GreenFleet 87

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

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FREIGHT & CARGO

ISSUE 87

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EVENT PREVIEW

GREENFLEET ARRIVE ‘N’ DRIVE

The latest low emission vehicles and technologies will be on show at Rockingham on 24 September

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

ALL HAIL HYDROGEN

The latest hydrogen developments from around Europe

FIRST DRIVE: VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTE

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ISSUE 87

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EVENT PREVIEW

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Comment

FORMULA E

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

ALL HAIL HYDROGEN

The latest hydrogen developments from around Europe

FIRST DRIVE: VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTE

Range extended It’s good news that the government’s Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG) is to be extended until February 2016 at the earliest and a further decision made in November’s Spending Review.

Widely welcomed, it comes as the latest figures for UK EV sales show them at their highest-ever level.

Electric vehicles are just one slice of the low carbon emission pie of course, and a £5m greener bus fund – for which local authorities must bid for a share – has also been announced by the UK government.

With 30 per cent of new buses certified as low carbon, the numbers can only increase. However, as GreenFleet finds out on page 17, the next major hurdle is to get more large and small commercial vehicles to go green.

I recently took part in the second staging of the Layer Marney Cup, a fuel economy rally taking in the scenic parts of the Essex countryside. First held in 1914, the 2015 run saw a varied field of entrants, including the same car that won that debut event, the Unic.

The corporate might of Essex‑based Ford brought along a 2015 Mondeo Hybrid and the route included a weighbridge to work out tonne miles per gallon. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the petrol-electric Mondeo was victorious with a figure of 73.89 tonne miles per gallon (the Unic achieved 30.52 in 1914). And although a light‑hearted event, the result shows in part the rate of progress in 101 years.

Enjoy the issue.

Richard Gooding, acting 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 ACTING EDITOR Richard Gooding EDITOR Angela Pisanu ASSISTANT EDITOR Michael Lyons EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Tommy Newell PRODUCTION CONTROL Jacqueline Lawford, Jo Golding WEB PRODUCTION Reiss Malone PUBLISHER George Petrou ACCOUNT MANAGER Kylie Glover ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich, Vickie Hopkins REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

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Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

3

SILENT AS THE NIGHT Urban distribution during evening or night-time? The new CF Silent does its work extremely quietly. With an efficient and reliable PACCAR MX-11 engine. With a special ‘Silent mode’ in which noise level is no more than 72 dB(A). A unique solution for maximum efficiency. To learn more about the CF Silent contact your DAF dealer or visit www.daf.co.uk

DRIVEN BY QUALITY TRUCKS | PARTS | FINANCE

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Contents

Contents GreenFleet 87 09

09 News

34 Formula E

14 Down the road

37 Insurance telematics

The Clean Bus Technology Fund announced; government £25 million greener fuel fund; London’s Safer lorry scheme; and new Toyota Prius for Frankfurt motor show

14

GreenFleet analyses the models soon to hit the market in the world of environmentally‑friendly vehicles; including the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series

GreenFleet examines the state of insurance telematics, the scope for future development and the benefits for drivers

17 Commercial vehicles

The Motor Cycle Industry Association’s Stevie Muir discusses the growing benefits two wheel fleets can bring businesses

In light of recent growth in the low emission vehicle market, the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership looks at the challenges that lay ahead for commercial vehicles and the best ways to overcome them

22 Alternative fuels

GreenFleet looks at the proliferation of hydrogen, and which countries are quick on the uptake of hydrogen filling stations. Is it safe? And when will it become mainstream?

25 Road safety

A simple change in driving actions can help to prevent crashes from happening.

Colin Knight of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents explores the role that human error plays in road safety

31

GreenFleet looks at the thinking behind the racing series, and how it hopes to get the wider message of electric mobility to the wider world next year

31 Freight & cargo

Following continued problems with migrants and border control, GreenFleet examines some of the security options available to haulage fleets and their potential to safeguard drivers against human trafficking

40 Motorcycle fleets

45 Arrive ’n’ Drive

GreenFleet previews Arrive ’n’ Drive 2015, taking place on 24 September.

Drivers can experience the latest vehicles and solutions that help to run a more efficient transport operation

55 GreenFleet Awards

On 22 October the GreenFleet Awards will celebrate environmental fleet management and green fleet efficiency

58 Road test: Citroën C4

Following the success of its MPVs, SUVs and hatchbacks, is there still room for Citroën’s more conventional five-door hatchback? GreenFleet investigates

60 Road test: VW Golf GTE Powered by a petrol-electric powertrain, the Volkswagen Golf GTE adds a dose of extra frugality to the family hatchback’s sporty ‘GT’. Richard Gooding takes the latest family member for a spin

60 34

45

GreenFleet magazine

www.greenfleet.net Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

7

© Shutterstock

How to Make Grey the New Green There are nearly 32 million cars on the road in the United Kingdom. 14 million of these are grey fleet vehicles, of which 9 million are regularly used by drivers for work purposes1. In a recent survey of UK local authorities, there were estimated to be over half a million employees driving their own vehicles for business purposes (55% of the total business travel) at a cost to councils of over £275 million a year2. During the day over 25% of the vehicles on the road will be grey fleet drivers who will be reimbursed for their travel. However you slice and dice the figures, grey fleet is big, very expensive and since 70% of the vehicles will be over three years old – not as environmentally friendly as it needs to be. It’s a huge challenge for employers. That’s where DAVIS (Driver and Vehicle Information Solutions) can help. DAVIS is a cloud based, modular, fully functional solution designed to make the practical management of both the driver and vehicle as simple and cost effective as possible.

Corporate Social Responsibility Driving licence checking and management system using DVLA live data ensures that employees are properly licensed to drive their vehicle in terms of validity of licence and entitlement in real time.

Driver assessment and training module for drivers identified as high risk.

Road tax and MOT checks against real time authoritative data sources ensures vehicle is compliant with legal requirements.

Document upload for insurance certificates for management approval helps ensure that business use is properly covered.

Greener Motoring Allows employer to set minimum acceptable standards for age, engine size and emissions to encourage use of cleaner and more energy efficient vehicles that meet corporate standards.

Telematics capability to monitor driving standards and encourage greener and safer use of the vehicle.

Reducing Administration Costs Driver centric approach encourages the driver to manage their own record, with full reporting capability for managers and administrators. Allows employers to demonstrate that duty of care obligations to employees and other road users have been addressed.

Modular approach uses ‘best of breed’ technology and third party products to offer a growth path to users. This reduces the need to replace existing systems or purchase completely new software in the future.

Uses source data to populate vehicle information fields (where available) to ensure records are complete at point of data capture to save time and effort.

There are a host of other useful features to be found within DAVIS as well as a number of modules in construction to address the needs of fleet and commercial fleet customers. If you want to know more about how we can help to turn your grey fleet into a new green fleet, call us or contact us at:

Licence Check Limited | The Renewal Trust Centre | 3 Hawksworth Street | Nottingham | NG3 2EG Tel: 0845 226 9686 | Email: sales@licencecheck.co.uk | Web: www.licencecheck.co.uk

Driving Fleet Software Forward 1

2014 Lex Autolease Report on Company Motoring 2 Reported 23/03/15 in Fleet Industry News

News

PUBLIC TRANSPORT FUEL TECHNOLOGY

£25 million fund to develop greener fuel

£5m Greener Bus Fund announced to tackle air pollution Bus operators across England will be able to bid for a share of £5 million funding to fit buses with green technology and offer better journeys following the announcement of competition from government.

The Clean Bus Technology Fund 2015 will allow local authorities to bid for up to £500,000 – enough to retrofit hundreds of buses that will reduce NOx (nitrogen oxides) emissions and improve air quality.

The fund is open for bids until the end of October, with a particular focus on pollution hotspots in cites and urban areas. The winners will be announced towards the end of the year.

The new £5 million scheme will add to the £20 million the government has already invested since 2011, together with some significant contributions from local authorities and bus operators, in similar local retrofit schemes for different types of vehicles which have significantly improved air quality.

So far, around 1,500 buses have been retrofitted in London and in other parts of England and last year’s Clean Vehicle Technology Fund provided over £8 million

to councils to upgrade over 1,200 vehicles – vans, taxis, buses and even fire engines.

The government also launched the £500,000 Air Quality Grant Scheme for 2015/16 today.

This scheme supports local authority projects to improve air quality with successful schemes previously encouraging local cycling projects, developing and implementing local low emission strategies and local engagement and awareness raising initiatives.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “The £5 million Clean Bus Technology Fund will provide hundreds of cleaner buses to improve air quality in towns and cities across England and I urge local authorities to submit bids.

“The funding will also support the British industries helping deliver the technology.

Today’s announcement continues the government’s commitment to improve air quality by upgrading existing vehicles on the road while also backing the low‑emission solutions for the future.”

READ MORE tinyurl.com/nl2lwth

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Chargemaster in Tech Track 100 list Chargemaster has been listed in the Sunday Times Hiscox Tech Track 100 list for the second year running.

The list ranks the fastest-growing British private technology, media and telecoms companies, based on average annual sales growth over the last three years.

The electric vehicle charging company

ranked 55th among companies from a wide variety of sectors, including gaming, mobile app developers, GPS tracking developers, car finance specialists and IT consultants.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/q3z57h5

Three companies have been awarded a share of a £25 million fund to develop greener fuel technology and boost local industry.

The projects will use waste products, including whisky, forestry and household by-products, to create biofuels for cars and lorries.

The successful companies are Celtic Renewables, based in Edinburgh, and Advanced Plasma Power, in Swindon, which will both receive £11 million, as well as Nova Pangaea Technologies, based in Tees Valley, which will receive £3 million.

The funding will be invested in new premises and technologies and is expected to generate 5,000 jobs by 2030.

Transport minister Andrew Jones said: “This is a great example of our commitment to innovative transport technology and supporting jobs and growth.

“Biofuels have an important role to play in keeping Britain moving forward in a sustainable and environmentally‑friendly way. This £25 million is not only a vital investment in technology that will help secure a greener future but will also support the creation of thousands of jobs.

“Advanced biofuels have the potential to save at least 60 per cent of the greenhouse gas emissions from the equivalent fossil fuel. The three successful bids show how the government is investing in transport and making better, clean journeys.”

READ MORE tinyurl.com/nmfdvub

ENERGY

Tesla’s Powerwall wins INDEX Award Tesla’s Powerwall has won the 2015 INDEX Award in the home category, earning the company €100,000 to invest in further development.

The Powerwall features a large lithium‑ion battery capable of storing energy from solar panels or the national grid. The ability to save power to be used at a later point is designed to resolve 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.

It is currently available in a 7kWh and 10kWh version and is intended to create increased independence from the power grid, as well as a back up solution in case of a power outage.

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

9

THE ALL-NEW JEEP RENEGADE.

BUSINESS CONTRACT HIRE EXAMPLE JEEP RENEGADE 1.6 MULTIJET II 120 HP SPORT Excluding optional Omaha Orange paint at £500 OTR*

Monthly Payment

MPG Combined

CO2 Emissions

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Up to 64.2

115g/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 II 120 HP SPORT WITH OPTIONAL SPECIAL PAINT AT £500 OTR. OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR JEEP RENEGADE RANGE MPG (L/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 47.9 (5.9) – 70.6 (4.0), URBAN 32.5 (8.7) – 55.4 (5.1), COMBINED 40.9 (6.9) – 64.2 (4.4), CO2 EMISSIONS: 160 – 115 G/KM. Fuel consumption and CO figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of

*

Jeep with ®

2

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 Jeep Renegade 1.6 MultiJet II 120 HP 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 September 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

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Safer lorry scheme launched in the capital All HGVs that do not have basic safety equipment designed to protect and keep safe cyclists and pedestrians will be banned or fined under London’s ‘safer lorry scheme’.

Drivers could face fines of up to £1,000 if they enter Greater London without sideguards and class V and class VI wide-angle mirrors.

London Mayor Boris Johnson hopes to improve the scheme further by requiring HGVs to have bigger mirrors fitted to the lower side of the cab door, in a bid to ensure drivers have a clear view of cyclists alongside them.

Johnson said: “We are ahead of any other part of the UK in closing the legal loopholes that allowed many HGVs to

operate without basic safety equipment, and I am delighted that over the 18 months since we announced the safer lorry scheme the vast majority of operators have got the message and fitted safety equipment to their vehicles in anticipation of the ban.

“This big step forward is only one element of my work to protect cyclists and pedestrians from lorries. I propose to require further safety modifications to all HGVs in London, including the retrofitting of bigger side windows to further reduce the driver blind spots that contribute to so many tragic accidents.”

READ MORE tinyurl.com/qypdaas

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

OLEV confirms continuation of the Plug-in Car Grant The Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) has announced that the Plug-in Car Grant will stay at its current level until the end of February 2016.

The government had previously confirmed that the grant would be kept at £5,000 until 50,000 claims had been reached.

It has now been confirmed that the grant will be maintained at its current level of 35 per cent off the cost of a car up to a maximum of £5,000 until the end of February.

The lead time limit of nine months will continue to apply, meaning the vehicle must be delivered and registered within nine months of the claim being entered onto the portal. Grant levels for after

February will be outlined in the autumn Spending Review, which is due out in November.

Transport minister Andrew Jones said: “I’m pleased to announce today that the government is maintaining the current levels of grant, even as we move past the milestone of 50,000 vehicles.

“The UK is now the fastest growing market for electric vehicles in Europe. We will continue to invest to help make this technology affordable to everyone and to secure the UK’s position as a global leader.”

READ MORE TINYURL.COM/OGVLCHB

LowCVP’s Andy Eastlake

Plugging into hybrids One of the great things about this job is the range of interesting and passionate people I regularly meet. But passionate people tend to have strong opinions, of course, so finding a compromise between varying views is vital in moving things forward.

I think this principle can be equally applied to the application of technology in greening our transport.

There are many convincing advocates for a pure electric vehicle solution and I, too, can see the arguments for this option. However, with current technology limitations, the importance of hybrid solutions in meeting the wide range of mobility needs while encouraging the market for plug-ins to develop is critical. In the year to July 2015, for example, around twice as many hybrid plug-in vehicles were sold than pure battery EVs in the UK according to SMMT statistics.

The recent VED changes announced in the Summer Budget left me concerned that the Chancellor doesn’t share this view of the need to encourage the introduction of hybrid plug-ins. As a driver of a plug-in range‑extended car (which can’t be rapid-charged) I can fully understand why plug-in hybrids are outselling fully electric ULEVs. (And, by the way, I feel that the lack of a plug-in hybrid van is one of the major reasons the ULEV van market has not taken off as the car market has.)

The flexibility of this ‘compromise’ option, is probably even more important in the commercial vehicle market, where electric miles can be hard to come by with the much heavier demands on batteries and infrastructure.

The emergence of several plug-in hybrid buses, together with zero-emission-capable taxis (and along with the recent Geofencing trials) will, I think, enable cities to start to consider full zero-emission zones as a real option.

The path to electric mobility needs a range of increasingly electrified vehicles but I think we need support for the whole of that range at the moment.

Full electrification may be the desired end-point but, with current technology, does not yet fulfil all of our varied mobility needs.

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

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

11

RE-ENERGISE

YOUR BUSINESS MODEL

CO2

from

79g/km

PEUGEOT i-Cockpit

MPG

up to

94.2 mpg

BIK

PureTech Engines

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Active City Brake

The New Peugeot 208 with revised front grille and more assertive styling is powered by the next generation of engines that deliver both on efficiency and performance. PureTech is an advanced 3-cylinder petrol engine technology that offers significantly improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from 79g/km, without drive and performance compromise. While BlueHDi diesel engines deliver class-leading figures for CO2 and MPG and feature Stop Start functionality for added efficiency. For economy without compromise the New 208 is the business.

Visit business.peugeot.co.uk or call 0800 9548781 to discover the New Peugeot 208 re-energised.

