Reduced emissions for BMW 3-series; plug-in hybrid due for 2016 release BMW’s updated 3 series will be available from July and includes a 320d Efficient Dynamics Plus option for its Saloon and Touring models. This modified 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine offers up to 74.3mpg fuel consumption and C02 emissions as low as 99g/km, an improvement on the 68.9mpg and 109g/km offered on the previous model.

The 330e plug-in hybrid is set for a 2016 release and will pair a 184bhp 2.0 litre petrol engine with an 80kW electric motor for a combined output of 252bhp, giving the car a 0-62mph acceleration time of 6.3 seconds and a maximum

speed of 140mph. It will be capable travelling approximately 22 miles in all‑electric mode, with a combined fuel consumption of 154.5mpg and C02 emissions of 49g/km.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/np2llvj

London’s first Formula E race – and the current series decider – is scheduled to take place in Battersea Park in late June (27-28), prompting questions in the low carbon community about how this demonstration of ‘new energy’ power and performance could impact on public attitudes towards electric and other low carbon vehicles.

Formula E is on a mission to use the glamour of motorsport to show how electric racing can radically change the way we think about what we drive, particularly in cities. The race is coming at a good time as there is clear evidence that the motoring public are already ‘switching on’ to electric vehicles. Sales, albeit from a low base, have been rising rapidly and the UK is now one of the biggest markets in the world for battery and plug-in hybrid models.

But there are many compelling reasons to consider vehicles running on other low carbon fuels, as well as electricity. Running costs are a major factor, of course, and with electricity at only a few pence per kWh (and the inherent efficiency of electric powertrains) this can be a substantial cost saving. But there is also fuel duty support for other fuels such as methane (natural gas) and LPG, and mandates for biofuels use, together with purchase grants for a wide range of ULEVs. However there are many ‘softer’ or indirect reasons why low emission vehicles make sense from a user’s perspective. LowCVP’s recent work on local policy initiatives shows that preferential parking rates (free in many cases), the use of restricted lanes, access to low emission zones or exemption from congestion charging can be powerful incentives. As GreenFleet readers know there is a wide and growing range of low carbon and ULEVs now available on the market.

The LowCVP is supporting the Government in also looking at ways of changing perceptions in the HGV market, for example with the possible lifting of night time curfews for lower emission (and quieter) vehicles.

Public and buyer perceptions are clearly important, and this is not limited to vehicle owners and drivers. On a visit to Scotland last month I was told that passengers have been found to let the regular bus go by just so that they can ride the low emission model on their journey into town.

The reasons highlighted are the comfort, quietness and smoother ride, together with a personal sense of ‘doing their bit’, however small, to help the environment.

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

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

13

Procurement

Fleet managers and procurement experts must work together with other stakeholders in their businesses to secure the best terms for their organisations when appointing fleet suppliers, writes Geoffrey Bray, founding chairman of the Fleet Industry Advisory Group The key to a successful fleet and supplier long-term business partnership is to define what is required from potential suppliers, commercially and operationally, while always ensuring that very best value is obtained.

That was the over-riding message from the Fleet Industry Advisory Group (FIAG)’s Spring Workshop – its third fleet decision-maker workshop since the organisation was launched last year.

Entitled ‘The Role of the Supplier in Supporting the Fleet Manager’, the workshop was sponsored by Enterprise Rent-A-Car and held at the company’s Training Centre in Egham, Surrey.

The Workshop was based on round table discussions with delegates discussing the role of suppliers in three key areas: choosing suppliers, managing suppliers and renewing or changing suppliers.

Below are highlighted the key points in each of the three areas of discussion as highlighted by round table attendees and FIAG founding members Peter Weston, formerly in charge of the Home Retail Group fleet, and Ian Housley, health, safety, environment and quality director at The Clancy Group.

Choosing the supplier Preparation is key to securing the right supplier for the right service and that

means clearly defining the requirement during the tender process.

As a result, it is critical for procurement specialists within organisations to be involved in the decision‑making process alongside other stakeholders, including consulting with drivers who are the end-users. Weston said: “Co-operation between the subject matter expert – the fleet manager – and the procurement expert working together with other stakeholders, HR, finance and drivers, is key to ensuring what is supplied is in the interests of the business.

“Many businesses frequently do not know what they want and there is often a conflict between saving money and not wanting to upset employees with changes. The cheapest supplier is almost certainly the one an organisation does not want.

“If businesses are not clear during the tender process then suppliers will also be unclear on what is required and may build in potential costs. As a result, those suppliers may be discounted at the first hurdle of the decision‑making process because they were too expensive when, in reality, they could

Written by Geoffrey Bray, founding chairman, Fleet Industry Advisory Group

Working together for the collective good have provided a good service.”

He continued: “Procurement is having a greater role in the fleet supplier decision‑making process, but many fleet managers feel that they should not be involved. The fleet industry as a whole has a greater role to play in helping organisations work with procurement experts.”

Housley added: “Business cultures are critical when selecting suppliers and expecting it to be the start of a long-term business partnership.

Fleets and their suppliers must have a cultural fit and be able to have open and honest discussions.

Communication between the two parties is critical. Value is always better than a cut-price deal, but fleets must work to define exactly what they want within the tender criteria.”

The ring FIAG Spp saw o Worksh s discuss e delegatof suppliers the role ree areas: in th managing g, choosin renewing and rs supplie

Managing the supplier Establishing service level agreements and key performance indicators at the outset of the partnership was key to a long-term successful partnership, said Housley.

“Measurements should be established at the outset of the selection process and not half-way through,” he said. E Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

15

It looks even better on your books.

ALL-NEW FORD MONDEO Ford Dynamic LED Headlights

Sleek curves, bold lines — the All-New Mondeo is quite a head-turner.

But its beauty is more than skin-deep: New rear seatbelts with built-in airbags that give your passengers unprecedented protection.

Dynamic LED headlights that improve all-round visibility.

With the option of a Hybrid Electric delivering over 100mpg on urban cycle.

• • •

For more information please contact our Business Centre on 0345 723 2323.

P11D

BIK

CO 2

MPG

£19,915 - £27,585

13% - 30%

176 - 94g/km

37.2-78.5

COMBINED

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Ford Mondeo range: urban 27.2-100.9 (10.4-2.8), extra urban 47.9-85.6 (5.9-3.3), combined 37.2-78.5 (7.6-3.6). Official CO2 emissions 176-94g/km.

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.

Vehicle shown is the Ford Mondeo Titanium 2.0 180PS TDCi with optional Ruby Red special metallic paint, 19” alloy wheels, panoramic roof, and LED Adaptive Lighting.

The Fleet Industry Advisory Group (FIAG) is a not-for‑profit organisation created to develop and share best practice in the fleet industry.

 “But service level agreements and key performance indicators need to be specific to the supplier/fleet relationship.”

Delivery times, customer satisfaction, number of complaints, the amount of ‘noise’ from drivers and how long it takes a supplier to correct a mistake were all critical in helping fleet managers ensure suppliers were being efficiently and effectively managed.

Meanwhile, decisions around whether or not to outsource were dependent on the level of fleet expertise within the business, the size of the fleet and whether it was core to the organisation.

“Therefore, fleet managers must have an open mind as to how a fleet can be managed better by encouraging suppliers to improve service and reduce driver risk to cut costs year on year.”

Weston added that supplier billing transparency was key, highlighting fleet manager “mistrust” of end of lease charges and a growing industry trend towards the ‘unbundling’ of the range of services from vehicle leasing and fleet management companies.

“Transparency is improved with unbundling because fleet managers can then see how much each component costs,” he said.

“Business cultures are critical when selecting suppliers and expecting it to be the start of a long-term business partnership. Fleets and their suppliers must have a cultural fit and be able to have open and honest discussions. Communication between the two parties is critical” Ian Housley, The Clancy Group Housley said: “There is no easy answer. It is very much down to the individual business.”

Many suppliers want to promote their willingness to innovate to fleet decision-makers, but according to Weston, that should be secondary to “getting the basics of supply right.

“As fleet managers we want to see innovation from suppliers and there needs to be a willingness from fleets to accept innovation and change. But suppliers must get the basics right and then prove themselves with innovation later. Companies do not want to take a risk,” he said.

“Fleet manager resistance to change is an issue, but they also need to be ahead of the game and work in partnership with suppliers to implement solutions that will save money and improve operating efficiencies.

Renewing or changing suppliers The quality of solutions being delivered to a fleet, suppliers providing what a fleet requires and the price paid were the three key issues when it came to deciding if providers were “getting it right.”

Weston said: “If suppliers fail in any of those three areas then fleet managers need to look at what is happening and if things cannot be rectified then a change of supplier is required.”

However, he added: “I would always try and get issues rectified before considering a supplier change.”

He continued: “It is good practice to evaluate a supplier relationship on a regular basis even if no change is the result. Fleet managers are selecting the right suppliers if they are receiving the right solution and the right service at the right price.

Procurement

About FIAG

FIAG was launched by industry veteran Geoffrey Bray and a team of highly experienced professional fleet managers who collectively have around 200 years’ experience in running vehicle operations.

Through the considerable knowledge of its founding members, FIAG provides fleet advice, consultancy, mentoring and support. FIAG also assists with benchmarking and analysis of industry developments through the publication of white papers and the organisation of workshops.

FIAG is also dedicated to supporting Hope for Tomorrow, a national charity which raises funds to support the introduction of mobile chemotherapy units nationwide.

“If considering supplier change then the starting point is service levels, which should be based on key performance indicators, and cost comparison. Unless fleets have a framework for managing the effectiveness of a relationship it is going to be impossible for suppliers to renew or fleets to measure suppliers’ ability and then make a decision to change or not.

Benchmarking of current suppliers should be the minimum standard for change.”

If a review is carried out and whether or not a decision is made to stay with the incumbent supplier or to switch, fleets must be clear about the reasons.

Drivers frequently have first-hand experience of dealing with suppliers so their engagement in the decision-making process is vital.

Weston concluded: “Quality and value, but particularly openness and trust will make partnerships work. Ultimately the cost to change can outweigh everything, which is why it is important to measure and rectify throughout a partnership.”

Housley said the key word in a fleet/ supplier relationship was “trust” alongside an understanding from both parties of what the measurables were and where added value was being delivered.