Official Fuel Consumption in mpg (l/100km) and CO 2 emissions (g/km) for the New 208 Range are: Urban 40.4 (7.0) – 78.5 (3.6), Extra Urban 61.4 (4.6) – 104.6 (2.7), Combined 52.3 (5.4) – 94.2 (3.0) and CO 2 125 – 79g/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. Consumption figures provisional.

NEW PEUGEOT 208

News

Freight Transport Association Are you ESOS‑ready?

HYBRID VEHICLES

The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) comes into force on 5 December and the Freight Transport Association (FTA) is urging companies to ensure they have plans in place to meet the deadline.

Fourth-generation Prius to debut at Frankfurt Toyota plans to have a strong hybrid presence at the Frankfurt motor show, with the new fourth generation Prius making its world debut.

The new car will sit on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA), which allows a number of different sizes and styles of vehicle to share a number of components and parts, cutting engineering costs. Powertrain details will be unveiled at the show.

Along with the Prius, the new RAV4 Hybrid and the Toyota C-HR

will also be on display. The RAV 4 will feature a 2.5 litre petrol engine in the front and an electric motor mounted on the rear axle, with an economy of 56.6mpg and emissions at 116g/km.

The C-HR is a family sized crossover and Toyota has promised it will reset ‘the standards for fuel economy and emissions’, with further details to be announced at the show.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/qbfskdx

Nissan to invest £100 million in UK plant Nissan has announced that it will invest £100 million into its UK plant, which currently manufactures its electric LEAF model.

The investment aims to give security to the Sunderland plant beyond 2020 and has been praised by Chancellor George

Osborne as “an important sign of Britain being chosen as a global leader in car production”.

The plant stands as the biggest in the UK, having produced 500,000 cars last year. The new investment is expected to secure 6,700 jobs at the plant and over 27,000 jobs in the supply chain.

EV INFRASTRUCTURE

Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions teams with Schneider Electric Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions has signed a five-year deal with Schneider Electric to provide complete electric vehicle charging solutions to their fleet and personal customers.

The partnership will see Schneider Electric provide charging solutions to corporate customers of Hitachi Capital

at their workplaces and depot networks and aims to help make electric vehicles more commercially viable and enable organisations to hit green targets.

READ MORE

If your company has more than 250 employees or an annual turnover exceeding £39 million and a balance sheet exceeding £33.5 million then you are required to complete an audit and report the results to the Environment Agency, which is administrating the scheme.

ESOS is the UK’s response to the EU Energy Efficiency Directive demanding that all large enterprises conduct energy audits every four years covering buildings, transport and industrial operations. This includes freight where the company purchases the fuel, but sub-contracted transport is excluded.

Companies are required to measure total energy consumption across transport, buildings and industrial activities; conduct energy audits to identify cost‑effective energy efficiency recommendations; appoint an ESOS Lead Assessor to either carry out, oversee or approve audits; and report compliance to the Environment Agency.

There is no obligation to implement any energy-saving recommendations that are made. But it’s hard to believe that businesses won’t want to make their operations more efficient if they have invested in carrying out an audit.

ESOS is expected to cover over 10,000 UK organisations and the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) says that adopting subsequent energy efficiency measures could deliver the UK £2.8 billion savings a year.

Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Amber Rudd MP, told a Parliamentary Energy and Climate Change Committee that “energy efficiency is the most effective way to reduce carbon and reduce bills – it is win-win”.

However, it’s undeniable that there are cost and time implications for companies as they grapple with the new requirements of energy audits.

ESOS is seen as a relatively light touch approach to delivering energy savings but FTA believes that it adds to a crowded area of legislation – many members already have to take part in the Carbon Reduction Commitment and mandatory GHG reporting. The good news is that DECC has noted the relevance of FTA’s managed Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme (LCRS) to help members comply with the transport elements of ESOS. FTA’s message to companies is to act now. One of government’s biggest challenges is making the relevant companies aware that they must comply with ESOS. There is concern amongst auditors and professional bodies with audit registers that there will be a rush closer to the deadline so take action now and appoint an ESOS Lead Assessor.

Compliance must be registered with the Environment Agency by 5 December 2015 or there could be hefty financial penalties.

Take care when appointing an ESOS Lead Assessor who will ultimately sign off your audit. This person must be listed on a Professional Register of an approved body such as the Energy Institute. ESOS is an ongoing scheme so the next phase starts on 6 December 2015 and finishes 5 December 2019.

FTA is an accredited ESOS Lead Assessor and our consultancy team can help you identify a plan of action and the best steps to satisfy ESOS requirements. FTA’s Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme is included in government best practice guidance to help freight operators to compile data for ESOS and take action to reduce energy in transport. To sign up, visit www.fta.co.uk/lcrs.

Rachael Dillon, FTA Climate Change Policy Manager FURTHER INFORMATION www.fta.co.uk

tinyurl.com/nvqc3d5 Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

13

Down The Road

Top 10

Green commercial vehicles

In association with

1

* Minimum P11D values shown for model range as of 11/09/2015

RENAULT KANGOO Z.E. CO2: 0g/km – P11D: £21,113 – BIK: 5% / 7% / 9% Run purely on electric power, the Kangoo Z.E. fights off other EV challengers to top our list of greenest LCVs, thanks to its best-in-class Next Green Car Rating.

2

NISSAN e-NV200 CO2: 0g/km – P11D: £26,061 – BIK: 5% / 7% / 9% Picked by an increasing number of fleet operators, the all-electric version of the NV200 proves that a mid-sized van can cost almost nothing to run.

3

PEUGEOT PARTNER ELECTRIC CO2: 0g/km – P11D: £21,909 – BIK: 5% / 7% / 9% Although a far from common sight on our roads, Peugeot’s Partner van comes in all-electric form nonetheless, putting it into a podium position on the greenest LCV list.

MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV COMMERCIAL CO2: 44g/km – P11D: £28,770 – BIK: 5% / 7% / 9% With the Outlander PHEV having taken the passenger car market by storm, the commercial version offers the same tiny running costs and makes the most of the Outlander’s large load space.

5

FORD FIESTA VAN 1.5 TDCI ECONETIC CO2: 82g/km – P11D: £13,291 – BIK: 15% / 16% / 17% A favourite of many fleets, this version of the Fiesta Van is a great LCV for urban driving with the lowest emissions around for a non-hybrid vehicle.

VAUXHALL CORSAVAN 1.3 CDTI S&S ECOFLEX CO2: 87g/km – P11D: £13,575 – BIK: 15% / 16% / 17% Despite just losing out to its big rival – the Fiesta Van – the Vauxhall still scores highly in the green LCV stakes with its Corsa supermini-based van.

7

6

FORD TRANSIT COURIER 1.6 TDCI CO2: 97g/km – P11D: £13,316 – BIK: 16% / 17% / 18% Surprisingly spacious and frugal, the Transit courier is the best bet for those who want low emissions and running costs but need a large cargo space.

FORD TRANSIT CONNECT 1.6 TDCI ECONETIC CO2: 109g/km – P11D: £15,791 – BIK: 16% / 17% / 18% Winner of International Van of the Year in 2014, the Transit Connect toppled tough competition with the help of its frugal 1.6-litre ECOnetic diesel.

9

4

8

CITROËN NEMO HDI 75 S&S CO2: 109g/km – P11D: £13,250 – BIK: 18% / 19% / 20% Perfect for running around town, the Nemo offers low emissions, high mpg and a car-like driving experience, creating one of the best compact vans around.

VAUXHALL VIVARO 1.6 CDTI S&S ECO CO2: 155g/km – P11D: £19,975 – BIK: 28% / 29% / 30% Although there are vans out there that produce fewer CO2 emissions, none can match the Vivaro’s combination of range and load area.

10

About Next Green Car Next Green Car provides extensive CO2 and tax information, as well as a life cycle NGC Rating for all new cars available in the UK and over 50,000 UK models since 2001. Visit www.nextgreencar.com/company-car-tax

14

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

Down th and upco

As autumn and motor show season ap of the new or revised models due to a

DIESEL

Volkswagen Caddy Starting from £13,500 (excluding VAT and OTR charges), the third-generation Volkswagen Caddy panel van is available in three trim levels with selected models featuring start/stop and battery regeneration BlueMotion technology. A Euro 6-compliant BlueMotion variant promises 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions of 114g/km.

Short or Maxi wheelbases can be optioned as well as Kombi versions with windows. As with the German company’s passenger cars, a raft of safety and convenience technology can be fitted. A five-inch touchscreen ‘Composition Colour’ radio with DAB+ and Bluetooth provides entertainment, while driver alert and park assist systems, and a rear-view camera enhance safety.

On sale: September 2015 CO2: 114-158g/km Monthly BIK: £52.50 (20%), £105.00 (40%)

BMW 3 Series Over 14 million BMW 3 Series have been sold over the Bavarian brand with over 25 per cent of its sales being and rear tidies up the looks, while new materials in the As well as improved petrol and diesel engines wrou turbocharged technology, with the 320d EfficientDyna and CO2 emissions of 99g/km, bringing it inline with t 318i is the first 3 Series to be fitted with a three-cylind EU6-compliant. As well as traditional petrol and diesel plug-in hybrid version, the 330e, which promises 252b

On sale: autumn 2015 CO2: 99-179g/km BIK: 17-30

Down The Road

he road: the latest new oming models

pproaches, GreenFleet looks at some arrive in the next few months Mercedes-Benz GLE Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling SUV, the GLE has been revamped and will arrive in the UK later this month.

The German company reports that fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are down by 17 per cent on average over the outgoing car. A new plug-in hybrid model, the GLE 500 e 4MATIC, records emissions of 78g/km with claims of 85.6mpg.

Electricity consumption is 16.7kWh/62 miles and the hybrid GLE can travel up to 18.5 miles in all-electric mode.

Low fuel consumption figures of 52.3mpg are also promised by the HYBRID 140g/km GLE 250 d diesel version.

On sale: September 2015 CO2: 78-278g/km BIK: 13-37%

PETROL

DIESEL

PETROL

DIESEL

Audi A4 The order books for the new fifth-generation Audi A4 opened as this issue of GreenFleet went to press. Early customers will take delivery of their cars in November.

Available in both the now traditional Saloon and Avant (estate) body styles, the new compact executive from the Ingolstadt company is priced from £25,900 OTR. The latest model is based on a new platform and is up to 120kg lighter than the car it replaces and Audi quotes efficiency gains of up to 21 per cent with selected models.

At 0.23, the Saloon version also has the lowest drag coefficient figure in its class.

Buyers with an eye on frguality have a total of twelve TDI ultra models to choose from, with Saloon SE (£29,150) and Sport (£30,100) models emitting only 99g/km of CO2. Avant TDI Ultra cars are rated slightly higher at 104g/km. The 188bhp 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine also uses a new combustion process to cut emissions to just 116g/km.

Standard equipment includes Xenon headlights with LED DRLs, three-zone climate control and seven-inch colour MMI monitor, with the digital Audi ‘virtual cockpit’ available as an option.

On sale: September 2015 CO2: 99-150g/km BIK: 17-25%

e past 40 years, and the car is a big player for the g from its compact exec model. A subtle refresh front e cabin bring a fresher feel. ught from the BMW EfficientDynamics range feature amics Plus variant capable of a claimed 72.4mpg the new Jaguar XE and Audi A4. The petrol-powered der unit. All engines in the new 3 Series range are l models, the new 3 Series range also ushers in a bhp, 134.5mpg and 49g/km when it arrives next year.

DIESEL

0% PETROL

HYBRID

PETROL

DIESEL

Vauxhall Astra Released just after the Frankfurt motor show, the new seventh-generation Vauxhall Astra arrives in the UK in October. The UK company claims the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf challenger costs up to £2,200 less than its predecessor and improved powertrains and an average 130kg weight reduction mean emissions as low as 82g/km.

Built in the UK, the new Astra is available in five trim levels and is priced from £15,295 OTR. Buyers can choose a new turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder ecoFLEX model with Start/Stop and CO2 emissions of 96g/km from £15,995. The similarly-equipped diesel version which uses Vauxhall’s new ‘Whisper Diesel’ 1.6-litre 110bhp engine starts at £17,495 OTR. The Luton-based firm quotes 91.1mpg and (a provisional) 82g/km of CO2.

Design, Tech Line, Energy, SRi and Elite models make up the new Astra range, with Nav SRi and Elite trims for added choice. All models receive LED daytime running lights, and a seven-inch colour touchscreen. SRi and above models gain Vauxhall’s OnStar emergency assistance system.

On sale: October 2015 CO2: 82-146g/km BIK: 16-24%

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Commercial Vehicles

While there have been sparks of innovation, the low-carbon commercial vehicle market has still to take off

Written by Andy Eastlake and Neil Wallis, The Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership

Commercial vehicles: the low carbon challenge While the low carbon and low emission car market has seen rapid progress and developments, the commercial vehicle sector hasn’t enjoyed the same growth. The Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership looks at the obstacles in the way of greener CVs and what can be done to overcome them Readers of GreenFleet will be very familiar with the rapid progress of low carbon and low emission cars. The government incentives, administered by OLEV, and taxation signals through CCT and other mechanisms have helped steer company car drivers into ever ‘greener’ car choices and the variety of products available has increased rapidly.

Impressive progress Perhaps less well known to this audience is the impressive progress that UK bus sector has made in ‘greening’ its vehicles. More than 30 per cent of new bus sales are certified low carbon and UK buses are running in service on a wide range of fuels (hydrogen, biomethane, CNG, biodiesel) and with the whole spectrum of powertrain technologies (KERS flywheel systems, series and parallel hybrid, full battery electric, inductive charging system, the list goes on) showing the range of solutions

possible. Again, government incentives in the form of grants and fuel duty support, have been critical to ‘kick-start’ the market.

But more than a third of the carbon from road transport is emitted by goods vehicles (vans and HGVs) and, uniquely, this segment is actually increasing its emissions, despite all our efforts, due to the rise in economic activity and our appetite for getting more goods more quickly.

So commercial vehicles currently present us with our biggest low carbon vehicle challenge. In the van sector, OLEV grants of up to £8,000 have still failed to encourage mainstream manufacturers to offer the

range of hybrid technology needed to offset the increase in carbon emissions resulting from the fast-growing market.

There are, though, a number of very attractive van options, as highlighted in the LowCVP’s Low Emission Van Guide (GreenFleet, issue 86) and several niche products developed by UK innovators such as the hydrogen-powered Transit but, to date, little impact has been made in the market by any of these. With average new van CO2 emission dropping less than two percent in 2014 and van registration volumes up 19 per cent, it’s clear that much more needs to be done if we are to reverse the growth in emissions. E

More d thir than a from on of carb nsport is road tra y CVs and b emittedlly increasing is actuao the rise in due t nomic eco activity

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

17

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Unlike bus operators, truck fleets really haven’t embraced the potential of electric and hybrid technology in the urban operation, despite a handful of OEMs offering some very advanced technology options. The uptake of existing lower carbon solutions like low rolling resistance tyres and more efficient aerodynamic systems is still behind where it should be and where we need it to be in order to meet UK carbon reduction targets.

Perhaps this is because there has been no direct government support to stimulate this sector and the economic business case for upfront expense just isn’t possible in an environment where road haulage profit margins are undoubtedly slim.

One area where we have, however, seen a clear focus is on the use of methane (CNG) and biomethane in the heavy truck sector.

This has been stimulated by £11m of DfT

Unlike bus operators, truck fleets haven’t embraced the potential of electric and hybrid technology in the urban operation performance from this sector (with an incredible level of technology and know‑how embedded) and now the attention can really turn to lowering the carbon impact and fuel consumption. Of course, truck operators have not had their heads in the sand and many significant improvements have come from operational efficiency through driver training, route and load planning, backhaul partnership agreements and collaborations between logistics companies.

funding. A recent workshop, hosted by Cenex, brought together stakeholders to hear the preliminary results of the Low Carbon Truck Trial which saw over 330 gas-powered trucks operated over the last three years. The final results of this project, together with further specific emissions tests and data from the latest Euro 6 trucks now running, will all come together early next year and will enable the UK to really focus on a strategy for gas in the heavy truck sector over the next few years.

Hybrid technology The advances in telematics and fleet management have also been dramatic and, perhaps, provide an area where further intervention and support would benefit to ensure every operator maximises this technology.

Robust process Simultaneously, the LowCVP and a consortium of its members – with support from OLEV – have been developing a robust process to accurately measure and compare trucks and truck technology aimed at cutting local air pollutants and carbon emission reductions.

Again drawing from the bus sector, the creation of a single, widely accepted and relevant test has enabled government, operators and technology providers to coordinate activity and support precisely where it is needed to make the greatest carbon savings and to develop solutions for the longer term. It is, of course, imperative that any plans are long-term to allow businesses to develop strategy and implement plans with appropriate investment cycles.

Commercial Vehicles

 Challenging prospect Larger trucks are an even more challenging prospect, not least because the CO2 emissions aren’t measured at a vehicle level, so have very little real evidence on which to base policies.

This has been the focus of a team led by the DfT Low Carbon HGV task force and steered by a small group including the LowCVP, SMMT, FTA and others.

The HGV industry has had several years of intensive focus on delivering air quality emissions reductions culminating in the Euro 6 regulation in 2014. (For interest, HGV emissions legislation use roman numerals and cars and vans use Arabic numbers since the requirements are very different but the pace of change is similar).

All the data we have to date indicates that Euro 6 really is delivering the low emissions

Coherent plan In the near future it is anticipated that a wide range of activity and initiatives will be drawn together to provide a coherent plan for the commercial vehicle sector.

High level modelling of the carbon impact by both the DfT and the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) is likely to highlight the urgent action needed to meet our carbon targets in 2030.

For transport, with progress in cars underway, commercial vehicles will undoubtedly be the next focus. The work the LowCVP has recently carried out to map the transport fuels and infrastructure needed over the next twenty years will provide a framework to determine what energy sources will be used in this sector.

A robust test process, in advance of the potential European requirements and possible legislation, can put the UK ahead of the game in identifying the technologies and market signals needed.

Ultimately, working hand-in-hand with the logistics market we can create the maximum benefit to all stakeholders and the environment.

So, for the LowCVP, the next big challenge of tackling emissions from commercial vehicles is underway, and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to deliver green (truck) fleets. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.lowcvp.org.uk

Over 330 gas-powered trucks have been used over the past three years according to the Low Carbon Truck Trial

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

19

BIK from

MPG Combined

CO2 Emissions from

19%

Up to 68.9

109 g/km

Alternative Fuels

All hail hydrogen With Europe required to reduce its carbon emissions by up to 40 per cent by 2030, hydrogen gas is just one sustainable transport solution answer. GreenFleet looks at the state of the European hydrogen sector and the developments happening to spread the roll-out of the technology Earlier this year, the UK government announced it would invest £6.6 million in a hydrogen infrastructure. With the aim of encouraging the take-up and increasing the use of fuel cell vehicles, a network of 12 static and mobile hydrogen refuelling stations would be set-up or upgraded. The move was welcomed by the motor industry, and as major manufacturers such as Hyundai and Toyota start to or look to sell fuel cell models in the UK, the announcement was a timely one.

car makers such as BMW, Daimler, Honda, Hyundai and Toyota are on-board. These manufacturers aim to develop or are already selling hydrogen-powered vehicles. The sharing of internationally-agreed refuelling standards is just one expected benefit.

The benefits of hydrogen‑powered fuel cell electric vehicles themselves are myriad.

Using hydrogen gas to generate electricity, only water vapour is emitted from the tailpipe. They are also potentially two times more efficient than conventionally‑fuelled vehicles and are very quiet when on the move.

Refuelling times are shorter, too, and the technology is seen as easily upgradable to larger-scale commercial vehicles. Buses and trucks spend a great deal of time transporting passengers or cargo and therefore our local environment air quality should improve as more hydrogen‑powered vehicles come on-stream.

The s benefit fuel ogen of hydr ric vehicles ct cell ele iad: increased are myrficiency, short fuel ef ng times and refuelli er vapour wat ns emissio

HyFive project It follows the €38m European Hydrogen for Innovative Vehicles (HyFive) project which aims to introduce 110 fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) onto the roads of Europe in several key locations. In the UK, the Mayor of London’s Office is the key player, while fuelling companies such as Air Products, the Copenhagen Hydrogen Network, ITM Power, Linde and OMV have also given their backing to the initiative. Even

Hydrogen fuel hub In the UK, London is unsurprisingly a hydrogen fuel hub with a handful of stations now operational, with buses, cars and commercial vehicles all using the network.

Sites in Swindon and Aberdeen are in use for local councils, too, with Aberdeen City Council set to take delivery of two Symbio FCell Renault Kangoo ZE-H2 hydrogen fuel cell range extender vans. In Fyfe, FCEVs refuel with locally-produced hydrogen.

The UK’s £6.6m investment follows on from the UKH2Mobility project which started in 2012 and brought together businesses and government to implement a ‘roadmap’ for the widespread introduction of fuel cell electric vehicles and an initial hydrogen infrastructure network of 65 refuelling stations needed to support them.

Mainland Europe has made strident efforts to introduce hydrogen-fuelled vehicles. Refuelling stations are open in Finland (including one in the Arctic Circle), while Denmark aims to have a countrywide infrastructure by the end of the year. Belgium runs a small fleet of hydrogen buses in Antwerp, and the HIT2Corridors project has announced the inaugurations of hydrogen refuelling stations in Stockholm, Helsinki and Gothenburg.

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Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km).

Vauxhall range: Urban 25.9 (10.9)-83.1 (3.4), Extra-urban 45.6 (6.2)-94.2 (3.0), Combined 35.8 (7.9)-91.2 (3.1). CO2 emissions 186-82g/km. Claim is based upon comparison against the top four best-selling cars within the true fleet segment for each model (June YTD).

Largest hydrogen fleet In France, Air Liquide has installed a new refuelling station in Isère to allow the first users of the HyWay project to recharge their hydrogen vehicles. Tenerrdis, a new energy technologies cluster co-ordinates HyWay, the first French project to coordinate fleets of hydrogen-powered vehicles. In June, 21 Renault Kangoo ZE-H2 vans were delivered to Grenoble, the largest hydrogen-powered range extender EV fleet in Europe. A second refuelling station is expected to open in the city.

Also in France, The Energy Transition Law for the Green Growth has been adopted by the Constitutional Council. This sets out the main objectives of the new French energy model, including hydrogen. A €4m grant for the EAsHyMob project within the context of the Connecting Europe Facility Trans European Network for Transport (TEN T), the European Commission and the Member States has been given, to be implemented by Symbio FCell and supported by the Association Hydro Energy Data 2020. The Lower Normandy Region is expected to receive installation of 15 hydrogen refuelling stations.

Germany meanwhile has committed to a 400-strong hydrogen refuelling station

network by 2023, 100 of which will be in place by 2018. The H2 Mobility Germany project aims to have a hydrogen refuelling station every 90 kilometres on motorways around ‘metropolitan’ areas by 2023, as will as 10 stations in each of these populated regions.

More affordable Hydrogen technology is costly, but with more widespread coverage through an increasing number of available vehicles, that cost is expected to fall. This in turn will make the FCEVs themselves more affordable. It is hoped that the FCEV market will echo the rising trend displayed in the EV sector, which has seen registrations markedly rise in 2015. The roll-out of widespread networks will occur in phases and initially consist of cluster sites.

While this roll-out won’t happen overnight, with more refuelling stations established and an increased number of hydrogen‑powered vehicles on our roads, visibility of FCEVs large and small should increase. Spurring on yet more investment from both the private sector and governments, it is quite possible that the dawn of the hydrogen age may well be upon us. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.ukhfca.co.uk www.ulemco.com www.ukh2mobility.co.uk www.h2euro.org

Hydrogen: a long‑haul fuel Hydrogen has been used safely for decades in a wide range of industries, including chemical, food, glass and metal applications.

Fourteen times lighter than air, hydrogen (H2) is the lightest of all the chemical elements. It can be found in unlimited quantities and is one of only two atoms which compose of water.

Unlike fossil fuel, hydrogen will never run out. An energy carrier, when used in a fuel cell, it generates electricity via a chemical reaction with the electricity used to power a fuel cell electric vehicle’s (FCEV) motor.

Over 50 million tonnes of hydrogen are produced per year through a well-established and supported industry. Largely produced via natural gas reforming, hydrogen is safe to create, store and transport.

While it can the result of fossil fuels, hydrogen can also be generated through zero carbon footprint renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. A wide of fuels such as biomass, coal, natural gas and waste also offers hydrogen production options, through pre‑combustion CO2 capture technology.

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Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. * = Whole Life Cost saving calculated using independently supplied data

by CAP over 3 years/60,000 miles (July 2015). Fuel costs based upon combined fuel consumption and diesel charged at £1.16 per litre. Maximum Whole Life Cost savings shown are comparing the following vehicles: New Corsa Design 5dr 1.3CDTi 95PS 89g/km vs. Ford Fiesta Style 5dr Hatchback 1.5TDCi ECOnetic 95PS 82g/km. New Astra Design Hatchback 1.6CDTi 110PS 82g vs. VW Golf S 5dr Hatchback 1.6TDI 110PS 99g/km. Insignia Design 1.6CDTi 136PS 99g/km vs. Mazda 6 SE 2.2d 150PS 107g/km. † = 2015-16 tax year. Benefit-in-kind tax is calculated assuming a 40% tax rate. Maximum Benefit-in-Kind tax savings shown are comparing the following vehicles: New Corsa Design 5dr 1.3CDTi 95PS 89g/km vs. Ford Fiesta Style 5dr Hatchback 1.5TDCi ECOnetic 95PS 82g/km. New Astra Design Hatchback 1.6CDTi 110PS 82g vs. VW Golf S 5dr Hatchback 1.6TDI 110PS 99g/km. Insignia Design 1.6CDTi 136PS 99g/km vs. VW Passat S 1.6 TDI 120PS 106g/km. General Motors UK Limited, trading as Vauxhall Motors, does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their particular tax position. ** = Terms and conditions apply and vehicles are subject to availability. Please call 0870 240 4848 for full details. All figures quoted correct at time of going to press (August 2015). The vehicles illustrated may not necessarily represent the correct final UK specification and not all the features or options described are available on every model.

Alternative Fuels

The Symbio FCell Renault Kangoo ZE-H2 van offers fuel cell range extender technology

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Road Safety

The long road to driver safety The latest statistics from the Department for Transport (DfT) shows that in 2014 there were more than 200,000 casualties on Britain’s roads – with 1,775 people dying as a result. It is estimated that a third of all crashes involve someone who is driving for work, which should be a major cause for concern for any business that operates a fleet, no matter the size.

But what can companies do to help tackle the accidents that plague the UK’s roads?

Road crashes happen every day in every country all over the world, and we often insist on blaming external factors. However, the reality is that it is often us at fault. In fact, it is estimated that 95 per cent of crashes are actually due to human error, with the other five per cent often split between mechanical failure (which doesn’t include a worn tyre or faulty brakes, as that still counts as human error) and something that could not have been prevented or predicted, such as a tree falling across the road.

Equipping drivers This means that 95 per cent of crashes involving fleet vehicles can be addressed by ensuring that drivers are adequately equipped for the road – but how should this be achieved? To answer this question there are four areas that are important to look at, before considering which factor is most likely to lead to a crash.

The first area to consider is the skill the driver has in controlling the vehicle – in other words moving it left and right, forward and backward. Most drivers have reasonable skill in making the vehicle go where they want it to, when they want it to, and generally do so without colliding with anything else, but this is generally only the case when they have enough time and they are concentrating on the task.

Whether or not a driver has had professional driver training or was taught by family or friends, once the psychomotor skills associated with driving are mastered, such as pressing the brake, finding the biting point and using the steering wheel, driving a vehicle becomes relatively easy.

Loss of control will always feature in a crash but it is rarely the root cause.

The second area to consider is how drivers

In 2014more ere there w200,000 n’s than n Britai 5 o s e i t l casua – with 1,77 roads le dying as peop esult ar

interpret and adhere to rules, such as the Road Traffic Act and the Highway Code.

Irrespective of how well read they are, most drivers are aware of and understand the majority of the rules and procedures but they don’t always follow them.

After all, when learning to drive many of us are taught how to follow the rules to pass the test, the question is, what weren’t we taught during lessons? Were you taught about being considerate to others and how to avoid feeling road rage, and did your instructor teach you all about time management or dealing with and managing fatigue? By learning to effectively manage factors like these, we can become safer, better road users.

Fighting against complacency At the end of 2012, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Association (DVLA) reported 34.5million vehicles licensed for use on the

Written by Colin Knight, Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents

By adapting simple behaviours behind the wheel, drivers can help to prevent crashes from happening. Colin Knight of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents explores the role that human error plays in road safety

roads of Great Britain, of which 28.7 million (83 per cent) were cars. This leads us on to the third area to consider – the reason for and context of the journey. When you are stuck in traffic or waiting for that green light, do you ever wonder why the driver in the next car is on that piece of road at that moment in time and what pressures they may be affected by?

It could be a familiar journey for them and they may have become complacent, losing focus on the driving task. It could be an unfamiliar journey in an unknown town and they may even feel anxious, trying hard to fit in with and assess the traffic flow, gathering and processing high volumes of information and making quick decisions. The driver may also feel under pressure to drive in a particular way, such as the obligation they may feel to arrive on time, perhaps to catch a plane or maybe a job interview or even the peer pressure of a passenger in a similar situation.

Whatever situation we find ourselves in on the road, we use a lot more than the basic car control skills we developed when we were learning to drive. After all, stopping a car should be easy; we’ve been able to stop the car since day one of our driving lessons.

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

25

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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.

 So why do so many of us nip through on amber and why do so many drivers end up using the rear bumper of the vehicle in front to stop? Is it due to their poor car control skills or something far more dangerous?

This leads us on to the fourth and final and probably most important area to consider: attitude, beliefs and the way we choose to live our lives. Everyone has a set of values and motivations that guide us through life.

These same things also influence and drive certain behaviours when we’re behind the wheel. If you’re a methodical, laid back and relaxed person, you’re likely to drive differently to an impulsive, bungee-jumping adrenaline junky. We all have personality traits that are conducive to safe driving and those which perhaps are not. It is up to us to be honest, recognise which is which and crucially, do something about it.

Our personality and the way we choose to live our life will inform the context of

the journey, and influence whether we choose to follow the rules and procedures for maintaining the best vehicle control within our capability. The true root cause of almost all crashes is the behavioural choices we as drivers make every time we drive.

A seven-point turn So to go back to the earlier question, with all of this in mind, what can fleet managers do to mitigate the risk, and ensure their drivers are as safe as possible on the roads while driving for their organisation? RoSPA has a seven-point plan to help you to achieve this.

Firstly, it sounds simple, but get to know your drivers. By doing this, you can actively engage them in creating your organisation’s managing occupational road risk policies, procedures, systems and training initiatives.

Conduct regular ‘toolbox’ talks to discuss driving matters, health and wellbeing – make sure you get things out in the open. You can only

do this if you have got to know your staff to the point where they feel comfortable enough to discuss such matters, but it is important to understand what factors in their life may increase risk in their on-the-road activities.

Next, ensure your organisation has a clear and defined collision/incident investigation and escalation process. Ensure safety checks are performed on all vehicles that are used for work activities. These checks should be recorded and maintained for future reference, and should include a robust defect reporting system within your vehicle maintenance and safety check regime.

Fifth, provide driver training and/or risk assessments for those that you have been identified as being at risk. Include the person, the vehicle and the journey within procedures.