It was also vital, he said, for clarity to exist around any exit strategy highlighting: “If there is no exist strategy it can cost a lot of money.”

Housley added: “When entering a new relationship it is important to look long term – 10-15 years – and for that relationship to develop into a true partnership.

Fleet/supplier partnerships are all about learning from when something goes wrong and understanding that both parties must work together for the collective good.” L FURTHER INFORMATION www.fiag.co.uk

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

17

CORPORATION TAX SAVINGS

LOW COMPANY CAR TAX

Compare the tax savings of running a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV as your company car against these market leaders.

148 MPG

NO ROAD TAX

OUTLANDER PHEV GX4H AUTO

HONDA CR-V EX AUTO

BMW X3 XDRIVE 30D SE AUTO

AUDI Q5 S-LINE PLUS AUTO

MERCEDES E-CLASS E250 CDI AUTO

COST OF THE CAR - P11D VALUE

£37,8997

£33,605

£39,860

£38,235

£36,765

GOVERNMENT GRANT REDUCTION

£5,000

£0

£0

£0

£0

ADJUSTED FINAL PRICE

£32,899

£33,605

£39,860

£38,235

£36,765

CO2 EMISSIONS G/KM

44

180

156

159

129

BENEFIT IN KIND RATE

5%

32%

27%

27%

21%

£758

£4,301

£4,305

£4,129

£3,088

VEHICLE BENEFIT CHARGE WITHOUT FUEL PROVIDED THE EXTRA TAX YOU PAY VS PHEV (40% TAXPAYER) VEHICLE BENEFIT CHARGE WITH FUEL PROVIDED THE EXTRA TAX YOU PAY VS PHEV (40% TAXPAYER)

–

£3,543

£3,547

£3,371

£2,330

£1,192

£7,079

£6,648

£6,473

£4,911

–

£5,887

£5,457

£5,281

£3,719

Discover how. Search PHEV. Visit: mitsubishi-cars.co.uk to find your nearest dealer

PHEV Manufacturer of the Year

WE HAVEN’T JUST MADE HISTORY

WE’RE MAKING RUNNING A FLEET £1,000s CHEAPER The Mitsubishi PHEV is cutting costs across the country - and if you’re managing a company car fleet it could reduce your running costs by £1,000s in one go1.

This intelligent hybrid decides when it’s more efficient to use petrol or electricity, meaning it has the ability to deliver a staggering 148mpg2 – significantly reducing petrol costs and consumption. And with a fraction of the CO2 emissions of small car there are significant tax savings that your business can make. You’ll be able to write down 100% of the cost of an Outlander PHEV in year one3. So even businesses with a small fleet of cars are saving £1,000s in Corporation Tax4, as well as saving money on their associated Class 1a National Insurance contributions5. The Outlander PHEV is exempt from Road Tax and the London Congestion Charge6. There’s £5,000 off the list price through the Government Plug-in Car Grant, which means an Outlander PHEV will cost you from just £28,2497, the same price as the Outlander Diesel – and it comes with a 5 year warranty8. We’ve made history, you just need to make time to find out how we can save you £1,000s on running a fleet. We call this Intelligent Motion.

Compare the corporation tax savings of a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV against a typical company car.

TYPICAL VEHICLE

OUTLANDER PHEV

£100,000

£100,000

SMALL BUSINESS TAX

20%

20%

LIST PRICE OF VEHICLE

£33,000

£32,899

PROFIT BEFORE TAX (PBT)

8%

100%

CAPITAL ALLOWANCE (£)

£2,640

£32,899

TAXABLE PROFIT (ON £100,000 PBT)

£97,360

£67,101

CORPORATION TAX (NO VEHICLE PURCHASE)

£20,000

£20,000

CORPORATION TAX (WITH VEHICLE PURCHASE)

£19,472

£13,420

£528

£6,580

CAPITAL ALLOWANCE

SAVING DUE TO CAPITAL ALLOWANCE

THE UK’s FAVOURITE PLUG-IN HYBRID

BUYING A PHEV WILL SAVE YOU A TOTAL OF £6,052 IN CORPORATION TAX (YEAR 1)

1. Outlander PHEV GX4h compared with Honda CR-V, BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes E-Class – average saving £5,330pa for a 40% taxpayer. The savings for business drivers with a company fuel card are higher. 2. Official EU MPG test figure shown as a guide for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. 3. Outlander PHEV qualifies as low CO2 emissions vehicle for the purpose of Capital Allowances. 8% write down allowance used for comparison. Vehicles with CO2 emissions less than 130g/km will only qualify for 18% from 1st April 2014. 4. Savings achieved due to lower Profits Chargeable to Corporation Tax (PCTCT). 5. Class 1a NI only payable on 5% of list price compared to 25%+ average. 6. Congestion Charge application required, subject to administrative fee. 7. Prices shown include the Government Plug-in Car Grant and VAT (at 20%), but exclude First Registration Fee. Model shown is an Outlander PHEV GX4h at £33,399 including the Government Plug-in Car Grant and metallic paint. On The Road prices range from £28,304.00 to £40,054.00 and include VED, First Registration Fee and the Government Plug-in Car Grant. Metallic/pearlescent paint extra. 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. 8. All new Outlander PHEV variants come with a 5 year/62,500 mile warranty (whichever occurs first), for more information please visit www.mitsubishi-cars.co.uk/warranty.

Outlander PHEV range fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Full Battery Charge: no fuel used, Depleted Battery Charge: 48mpg (5.9), Weighted Average: 148mpg (1.9), CO2 Emissions: 44 g/km.

YOUR PROFITABILITY OUR AIM

LOWER FUEL CONSUMPTION

LOWER FUEL CONSUMPTION

LOWER FUEL CONSUMPTION

FUEL CONSUMPTION LOWER FUEL CONSUMPTION

That’s why we offer sophisticated transport solutions, trucks that offer marketLOWER FUEL CONSUMPTION

to offer you highest return per kilometre.

VEHICLE AVAILABILITY

HIGHER RETURN PER KILOMETER

INCREASED UPTIME

LOWER TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP

LOWER

OPERATIONAL COSTS

HIGHER

IMPROVING YOUR EFFICIENCY BEGINS TODAY

RETURN PER KILOMETRE

Contact your DAF dealer or visit www.daf.co.uk

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

LOWER

DRIVEN BY QUALITY TRUCKS | PARTS | FINANCE

WWW.DAF.CO.UK

LOWER TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP

HIGHER RETURN PER KILOMETER

HIGHER

leading reliability and low operational costs. We also provide a wide range of

place: your DAF dealer. DAF Transport Efficiency is the name of our philosophy

INCREASED UPTIME

INCREASED UPTIME

LOWER TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP

LOWER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

LOWER

DAF knows your business and understands how important efficiency is for you.

services to ensure maximum vehicle availability. These are all available at one

HIGHER RETURN PER KILOMETER

HIGHER RETURN PER KILOMETER

HIGHER RETURN PER KILOMETER

LOWER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

INCREASED UPTIME

L

Procurement Frameworks

Making the framework work for you The push to generate substantial savings in both central and local government procurement will continue throughout the next parliament. For fleets, opportunities to reduce costs exist through the Crown Commercial Services’ seven Framework agreements The Crown Commercial Service has nearly 10 years’ expertise in developing fleet agreements. The Fleet category covers the purchase and lease of a wide range of vehicles, including passenger vehicles, motorcycles, car‑derived vans, light commercial vehicle and heavy and specialist commercial vehicles of 7.5 tonnes and above. In 2013/14, approximately 32,000 vehicles and a quarter of a million tyres were purchased using the seven frameworks available (Vehicle Purchase, Vehicle Lease, Insurance, Fuel Cards, Vehicle Hire, Supply and fit of Tyres and Vehicle Conversions and Reconditioning Services) for which a total of 70 suppliers exists across 25 ‘lots’.

The procurement for the Framework Agreement was undertaken using the Open Procedure in compliance with all public procurement regulations, and the frameworks are projected to save £123.4 million over 2014/15.

Savings are calculated through the CCS database of previously paid prices, which provides up to date baselines for comparison.

External agencies are also used to compare agreement spend against other market areas in order to give a true representation.

The suppliers have, according to the CCS, gone through a rigorous selection process based on quality and price as well as financial, technical and performance capabilities.

All comply with UK and EU legislation.

Vehicle Purchase The framework for Vehicle Purchase (RM1070) is made up of suppliers who directly manufacture the required vehicles and are responsible for managing and controlling the complete supply chain from vehicle manufacture through to the supply, delivery and services, including after sales support and maintenance and servicing.

RM1070 provides access to a wide range of vehicles across nine separate ‘lots’ including cars, 4x4s, commercial vehicles, buses, coaches and motorcycles from a total of 41 suppliers. It is fully supportive of the Clean and Energy Efficient Vehicles Directive 2009-33-EC and flexibility for sustainable vehicle procurement measures.

Lot 6 is distinct as it is for the supply and delivery of appropriate vehicles for overseas, with the specific requirements for this purpose.

Lots 7, 8 & 9 are for Blue Light vehicles which in this context means UK police forces, UK ambulance trusts, Highways Agency, Marine and Coastguard Agency and UK fire and rescue services, and other organisations with specific emergency vehicle specification requirements.

Leasing There is a separate fleet management framework agreement in place for vehicle lease (RM858) which is in place with eight approved suppliers - Alphabet (GB), Arnold Clark Vehicle Management, Automotive E

Vehicle Purchase Framework Lots Lot 1: Cars including 4x4s Lot 2: Light to Medium Commercial Vehicles up to, but not including, 7.5 tonnes (including Car Derived Vans and Minibuses) Lot 3: Heavy Commercial Vehicles 7.5 tonnes and above including rigid, chassis, truck and tractor units Lot 4: Motorbikes, Quad Bikes & Scooters Lot 5: Buses and Coaches Lot 6: Vehicles for Overseas Lot 7: Blue Light Cars including 4x4 variants Lot 8: Blue Light Commercial Vehicles (both up to 7.5 tonnes including Car Derived Vans, 4x4 variants and Minibuses and Medium to Heavy Commercial Vehicles 7.5 tonnes and above Lot 9: Blue Light Motorcycles (including Quad Bikes and Scooters)

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

21

15,000 ___ TONS OF CO2 SAVED

4,9 ___ MILLION LITRES OF DIESEL

MAXIMISE PROFIT BY CUTTING CARBON, FUEL AND TRANSPORT COSTS

PTV Group is official sponsor of the Leadership in Carbon Reduction Award

With PTV logistics solutions you always keep an eye on fleet efficiency, emissions and costs when planning, calculating or navigating your transports.