Keep up-to-date records that demonstrate both compliance with internal policies, and a desire to continually improve safety standards Plan road safety management reviews at least every six months to ensure continuing suitability, adequacy and effectiveness of your procedures. Have your systems audited by a third party to obtain an unbiased view.

And finally, train all management staff to develop knowledge and skills in respect of managing occupational road risk. Managers should be able to consider the impact of certain events which may increase road traffic crashes. Remember, evaluation is crucial. L

Road Safety

Everyone has a set of values and motivations that guide us through life.

These same things also influence and drive certain behaviours when we’re behind the wheel. We all have personality traits that are conducive to safe driving and those which perhaps are not

FURTHER INFORMATION www.rospa.com

We’ve done a lot of thinking too Chances are, keeping running costs low and drivers happy are what occupy you most. Same goes for us.

It’s why we redesigned the Civic’s rear wing. So now it not only looks sportier, but saves up to 5mpg.

Great minds really do think alike.

Discover more clever thinking at www.honda.co.uk/civicfleet

Fuel consumption figures for the Civic range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 37.2 – 70.6 (7.6 – 4.0), Extra Urban 54.3 – 85.6 (5.2 – 3.3), Combined 46.3 – 78.5 (6.1 – 3.6). CO 2 emissions: 145 – 94 g/km. Fuel consumption figures sourced from official EU-regulated laboratory test results, are provided for comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving experience.

Model Shown: Civic 1.6 i-DTEC SR Manual in Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic.

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

27

GO WITH YOUR GUT. THE NEW MINI CLUBMAN – ARRIVES OCTOBER. With a striking exterior, unique interior features, satellite navigation and Bluetooth® as standard, the new MINI Clubman is set to cause a stir in a new market segment for MINI. A range of advanced TwinPower Turbo petrol and diesel engines offer competitive fuel economy of up to 68.9mpg (combined), CO2 emissions from 109g/km, and a BIK rate starting at just 19%.

Go with your gut and find out more. Visit www.newminiclubman.co.uk

Official Fuel Economy Figures for the new MINI Clubman Range: Urban 35.3-60.1 mpg (8-4.7 l/100km). Extra Urban 52.3-76.3 mpg (5.4-3.7 l/100km). Combined 44.8-68.9 mpg (6.3-4.1 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 147-109 g/km.

Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

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Why EVs make sense for fleets

Lower whole life costs and other savings make a solid business case for electric cars and vans Small businesses are leading the charge as registrations for plug-in cars and vans surged in the first six months of 2015.

Demand is likely to accelerate, as manufacturers add more zero-emission 100 per cent electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles – from city runarounds and family hatchbacks to 4x4s and sports cars – and more businesses switch on to the money-saving benefits of these low-CO2 vehicles.

Currently, 36 vehicles are available; with 27 cars that qualify for the government’s plug-in car grant of up to £5,000, and nine vans that qualify for the plug-in van grant of up to £8,000.

ULEVs Ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) are defined as emitting 75g/km CO2 or less and have a plug-in element. Plug-in petrol hybrids account for the majority of registrations, with the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV the best-seller. Pure electric sales account for the bulk of the remainder of ULEV sales, with the Nissan Leaf and BMW i3 leading the way.

ULEVs are available from the seven manufacturers – Audi, BMW, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Renault, Toyota and Volkswagen – that joined the government’s Go Ultra Low campaign to help motorists understand the benefits and capabilities of electric vehicles

– especially the cost savings they can offer.

Those savings are clearest when companies choose vehicles based on whole life costs.

These reflect all the projected costs associated with operating a model over its fleet life irrespective of whether it is owned or leased, including: acquisition/depreciation or, if leasing, the effective lease rental; capital allowances; any VAT recovery; corporation tax relief; the cost of borrowing money; fuel; employer Class 2 1A national insurance contributions; service, maintenance and repair (SMR); VED and insurance.

Savings For EVs, the savings include: Fuel – about 8p a mile less than petrol and diesel models; SMR – an estimated 20-30 per cent saving; and VED and Class 1A National Insurance benefits as well as 100 per cent capital allowances.

Experts advise businesses to adopt a policy based on whole life costs, and Chris Chandler, principal consultant at Lex Autolease, said: “Plug-in vehicle list prices are higher than for those powered by internal combustion engines, but when considering whole life costs, there is a real benefit to the electric option.”

ULEVs deliver major fuel savings and the absence of official tax-free Advisory

tly, Curren O C 36 low s are vehicle with 27 le; availab t qualify for cars tha vernment’s the Go g-in car plu grant

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Fuel Rates (AFRs) for company cars should not stop businesses operating 100 per cent electric vehicles, say experts.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) publishes AFRs quarterly, but does not recognise electricity as a fuel, hence the lack of a figure for 100 per cent electric cars, which is sometimes cited as a barrier to EV selection.

However, employers can calculate their own reimbursement mileage rate using manufacturers’ data for miles per kWh and Energy Saving Trust electricity cost data.

Jon Burdekin, head of consultancy services at business mobility specialist Alphabet, said: “We’ve helped customers calculate the charging cost for their vehicles, which is typically 2.5p-3.5p per mile. They’ve gone to HMRC with the figures behind the proposal and been given the go-ahead.”

Similar calculations can be reflected in mileage rates – Approved Mileage Allowance Payments (AMAPs) – paid to employees who receive a cash allowance in lieu of a car and elect to drive a 100 per cent electric vehicle.

The three types of ULEV technology There are three types of technology powering ULEVs: Pure electric: powered by a battery charged from mains electricity with a range of about 100 miles. Models include the BMW i3, Nissan Leaf and e-NV200, Renault Zoe and Kangoo Van ZE, Volkswagen e-Golf and e-Up.  Plug-in hybrid: uses a battery for trips of 10-35 miles with a petrol or diesel engine for longer journeys. Models include the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, BMW i8, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Toyota Prius Plug-in and Volkswagen Golf GTE.  Range extender: battery-powered, but an internal combustion generator charges the battery when it gets below three per cent, boosting range from 100 miles to about 180 miles. The BMW i3 Range Extender is the only model currently available.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.GoUltraLow.com

Freight & Cargo

A fright for freight as Calais crisis continues

Image © Eurotunnel

Following a summer of heightened unrest on European borders, the issue at the Calais port has been somewhat deplorable. But how exactly has the migrant crisis affected freight transport and how has the government moved to solve the problem? GreenFleet investigates the situation

The ment govern ed to e has agr l funding na additio £7 million of up tos increasing toward rity at the secu l Tunnel Channequelles at Co

On 20 August, the Home Secretary Theresa May and French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve signed a joint declaration reinforcing UK and French co-operation in tackling the ongoing illegal migration in northern France and across Europe.

Border Force put its well-rehearsed and practised contingency plans into operation to ensure security is maintained during this period of disruption to cross-Channel services and as they return to normal. The government has deployed additional Border Force staff and sniffer dogs in northern France as well as bolstering screening checks at Dover for both freight and tourist vehicles. This is on top of already rigorous border controls, which include 100 per cent freight screening at Coquelles and Calais.

Short-term security The government has agreed to additional funding of up to £7 million towards increasing security at the Channel Tunnel railhead at Coquelles, and is providing funding to bolster the security and infrastructure of ports in northern France and Belgium. This includes a

£2 million upgrade of detection technology, a £1 million extension of dog searching capacity and an additional £12 million to reinforce security at the juxtaposed border.

Additionally, new fencing has been installed in Calais to enhance security at the port and help protect traffic on the road leading to it. A new secure area for freight at Calais port showcases an effort on both government’s part to commit to tackling the roots of this problem by increasing joint intelligence work with the French to target the organised crime gangs behind people smuggling.

With regards to freight activity this summer, the government granted an exceptional temporary relaxation of the enforcement of EU drivers’ hours rules for drivers delayed due to Operation Stack in Kent, and secured temporary use of Manston Airfield to provide short term additional capacity to help manage freight traffic on its way to the Port of Dover. This is in addition to putting in place new arrangements to prioritise freight vehicles carrying ‘quick to market goods’ across the Channel.

Home Affairs Committee Following a Home Affairs Committee at the House of Commons on 14 July, Theresa May announced a new secure lorry parking zone at the port. The new area allows 230 trucks to wait in a protected area away from the hordes of migrants.

James Hookham, the Freight Transport Association’s (FTA) deputy chief, said during the Committee meeting that: “Calais is a vital trade gateway, with £89 billion passing through the port every year. We cannot allow the migrants to put this in jeopardy – already millions of pounds have been lost in delays, damage to vehicles and spoiled cargoes.”

However much of the progress of the last few months, including that of the secure lorry parking zone, could yet be undermined by direct action from strikers in Calais.

Any further strike action would ultimately create the ideal conditions for migrants to attempt entry into trucks and stow away to Britain. Hookham warned May and Home Office minister James Brokenshire that ‘Calais must become a strike-free zone, to fully protect drivers and their vehicles’.

The FTA warning was legitimised by the four days of strikes in June and July by MyFerryLink workers, which contributed to E Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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A rise in costs It was reported last month that British haulage firms have been hit with fines totalling £4 million after migrants were found in the vehicles. The BBC claimed that drivers and their employers have been fined up to £2,000 per migrant if they are searched by officials at channel ports.

This summer has witnessed a 50 per cent increase on fines compared to 2014. Consequently, several haulage companies have terminated conducting business through the Calais altogether as a result of the soaring costs.

David Williams, managing director at Rhenus UK, one of Britain’s leading freight forwarders, said: “Having coped with Operation Stack for several weeks now, we’re seeing drivers resigning from this route, due to the stress of queuing for hours and the hassle of getting through the port. In addition, the risk of stowaways and the potential for fines and involvement with the authorities is a huge disincentive for both drivers and hauliers to continue with the Calais option.

“The decision by drivers to step away from this route has already seen a number of freight businesses introducing surcharges of between one – two per cent. The rise in costs – due to increased fuel bills, man hours and required rest breaks – is now becoming a very serious issue for the logistics industry.”

Williams also warned that other export route options, particularly on the North Sea and western channel, simply do not have enough capacity to cope with demand created by the problems at Calais.

He said: “While there has been a fair amount of exaggeration from businesses wanting to make a political point about the Calais

The government has deployed additional Border Force staff and sniffer dogs in northern France as well as bolstering screening checks at Dover

situation, things are now getting serious. The Calais crossing is operational, but the exodus of drivers will inevitably force prices up.”

Cargo theft In its Global Supply Chain Intelligence Report, BSI Supply Chain Solutions put the cost of global cargo theft in 2014 at $23 billion having measured 20 risk factors in 203 countries.

In Europe, the lack of secured parking locations means trucks are regularly targeted when drivers take rest breaks on industrial estates and at service stations, There has been an increased usage of ‘jamming’ devices that interrupt GPS systems and impair the ability for security monitoring centres to locate vehicles, as well as an increase in cases of ‘Theft from a Moving Vehicle’ where some gangs have perfected the ability to steal large quantities of products from trucks that can be travelling at 70-80kms an hour.

There is evidence of fake ‘police’ stops and, in the last year or so, there has also been a growing number of thefts of vehicles and loads from companies that have contracted with what turn out to be fake or fraudulent companies using online freight exchange portals.

It appear that both French and UK government’s are keen to minimise the risk and threat to cargo drivers passing through Calais. However, unless the migrant problem is resolved on the continent, the current crisis facing cargo and freight drivers may be in for more that just a summer road trip of disruption. L

Freight & Cargo

 the need for Operation Stack. Disruption of services and lengthy queues for trucks create an ideal opportunity for would-be stowaways in the Calais area.

Hookham commented: “The dispute by former MyFerryLink workers has not been fully resolved, and there is a risk that the issue could resurface in the coming weeks.

The overall cost of such action is crippling to the truck operators and cargo owners and cannot be allowed to happen again.”

In a separate statement to the Home Affairs Committee, Richard Burnett of the Road Haulage Association (RHA), said the secure zone alone was insufficient. He recently warned that people might die if the situation was left unchecked at the French port town.

Burnett said: “This is not fast enough.

We’ve got drivers being threatened with bars and knives. We’ve had an example of a driver being threatened with a gun. We’ve got a problem right now. This is unprecedented and it’s escalating.”

FURTHER INFORMATION www.fta.co.uk

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Formula E

Through city centre race tracks and single seater electric racing c way to get motorsport fans and the public to connect with th reports on the upcoming season and how EV technologies correl Britain’s first FIA Formula E electric car race was held in London’s Battersea Park on 27-28 June 2015. The 11-round FIA‑accredited championship visited such diverse cities as Berlin, Miami, Monaco and Moscow in its debut season and the double-header around the 200-acre park in the UK capital brought the curtain down on an exciting new era in motor racing.

Fully-electric racing cars The 2014/2015 FIA Formula E Championship started on 14 September 2014 when the fully‑electric single-seater racing cars rolled off the starting line in Beijing. Designed to compete on city centre circuits all over the world, the racing cars resemble those in Formula 1, yet are near silent but still capable of speeds in excess of 150mph. Ten teams made up the 2014/2015 grid, with globally recognisable names from the motorsport world, including Alain Prost and Michael Andretti. Supporters of the ground-breaking series included Sir Richard Branson and film star Leonardo DiCaprio.

High-profile ex-Formula 1 drivers were drawn to the series, too: Jaime Alguersuari, Sebastian Buemi, Lucas di Grassi, Bruno Senna and Jarno Trulli all sat behind the wheel of high-tech, 200kW/270bhp Formula E racers last season.

With environmental priorities constantly shifting, FIA President Jean Todt said at the launch of Formula E that as the flagship organiser of motorsport, the FIA had ‘a responsibility to keep up with the changes’

taking place in a potentially greener world.

He reported that the FIA’s vision for new technology and the fact that electric cars may one day become commonplace in our urban environments, made globally cities ideal for showcasing the idea of an electric racing series. Todt declared that the first season would be examined carefully to see what did and didn’t work, fully expecting it to gain popularity. He reported that an increased framework would support and encourage the evolution of the series over a number of years, in addition to opening up the competition between battery and motor suppliers.

The 2015/2016 season is an embodiment of that declaration. Although the number of rounds stays at 11 – with London hosting a pair of races as in 2015 – a new ePrix in Paris is scheduled for 23 April 2016. With a route built up around the architectural complex of Les Invalides, the inclusion of such a high-profile city adds further prestige to the burgeoning electric championship. Once again, Beijing is the first host of the Formula E circus.

The 2015/2016 official entry list features countries as far flung as the championship itself, with teams from China, France, Germany, India, Japan, the UK, and the US.

As a E Formul bal is a glo ship, ion champ ntially it pote ses EV showcalogy to techno ions mill

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‘Providing a catalyst’ Among the 2015/2016 runners and riders is the DS Virgin Racing Formula E Team, a collaborative entry from PSA Peugeot Citroën’s DS brand and Sir Richard Branson. Branson,

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founder of the Virgin Group recognised that the technology which is showcased in Formula E should filter down into the electric cars and vehicles we all want to drive. He said: ‘I’m thrilled that Virgin Racing is playing a leading role in another of Formula E’s visions, that of attracting the large automotive OEMs into the sport in order that the technology that is developed flows down into the cars that we can all drive. I have no doubt the partnership will prove a great success, not only on track but also in providing a catalyst to develop the electric vehicles of the future.’

Open championship In a marked contrast to the 2014/2015 season, the 2015/2016 series is an open championship, with eight manufacturers providing powertrains to the ten competing teams. The new homologation rules are only applicable to powertrain components such as the e-motor, the inverter, the gearbox, and the cooling system; all of the cars’ body work will remain the same and will be shared throughout the teams. The FIA states that this aims to prevent costly aerodynamic developments. Further regulation changes will allow for battery development.

The first season of the FIA Formula E championship saw identical carbonfibre/ aluminium-constructed cars being used, designed and built by Spark Racing Technology with expertise from McLaren, Williams, Dallara, Renault and Michelin.

With a Formula E car’s 0-62mph time of 3.0 seconds, most drivers can be classed as fast.

More accessible More accessible than most forms of motorsport from a public supporter’s view, the

Driving the future

cars, Formula E has been hailed as the he idea of electric vehicles. GreenFleet late between race track and the road Formula E championship’s six testing sessions at Donington Park in August were free to enter.

Fans can also directly affect the performance of their favourite drivers’ car. By ‘FanBoost’ voting for them prior to a race at http://fanboost. fiaformulae.com, a five-second ‘power boost’ will be applied to the top three drivers’ who have attracted the most votes. This increases their car’s performance from 150kW to 180kW. Supporters can vote for their favourite drivers as many times as they wish until the voting deadline before the start of each race.

Electric vehicle technology So just how will electric vehicle motor racing affect the mainstream car market? As the Formula E series is a global championship and therefore enjoys a global audience, it showcases electric and green vehicle technology to potentially millions (or billions when online social interactions are taken into account) of viewers and motorsport fans both on-site and via interactive media streams.

From an accessibility angle, motorsport fans are given the chance to connect with the drivers as well as affecting the performance of their cars via the fan boost voting system.

This innovative element of interactivity allows spectators of the sport to indirectly connect with the technology, too. Whether an electric vehicle fan or not, they can see how the technology works and how it affects a car’s performance.

While racing cars are obviously faster and lighter than road cars, there are correlations between the two. Just like a road electric car, an electric racing car has to be re-charged. Forbidden during qualifying and the races themselves, charging of the Formula E racers takes place during the non-qualifying practice periods.

Greater EV powertrain development The open championship rules will also allow for greater electric vehicle powertrain development between the competing teams.

It is hoped that this should filter down and speed up development for EV technology in the wider passenger car market. A long‑held practice, motorsport has been the catalyst for so many developments we now see in road cars and there’s no reason why this should change for Formula E. Battery performance is just one example. The series has proved that lithium-ion batteries can be developed which are capable of powering a 140mph racing car, even if a car swap was inevitable due to the batteries being unable to power a car for the whole duration of a race. It is expected that teams will be able to choose which battery they use for the 2016/2017 season, which should potentially help with that component’s development.

Efficiency and energy management will also play a part in a car’s performance. Several gearbox options are being utilised in the 2015/2016 Formula E championship, from single to five speeds as used on last season’s car and used again for this year by Team Aguri.

Positive effect Carlos Ghosn, the head of the Renault-Nissan Alliance believes in the series and has stated that racing on high-profile city centre circuits has helped the image of electric cars. In 2011 the Renault-Nissan Alliance targeted sale of 1.5 million electric cars by 2016.

However, there’s still some way to go, with sales up until July 2015 just passing a figure of 250,000. It’s not just a Renault-Nissan Alliance issue, though – with EVs making up a very small fraction of the 85 million cars sold globally watch year, cost and range anxiety are still the major pinch points stopping many from taking the plunge.

The Formula E series has staged ‘Formula E Motor Shows’ alongside selected ePrix during its first season, giving the public and fans alike the chance to see first-hand how the advances in technology, safety and speed on the racetrack can influence and drive forward the development of passenger electric and hybrid vehicles.

Manufacturers are working to bring the cost down. With technology moving as fast as it does, it may not be in the too distant future until we see longer ranges, that may therefore encourage take-up which in turn will bring the overall initial costs down. With a rise in UK EV sales reported during the first quarter of 2015 compared to 2014, the tide appears to be turning.

While there may still be some way to go, any high-profile motorsport series which puts electrically-powered cars in front of the average ‘petrolhead’ – and that’s why the city centre racing venues are critical – can only have a positive effect on both the average drivers’ perceptions of EVs and the market as a whole in the longer-term. L

In front of a 60,000-strong crowd at the 200-acre Battersea Park in London, e.dams-Renault were crowned 2015 Formula E team champions, with Nextev TCR’s Nelson Piquet Jnr taking the Drivers’ Championship.

Formula E

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2015 Formula E London ePrix

The e.dams‑Renault team is headed by former F1 ace Alain Prost and Jean-Paul Driot and drivers Sébastien Buemi and Nicolas Prost finished the London double‑header event in second and sixth places respectively. It was the first time in the Formula E series that two races had been staged during the same weekend.

The 3km track, like all the tracks in the championship, didn’t exist 24 hours before the event and disappeared as fast as it was put up.

Unlike selected other high-profile motorsport series, the first season of Formula E has seen many drivers win race events with six different victors in the first six races alone.

Piquet went into the second London race as championship leader, closely followed by Sébastien Buemi and Lucas di Grassi.

Stéphane Sarrazin of Venturi was in pole position after the final London qualifying session and crossed the finish line first. However, he was given a time penalty due to exceeding his energy allowance, therefore handing the win to Virgin Racing’s Sam Bird. Buena meanwhile was tipped to win the Drivers’ Championship when the drivers swapped cars in the mandatory pit stop, but spun on the last lap. Bruno Senna took the lead and the race win. Piquet finished seventh and secured the drivers’ title by just one point ahead of Buemi.

2015 FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP: TEAM STANDINGS 1 e.dams-Renault, 232 points 2 Dragon Racing, 171 3 Audi Sport Abt, 165 4 Nextev TCR, 152 5 Virgin Racing, 133 2015 FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP: DRIVERS’ STANDINGS 1 Nelson Piquet, 144 points 2 Sébastien Buemi, 143 3 Lucas di Grassi, 133 4 Jérôme d’Ambrosio, 113 5 Sam Bird, 103

FURTHER INFORMATION www.fiaformulae.com

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Your driver has just been involved in a four-car sandwich 10 seconds later, you know more about it than he does.

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Insurance Telematics

Where next for insurance telematics?

GreenFleet examines the current state of insurance telematics, the scope for future development and the potential benefits for drivers Usage-based insurance (UBI) is gradually changing the shape of automotive insurance.

While currently occupying a relatively small space within the market, UBI has the capability to become a significant disruptor in vehicle insurance, with added value services and smartphone connectivity beginning to make these policies more attractive and easier to access for a lot of UK drivers.

At a basic level, UBI works through a telematics device within a car that is capable of recording the drivers’ habits, such as breaking, speed and cornering, which then allows insurers to evaluate the insurance cost on a individual basis.

It is easy to see how this could benefit insurance companies, who can increase the price for those deemed unsafe drivers, but there have been a lot of questions regarding whether this technology will pose any substantial benefits for drivers themselves.

User-based insurance Traditionally, a UBI device is installed within a car and connected to the on-board diagnostics port. The immediate benefit for drivers is that they can be rewarded for their good driving with a lower insurance rate.

However, the systems offer a number of benefits above and beyond this. Possibly the most prevalent advantage is a shift in claims handling, which has benefits for both insurers and drivers. Telematics lead to a reduction in fraud, optimise costs and allow for more accurate pricing of claims. This is all extremely beneficial for insurers, but doesn’t have too much direct upside for drivers.

There n has beese in a an incre s‑based ic telematpps, which a mobile ake accessing for drivers, who have to could mmuch easier book and allocate a time UBI s er for someone to come and for driv install the box in their vehicle.

However, UBI also leads to a large reduction in the time it takes to settle claims. Telematics systems have the capability to provide automatic crash notification and so allow insurers to proactively initiate the claims management process. This allows a claim to be logged almost immediately, and the insurers response to be much more tailored to a customers needs. This means an insurer can notify the customer of where to fix their car or get a replacement vehicle in a very short turn around after an accident, which will reduce wasted time and could potentially save money for business fleets.

This immediate data exchange also speeds up the claims process, meaning claims will be processed more efficiently and drivers will not have to waste as much time waiting to find out if their claims has been approved or waiting for compensation.

Mobile apps There has been an increase in telematics‑based mobile apps, which could make accessing UBI much easier for drivers. These apps work by using a smartphone’s motion sensors to record acceleration, deceleration and distance covered to provide a user profile in a similar way to the ODB‑connected systems.

The benefit of these systems is that they may be able to increase uptake among drivers, as it eliminates a major drawback of UBI, in that installing ODM‑connected boxes can be costly for the insurers and also time consuming

For a fleet manager in charge of a number of vehicles, this has the potential to become a big time burden.

These apps also have the capability to become increasingly personalised, with features notifying drivers of their behaviour over a trip and offering tips for improving their driving.

However, there is some opposition regarding the use of smartphones for telematics purposes. Firstly, as they are not connected to the car, there is no guarantee that the apps will be able to record all trips. A smartphone may be unable to record a trip if the driver forgets the phone or it runs out of battery. This raises a lot of concerns regarding reliability and the accuracy of recorded data, which is extremely important for developing a driver profile a personalised insurance rate. It also leaves scope for drivers to manipulate the data by turning off the device when it suits them to do so, which is a concern for insurers.

Building on this, filtering appears to be a big hurdle in the wider roll out of telematics mobile apps, as the a phone needs to know if the user is driving a car, riding a car, or possibly using public transport.

Additionally, mobile apps can also be a drain in the phone’s battery, which makes it a less practical option and can compound the problem of unreliable data if a phone runs out part way through a journey. E Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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ABS Telematics© utilises both GPS and telecommunications to give you an overview of detailed fleet information, including location, driver behaviour, asset state and speed exceptions and many more features.

This takes place in real time, delivering an instant snapshot of the exact position of your fleet and keeps you connected with them at any time.

Our fully integrated solution means the hardware in your vehicles are communicating constantly with our software and keeping track of your fleet data. It is fully hosted and delivered via the Cloud; this facilitates exceptional availability, speed and data security with minimal burden on your existing IT infrastructure. Our software supports multiple browser options as well as iPhone/Android and iPad/Tablet access.

ABS Telematics© integrated with ABS Driver Check© and ABS Fine Manager© offer a full fleet analysis, using real time data to create reports.

By linking these systems up we will be able to notify you of high risk drivers. We use data collected from the telematics unit to report high risk drivers that fall into a certain category, (speeding, harsh breaking etc.) as these drivers could be at a higher risk of receiving fines, comparing data collected from the Fines Manager and Driver Checking system you will be able to see actual Fines accrued and potential risk status of the driver.

ABS Driver Check© is a web based system that has a direct link to the DVLA database. This enables ABS to quickly and accurately perform bulk driving licence verification and single real time checks. The system automatically analyses the information received and associates a status to each driver. Licences are automatically rechecked depending on the driver status. Manual checks can be performed, affording closer monitoring of high risk drivers.

ABS Fines Manager© offers instant access to real time data to all stakeholders. Managed through a comprehensive management portal which is accessed securely online, users can be assigned different privileges and access levels dependent on defined business rules. Fine processing and user workflow is managed and configured through the management portal. Business rules can be assigned to fine, correspondence types and drivers allowing maximum flexibility. Notifications can be sent to clients and drivers via standard email, daily reporting email, SMS or letter, dependent on the business rules associated within the system. Where appropriate the notification will prompt the user to login online to view details of the penalty charge.

With our unique approach, we offer business and process analysis, ensuring to help deliver a cost effective solution. Accredited in both UKAS ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems and UKAS ISO 27001:2013 Information Security Management Systems we have tight controls around all security, policies and procedures. We work very closely with all our Clients to ensure we understand their business and their processes. Our approach is based on transparency, honesty, reliability, efficiency and professionalism, therefore we have a ‘Can Do, Will Do’ policy to all matters ensuring we go beyond your expectations.

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contact roadside assistance or emergency services, which becomes especially important in the event a driver is knocked unconscious and unable to make the call themselves.

Additionally, cars fitted with an on-board system can also be more easily tracked through GPS technology. This allows insurers to offer further capability to customers to track and recover stolen vehicles. This kind of service is already on offer from a small number of companies, which can offer web portals for users to track the exact whereabouts of their vehicle, as well as other features such as reviewing recent journeys and even monitoring battery voltage.

It is likely that more insurance providers will start to offer additional features and services with UBI moving into the future, providing added benefits for the user on top of potential cost savings.

It is at likely thrance su more ins will start r provider additional to offe ures and feat ith UBI w s e c i v ser into movingture the fu

Added value Another big factor in increasing the uptake of UBI is the ‘added value’ insurance providers can offer customers.

Indeed, insurance companies may need to stop thinking along the lines of an insurance company, and think more like a service provider.

This added value that telematics has the ability to offer could be the unique selling point that convinces drivers to adopt a telematics‑based insurance policy over a more traditional one, and is likely to be a key factor in UBI policies moving forward.

A vehicle with an on-board system can offer a variety of safety benefits. A telematics system connected to the OBD port can immediately alert an insurance company in the event of an accident or breakdown. This information will then allow an insurance company to

Privacy concerns A possible development of this technology is that insurance companies could sell data from in-vehicle telematics devices to business that want to reach policyholders with coupons or promotional materials.

User specific adverts are not a new concept and are fast becoming commonplace in the increasingly connected modern world.

Companies such as Google and Facebook

Saving y g r Ene

utilise this kind of marketing strategy to tailor online adverts and suggestions based on people’s browsing habits. Data recorded from telematics devices could be used to provide updates on information such as when car owners may need to purchase a new battery, or monitor a driver’s location in relation to specific retail outlets. Tailored adverts could then be sent to a car’s infotainment system or a connected smartphone device, building on this information and even linking to a users smartphone history to provide tailored deals and adverts.

This kind of value added feature could prove profitable for insurance companies, but also could add to the growing concerns over the ‘big brother’ view on telematics. While users could benefit from tailored adverts and deals that save them money, many may not wish for their details to be shared and have privacy concerns over the idea of insurance companies being able to track their every move.

It is likely that UBI will play an increasingly important role in motor insurance, as the benefits for insurance companies make it their prerogative to promote such technology.

However, there are a host of benefits for the driver as well. These benefits are expected to greatly increase in the near future, offering a wide range of services in addition to UBI policies, which will likely outweigh privacy concerns as insurance telematics sees a more widespread roll out. L

Insurance Telematics

 Apps have the capability to make the process much easier and more accessible, and as the technology becomes more advanced it is likely they will play a much bigger part in the roll out of UBI. However, current concerns will need to be addressed before they become a large scale viable option. Some companies are beginning to offer mobile app based UBI policies, but it is important to consider the potential downsides before selecting this kind of insurance.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.greenfleet.net

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Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Motorcycle Fleets Written by Stevie Muir, Motorcycle Industry Association

When four wheels just doesn’t do it

There are growing benefits for businesses having a fleet on two wheels, such as less time on congested roads, cost savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions.

The Motorcycle Industry Association’s Stevie Muir shares her thoughts As a driver, you’re likely to have spent at least some time sitting in traffic recently. And while you were there, you were probably passed by a motorcyclist, filtering slowly to the front of the queue. How did you feel about that?

Filtering is one of motorcycling’s best kept secrets and is probably the reason why riders score so highly in happiness tests – a fact endorsed by a one-off travel survey by the Office for National Statistics. Commuting via motorcycle has no negative impact on wellbeing for journeys up to half an hour, and after that it is negligible. This was in contrast to those travelling by car, bus, cycling and those walking, who all experience reduced contentment after just 15 minutes.

This revelation received little publicity when the survey was released; perhaps in keeping with the perception that motorcycling is in decline. It isn’t. It is worth examining why this mode of transport is gaining popularity and to look at recent developments which make it easier than ever to make powered two wheelers (PTWs) work in a fleet context.

The power of filtering Let’s start with filtering, which is key to the ability of PTWs to cut through traffic.

Filtering gives motorcyclists a huge advantage, saving time, money and reducing the environmental impact of each journey. It

40

is legal in the UK and according to recent US research, it increases rider safety, so long as it’s done just a little faster than stationary or slow moving traffic.

Long established users of motorcycle fleet include the police, ambulance service, AA breakdown services and Blood Runners, who courier lifesaving products between NHS hospitals out of normal working hours. Whilst these examples all need to cut through traffic quickly to assist with emergency situations, the ability to reduce time spent in traffic is becoming increasingly important to all businesses.