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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

Procurement Frameworks

All s followks n o i t c u ec eA nce ch ical a i l p m co techn against ery criteria, recommended retail prices.

The total savings from the liv and de and so manufacturers recommended retail prices are over £7.2 ed on s a b million across the two eAuctions. e r a one l Participating departments a e c i r p included the Ministry of Defence,

 Leasing, Inchcape Fleet Solutions, Lex Autolease, Lookers, TC Harrison Group and Volkswagen Group Leasing. As it expires in May, CCS is currently developing a replacement, set to be available later in the year.

e-Auctions For the Vehicle Lease and Vehicle Purchase Frameworks, e-Auctions assist in standardising specifications and aggregate volume. Vehicle manufacturers view them as hugely valuable in boosting fleet sales.

An eAuction can help drive competition amongst vehicle manufacturers to deliver significant savings. There may also be an opportunity to aggregate requirements with other customers to achieve economies of scale. During an eAuction, bidders compete in real time and have multiple opportunities to improve their price, which encourages bidders to offer greater price savings than a standard best and final offer approach.

All eAuctions follow compliance checks against technical and delivery criteria, and so are based on price alone. The eAuction service includes advice on a strategy that will best meet the buyers’ requirements, and help with the wording to be included in tender documentation. The CCS also manages the live eAuction process, and trains bidders in the use of its software.

In November 2013 an eAuction for 1,270 passenger and commercial vehicles achieved average savings of 39 per cent across all of the vehicles against the manufacturers recommended retail prices.

In February 2014 a further eAuction for 754 passenger and commercial vehicles delivered average savings of 40 per cent across all the vehicles against the manufacturers’

Department for Work and Pensions, Driving Standards Agency, Environment Agency, Vehicle & Operator Services Agency, HM Revenue and Customs and the Gangmasters Licensing Authority.

Three eAuctions will take place this financial year (July, October and February 2016).

Fleet Portal The Fleet Portal is a web-based system which serves both Vehicle Purchase (RM1070) and Vehicle Lease (RM858), and allows for instant quotations of standard vehicles for purchase or lease. For Vehicle Purchase, the standard manufacturer framework discounts are applied to the Manufacturer Retail Price to provide a net discounted price. All vehicle technical information is available to enable buyers to compare one vehicle against another and there is a link to the Vehicle Lease framework to obtain real time lease quotes.

Although online quotations cannot be run for Lots 3-9 (inclusive) from the Vehicle Purchase framework, all supplier and framework information about these can still be found within the Fleet Portal.

For Fleet leasing, the Portal pulls real‑time prices from each supplier’s website, based on the buyers’ organisation profile which is set up upon registration.

Prices are displayed along with SMR costs, finance rates and other information which enables users to make a quick and easy comparison. The Fleet Portal can be accessed at www.gpsfleetportal.cabinetoffice.gov.uk Fuel Cards Detailed management information supplied by fuel card providers can assist in the efficient and effective management of fleets.

The Fuel Card and Associated Services Framework came into operation in May 2014 and runs until May 2018. It is open to customers that do not necessarily have a large fleet of vehicles, but would like to introduce fuel cards as an efficient way to pay for fuel used on official business. The Crown Commercial Service provides support in the form of advice and guidance on using the agreement, contract management, specific support to start and/or expand existing fuel card programmes, and management and support for further competitions.

Community benefits Further information on the full range of services offered by each supplier is detailed in the framework, as are the community benefits of each. For instance, Fuel Card Services offers a value added service called CO2Count (www.co2count.org. uk) which donates to Cool Earth, a charity that works alongside indigenous villages to halt rainforest destruction. Since 2012, the company has donated over £125,000 and helped protect 1,725 acres of Peruvian rainforest – keeping 414,000 trees standing and locking in 448,500 tonnes of CO2.

Since 2012, Barclaycard Business’s UK Community Investment programmes have reached 1.2 million young people and engaged 68,000 Barclays Colleagues.

The Crown Commercial Service Fleet Frameworks are designed to complement one another and its ongoing strategy is to deliver an end-to-end solution. L FURTHER INFORMATION Fuel cards: tinyurl.com/okrlo8z Fleet Purchase: tinyurl.com/nn2k6bp Leasing: tinyurl.com/o48qy5a CCS: telephone 0345 410 2222 or visit http://ccs.cabinetoffice.gov.uk

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

23

Myles Barker and Robert Evans from the UK Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Association give insight into a new procurement guide which offers practical advice for fleet operators preparing to buy electric vehicle charge points of knowledge about charge points and supporting services. Secondly, the guide focuses on providing a structure to a charge point project through the use of six ‘Ps’, namely: Placement, Product, Price, Pay As You Go, Project Management and Publicity. Thirdly, the guide includes a series of handy hints designed to help the project manager avoid common pitfalls and thereby save time and money.

What’s driving up charge points?

After a slow start, plug-in vehicle sales have taken

off in the UK. Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) data shows that over 6,100 new plug-in vehicles were registered in March 2015, compared with 1,211 in the same month in 2014 – a fivefold increase.

There are now around 30,000 plug-in vehicles on UK roads, a far cry from the few hundred present as recently as September 2011.

Given the wide choice of batteries for electric and plug-in hybrids and the benefits in lower taxation and fuel costs, company car drivers and fleet operators are now joining pioneering E

After a slow -in lug start, p les have sa vehicle f in the UK. f taken o6,100 new Over vehiclesin n i g u l p gistered e r e r e w 2015 March

Written by Myles Barker and Robert Evans from the UK Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Association

If you are considering installing charge points on your premises, a newly issued procurement guide, authored by the UK Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Association (UK EVSE), offers practical advice for fleet operators.

Entitled Making the Right Connections and available as a free download at ukevse.org.uk\resources, the guide will be the first in a series of independent reports and best‑practice guidance that the industry body will be producing to support UK e-mobility.

The guide has three key features. Firstly, it is written in layman’s language using an accessible conversational style, which will benefit readers with differing levels

Charging Infrastructure

Procuring plug-in points

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Charging Infrastructure

In the past, charge points have been treated as commodity products in tender documents, with some purchasers choosing to skip an effective pre‑procurement dialogue  motorists in embracing EVs. Limited charging infrastructure, feeding motorists’ range concerns, has been seen to be the second of two key barriers to electric vehicle uptake, after high vehicle prices. The price barrier is being overcome through the introduction of plug-in vehicles of all shapes and sizes, backed by developing supply chains that are generating economies of scale in manufacturing, as well as by competitive market pricing from the leading brands. The infrastructure barrier is being addressed, in part, by the beginnings of a national infrastructure, made up of networks of charge points, deployed by both local authorities and private organisations, to help motorists charge on the go. The national coverage of publicly accessible charge points can be seen on charge-point maps such as Zap Map, which hosts the UK’s National Charge Point Register and includes 8,260 charge points at 3,181 locations in the UK. In addition to these charge points, there are many additional points installed that do not show on the maps, as these are dedicated to supporting business premises and fleet operations. The first phases of infrastructure roll-out were supported in large part by grant schemes, but the next wave of charge-point installations will be business-driven investments, the economics of which depend on time and cost efficient management of the procurement of charge points, their deployment but also importantly, their whole-life costs including, where appropriate, self-sustaining revenue streams based on payment for vehicle charging.

Technical expertise The pioneering technology provider companies supporting e-mobility in the UK are focused in providing the technical and commercial services that investors in electric vehicle supply equipment require and in 2013, the leading

providers to the sector formed UK EVSE, the UK Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Association. UK EVSE Members include the main suppliers of charge points active in the UK market, as well as the suppliers of supporting back-office services that help link charge points into networks with common means of access and use, whether located in towns, cities, motorway service areas, railway stations, hotels, supermarkets or at business premises. Members of the UK EVSE include Bosch, ChargeMaster, ChargePoint Services, Charge Your Car, Charging Solutions, EC Charging, Elektromotive, Evolt (APT Technologies), Hangar 19, Rolec Services, Siemens and Cenex, with Cenex providing secretariat support for the association.

The UK EVSE procurement guide aids to provide present and future customers with accessible best practice advice and support. The common procurement pitfalls highlighted and addressed in the guide include poor siting of charge points, prioritisation of price over quality, failure to consider warranty arrangements, poor project time management, failure to consider energy supply requirements, and failure to consider access to and ongoing maintenance of charge points, as well as to make drivers aware of the charge points and how to access them.

The guide also covers aspects of the management of charge points, including how to avoid issues such as ‘out-of-order’ charge points, ICED charge-point parking (in which internal combustion engine vehicles park in EV charging bays without using the charging facilities) and aggravation between EV drivers where available charge points are limited.

Careful consideration Members have always sought to provide customers with good advice. However, too often in the past charge points have been

treated as commodity products in tender documents, with some purchasers having chosen to skip an effective pre‑procurement dialogue and planning phase. As a consequence, those purchasers have sometimes stumbled through the multiple stages of charge-point projects, rather than identifying and planning for those processes in advance. Any cost savings targeted through a limited focus on charge point price can quickly turn into an overall project cost overrun that could have been avoided, had a full set of performance requirements and evaluation criteria been included in the tender.

The aim of the guide is to respond positively and proactively to the needs of customers. The UK EVSE are keen to ensure that purchasers ask for all the information they need from the charge-point supplier, installer and network operator when planning a project. It is also keen to ensure that purchasers apply quality criteria to all aspects of their operational requirements. Association members are fully committed to providing customers with evidence of sector experience, equipment uptime and the specifics of the network operator’s business model. They know that these considerations generally end up helping the purchaser make the right decisions for the EV-charging support that they need for their own operations or that they want to make available for wider access and use.