Filtering allows s to yclist motorc congested e navigat in the time roads normally you’d to move expect flowing in free ffic tra

Case studies Being able to filter on the M25 and other congested roads in the capital has cut costs by 50 per cent for body shop repair specialists DWS Automotive.

The company’s assessors work between 10 body shops strategically located around the M25 and were looking for shorter journey times and greater mobility than their small cars afforded.

Working a fleet of Honda CB500Fs increased

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productivity nearly twofold. The company no longer pay congestion charges, toll fees or parking. Fuel costs have been halved and the company has eliminated leasing costs, as the OTR price was the same as the car deposit.

Steve Kenward, CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) explains that:“Filtering allows motorcyclists to navigate congested roads in the time you’d normally expect to move in free flowing traffic.”

To prove this point, the MCIA tested how effective motorcycles were in rush hour compared to other modes of transport, by staging a series of ‘city challenges’ during Ride to Work Week in June. Journey times were compared for six of the UK’s most congested cities – Manchester, Birmingham, Brighton and Hove, Bradford, Leeds and Leicester. For each, it measured the times taken by a motorcyclist, car driver, public transport user and, where appropriate, a cyclist – to see which was quickest, without breaking any speed limits.

Kenward went on: “In every case, the motorcyclist reached the destination first,

by another 50 per cent within a generation.

Simon Davies, manager of Honda’s new fleet programme, explained: “Incorporating vehicles which can cope with rising congestion could give you an immediate competitive edge and will help with any long term goals or legislative requirements to reduce your carbon footprint.”

Davies added: “Most small motorcycles, scooters and mopeds already meet the proposed ultra-low emission requirements.

Larger machines pollute less than cars of equivalent engine capacity because they spend less time in traffic for each journey.

Motorcycles often have access to bus lanes and are exempt from the congestion charge and the workplace parking levy.”

Use is increasing Motorcycling is becoming more popular – a little known fact outside the industry.

There are now nearly twice as many motorcycles, scooters and mopeds licensed (or license exempt) for the road than there were twenty years ago.

In 1994 there were 720,900 and now there are 1,326,500 and this trend is likely to continue with congestion as a major driving force. Of all new sales last year, nearly 50 per cent were for smaller capacity machines, likely to be used for commuting. This fits with reports from dealers that they are making an increasing number of sales to families swapping a second car for a small motorcycle, moped or scooter to save time and money.

New sales for 2014 rose more than 10 per cent on the same time last year and attendance at motorcycle shows is up by the same amount. Footfall at shows is traditionally seen as a barometer to predict sales for the coming year. New registrations are continuing to rise, with growth 14 months in a row.

Motorcycle fleet dealers Honda recently became the first manufacturer to introduce the UK’s first specialist motorcycle fleet dealer network.

Six dealerships had to undergo stringent selection and training to make sure they were able to offer corporate clients a full service, from advising on the right vehicles to what protective clothing and training is needed.

Simon Davies, offered some stats surrounding the Honda Vision 110cc, which is proving very popular for fleet customers.

Davies said: “With good second hand values, VED at just £17, 160 miles to the gallon and just 44.6 grams of CO2 per kilometre – you can see why fleet managers are keen to investigate further. Honda fleet dealers can also give a full breakdown on cost, and can provide financial packages similar to the ones available for cars and vans, which allow you to make direct comparisons.”

A local solution There is evidence to suggest more motorcycles, scooters and mopeds will help reduce congestion for all road users. A Belgian study showed that when just 10 per cent of drivers swapped to a PTW, congestion was eliminated for all road users by 40 per cent.

Local authorities are beginning to wake up to this idea. Northamptonshire County Council recently carried out a scoping study to find out why more people in the county don’t use motorcycles and to identify any barriers for those who do. On its website, it states the findings could help ‘integrate motorcycling into the County Council’s sustainable transport strategy, which also covers policies on walking and cycling routes as well as bus travel.’

Two wheels beat four According to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), congestion is set to increase

Wheels 2 Work A number of local authorities are already endorsing the use of PTWs in low cost

usually in half the time taken by the car driver, who always struggled to find parking.”

Motorcycle Fleets

There is evidence to suggest more motorcycles, scooters and mopeds will help reduce congestion. A Belgian study showed that when just 10 per cent of drivers swapped to a PTW, congestion was eliminated for all road users by 40 per cent transport schemes, by making local sustainable transport funding available for Wheels to Work. There are 40 schemes across the UK, up from a total of 23 just two years ago, with several others in development.

Wheels 2 Work offers the loan of a small motorcycle, scooter or moped to people who would otherwise have no access to private or public transport. It allows them to get to work or college, or to carry out a job which involves travelling, for example mobile carers.

Key developments in training Good training is crucial to keeping riders safe. The MCIA recently launched courses for training businesses and their instructors through the newly established Motorcycle Industry Accreditation Centre. These offer DVSA approved training which is quality assured by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). It means corporate clients can now easily identify high quality trainers.

The businesses which are MCIAC approved are visited annually to check high standards are upheld and every single customer is surveyed – again to monitor standards.

These courses have been introduced ahead of any compulsory requirement to do so and before anything similar has been launched for driver training.

More is less Perception of safety is obviously a consideration where motorcycles are concerned and this has been on the national agenda recently, with the release of a joint policy document from the MCIA and the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO). Together they have explored the idea that encouraging motorcycling would result in better safety outcomes for all road users.

Motorcyclists or those who have had experience of riding a PTW typically develop superior hazard awareness, and have a better understanding of the Highway Code. Carole Nash insurance recently launched a product aimed at car drivers who are motorcyclists, which builds on work done by another MCIA insurance member who found that motorcyclists claim less on their car insurance and when they do their accidents are less serious.

The MCIA is adamant that two wheel vehicles are the future for personal and business transport and their increasing use will result in safer roads for all. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.mcia.co.uk

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Clarke Controls believes that when it supplies a product or service the agreement has to be a win/win situation. It will only supply a product if they are completely confident that there will be a substantial financial saving to the customer completely confident that there will be a substantial financial saving to the customer.

In fact, Clarke Controls is so confident that the company even guarantees it. If a customer does not attain a 25 per cent reduction in heating costs within 12 months, Clarke Controls will remove the system and refund all money without question.

The system has proved to be so efficient that in 13 years the company has only had to honour this guarantee once and on that one occasion the customer opted to keep the system. In most cases customers save over 40 per cent of their heating costs.

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as well as eastern European countries and are pleased to announce that the product has been received very well and Clarke Controls are now in the process of installing several new systems. As a result of these initiatives it now seems that in the very near future Clarke Controls will have the same enviable reputation in Europe it already has in the UK. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 603 9369 enquiries@clarke-controls.co.uk www.clarke-controls.co.uk

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Automotive Leasing Leading the way

Green Economics Finding new ways to reduce costs without putting longer term goals at risk is a real challenge. Many organisations find that whilst there may be a desire to create a sustainable low carbon fleet, delivering savings in the short and medium term becomes a higher priority.

So, do you have to choose between environmental goals and budgetary demands? Not when you talk to the right people. As environmental fleet management award winners, we can help you create and implement a green fleet policy that does far more than care for the environment. It protects your drivers, minimises risk and reduces the overall cost of running your fleet.

To find out more, just call: 0844 493 5840 Email: hello@automotive-leasing.co.uk

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Experience the electric shock first hand Do you have what it takes to beat the Sprig, GreenFleet’s resident eco-driving hero? If you think you do, get to Rockingham on 24 September for GreenFleet Arrive ’n’ Drive. This year’s event promises even more low‑emission vehicles and technologies for fleet managers to put through their paces with over 100 types of vehicle on show The pressure to reduce fuel costs is nothing new and remains the biggest challenge facing commercial fleet managers, followed by fuel price volatility. Finding cost-effective ways to green a fleet, increasing driver productivity and safety are all high up on the agenda. Any, or indeed all of the above can be addressed with a visit to the 2015 GreenFleet Arrive ‘n’ Drive, sponsored by RAC Business Solutions. Taking place on September 24 at Rockingham in Corby, Northants, the Arrive ‘n’ Drive gives attendees the opportunity to get hands on with the latest low and ultra-low emission fleet vehicles.

Rockingham Motor Speedway is a modern venue and Europe’s fastest racing circuit.

Hosting a full range of track days, testing, driving experiences and motorsport, Rockingham is also the only intermediate oval in the UK, and is unique in its quadrilateral shape.

Wet grip The track’s wet handling area can used to simulate a variety of

driving conditions including ice, rain and slippery wet leaves. The area is designed to give drivers a greater understanding of the latest ABS, traction control and crash mitigating technologies, and the way that they affect vehicle control. This year, Kumho Tyre will be demonstrating safety techniques in the wet grip facility while showcasing its ground-breaking new tyres.

Euro 6 From September this year, all new petrol and diesel cars and small vans must be compliant with the Euro 6 emission standards. For diesel engines, Euro 6 dramatically drops the permitted level of NOx emitted down to a maximum of 80mg/km, compared to the 180mg/km level that was required for the previous Euro 5 version. The limit for NOx from petrol cars remains at 60mg/km.

For larger vans, the standard will be introduced in September 2016, but knock-on effects will soon mean better

The leet GreenF Drive n’ Arrive ‘ ndees the te gives atto get hands chance th the latest on wi and ultra low ission low emcles vehi

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fuel economy and lower CO2. With this in mind, visitors to the Arrive ‘n’ Drive will be able to peruse the latest Euro 6 offerings from all the major manufacturers.

Cars on show Certain to generate sustained interest at the event is the new Jaguar XE, the 2.0‑litre diesel engine version of which has official figures of 74.3mpg and average CO2 emissions of 99 grams per kilometre. BMW will present the jaw‑dropping hybrid i8 ‘supercar’, which can go from 0 to 60mph in just 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 256km/h (159mph).

Ford will have its eagerly anticipated Mondeo Hybrid available for test drive, which the manufacturer states can achieve 67.3mpg and 99g/km of CO2 from its 2.0‑litre petrol engine.

The Tesla Model S is sure to be an extremely popular choice for visitors to the Arrive ‘n’ Drive. During the first half of 2015, the Model S ranked as the top selling plug-in electric car in the US with around 12,000 units sold.

What Audi claims will be a significant step towards its vision to be CO2-neutral E

The new 2.0-litre diesel Jaguar XE has CO2 emissions of just 99g/km

BMW will present the bold i8 hybrid supercar at Arrive ‘n’ Drive

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The new Mercedes-Benz C350 e Sport plug-in hyrbid will be on show at the Robinson’s Group

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The Audi A3 e-tron plug-in hybrid will be able to drive at GreenFleet Arrive ‘n’ Drive

Employ eco-driving techniques to Beat the Sprig

 is the introduction of the A3 e-tron hybrid, which will also be available to drive along with the GreenFleet Award-winning Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV SUV hybrid and offerings from Mini, Toyota, Lexus, Volkswagen Commercials, Skoda, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Citroen and Peugeot.

At the GreenFleet Arrive ‘n’ Drive, The Robinson’s Group look forward to showcasing some of its latest hybrid Mercedes-Benz vehicles including the C350 e Sport. Adding to the already highly efficient C-Class range, the new Mercedes-Benz C350 e Sport Plug-In Hybrid provides the most efficient ride yet.

This innovative new model has an impressive fuel economy of up to 134.5mpg and CO2 emissions from as low as 48g/km, so you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy the journey. The Robinson’s Group will also have the Smart ForTwo and the Smart ForFour on show for visitors to experience.

Beat the Sprig When you have the cleanest possible vehicles, further economies can be realised by driving them in a fuel efficient manner. Visitors to this year’s Arrive ‘n’ Drive will once again be able to put their eco-driving prowess to the test against GreenFleet’s green driving hero, the Sprig.

A 10 per cent improvement can save thousands per year on fuel. The vehicle used in last years’ Beat the Sprig challenge had an official fuel consumption figure of 78mpg, but after employing frugal driving techniques, the Sprig managed to set the benchmark at 87mpg. After a brief session of instruction in driver training and telematics, last year’s winner achieved a staggering 99mpg, a massive increase of model’s official fuel economy figure.

For 2015, visitors will be able to challenge the Sprig on the open road in both cars and vans from Peugeot. Each vehicle is fitted with state-of-the-art telematics technology from masternaut that can give instant readings such as harsh braking, excessive acceleration, and accurate mpg reading. After your first drive you will receive 10 minutes tuition from our ‘Driver Training Partner’, Pinnacle Driver Training, and you will then be asked to go out again, drive the same route, but putting your new-found eco-driving skills to good use. Once you return, a masternaut technician will give you your readings, and that’s when you will see if you make the leaderboard!

Workshops The Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (LowCVP) will be staging the Clean & Green Van

workshop, which will includes research from its Low Emission Van Guide. Undertaken in partnership with Transport for London and the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the guide can assist van operators in reducing emissions and covers battery electrics, PHEVs, biodiesel, natural gas/methane and LPG. This session will be supported

by Mitsubishi dealership Vic Young.

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) will deliver a discussion on the challenge of air quality and carbon reduction. The FTA’s Christopher Snelling will address issues concerning the growing political agenda on air quality and how this will affect fleet operators with both vans and HGVs. Christopher will also touch upon Low emission zones and London ULEZ incorporating the need for all new cars and vans to be Euro 6 compliant from September.

The FTA’s Logistics Carbon Reduction Scheme allows the UK logistics sector to publicly report its contribution towards national carbon reduction targets. Also presenting in this session will be SmartDrive, who will explain how they can help your driver’s safety and fuel efficiency through their patented vehicle data and video event recording technology.

Protecting drivers on the road, and improving results for fleets everywhere.” E Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Keep your risks under control.

At Pinnacle Training Solutions we individually tailor our driver training to your specific needs, so you know the training has been designed to meet exactly what you want.

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 Those responsible for public sector vehicle procurement will be able to hear a presentation from the Crown Commercial Service, which details its purchasing frameworks, including the latest on fuel cards. Supported by Framework Accredited leasing specialists, Alphabet, this is a must for public sector professionals. Alphabet will share their wealth of knowledge and experiences in affinity and salary sacrifice schemes, and explain their services ranging from corporate car sharing to risk management and strategic consultancy.

Fleet solution providers Arrive ’n’ Drive prides itself on being an all-encompassing show and that wouldn’t be the case if we didn’t have some of the most innovative and pioneering solution providers exhibiting on the day. Make sure you visit Route Monkey and see how they can help with route optimisation. Route Monkey has grown rapidly over the past 12 months as it continues to demonstrate savings of up to 20 per cent for its clients with award‑winning combined route optimisation and scheduling software. The company’s products schedule and optimise conventional, electric and ultra low carbon fleets and works with businesses and organisations to increase vehicle utilisation, reduce road

miles, lower emissions, improve the carbon footprint, thereby delivering a fast ROI. Meanwhile Chevin Fleet Solutions and Magenta Technology will be able to assist you with fleet management technology. Alphabet, Autokontrol and Telogis will all offer expert advice on business mobility, rev limiters and mobile workforce solutions respectively.

Alphabet is a leading provider of business mobility. Driven by creativity, future vision and the passionate commitment of its employees, Alphabet supports its customers in both the public and private sectors, to enjoy higher productivity and efficiency from their vehicles and drivers. Believing that electric vehicles form an important part of the future of business mobility, the company has created AlphaElectric, which helps you to incorporate electric vehicles seamlessly into your fleet.

Alphabet manages over 121,000 fleet vehicles in the UK while internationally

Alphabet operates in 19 countries and supplies over 500,000 vehicles.

Telematics and software Autokontrol is the manufacturer of Drive

by Wire devices which can be fitted to all makes of vehicle. Autokontrol devices will limit top speed, reversing speed, towing speed, off road speed, geofenced zone speed and engine revs. Autokontrol has developed a three-function printed circuit board which can cover any three of the above options in one small box.

All devices carry EU approvals and are tamper-proof. Top speed limiters save fuel when fitted to vehicles used on distance work whilst engine rev controls save fuel on every journey by preventing over revving. The reversing speed limiter is very popular as some operators find that their drivers ignore the reversing bleepers. E

Arrive ‘n’ Drive 2015

Sponsored by

Route Monkey has grown rapidly over the past 12 months as it continues to demonstrate savings of up to 20 per cent for its clients with award‑winning combined route optimisation and scheduling software

The GreenFleet Award-winning Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV will be on show and out on the track

Route Monkey can help with route optimisation and scheduling software LowCVP will be staging a Clean & Green van workshop

The eagerly-awaited new Ford Mondeo Hybrid delivers a claimed 67.3mpg and 99g/km of CO2

AlphaElectric helps fleets seamlessly integrate electric vehicles

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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iPad

iPad

The new Peugeot Partner will be on show

Arrive ‘n’ Drive 2015

Sponsored by

Nissan’s e-NV200 will be available to drive down ‘Electric Avenue’

Tesla’s all‑electric Model S has supercar-rivalling performance and executive car comfort

Volkswagen will be highlighting the all-electric e-Golf as well as the GTE PHEV

Prepare 6 transformative effect on the way businesses optimise for Euroe a k a their mobile workforces, t d n a n assets and critical data. w o d The Telogis platform journeyAvenue’ mission-critical, c i r t ‘Elec e will have delivers actionable information w for companies with where ery latest mobile workforces the v ctric and continues to set in ele s the standard for global e l vehic location intelligence.

 Additionally, SmartDrive will be showcasing its innovative event recording system, capturing comprehensive vehicle data from risky driving behaviours. As a fully managed service, SmartDrive gives fleets a comprehensive performance programme, arming them with actionable driving intelligence and easy-to-use tools necessary to respond to driver safety concerns in minutes.

The SmartRecorder System is triggered by a three-axis accelerometer that measures sudden movements such as swerving and hard braking, and a speed sensor that determines when a driver exceeds a safe speed. The recorded video events are then reviewed by expert analysts, resulting in predictive analytics and a personalised driving improvement programme for drivers to greatly reduce risky behaviours of up to 50 per cent.

Additionally, the video recording before and after a driving incident, helps settle claims and not-at-fault drivers can be clearly exonerated.

Telogis provides a cloud-based location intelligence software platform that has a

Telogis’ mobile enterprises includes advanced telematics (Telogis Fleet), mobility (Telogis mobile applications), territory planning and route optimisation (Telogis Route) and work order management and configurable job forms (Telogis Progression). By installing location-intelligent solutions, companies can analyse when and where its vehicles are used, and how they are being driven.

Electric Avenue Prepare for Euro 6 and take a journey down ‘Electric Avenue’ where we will once again feature the very latest in electric vehicles, and have a designated test circuit to provide a ‘real-world’ experience. Sponsored by Route Monkey, Electric Avenue will have

organisations that operate recharging technology and infrastructure in attendance and their expert knowledge and advice will be available throughout the day. This will come from Rolec, EDF Energy and Siemens.

Electric Avenue will play host to many exciting EVs including the Audi A3 e-tron, Volkswagen’s e-Golf and Golf GTE, as well as the BMW i3. Additionally, visitors will be able to view a range of Nissan models, including the Nissan Leaf, e-NV200 and Pulsar.

For 2015, the much-anticipated and highly coveted Tesla Model S will be on show.

Designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle, with a rigid body structure, nearly 50/50 weight distribution and a remarkably low centre of gravity, the Model S offers the responsiveness and agility expected from the world’s best sports cars while providing the ride quality of an executive saloon. Hit the accelerator and in 4.2 seconds, the Model S is travelling 60 miles per hour, without hesitation and without a drop of petrol.

The Peugeot Partner electric and iOn will also be staged. The Partner Electric combines the van’s great features with an electric drive train to reduce the carbon footprint.

This van can also do 106 miles on a full charge, with a potential top speed of 68mph.

Unlike its competitors, the E Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Leave your fleet requirements in capable hands.

The Vindis Group understands how vital your fleet vehicles are to your business.

This is why our team of Local Business Development Managers work with you to ensure that we exceed expectation every time.

Let our dedicated localised teams, with national capabilities, provide a bespoke solution based on your individual needs. We offer a range of vehicles across our brands, prioritising comfort, performance and fuel-efficiency.

Visit www.vindisgroup.com/fleet to find out how our we can help your business go further for less.

How to get to Rockingham A state-of-the art venue costing £70 million, Rockingham successfully incorporates multiple track configurations, with off‑road circuits, superb conference facilities and exhibition space.

Centrally located, this fantastic venue is easily accessible from the A1, M1 and A14.

From the south From the M1 – Exit the M1 at J15 and follow Northampton A45 then Kettering A43. Join the A14 at J6 and go westbound for one junction to join the A43/ A6003 Corby.

From the M11 – Take the A14 westbound towards Kettering.

Exit at junction 7 to join A43/ A6003 Corby then follow the directions from the A14 shown.

From the north Exit the M1 at J19 and join the A14 eastbound. Exit at junction 7 to join A43/A6003 Corby then follow the directions from the A14 shown below.

From the A14 From the A14 at J7 join the A43 then take the A6003 to Corby/ Oakham. Follow the A6003 into Corby and turn left onto Phoenix Parkway.

Sat Nav If using sat nav, Rockingham’s postcode is NN17 5AF, however please also enter Mitchell Road as a destination if possible, or follow signposts when getting closer to the venue, as many sat nav systems will direct drivers to the rear of site.

 battery price is included and the vehicle offers rapid charge capability. With more manufacturers anticipated to join the event, you can expect this list to grow.

Leasing Public sector specialists Automotive Leasing, part of LeasePlan, has delivered fleet funding and management solutions for over 25 years, and played a huge part in introducing electric vehicles to fleets in Scotland. Through AlphaElectric, business mobility specialist Alphabet serves the public and private sectors, and through its EV consultancy service AlphaElectric, has applied some clever thinking to help answer questions on how to incorporate EVs seamlessly into fleets.

Admin Business Solutions, who will be completing all licence checks at the start of the day, will also be available to discuss how they can help you with your business. National Accident & Repair Group will be keeping you on the move and on the road as the leading experts in accident and repair in the UK. Green vehicle hire specialist Green Motion will also be on hand to discuss its latest rental options. Green Motion is the pioneer of environmentally focused vehicle rental which has continued to develop the unique concept throughout the world, and is now present in 13 countries.

Licence details In order to test drive vehicles, visitors will need to provide their license details to Admin Business Solutions, which will be completing all licence checks at the start of the day. The company supplies some of the largest car leasing and car manufacturers in the UK, and is an intermediary for the DVLA. Other organisations involved include the National Accident & Repair Group, a UK leading expert in accident and repair.

Previous delegates have said: “This is a tremendous event, that’s growing every year, which is great to see. I really enjoyed my day with GreenFleet, it was an amazing day and staff were really nice and professional can’t wait for next one.”

Last year, a delegate commented: “It gets better every year. The opportunity to test cars back to back on the same ‘roads’ is invaluable.”

The GreenFleet Arrive ‘n’ Drive provides a fantastic opportunity to network with other professionals and exchange ideas.

Over the last eight years, it has become a key diary date for those tasked with fleet efficiency.

Register now or miss it at your peril. L

Arrive ‘n’ Drive 2015

Sponsored by

FURTHER INFORMATION Visit: events.greenfleet.net/arrivedrive Email: dan.lee@psigroupltd.co.uk Tel: 020 8532 5732.

Over the past eight years the GreenFleet Arrive ‘n’ Drive has become a key diary date for those tasked with fleet efficiency.

Register now at events.greenfleet.net/ arrivedrive or miss it at your peril...

High-profile electric vehicles on show and available to drive around Rockingham’s oval circuit include the BMW i3 and the Tesla Model S

Once again Kumho Tyre will be demonstrating its ground-breaking new tyres in the wet handling area at Rockingham

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

53

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GreenFleet Awards

Recognising green‑minded fleets On 22 October, the GreenFleet Awards 2015 will shine a light on fleet managers, suppliers and manufacturers working to minimise the environmental impact of fleets and support low-carbon motoring

The leet GreenF will Awards ceptional e ex recognis vement in achie ental fleet m environ agement man carbon and loworing mot

The green-minded fleet community will gather at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham, on 22 October for the GreenFleet Awards 2015. Now in its 18th year, the Awards will recognise exceptional achievement in environmental fleet management, efficiency and low-carbon motoring.

Fleet, HR, sustainability managers and leasing and rental companies, as well as the manufacturers themselves, face ongoing challenges year on year to make sure they remain ‘green’, with many taking environmental practice a step further to push the boundaries of what is deemed possible, putting their own stamp on the industry through new technology and innovation.

The GreenFleet Awards will showcase the very best of these companies and individuals, from both the private and public sectors, celebrating the fantastic achievements of the automotive industry in promoting a cleaner environment. With 20 categories ranging from “Industry Innovation” to “Leasing Company of the Year”, the awards will recognise outstanding achievement within each field.

Over 300 fleet pioneers will gather for

networking and knowledge sharing, champagne and fine dining, before the climax to the evening, the awards ceremony itself.

This year’s GreenFleet Awards will build upon the fantastic success of last year’s event, which was held at the Heritage Motor Centre motor museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire and hosted by renowned motoring journalist Quentin Wilson.

Manufacturer awards Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored

by Rockingham, will be presented to the manufacturer that has improved CO2 ratings of its standard fleet offerings and expanded the range of lower CO2 models and alternatively‑fuelled options available to fleet customers.

Last year BMW scooped up the title for its wide range of low emission models. Awards judges said: “The German marque is the brand that all other vehicle manufacturers operating in the fleet sector must aspire to beat. Initially through its ConnectedDrive and EfficientDynamics technologies, which are now commonplace across its vehicle range,

BMW has defined the next generation of models in the revolutionary i3 and i8 electric cars. With fuel-sipping, low emission models to fit virtually every company car choice list, including the new 2 and 4 Series, X4 and X5, among the lowest whole life costs coupled with improved levels of support, alongside the arrival of electric cars and a radical approach to ‘mobility’, the brand has the biggest green halo in the market.”

The PHEV Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by EDF Energy, was a new category for last year, and recognises the manufacturer of either a commercial or consumer plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that has demonstrated the best performance and best suitability for purpose in its class. Mitsubishi claimed the award for its PHEV Outlander, which was the world’s first plug-in hybrid 4x4 SUV. With regenerative braking to feed power back into the batteries when possible, the Outlander is capable of 32.5 miles in EV mode (total range 500+), 70mph on EV power, and has the possibility of up to 148mpg, all with the added convenience of an SUV. EDF Energy also sponsor the Electric Vehicle (EV) manufacturer of the Year Award, to celebrate the manufacturer of either a commercial or consumer EV that has E Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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GreenFleet Awards

 demonstrated the best performance and best suitability for purpose in its class. German manufacturer Volkswagen picked up the award for its its e-Golf and e-Up vehicles, which are both based on standard production cars and so deliver a degree of familiarity for drivers new to electric technology.

Citroën celebrated double success at the 2014 Awards, taking home both the City Car Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by Green Motion, and the LCV Manufacturer of the Year.

With a range of over 51 cars that are sub‑100g/km, Citroën clinched the City Car award with its C1 model. The Light Commercial Vehicle Award recognised Citroën’s Relay panel van, that improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions thanks to efficient HDi and e-HDi 130 diesel engines, Stop & Start, energy recapture and intelligent alternator management.

The final Manufacturer of the Year award recognises advancements in the Large Goods Vehicle Sector (Over 7.5 tonnes), and was won

by DAF in 2014 for its range of Euro 6 engines designed for maximum efficiency, reliability and the highest driver comfort.

Recognising Innovation The Industry Innovation Award will recognise the organisation that has introduced a new technology, practice or method that reduces fuel consumption and emissions and demonstrates innovation in its design and/ or implementation. Nissan’s e-NV200 claimed the prize for the Japanese manufacturer last year, combining the EV powertrain from the LEAF with the class-leading cargo area of the NV200 for an electric van offering with a range of 106 miles.

The IT Innovation Award examines the latest advancements in fleet technology, including fleet management software, telematics, route tracking and other IT related transport technology. In 2014 Chevin Fleet Solutions won this category for its web‑based fleet management software, FleetWave, which allows operators to view and measure their carbon footprint and the corrective action

The GreenFleet Awards 2015 will showcase the very best companies and individuals, from both the private and public sectors, celebrating the fantastic achievements of the automotive industry in promoting a cleaner environment they take through detailed reporting tools. The software manages green initiatives with new and continuously improved features such as the Environment Impact Report, Fuel Analysis, Driver Training, Pool Car Share Function and the Smart Vehicle Replacement tool.

Private Sector Fleets The GreenFleet Awards will recognise private sector fleet management through a number of awards, the first being the Private Sector Fleet Manager of the Year. This award celebrates an individual currently working as a fleet manager in a private sector company that has demonstrated a commitment to making carbon reduction a priority in their day to day duties, and has promoted green fleet practices to other parts of their organisation. Philippa Maher of Environmental Essentials picked up the award last year, for helping the company’s fleet double in size with the introduction of new hybrids and helping to drop the fleets average CO2 emissions from 142g/km to just 108g/km, while also overseeing the adoption of driver training, telematics and fuel cards.

Private Sector Fleet of the year is split into two sections, small to medium fleet and medium to large fleet.

The medium to large Fleet of the Year Award, sponsored by Route Monkey, is presented to the UK private sector organisation with a fleet of more than 250 vehicles that can demonstrate a reduction in CO2 and other pollutants through fuel efficiency programmes, green fleet management and driver awareness training. British gas were named winners in The latest Euro 6-compliant engines and technologies helped DAF Trucks take the GreenFleet Award for HGV Manufacturer of the Year in 2014

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

2014, for teaming up with Nissan and Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions to set out on one of the UK’s largest commercial trials of EV technology. Using the Nissan e-NV200 fully electric van, 28 boiler engineers converted from their diesel Volkswagen Caddy to the low carbon vehicle for six months.

The small to medium-sized Fleet of the Year Award is limited to companies with less than 250 vehicles, and was won by Commercial Group last year for its investment in both electric and hydrogen vehicles and the installation of four quick chargers that are open to visitors on site.

The Private Hire/Taxi Company of the Year celebrates the efforts of the private hire and taxi sector and is awarded to the company that demonstrates a commitment to reducing CO2 emissions within the fleet, and has incorporated a robust environmental policy into its present and future operations. eConnect Cars claimed the award in 2014, offering passengers zero emission journeys with its fully‑electric chauffeur driven service. Account clients are given details of CO2 savings made instead of a TX4 black cab, which can then be added to their own reporting. eConnect Cars also has a ‘GoldPower’ tariff which means that for every kilowatt hour used by a GoldPowered car, an equivalent amount of energy is then produced by a renewable energy plant somewhere else.

Public Sector Fleets Public Sector fleets will also have a strong presence at the awards. Public Sector Fleet

A commitment to eco-friendly driving Driver Training Initiative

of the Year recognises the impact that driver habits and eco-driving techniques can have on vehicle efficiency and is presented an organisation that has been successful in reducing fuel consumption primarily through the introduction of driver training programmes and awareness courses.

Last year the award was presented to MITIE, which operates a fleet of almost 7,500 vehicles and is responsible for training some 15,000 drivers. The facilities, property and energy management provider runs an online ‘driver induction’ to provide an overview of MITIE’s driving policies and processes and establish a risk rating which ascertains the level of training required.

All drivers identified as medium or high risk receive Driver Awareness Training, which takes place in MITIE’s own fully mobile driving simulator, capable of training up to 800 drivers per year in small groups typically lasting one hour.