A true layman’s guide The UK EVSE is aware that many organisations are considering either adding EVs to their fleet operations or making their business premises more EV friendly for staff, customers and suppliers. With this in mind, the UK EVSE wanted to provide a true layman’s guide to charge-point procurement. The guide is both comprehensive and accessible. Based on positive feedback received to date, the UK EVSE hopes this will be an invaluable guide that will help fleet managers achieve better procurement outcomes, thereby saving time and money in the long term. L FURTHER INFORMATION The UK EVSE guide can be downloaded from www.ukevse.org.uk

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

27

® © 2015 TomTom Telematics B.V. TomTom ® and the logo are among the trademarks or registered trademarks owned by TomTom N.V. and its affiliates. Our limited warranty applies to this product. You can review it at www.business.tomtom.com/legal

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Business Mobility

The changing nature of corporate travel

ring Carsha have rs provided growth e witness consumer even access and in the C) market operate vehicles with 2 carsharing services travel (B are now offered by rental and e on th g or sharing providers, or n i s u foc networks. s (B2B) peer‑to‑peer s e n i s u This growing b t connectivity has enabled a marke

Frost & Sullivan recently completed a survey amongst key fleet and travel decision makers at organisations across five European countries, to find out about current usage, policies, and the interest in such new mobility business models in the corporate world. While a clear interest in new solutions was demonstrated, there were varying opinions and use cases for these services.

Transportation services are being transformed, as a result of urbanisation and smart cities, changing social preferences to access over ownership of vehicles, and most importantly advancing technology. The key enabler of this transformation in the short‑term has been the smartphone, as we see a proliferation of applications available to compare travel modes, view travel information, hail cars on‑demand and

new opportunity for businesses to utilise such services, whether to save costs, or increase convenience and options for employees, empowering staff to access several mobility options on demand, and increasingly offering administration benefits, through automatically handling travel expenses.

Shared vehicles Many of the sharing or mobility solution providers have witnessed significant growth in the consumer travel (B2C) market and are now redirecting their focus to the business (B2B) market to substantiate future growth and tailor their service offering accordingly.

Zipcar for Business, for example, provides

Written by Martyn Briggs, mobility programme manager, Frost & Sullivan

Business travel is undergoing revolutionary change. The continued growth of on-demand services, such as carpooling or ridesharing, is forcing companies to consider how best to meet the changing needs of their employees, while finding opportunities to reduce cost. Frost & Sullivan’s mobility programme manager Martyn Briggs reports

shared vehicles for a single company within working hours, returning them back to their B2C offer thereafter. Uber have partnered with Concur to handle business trip expenses automatically, and commenced a business account service giving employers more visibility and control over the spend on Uber by their employees for business use.

Even peer to peer parking services such as parkatmyhouse have rebranded as JustPark to focus on more corporate opportunities, such as parking at business locations.

Advancing technologies are impacting both the fleet and travel functions at organisations, with a growing visibility of spend on such services being afforded by solution providers, and the opportunity to improve administration by offering self service solutions. All of this is leading to a convergence of the fleet and travel management department at several organisations, as we witness a shift away from just considering the total cost of ownership of fleet towards managing the total cost of mobility for the organisation. E Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

29

Intelligent Mobility Future Business Models in Connected and Automated Mobility

1 - 2 July 2015 | London, United Kingdom Frost & Sullivan is proud to host its 2015 Intelligent Mobility Workshop Join key decision makers, industry experts, government stakeholders from mobility-related functions across the globe on 1st & 2nd of July, for an industry benchmarked workshop show-casing innovation, thought leadership and key mobility trends.

To Register for this Event:

Key Areas of Discussion:

Email: Cyril.Cromier@frost.com For Partnership Opportunities:

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Connected Car

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Integrated Transport Solutions

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Contact: Kapil Raina on +44 (0) 20 7343 8392 Email: Kapil.Raina@frost.com

data and reporting, allowing the following conclusions to be made. Firstly, 52 per cent of the sample did not know the spend on mobility services, whether as a quantified range or as a percentage of company turnover. Additionally, 31 per cent are not aware of the company’s carbon footprint from fleet and travel, while the highest attributes any mobility solution should address were overall cost (57 per cent) and cost control (43 per cent) which transparent reporting and travel data can provide. Finally, 73 per cent of the UK sample specified comprehensive reporting as a key parameter when selecting a mobility solution provider.

A key conclusion therefore is that providers which take a consultative approach with their clients in understanding customer needs, and analysis of the benefits their solution can provide, are likely to succeed in building long lasting relations with their suppliers.

This was shown particularly in the business travel section of the research, where although just 50 per cent of the sample were using IT platforms for booking and expensing travel, over 75 per cent were highly satisfied and unlikely to change provider; most of whom provide a detailed level of reporting as part of their service, such as CWT which have their own solutions consulting group for example.

hone Smartp hich apps w travel e comparand view , modes formation travel inansformed have tr ortation transp ices serv

Pain points To substantiate the research findings from this quantitative survey, Frost & Sullivan analysts spoke to 120 decision makers at organisations to understand their organisations’ usage and pain points for corporate mobility in more detail, which provided several rich findings. For example around half of those spoken to were already piloting or deploying the kind of mobility solutions they were interviewed about, especially corporate carsharing, integrated mobility and car clubs.

About one third of these companies requested more information on some of the solutions available to them or expressed, that they

Frost & Sullivan will host its annual workshop on Urban Mobility on 1st & 2nd July 2015.

The 2015 edition of this industry benchmark workshop will be a showcase of innovation and thought leadership on future mobility trends, corporate mobility, integrated transport solutions, new mobility business models, autonomous vehicles, connected car, Big Data, cyber security and e-commerce platforms.

The event, ‘Intelligent Mobility: Future Business Models in Connected and Automated Mobility’ will take place at the House of Lords and the Royal Garden Hotel in London.

Intelligent Mobility is the annual global exclusive event where senior experts within mobility meet to make new connections and hear from those pioneering developments within the industry.

Business Mobility

 Current trends in mobility When asking fleet and travel managers regarding their current usage for mobility solutions, the Frost & Sullivan survey showed that mileage reimbursement (66 per cent of sample), a company car (55 per cent) and cash car allowance (46 per cent) were the highest solutions currently used in the UK. However, the highest future interest in the UK was shown for incentivised carpooling (21 per cent). Across all countries combined, corporate carsharing was the mobility solution with the highest future interest – 24 per cent of the sample declared they were interested in deploying this in the next two years, showing a positive outlook for services such as AlphaCity from Alphabet, Shareyourfleet from PSA or Ubeeqo.

Who to target to sell such solutions however, was a bit less clear; more than 12 job roles were registered as the key decision makers for corporate mobility at an organisation, ranging from function areas of facilities, finance, HR, to board/CEO level. Five per cent of the sample declared their job role was a dedicated mobility manager for their organisation. This makes the sales channel and business development plan for mobility providers a lot less straight forward than just targeting the fleet manager, and therefore the survey suggests a clear customer segmentation plan is required to filter companies likely to be interested in such solutions.

Indeed, when looking at different industry sectors, we saw that ICT firms were the most interested in carpooling (26 per cent), while 28 per cent of public sector and financial service companies respectively were interested in corporate carsharing, with the service sector industry being most interested in car rental, showing some early potential to prioritise mobility products by customer industry segment.

One product or service that seemed to be demanded consistently across the survey was

Intelligent Mobility 2015

For more information on the event, visit http://tinyurl.com/oeks26g were likely to deploy such systems very soon.

Already 22 per cent believed their fleet and travel management departments could merge, and were interested in an IT platform that facilitated this. A considerable number of personnel have already been employed to handle both, especially in regional headquarters of multi-nationals looking to rationalise their administration spend, leveraging the opportunity of new data driven reporting tools to allow access to mobility services, and detailed billing/reporting/auditing thereafter.

The survey finds there is a fundamental shift in the way organisations are providing B2B mobility solutions to their clients, and those that can deliver a compelling user experience to handle the pre-trip, in-trip, and post-trip information and reporting are likely to succeed in penetrating more of the corporate market in years to come. This is attracting several industry sectors, from vehicle manufacturers and third parties such as leasing/rental companies, to technology firms and travel management companies, all aiming to deliver their take on an integrated door to door corporate mobility solution.

The convergence of fleet and travel management will also be debated during a panel discussion at Frost & Sullivan’s upcoming ‘Intelligent Mobility: Future Business Models in Connected and Automated Mobility’ event, which will be taking place on 1-2 July 2015 at the House of Lords and the Royal Garden Hotel in London. L FURTHER INFORMATION ww2.frost.com

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Fleet Focus

Capping capital emissions An initiative from delivery firm Hermes to reduce the carbon impact of last mile deliveries in the capital has been praised by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson for helping improve air quality.

GreenFleet talks to Eoin Kenneally, e-commerce manager of myHermes, to find out more

About the Renault Kangoo Z.E The Renault Kangoo Van Z.E. is an electric van which produces zero tailpipe emissions and silent motoring that is ideal for commercial use within urban environments.

The 44kW electric motor and 22kWh lithium-ion battery provide 226Nm of torque. The official range of 105 miles (78 miles in real-world usage in temperate conditions) means that the vast majority of van users’ daily driving can be done on one charge.

Kangoo Van Z.E. is available in four versions – Kangoo Van Z.E., Kangoo Van Maxi Z.E. (2 seats), Kangoo Maxi Crew Van Cab, and Kangoo Van Z.E. Maxi Crew Van (5 seats) – and is priced from £12,995 (+ VAT, after Plug in Van Grant) complete with a four-year/ 100,000mile warranty and four years’ roadside assistance.

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Hermes is a delivery specialist handling more than 200 million parcels each year. Within the UK, Hermes operates a network of over 10,000 lifestyle couriers and over 5,000 ParcelShops.

Hermes works with a wide range of leading high street, catalogue and online retailers in the UK including Next Directory, ASOS, Tesco, John Lewis, Debenhams and Arcadia Group.

The myHermes website was launched in 2009 in response to increased demand for a flexible delivery solution. It offers a two day ParcelShop service; a three-day courier service; and a 24/7 Parcel Locker service.

All companies belonging to the Otto Group have been set a target of 50 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions by 2020. This is measured in the CO2 emitted per item delivered.

Describe the company’s fleet.

Hermes has a trunking fleet made up of 160 tractor units and 760 trailers used largely for collections from customers and outbound deliveries to its depots.

The company also has a rigid vehicle fleet of 400, largely 12t and 7.5t vehicles, used to deliver parcels from depots to sub-depots and couriers’ houses.

What’s the company’s strategy for reducing CO2 emissions from its transport?

As retailers undertake new measures to become more energy efficient and to reduce

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

waste, Hermes believes that carriers also have a major responsibility to become more sustainable, especially when you consider the extensive transport networks that are in constant operation.

Hermes strives to seek efficiencies within its day-to-day operations whilst developing its portfolio of services and solutions and sustainability is embedded in this approach. For example, Hermes recently renewed a contract with Michelin solutions after the efficient management of its tyres helped contribute to an impressive 12 per cent reduction in diesel bills over the last three years. The new contact covers the entire Hermes UK fleet of 160 tractor units, 400 rigid trucks and 760 trailers.

The tyre policy, in conjunction with Hermes’ other investments in more fuel‑efficient trucks and aerodynamic trailers, has helped to optimise the operation of its fleet. This has led to a double-digit fuel saving over the last three years, saving nearly 1,000,000 litres of diesel fuel.

Explain what you are doing to improve air quality in cities?

Last year Hermes embarked on a project to streamline the fulfilment of deliveries in London whilst having a positive effect upon the environment. Following a three-month tender process, Hermes entered a partnership with Gnewt Cargo, utilising a 44-strong fleet of 100 per cent electric, zero-emission

carried out by Renault Kangoo Z.E. vehicles. These vans are powered by sustainably sourced electricity and they do not contribute to the pollution caused by traditional power stations.

Electric vehicles are particularly suited to urban deliveries due to the short and pre‑planned distances travelled.

We have very central locations so range is not an issue to us – of the 50-60 mile range on the vans, we use between 5-15 miles daily.

All the vans are charged on site

We have very central locations so range is not an issue to us – of the 50-60 mile range on the vans, we use between 5-15 miles daily. The smaller vehicles also reduce the parking space they take up by 40 per cent, helping to reduce congestion especially attractive proposition for Hermes as its hub is based in London Bridge. This reduced the number of miles Hermes would have to travel to fulfil deliveries each year, from 330,000 miles to 65,000 miles.

How are electric vehicles suitable for this type of operation?

As a result of this partnership Hermes deliveries in London are now being

overnight ready for the following day on a single phase domestic socket.

What’s more, the vehicles, which are smaller than their predecessors, also reduce the parking space they take up by 40 per cent, helping to reduce congestion on the city’s busy roads. L FURTHER INFORMATION

The Hermes initiative to use zero‑emission electric vehicles for deliveries in central London has been welcomed by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson.

Fleet Focus

vehicles which allows the company to make carbon and nitrogen emission savings of 100 per cent for ‘last mile delivery’ within the city. As a result, Hermes expects to save approximately 146 tonnes of carbon a year.

Previously Hermes was working with two suppliers to fulfil deliveries within central London and their depots were located on the outskirts of the city. Therefore couriers delivering the parcels had to travel from the depots and into central London before starting their rounds. Gnewt Cargo was an

Praise from Boris Johnson

The initiative compliments the Mayor’s proposal to introduce an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in central London from 2020.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: “Hermes is setting a fantastic example for London’s logistics companies, all of whom have their part to play in helping to improve London’s air quality.

It is an urgent challenge, which affects the health and wellbeing of all Londoners. Under the world’s most ambitious and comprehensive set of measures, we have already taken thousands of the most polluting buses and taxis off the streets, and are planning the world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone in central London from 2020. By doing their bit, Hermes too is helping to create cleaner, greener, more breathable air for every Londoner.”

www.hermesworld.com

Supported by:

From 7-9 July 2015 the LCV industry comes together to celebrate all that is new, exciting and available for every van operator.

In partnership with Gnewt Cargo, Hermes deliveries in London are now being carried out by Renault Kangoo Z.Es

Make sure you apply for your free tickets today.

Test drive the latest vans, 4x4s, pick ups & light trucks on a purpose built appraisal course.

FIND OUT MORE V I S I T D R I V E I TAT. C O M

7-9 JULY 2015

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Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Don’t channel hop.

Channel stop.

Informative video content on environmental fleet management from the UK and around the world.

Visit greenfleet.tv

Alternative Fuels Written by Richard Mochor, Motorparks

General Motors’ EV1 of 1996 heralded a new wave of modern-day electric vehicles

Pondering the alternative While interest in electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles has grown over the past few years, both concepts actually date back to the early 19th century. Richard Mochor from motor dealership Motorparks looks at the past, present and future of alternative fuels It wasn’t too long ago that drivers could only choose between petrol or diesel cars. But now motorists are faced with the option of vehicles powered by electricity, hydrogen and a whole host of other alternative fuels.

While the popularity of electric and hydrogen‑powered vehicles has risen over the past few years, both concepts actually date back to the early 19th century.

This is because Hungarian inventor Ányos Jedlik created a model car powered by an electric motor in 1828. In 1835, Dutch inventor Sibrandus Stratingh designed a prototype electromagnetic cart and American inventor Thomas Davenport built a small-scale version of an electric vehicle.

However, it wasn’t until the end of the 20th century that electric vehicles would really begin to turn heads in the motoring industry.

General Motors (GM) can be credited with putting these types of automobiles back on the map in a time when petrol and diesel vehicles

While the rity popula c and ri of elect-powered en hydrog s has risen, vehicle ncepts date both co o the 19th back t ntury ce

Electric vehicles While it is difficult to establish exactly when electric vehicles first entered the motoring scene, the early 19th century is a good place to begin.

dominated the market. The American company’s GM EV1 was released in 1996 and was able to achieve a range of between 70 and 90 miles while powered by electricity.

This innovative car would only be in production until 1999 but it put new life into electric vehicles. Revolutionary electric vehicle manufacturers smart and Tesla Motors were founded in the years that followed, while the G-Wiz, Tesla Roadster and Mitsubishi i-MiEV were all on sale by the time the noughties came to a close.

Current electric vehicles – like the Renault Zoe and the Nissan Leaf – have a range of around 100 miles and a whole host of advantages over those powered by other forms of fuel. Electric vehicles are cheaper to run than petrol and diesel cars, for one, while also benefitting the environment by giving off zero emissions. E Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Advertisement Feature

Adventure’s innovations for emission control, clean energy and fuel efficiency Adventure AD is a Bulgarian Company for innovative technologies in the field of fuel efficiency, clean emissions and technology for generation of hydrogen from hydrocarbons and alcohols. The Company has 3 patented systems for fueling FC and ICE with hydrogen fuel, and DeNOx system for purification of NOx emissions from diesel ICE. The company manufactures several types of novel catalysts for: emission control, reforming of hydrocarbons and alcohols to hydrogen, catalyst for purification of H2fuel from CO impurities and SCR for abatement of NOx emissions from diesel engines.

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* Hydrogen generator and purifier (H2GS–FC) for fueling fuel cells (FC) with 99.9995% H2 purity. The fuel could be natural gas, methanol or ethanol.

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Prototypes of all 3 systems have been built and tested at Adventure’s testing rig facility. The production facilities of the company are ISO 90012008 certified. Adventure has a modern and well equipped laboratory for research and quality control.

The Bulgarian manufacturer is a member of the New Energy World – Industrial Group (NEW – IG).

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Adventure AD Bulgaria Sofia,1309  1 Kukush str  Bulgaria Email: adventure@overgas.bg Web: adventure.overgas.bg Tel: +359 2 442 40 74

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

Alternative Fuels

Motorparks creates infographic on alternative fuels British motor retail dealership Motorparks has explored the current market for alternative fuel vehicles in their latest infographic, to establish that petrol or diesel are far from the only choices available when purchasing a car today.

While the popularity of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles have peaked over the past few years, the piece reveals that both concepts actually date back to the early 19th century.

Francois Isaac de Rivaz created a prototype vehicle that was  The amount of publicly available chargepoints is growing. In February the government set out £32 million of charging infrastructure support up to 2020.

What’s more, new technology is making electric vehicles even more appealing too. The Goodyear BHO3 tyres revealed at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show, for example, use heat to generate electricity which can then be used to charge an electric car’s battery.

Meanwhile, BMW has developed LED street lights that can quickly charge an electric vehicle’s batteries while it is parked.

Hydrogen vehicles The timeline for hydrogen vehicles begins around the same time as electric vehicles. French inventor François Isaac de Rivaz is credited for bringing such an invention to the public eye, when he unveiled a prototype fourwheel vehicle capable of being powered by a combination of oxygen and hydrogen.

GM plays a prominent part in the history of hydrogen vehicles too. The American manufacturer launched its Electrovan in 1966 — a vehicle with a hydrogen-powered fuel cell.

Fast forward to the present day and drivers are currently witnessing the next generation of hydrogen vehicles, with the BMW Hydrogen 7 car being loaned out to well-known figures in business, culture, media and politics.

Southern Californian motorists can lease the Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell vehicle as well.

UK drivers don’t need to worry that they are missing out too much, as the Hyundai ix35 Hydrogen Fuel Cell is now available to order on these shores.

powered by a combination of oxygen and hydrogen in 1807.

A few years later in 1828, Hungarian Ányos Jedlik revealed a model car that functioned using an electric motor.

The graphic includes a detailed timeline of both electric and hydrogen vehicles, as well how each concept works and what motoring fans can look forward to in regard to each market in the near future. Vehicles powered by biodiesel, compressed natural gas (CNG) and ethanol are also examined.

Download the infographic from http://tinyurl.com/py2ug7t only by-products of this chemical reaction.

So how do hydrogen fuel vehicles stand out from the other types of vehicles on the market? From a practical standpoint, hydrogen is an appealing fuel source as it is readily available and renewable.

Furthermore, fuel created using hydrogen is very efficient and can be produced without any harmful emissions to the environment.

But the disadvantages are that it’s not cheap. And, if not produced from renewable energy sources, its creation relies on fossil fuels, natural gas, coal and oil.

What’s more, while there is progress in improving the amount of hydrogen refuelling stations available – in October 2014, the government announced an £11 million investment to improve the hydrogen refuelling network – currently there is a limited fuelling infrastructure.

From l ica a pract int, standpon is a e Other hydrog ling fuel a alternative fuels e p an ap s it is readily Biodiesel is a renewable a fuel and can be produced source ilable and domestically. It can be ava ble created using animal fats renewa or vegetable oils. It has

Under the bonnet Fuel cells are essential for hydrogen vehicles, as they enable the following process. Hydrogen and air pass through a fuel cell stack, which results in a chemical reaction, generating electrical power to drive the vehicle. Water and heat are the

similar physical properties to petroleum diesel but achieves cleaner fuel burning. However, careful consideration needs to be had over whether the biofuel is created sustainably, for example, using waste materials or the by‑products of existing processes, rather than growing crops purely to be used for fuel.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a lower‑carbon transport fuel and can be used wherever there is a natural gas supply and distribution network in place. It can be used instead of both diesel and petrol. Drivers in Germany, Egypt, Pakistan, Argentina and Brazil can already buy CNG from Shell.

Ethanol is a renewable fuel that can be produced domestically from plant materials like corn, grass and sugar canes. It has fewer greenhouse gas emissions that other fuels. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.motorparks.co.uk

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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THE A-Z OF NEW

CORSAVAN

L IS FOR LOOKS THE BUSINESS NEW CORSAVAN The new Vauxhall Corsavan says a lot about a business. It can impress upon your customers that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a serious professional ready to do a good job. It also shows your style, combining New Corsa looks and performance with the safety and security of a factory-built van. So whatever your trade, it looks the business.

Call 0845 740 0777 or visit vauxhall.co.uk/vans

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EconoSpeed Connect is an acceleration and speed limiting device, designed specifically for commercial fleets.

It works automatically so no on-going driver training is needed and minimal data management is required.

The BG Approach: Other options only tackle the symptom of the blocked DPF itself. BG’s DPF & Emissions cleaning service attacks the real problem poor combustion and the consequence, soot buildup.

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

Several new models were showcased at the CV Show this year, with the Citroën Berlingo, Dacia Commercial, Mercedes-Benz Vito, Peugeot Partner and Vauxhall Corsavan all making their official UK show debuts

Commercial Vehicles

CV show highlights

A new version of the Vauxhall Corsavan was displayed at the CV Show

Several els od new m wcased o were sh Show this V at the Cnd the event year, a ted many attrac hibitors new ex

The Commercial Vehicle Show is one of the largest road transport events in the UK, providing the chance to view a wide range of trucks, vans and trailers along with products and services designed to support the commercial vehicle operator.

Several new models were showcased at the CV Show this year, with the Citroën Berlingo, Dacia Commercial, Mercedes-Benz Vito, Peugeot Partner and Vauxhall Corsavan all making their official UK show debuts.

What’s more, the 2015 show attracted many new exhibitors, including BOC, Dacia, Delphi, Don-Bur, Gasrec, Peugeot, Pirelli Tyres, Stena Line and Total UK. Rob Skelton, CV Show director, said: “There was a buzz about the CV Show this year right from the very start and attendance levels were high. We received plenty of good feedback from both exhibitors and visitors alike, and it’s clear from how busy the halls were, and the quality of exhibitor stands, that the Show reflected the buoyancy that has returned to the British economy and to the commercial vehicle market in recent months.”

The 2015 CV Show was accredited with international status from the automotive industry’s global body, OICA, the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles.

Vauxhall Corsavan Vauxhall debuted its new Corsavan at the Commercial Vehicle Show, which features an enhanced chassis and offers fuel economy of up to 85.6mpg, emissions as low as 87g/km and a flat-loading capacity of up to 920 litres.

Vauxhall also showcased its line-up of Vivaro vans, as well as plans to offer an in-house sign writing and wrap service for Vivaro customers. It will be the only UK manufacturer to provide this service, and work will be covered by a three-year warranty.

Demand for Vauxhall’s vans is up nearly 32 per cent so far this year, with more than 11,000 commercial vehicles registered in 2015. The Vivaro is the most popular small van choice for businesses, with more than 7,000 registrations this year.

Mercedes-Benz Vito The new Mercedes-Benz Vito van made its UK debut at the CV Show. Exterior styling has been completely re-designed to bring Vito in line with the manufacturer’s two other LCVs; Citan and Sprinter. The new Vito comes in a choice of front- or rear‑wheel drive; a first for the 2.8 – 3.2 tonne panel van market sector. On average Mercedes reckons there’s an improvement in fuel consumption of 20 per cent compared to the current Vito line-up.

The BlueEfficiency package is fitted to all rear-wheel drive models, which can help achieve up to 47.1mpg combined in the 119 BlueTEC. Enhancements include alternator management, with the battery charging during coasting or deceleration; improved underbody aerodynamics; and ECO start/stop.

Six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission with torque converter optional for the 114 BlueTEC and 116 BlueTEC, and standard on the 119 BlueTEC. Vito offers the only automatic transmission in its segment with torque converter and seven gears.

Citroën Berlingo Citroën’s best-selling LCV, the Berlingo, debuted its new line-up with advanced BlueHDi Euro 6 compliant engines – plus specification and styling enhancements. The New Berlingo range will be ‘on sale’ in the UK from 1 July 2015, bringing with it further running cost reductions and environmental benefits, combined with driver comfort, safety and convenience gains.

The new Berlingo is the first Citroën LCV range to be powered by Euro 6‑compliant BlueHDi diesel engines, which use advanced Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology. Citroën will be extending the application of these low-emissions, highly fuel-efficient BlueHDi engines across its entire LCV line-up as part of a rolling programme starting in July 2015.

Dacia announcement Dacia has revealed it will enter the UK light commercial vehicle market later this year with the Duster Commercial.

The new Duster Commercial models, available to order now, will be available in 4×2 and 4×4 guises.

Andy Herion, Dacia brand manager, said: “Our aim is to bring Duster ­– the Renault Group’s global best-seller – to the UK’s van buyers in true Dacia style with a value-for-money product and transparent pricing. Owners and drivers will benefit from a practical and functional vehicle that can be serviced and maintained in our network of 223 dealers and service outlets.”

A false floor with load protection helps the Duster Commercial offer a load capacity of either 1,150 litres (4×2) or 1,000 litres (4×4), as well as a payload of 550kg and E Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Commercial Vehicles

FTA launches Logistics Manifesto The Freight Transport Association used the CV Show to urge the government to provide “better support” to the logistics sector. Launching its FTA Logistics Manifesto 2015, the organisation made a list of the 10 most important things the next government should consider. These are: Recognise the logistics sector’s essential status Reduce fuel duty for commercial vehicles Provide support for industry’s skills development programme Invest in national transport infrastructure Encourage and enable private sector investment in transport Commit to a plan for increased hub aviation capacity and preserve current access to night flights Ensure regulatory systems are fit for 21st century logistics Partner with industry to develop a programme which addresses carbon and air quality challenges Support the uptake of environment-friendly freight Help towns and cities develop transport plans which deliver economically vibrant, safe and attractive places  a flat cargo deck almost 1.4m long.

There will only be one engine on offer, a 1.5‑litre, 107bhp dCi 110 diesel engine. There will, however, be a choice of two equipment packages will be available, each with the option of two- or four-wheel drive.

Peugeot Partner The new Peugeot Partner van launched at the CV Show, showcasing a wide range

of engines which sees the introduction of a Euro 6 variant. In total, six engines / gearbox combinations are available, delivering from 75 to 100bhp, with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions achieving, on average, 15 per cent lower than the predecessor model. The 1.6-litre BlueHDi 100 S&S version has the lowest CO2 emissions in the segment, just 108g/km, with either manual or electronic controlled gearboxes.

New technology available includes an optional reversing camera and, from November 2015, optional Active City Brake.

This is an automatic urban braking system which activates when a risk of collision is detected, up to speeds of 20mph. By helping to avoid accidents, or reduce the seriousness of an impact, it has a positive effect on the insurance group rating and running costs – a key factor for business users.

Isuzu The big news from Isuzu Truck at the CV Show was the debut of its new Euro 6 ‘Forward’ 12‑tonner – the new F120.240 4x2 rigid featuring a compact overall footprint as well as a class-leading payload carrying capacity.

Also making its debut was the Euro 6 Isuzu ‘Urban’ N75.150 (E), short wheelbase chassis, featuring a Brit-Tipp all-steel tipper body that gives an overall payload of 3780kgs. This vehicle is part of a programme of pre-bodied Isuzu tippers that have full ECWVTA and are available off-the-shelf for customers that require a durable tipper, easily, quickly and conveniently.

For 2015, Isuzu has also made some enhancements to its complete range of cabs including a new restyled chrome grille, a new driver’s suspension seat, factory-fitted red seat belts, a new steering wheel with standard SRS airbag plus a new interior trim and upholstery. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.cvshow.com

Isuzu Truck debuted the new ‘Forward’ 12-tonner at the CV Show

Don’t overload your vehicle.

You could be invalidating your insurance and risking a fine from VOSA / DVSA. Uprating service provided to increase payloads Use our FREE load distribution calculator on our website. It could save you ££££ in fines and extra servicing costs.

Dacia will enter the UK commercial vehicle market later in 2015 with the Duster Commercial

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

www.svtech.co.uk/lda

Emergency Fleets

The event for emergency fleets Fleet managers from the police, fire and ambulance services are invited to attend the Emergency Fleet Exhibition this June to view the latest vehicles and equipment, as well as debate the topics that matter at the National Association of Police Fleet Managers’ conference Now in its 42nd year, the National Association of Police Fleet Managers and the Emergency Fleet Exhibition is a annual event which brings together key fleet managers from a membership which accounts for a fleet size of over 44,000 vehicles, deemed to be the 10th largest in the UK. This is not just a police fleet event, it showcases fleet related vehicles and equipment for all the emergency sectors. It focuses on transport for ambulance, fire & rescue & police, but also attracts exhibitors and visitors from the other emergency services, local authorities and some government departments.

The 2015 exhibition, taking place on 9-10 June at the International Centre, Telford, will feature over 100 key suppliers showcasing vehicles, equipment and technology used by the emergency service and rescue organisations on a daily basis. Ten of the major vehicle manufacturers – of which eight have been awarded the CCS/NAPFM Framework Blue Light lots 7, 8 & 9 – will be showcasing current and future vehicles.

The event remains an invitation-only exhibition for exhibitors, delegates and visitors and is widely recognised by the motor industry as one of the best emergency service transport shows in Europe.

The delegate programme features a broad spectrum of speakers discussing current topics such as collaboration, national road policing, vehicle disposal & low carbon fleets.

Key meetings and update sessions will take place throughout the event with the Blue Light Approved Vehicle Manufacturers on Monday 8 June, Crown Commercial Services and the Home Office on 9 & 10 June, and the National Strategic Ambulance Fleet Group on Wednesday 10 June. There will also be a number of smaller supplier meetings throughout the two days.

NAPFM history The National Association of Police Fleet Managers (NAPFM) was formed in April 1986 after receiving approval from the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) in February of the same year. The formation arose from an Annual Police Fleet Engineers Seminar that had already been running for thirteen years in Wiltshire.

NAPFM membership covers all UK police forces and some enforcement agencies from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland along with non-Home Office Forces such as British Transport Police and Ministry of Defence as well as the UK Border Agency, H.M. Prison Service, Hong Kong Police and

The 2015 nt eve Headquarters NAPFMure over in Devizes. This t a e f s r e will i l was to become p p y su an annual 100 ke ing vehicles, event which is s showcapment and still hosted and run by Wiltshire. equi logy Gradually the techno

the Garda Siochana in Ireland.

In partnership with the Home Office Commercial Directorate, the NAPFM produces National Framework Procurement Contracts for such things as vehicles and vehicle parts, tyres, fuel, oil, glass, vehicle audible and visual warning, as well as vehicle disposal and ‘end of life’ disposal. These frameworks have delivered multi-million pound savings to the police service, and many of the contracts are now available to the other emergency services. As the government seeks to make framework contracts pangovernment, different groups are starting to lead in specific areas of procurement.

The NAPFM is currently working with the ACPO Vehicle Standardisation Group to standardise the role of vehicles within the UK police service. This dovetails with the collaborative work being undertaken with the ACPO Intelligent Transport System (ITS) Group. This group is developing a Single Vehicle Architecture ‘One Box’ system for vehicles as well the Driver and Vehicle Data Management System.

Event history In 1973 the Wiltshire Constabulary hosted a Police Fleet Engineers Seminar at Police

event grew from just a seminar to include a small exhibition. The original ethos of collaboration to improve standards and save money for public sector is as important today as it was four decades ago.

With the formation of the NAPFM the event changed its name to the NAPFM Conference & Exhibition. The NAPFM Event is widely acknowledged to be one of the best emergency service transport events in Europe, attracting a wide range of both national and international delegates. With the participation of all the emergency services, enforcement agencies, various government departments and the military, the NAPFM Conference and Exhibition is one event that is firmly in the diary for those involved with public sector fleets. L FURTHER INFORMATION

www.napfmevent.org.uk

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Start building your EV Fleet Recharging Today There’s a lot to take in and plan when thinking of going electric. But the electric vehicle team at EDF Energy has just made things easier for you.

We’ve developed SelfSurvey, an EV Infrastructure Site Survey App that can be used to develop, design and cost your EV charging requirements without the need of an on-site visit from an installation specialist.

Now there’s no need to complete paper work upfront, wait for a site survey appointment or pay survey costs.

Just click through these 4 simple steps: • Select Electric Vehicle model • Choose Speed of charging • Build the chargepoint • Specify location and position of chargepoints And you can reconfigure your design multiple times to produce a range of quotations to get the most suitable design and cost for you and your organisation.* * Quotations are subject to sufficient electricity supply and suitability of existing wiring

For more information our and charging products call the vehicle team onon: For more information aboutabout our home fleet charging products callelectric the electric vehicle team 0800 096 9636 emailelectricvehicles@edfenergy.com electricvehicles@edfenergy.com 0800 0969636 or or email

Taking the form of a seminar, closed-room sessions and test drives, GreenFleet Capital took place on 6 May at White Hart Lane and allowed fleet and transport managers to assess whether electric and plug-in vehicles are right for their business

Fleet managers from the London area were able to examine whether electric and plug-in vehicles are right for their business by talking to key industry players and driving the vehicles themselves at GreenFleet Capital on 6 May at White Hart Lane. The event took the form of seminars, closed-room sessions and test drives.

Alex Philpott from the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) and Iain Macbeth from Transport for London (TfL) explained London’s vision to become a world leader in traffic and road network management.

To do so there needs to be a change of behaviour, including the way goods and services are delivered, as well as involving an urban mobility platform.

Christophe Arnaud from Source London – the London-wide network of electric charge points – explained that publicly available charge points will advance EV adoption rates and that it has plans to improve EV infrastructure in London and help promote cleaner air quality to meet the Mayor of London’s 2020 objectives. He also explained how they are working closely with TfL to achieve multi‑level strategy for London’s infrastructure.

Jack Munford from leasing company and EV consultants Alphabet took the last speaker slot and explained how the company works with partners to provide individual charging infrastructure solutions. Through its consultancy service Alpha Electric, the company addresses the main concerns around electric mobility, such as the availability of charge points, range anxiety, cost, and safety.

Motoring journalist and TV presenter Quentin Willson was the guest speaker

at Capital GreenFleet. He said: “I was pleasantly surprised just to see how much knowledge and enthusiasm for EVs there was at this event. Most of the delegates had driven several EV saloons already and were now keen to try the EV vans. The South of England is clearly very well informed on ULEVs and also very enthusiastic.”

After the seminar session concluded, delegates broke out for closed group sessions with the major electric/hybrid motor manufacturers and related companies, to discuss any electric vehicle concerns and share experiences.

They were given the opportunity to test drive the vehicles the manufacturers had to offer, such as the electric BMW i3 and Nissan Leaf, enabling them to experience for themselves how electric vehicles really perform. The breakout sessions were hosted by BMW, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Peugeot, Alphabet, and RouteMonkey, and additional expertise was on hand from Fleetdrive and Rolec.

Jonathan Mitchell, head of strategy, at OLEV said: “We are pleased to support the GreenFleet EV and plug-in vehicle events, as they help to educate UK businesses on the viability of this technology, and stimulate adoption in UK fleets. We would encourage any organisation in the region to attend, where they can then engage with ourselves, the vehicle manufacturers and other innovative solutions providers.” L FURTHER INFORMATION

Taking the form of a seminar, closed-room sessions and test drives, GreenFleet West will allow fleet and transport managers from Bristol and the surrounding area, to assess whether electric and plug-in vehicles are right for their business.

GreenFleet Events

Chatting EVs in the Capital

GreenFleet West on 5 June in Bristol

The event will be staged at At‑Bristol on the 5 June 2015, and it will allow fleet, transport, sustainability and HR managers from the region to explore the viability of electric and plug-in vehicles and experience them first-hand.

Staged in association with the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), with input from Bristol City Council and Source West, this event is designed to demonstrate that by embracing electric and plug-in vehicles, not only will your organisation’s carbon emissions be cut, but your fleet and transport running costs can be reduced by thousands.

This free to attend event will take the form of a seminar, hosted by TV presenter and motoring journalist, Quentin Willson, with keynote presentations from the Department for Transport’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), Bristol City Council and Source West.

Delegates will then be allocated a group and will spend the day in 30-40 minute sessions with leasing specialist Alphabet, route optimisation specialist Routemonkey, and test driving electric cars and vans from manufacturers, including BMW, Nissan, Toyota, Peugeot, TESLA, and more.

Breakfast, all-day refreshments and a buffet lunch will also be provided.

Visit www.events.greenfleet.net/ gf-west for more information.

An array of vehicles will be available to test drive at GreenFleet West

www.events.greenfleet.net/capital

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Road Test

Down load th Green e F app.g leet app at reenfl eet.n for mo et re ima ge conten s and t

Capturing the market The second best-selling model in Renault’s UK range, the Captur crossover bridges the supermini and small SUV markets. With small car running costs and off-road-inspired looks, it enjoyed European-wide success in 2014. GreenFleet finds out what makes it so popular

French car‑maker Renault has enjoyed a UK market resurgence of late. Sales were up by 43.7 per cent in 2014, the best figure for over three years. Culling the largest vehicles from its range and concentrating on the B-segment small car and the C-segment mid‑size markets seems to have paid off. The company saw combined sales of its Clio hatchback, Captur crossover and 100 per cent electric Zoe rise by 65.9 per cent in 2014.

The Captur was launched in 2013, based on a longer ‘Alliance B’ platform which underpins the Renault Clio and Nissan Juke. Creating its first ‘urban crossover’ has been a popular move for the French company, as the Captur recently celebrated 30,000 sales in the UK.

46

Personalisation is key There’s no denying the Captur’s family resemblance to the Clio on which its based. Carrying Renault’s latest design language, a bold front end flows into a mini‑SUV profile. Designed to appeal to a large range of customers from couples, young families and style-conscious single drivers, in keeping with current market trends,

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personalisation is a key feature.

The Captur offers three themed ‘collections’ – Arizona, Manhattan and Miami. Combining themed colour ways across body work colours, wheels and interior trim, further impact can be made with contrasting two-tone paint finishes for the roof and body. Bold combinations (black paint with an orange roof and orange

ENGINE:

1,461cc, four-cylinder diesel

CO2:

95g/km

MPG (combined):

76.4

NOx:

0.136g/km

PM10:

0.000g/km

VED:

Band A, £0

BIK:

17%

PRICE (OTR):

The Captur is based on Renault’s ‘Alliance B’ platform which underpins the fourth-generation Clio

The is interioriendly -fr a family be, with place tole, zip-off includes Renault’s washabable seat integrated seven-inch remov ipe-clean colour touchscreen w with Nav ’n’ covers, s and lots Godisplay satellite navigation. c i plast orage We found the standard TomTom system worked very of st

wheels for example) ensure it stands out.

Externally, LED daytime running lights and a Chrome Exterior Gloss Pack add extra flourishes. The styling works – the Captur is a good‑looker and our test car wore Ivory paintwork with a Diamond Black roof, the mono-tonal combination working well.

Four well-specified trim levels – Expression+, Dynamique MediaNav, Dynamique S MediaNav and Signature – are available with a wide range of standard equipment.

What Renault deems as ‘core’ (standard on all models) features includes automatic headlights and wipers, cruise control, manual air-conditioning, hands-free keycard, radio/ CD player with Bluetooth/AUX-IN and USB, tyre pressure monitoring system, 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and a tyre inflation kit.

Seven-inch touchscreen Dynamique MediaNav trim builds on the comprehensive standard kit count and

well, particularly when warning of speed camera locations. Map data is stored on an SD card. The ‘home screen’ of the system shows all media, driving and sat-nav data at a glance – press the required function ‘window’ icon and that individual part of the system is displayed in depth.

The Captur is simplicity itself to drive with lightly-weighted controls. Accurate steering allows the car to be placed precisely, but, as with most modern systems, is little short on feel. The Captur rides well for a small SUV‑type car – especially one on 17-inch wheels – with only the deepest potholes and road imperfections being transmitted into the cabin.

Engine noise is well-insulated from the interior and the small Renault is very quiet on the motorway. The extra ride height over a comparable Clio gives extra

Road Test

Renault Captur Dynamique MediaNav dCi 90 S&S

£16,595 (£18,499 as tested)

confidence to tackle muddy tracks or off‑road surfaces, too, but an occasional vision problem is created by the large bases of the A-pillars. An ‘Eco’ mode button cuts air-conditioning functions and performance to create conditions for the best economy to be achieved, with a trip computer aiding those drivers who want to get the most out of the fuel they use. Over the course of a 420-mile test period, we achieved an average fuel return figure of 54.3mpg.

The interior is a family-friendly place to be, with washable, zip-off removable seat covers, wipe-clean plastics, an assortment of storage spaces and a bigger-than-supermini 377-litre boot. A sliding 60/40 rear seat creates a variable luggage space, and when folded flat, a 1,235-litre load area.

Renault has recently added a 110bhp version of its 1.5 dCi engine to the Captur range.

Priced from £17,695, the new variant has an officially quoted capable of 76.4mpg on the combined cycle – despite the increased power output – depending on which trim level is selected. An increase of 20bhp over the 90bhp unit of our test car, torque is up by 29lb ft yet emissions only rise by 3g/km.

The new diesel engine is only available to order on mid to high-specification Dynamique, Dynamique S and Signature models.

The Captur range starts at £14,295 for the entry‑level 115g/km Expression+ TCe 90 petrol model.

More style and added space Bringing more space and added style to Renault’s small car offerings, the French company has made a likeable model in the Captur. This market is all about looks, personalisation, running costs and value for money. On those fronts, the Captur scores.

It’s more practical than its Ford EcoSport and Nissan Juke rivals and a pre-paid servicing pack (four years’ servicing and roadside cover as well as a four-year/100,000-mile warranty) can be included into monthly repayments. A five-star crash test rating from Euro NCAP also means it’s very safe.

While the head-turning Citroën C4 Cactus offers more head-turning (or divisive) looks and a fresh, avantgarde interior, the Captur’s overall appeal as a buying package makes it hard to ignore. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.renault.co.uk

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Road Test Written by Richard Gooding

Conquering crossover The Nissan Qashqai has become a very familiar sight on the UK’s roads. The arrival of a second‑generation model is big news. With low emissions and a high-specification, Richard Gooding finds that the latest version offers an impressive array of talents for the fleet buyer The Qashqai has been hugely successful for Nissan. Launched in 2006 to replace both the conventional Almera family hatchback and Primera saloon, it was styled, engineered and built in the UK. Over 1.24 million first-generation Qashqais found homes, giving Nissan a strong foothold in the SUV or ‘crossover’ (a family-hatchback sized SUV) market. The latest model was introduced in late 2013 and has, so far, proved equally successful. The new Qashqai was the sixth best-selling car in the UK during 2014 and has frequently appeared in the top 10 best-sellers list in 2015, too.

Sharper styling The second-generation Qashqai enjoys much sharper styling than its predecessor.

It looks good, with much sportier looks than before. More traditionally SUV-like this time around, the new model incorporates the latest Nissan styling details including a chrome ‘V’-trimmed nose and creased surface detailing. The range starts with the £18,265 Visia DIG-T 115 petrol model,

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rising to the only four-wheel drive model available, the £28,500 Tekna dCi 130. Our test car was the 1.5-litre diesel-engined £24,000 n-tec+. Improved equipment over the lower rung n-tec includes satin silver roof rails, panoramic sunroof, and ‘sunset’ privacy glass from the B-pillar back.

The new Nissan Qashqai features impressive technology. Standard kit includes auto lights and wipers; dual-zone climate control; cruise control; five-inch High Definition TFT Screen Combimeter; colour front, rear and side cameras; 360-degree ‘Around View’ monitor; keyless start; and a seven-inch Nissan Connect touchscreen navigation and system. The Japanese car manufacturer’s infotainment and nav system is comprehensive in its functions – dynamic re-routing lane

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guidance and Google Points of Interest all feature. DAB digital radio, Bluetooth and social media updates are all part of the package, too. The sound system works well, although other manufacturers’ systems still lead the way in ease of use.

We found the Traffic Sign Recognition worked very well, with limit warnings changing as soon as they do in the real world.

The satellite navigation function also proved pleasingly accurate.

A Smart Vision Pack (anti‑dazzle mirror, Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Departure Warning systems), a Forward Emergency Braking system and parking sensors can also be specified. Nissan Chassis Control is available, too, with engine braking, ride control and other safety technology.

Overall, with a generous rosta of standard kit, the Qashqai offers good value for money.

Nissan’sve i Pure Drogy l techno rd and a is stand stop/start sa include to save fuel system ell as trim as w sions emis

Road Test

Nissan Qashqai n-tec+ 1.5 dCi Down load th Green e F app.g leet app at reenfl eet.n for mo et re ima ges an d conten t

ENGINE:

1,461cc, four-cylinder diesel

CO2: MPG (combined):

99g/km 74.3

NOx:

0.163g/km

PM10:

0.000g/km

VED:

Band A, £0

BIK: PRICE (OTR):

17% Interior has an upmarket feel and has tempted buyers to switch from more premium cars

£24,000 (£24,525 as tested)

Second -generation Nissan Qashqai features more SUV-like styling cues

Upmarket feel Build quality is excellent with soft-touch plastics featured in the cabin, lending an upmarket air. Indeed, so premium feeling is it over its predecessor, we’ve heard of drivers trading in many more prestige cars to drive a Qashqai. Impressive for a mass market car. Elsewhere, the interior ergonomics are good and the Qashqai is a car which it is very easy to feel comfortable in. The cabin is cocooning for an SUV, enveloping the driver. Accommodation is spacious and a practical 430-litre boot has adaptable luggage boards, meaning most shapes of load can be slotted in with little fuss.

On the move, the Qashqai dCi, like the Pulsar hatchback we tested in GreenFleet issue 80, is incredibly refined for a large car.

On the motorway, only a whisper of wind noise on smooth surfaces can be heard. Even though the n-tec+ model wears 18‑inch wheels, the ride is very comfortable and the Qashqai absorbs bumps very well, cushioning passengers from rough road surfaces.

The 108bhp 1,461cc Renault‑derived engine is a little unresponsive under 2,000rpm, but push it past that marker and it pulls strongly in the mid-range. Torque of 191b ft/260Nm helps the Qashqai perform well once past lower revs and the six-speed

In-dash Stop/Start display shows the amount of CO2 which has been saved

manual gearbox is positively-weighted and enjoyable to use. Nissan quotes an 11.9 second time to the benchmark 0-62mph dash and a top speed of 113mph.

Nissan’s Pure Drive technology is standard and includes a stop/start system to save fuel as well as trim emissions. Over the course of a 375-mile test, we achieved a real‑world average of 51.1mpg. An interesting display in the combimeter panel ahead of the driver informs of the amount of CO2 has been saved since the car was built, while fuel

economy values can be saved to form a long-term pattern. An ‘Eco Score’ display on the infotainment system meanwhile shows ‘Pull Away’, ‘Cruise’ and ‘Decelerating’ values for each journey, which again can be saved for comparison purposes. An ‘Eco Drive’ report can also be selected.

Impressive machine Be in no doubt, the second-generation Qashqai is an impressive machine. Superbly refined, very comfortable, spacious and handsome-looking, it elevates the humdrum crossover above its family car roots. Improved quality means it can hold its head high against higher-priced machinery, while the marriage of the tried and tested 1.5-litre dCi engine as fitted here ensures decent economy. Impressively low emissions for such a large vehicle mean VED-free motoring and should appeal to those company car drivers who want off-road looks without too much of a financial penalty. The new Nissan Qashqai conquers so many family car requirements with its impressive all-round ability, it’s very easy to recommend it. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.nissan.co.uk

Volume 84 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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PRODUCT FINDER

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FLEET MANAGEMENT REPORTING

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DRIVER LICENCE CHECKING

RecoAuto delivers a unique claims management solution that reduces fleets vehicle repair costs whilst also reducing their Carbon Footprint.

RecoAuto manage all aspects of vehicle repairs and also specialise in reducing vehicle parts spend via our innovative software RecoParts.

FLEET SOFTWARE

Jaama 15 Amber Business Village, Amber Close Amington, Tamworth B77 4RP Tel: 0844 8484 333 enquiries@jaama.co.uk www.jaama.com Jaama’s multi award-winning Key2 Vehicle Management system is a totally integrated vehicle, asset and driver management solution visibly years ahead. Designed for all fleet sizes and budgets, Key2 is web based, with usability and intelligent ‘active’ data management; linking users live to data providers, customers, suppliers, vehicle telematics and the DVLA.

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.

HYDROGEN VEHICLES

ULEMCo Ulemco Ltd The Quay, 12 Princes Pararde, Liverpool, Merseyside, L3 1BG Tel: 1928 787179 info@ulemco.com / www.ulemco.com ULEMCo Ltd offer services to convert light commercial vehicles to run on hydrogen.

Services include the supply & installation of a safely engineered retrofit, warranty and VSO certificate. H2ICED™ vans, have verified emissions at 59g/km CO2. Advice, consultancy and the supply of hydrogen refuelling capability can also be provided.

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

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