Leasing Company of the Year is awarded to the leasing company that has made the biggest strides towards environmental considerations in its leasing policies and 2014 saw Alphabet take home the award.

Alphabet’s solutions are developed in close cooperation with customers and include the AlphaElectric consultancy service for fleets wanting to incorporate EVs. Delivery specialist Gnewt Cargo brought in Alphabet to double its EV fleet size and Alphabet also worked with Renault to fast-track 55 Renault Kangoo electric vans under its AlphaElectric scheme, which were then delivered within the space of a month.

Rental Company of the Year recognises the efforts of the car rental sector to offer lower CO2 models and incorporate a robust environmental policy into its present and future operations. Green Motion walked away with the award last year for its continued

Citroën d te celebra cess at suc double GreenFleet 4 the 201rds, taking Awa th the City o home b and LCV Car urer of t c a f u n Ma r the Yea

investment in the latest green vehicle technology, which had seen the company’s CO2 average drop below 99g/km across the whole fleet.

EV Champions With so much good work being done by individuals championing alternative fuels and low emission motoring, last year saw the introduction of the EV Champion category. Three winners were recognised for their individual contributions: Judith Eadie from Automotive Leasing, Matt Trevaskis from Ecodrive and Kate Armitage from Route Monkey (formerly of EDF Energy).

Judith Eadie is known as ‘Miss EV’ in Scotland and has won numerous awards in her own organisation. Matt Trevaskis is widely regarded as ‘that guy’ who knows all there is to know about EVs, while Kate Armitage has managed to make the ‘less glamorous’ side of EVs – the recharging infrastructure – more interesting at EDF Energy, before moving on to route optimisation at Route Monkey.

GreenFleet Awards

manager of the year was claimed by Chris Rutherford of Islington Council in 2014, for his work to revamp the Council’s fleet, made up of bikes, cars, vans and refuse trucks, to embrace the latest innovative technology as the Council strives to reduce carbon emissions.

As a testament to Chris’s work, Islington Council picked up the medium to large Public Sector Fleet of the Year, which recognises the UK public sector organisation with a fleet of more than 250 vehicles that can demonstrate a reduction in CO2 and other pollutants through fuel efficiency programmes, green fleet management and driver awareness training. The Council operates the largest public sector fleet of hybrid commercial vehicles in the UK, coupled with 115 Transit Custom vans fitted with eco packs, speed limiters and acceleration control.

Grey fleet miles were reduced where possible by using hybrid and electric pool cars, and the use of an informal league efficient driving table bred a healthy competition in some departments to encourage eco-friendly driving practices.

The 2014 small to medium Public Sector Fleet of the Year, sponsored by Automotive Leasing, was picked up by the University of Birmingham and, like the Private Sector Award, is awarded to an organisation with a fleet of less than 250 vehicles The University has 98 in‑house vehicles and manages more than 2,000 external hires for staff as well. Its first EV was introduced seven years ago, and now 15 per cent of its entire fleet is pure EV or hydrogen fuel-cell, including a Nissan e-NV200 used to deliver mail across the Edgbaston campus.

What’s more, the University has also installed eight EV charging points and one of the UK’s only hydrogen refuelling stations.

Outstanding Achievement The Outstanding Achievement Award recognises an individual or company that has shown outstanding progress in the industry and can demonstrate an increase in performance.

Last year saw a tri-party collaboration between Hitachi Capital Commercial Vehicle Solutions, British Gas and Nissan take home the award for their electric van trial, which also netted British Gas the medium to large Fleet of the Year Award. The trial saw 28 vans trailed nationwide, which stood as the largest electric commercial vehicle evaluation to date.

The trial took years to plan and research and represented a big step forward in sustainable fleet management, ultimately resulting in British Gas taking an order of 100 Nissan e-NV200s. L FURTHER INFORMATION events.greenfleet.net/awards

British Gas won Private Sector Fleet of the Year (medium to large) in 2014, investing in 100 Nissan e-NV200s

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Road Test

Pushing the envelope?

Now that the C4 range has blossomed into MPVs, SUVs and luxury hatchbacks, GreenFleet asks if there is still room for Citroën’s more conventional five-door hatchback The first C4 showed once again that Citroën could still do quirky after years in the mainstream wilderness. The three-door ‘coupé’ in particular showed innovative touches, with its raked-back sharp styling, built-in air freshener and non-rotating steering wheel hub. The C4 brand soon expanded into people carrier ‘Picasso’ models.

However, there has been no time where Citroën’s C-segment model range has been more diverse than today, with both Picasso and Grand Picasso variants and the Asian‑market C4 L saloon. A brace of C4 Cactus (GreenFleet, issue 81) and C4 Aircross models fill small and large gaps respectively in the crossover markets, too (even though the C4 Cactus is actually based on the smaller C3 and DS3 models).

But, with all this range variation and niche‑market filling, is there still a place for the standard C4 five-door hatchback?

Euro 6 engines The latest version of the C4 was launched in the UK in April 2015. Based heavily on the previous model which debuted in 2010, the ‘New C4’ (as Citroën refers to it) features detail changes as well as Euro 6 engines and improved technology.

Over 450,000 examples of the earlier second‑generation car have rolled out of

the French company’s Mulhouse factory in France, as well as plants in China and Russia.

More conventional in looks than the first‑generation model which, the latest C4 takes elements of Citroën styling trends first seen on the new post-2010 DS models. An aggressive front end is dominated by the double chevron grille, and new light signatures with LED daytime running lights freshen up the frontal perspective. At the rear, a similar ‘3D’ light treatment and gloss black rear spoiler combine to lend an upmarket air. ‘Perla Nera’ black door handles with chrome inserts lift the car’s looks in profile, along with the 16-inch ‘Wembley’ alloy wheels. The ‘Spirit Grey Metallic’ paint (more light metallic brown in reality) on KN15 HKB was an extra £525.

High-tech features Inside, the dashboard features soft-touch plastics and lots of matt chrome detailing.

It feels upmarket, too, especially with the optional £300 keyless entry and start system fitted to our top-of-the-range ‘Flair’ test car. Additional high-tech features include sat-nav, auto lights and wipers, changeable dashboard instrument colours, dual-zone air conditioning, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake lever, alloy pedals, and DAB/FM radio with Bluetooth/CD/AUX-IN connectivity, accessed

through a seven-inch colour touchscreen with £400 eMyWay DAB system.

One nice touch is the way the ’needle’ moves around the outside of the speedometer, which gives both conventional analogue and digital displays. A digital rev counter and fuel gauge is bars which appear and disappear as speed is increased and fuel level declines. While small things, they show that Citroën can still be innovative when it wants to be. Additional equipment over the similarly-powered but lower-specced ‘Feel’ model includes front fog lights with cornering function, auto lights and wipers, ‘Guide Me Home’ headlight function, electrically-heated and folding rear view mirrors with kerb lighting, and an electrochrome rear‑view mirror. A 408-litre boot gives more than enough room for luggage, although taller passengers complained of tight rear legroom.

A refined cruiser To drive, the New C4 is as conventional as it looks, which is no bad thing if you rack up a lot of motorway miles. A refined cruiser, at 70mph the Euro 6 1.6-litre diesel engine is near silent, only spinning at 1,750rpm in sixth gear.

Much quieter than similar units from the Volkswagen Group, it makes the New C4 an enjoyable long distance motorway companion. In a technology shared with its

Changeable instrument colours show Citroën can still do sensible and quirky

Seven-inch colour touchscreen system shows eco-read-outs and is easy to use

Flair models sit at the top of the New C4 family tree

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

At cruisinghe t speeds, engine ’s New C4ent, making sil is near n enjoyable for a istance long d nion compa

ENGINE:

1,560cc, four-cylinder diesel

CO2:

95g/km

MPG (combined):

78.5

NOx:

0.056g/km

VED:

Band A, £0

BIK: Interior of New C4 feels upmarket and features soft-touch plastics and chrome detailing

Volkswagen Golf rival, the New C4’s noise reducing acoustic windscreen actually works – refinement is very good, with only tyre noise from the 205/55 R16 Michelin ride-cushioning tyres entering the cabin.

With CO2 emissions of 95g/km and a potential of 78.5mpg on the combined cycle, the BlueHDi 120 S&S Manual’s peak power of 120bhp is produced at 3,500rpm, while torque of 221b ft (300Nm) comes in at 1,750rpm. Not that we’re so interested in performance stats at GreenFleet, but the 0-62mph dash takes 10.6 seconds, while the New C4 has a top speed of 122mph.

Performance is more than acceptable for keeping up with motorway traffic flow, but the six-speed manual gearbox needs a little bit of stirring in the lower rev ranges.

Despite Citroën’s published fuel economy value claims, we returned an average of 54.9mpg over the course of our 671-mile ‘real-world’ test. Interestingly, when the car arrived with us, it displayed 658 miles of range – we beat that figure by 13 miles. The fuel gauge gave patchy performance, though, as

range was initially gained as when carefully driving an electric vehicle. However, towards the end of using all the fuel in the 60-litre tank, the range dropped suddenly, although a persistent warning signal gave more than ample warning of low fuel levels.

A gear-efficiency indicator, stop-start system, multifunction trip computer (current and average fuel consumption/average speed/range remaining – also shows in main instrument binnacle) all help the New C4’s eco credentials. A number of read-outs can be monitored on the central touchscreen system including multi-trip and fuel economy information, as well as a display which informs of the amount of time the car has been in stop‑start (and therefore emission-free) mode.

Tax benefits The greenest version of the New C4 is the BlueHDi 100 S&S manual, which boasts 86g/km of CO2 emissions and a claimed 85.6mpg on the combined cycle which translates into 1,100 miles on a single tank

Road Test

2015 Citroën New C4 Flair BlueHDi 120 S&S Manual

17%

PRICE (OTR):

£19,145 (including VAT, £20,410 as tested)

of fuel. Although the BlueHDi 120 S&S we tested offers slightly less impressive fuel economy, it has more performance and also shares the same tax benefits. A 3-year, 60,000-mile warranty and 12,500‑mile service intervals are par for the course for the C-segment hatchback class.

Avant-garde adventurists will no doubt prefer the bolder and award-winning C4 Cactus to the regular C4 hatchback as it is much more daring and innovative, and shows that Citroën can still do quirky very well when it feels the need to. The New C4 is both more generic in feel and looks and that will suit more conservative drivers just fine. With an array of technology and refinement on offer just some of the New C4’s strong points, its place in the French manufacturer’s C4 range line-up is justified for those who aren’t quite ready to embrace a bold new future just yet. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.citroen.co.uk

The Citroën New C4 sticks to the traditional family hatch template and offers CO2 emissions as low as 86/gkm

e load th t Down a p p a t Flee t.net Green nflee e e r d app.g ges an re ima for mo ntent co

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First Drive

Live wire Volkswagen’s Golf GTI and GTD have offered practicality and performance for decades, but now, there’s a third option. Powered by a petrol-electric powertrain, the Golf GTE adds a dose of extra frugality to the family hatchback’s sporty ‘GT’ repertoire

Written by Richard Gooding

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Volkswagen pretty much invented the performance hatchback category in the mid‑1970s with the original Golf GTI. Those three little letters became synonymous with offering all-round performance and practicality, and Volkswagen introduced its first hot diesel Golf in the early 1980s.

This offered all the go-faster looks with the promise of better fuel economy. Now in its seventh-generation, the latest Golf GTI is still an accomplished player in the performance hatchback market. The GTD meanwhile, is popular in the fleet market with 60 per cent of sales going to company car buyers. Up until 2012, a total of 223,838 petrol-powered Golf GTIs had been sold in the UK alone, so the model is of significant importance to Volkswagen. Now, there’s third performance Golf family member – step forward the GTE.

39g/km and 166mpg (GTI DSG 148g/km, 47.7mpg; GTD DSG 119g/km, 67.1mpg).

Its’s a seemingly perfect combination. But it’s not just about the figures: the Golf GTI is known for its refinement and usable practicality, so what improvements, if any, can the GTE offer?

Performance with frugality Taking an old Audi name from the early 1970s, the Golf GTE aims to marry performance with frugality like no Golf has done before it. A plug-in hybrid model, Volkswagen clarifies its place in the Golf line-up by stating that the ‘I’ in ‘GTI’ stands for ‘injection’, the ‘D’ in ‘GTD’ signifies ‘diesel’, while the ‘E’ in ’GTE’ signals ‘electricity’. And that’s exactly the pair of existing Golf variants the GTE straddles. Taking its cue from the all-electric e-Golf introduced in 2014, the GTE takes this car as a starting point and adds a performance-orientated twist in the vein of the Golf GTI, combined with a frugal appetite such as that of the Golf GTD. The bare figures are certainly impressive for a hybrid hatchback. Volkswagen quotes a 0-62mph time of 7.6 seconds (GTI 6.5s, GTD 7.5s, both with DSG semi-automatic gearbox) and a 138mph top speed. That takes care of the performance bit, but, things get really interesting when the company also states that the GTE is capable of CO2 emissions of just

Single-model range Volkswagen makes the specification choice easy. Only available in one model, the five-door GTE starts at £28,755 once the government’s £5,000 Plug-in Car Grant is taken off the list price. The Golf GTE is powered by a 1.4-litre TSI direct-injection petrol engine with 148bhp, along with a 103bhp electric motor integrated into the car’s gearbox housing. Combined power of 202bhp gives a theoretical range of 580 miles according to VW, while maximum torque is 258b ft (350Nm). That torque is needed, too, as with the extra bulk of the battery, the Golf GTE’s weight balloons to 1,599kg (GTI 1,370kg, GTD 1,377kg). Volkswagen quotes an all-electric range of up to 31 miles for the Golf PHEV. The Golf GTE is only offered with a six‑speed DSG semi-automatic gearbox specially designed for use in the company’s electric and hybrid vehicles. Other technical highlights include a battery charger and power electronics module sited near the

The E Golf GTl of l battery, as well as a offers a fits of e more energy‑efficient n e the b tric e-Golf electro-mechanical c brake servo and pure elet none electric air‑conditioning bu compressor. ange of the rety Volkswagen is confident in its latest technology anxi

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

– the Golf GTE harbours an eight-year, 99,360‑mile (160,000km) warranty for the battery alongside the company’s standard 3-year, 60,000‑mile guarantee. Charging time for the 8.8kWh lithium-ion battery from a domestic mains outlet is 3 hours and 45 minutes, while that drops to 2 hours and 15 minutes when the car is plugged into a Volkswagen-recommended and British Gas-supplied wallbox.

Eager acceleration To drive, the GTE feels unsurprisingly similar to the Volkswagen ’s own e-Golf when in all-electric e-mode. Silent running and eager acceleration (with an 81mph cap) thanks to the electric motor’s slug of torque make the GTE feel sprightly. Press the ‘GTE’ button near the gear lever however, and the experience changes. Using both the petrol engine and the electric motor, the GTE’s performance is substantially increased. Gear changes convey a more sporty feel, kicking down much earlier, and drivers can attune their driving experience to their needs via the Tiptronic manual mode

First Drive

Volkswagen Golf GTE ENGINE:

1,395cc, four-cylinder petrol, 8.7kWh battery pack and 77kW electric motor

CO2:

39g/km

MPG (combined): POWER CONSUMPTION (combined/62 miles): VED:

11.4kWh Band A, £0

BIK: PRICE (OTR):

166

5% £28,755 (after £5,000 government PiCG)

which allows for manual changes. There is more noise – at times a strange whirring-like aural soundtrack – and the whole car feels less like the ultimate eco-warrior it appears to be when powered by electricity alone. Refinement is as any other Golf in the sense that the GTE has a generally relaxing, quiet and comfortable demeanour. Dynamically, the GTE does a passable impression of the GTI, even if it is slightly more muted in its responses.

The transition between the two power sources is seamless. A graphic display in‑between the instrument dials shows which power source is being used. A charge meter sits inside the colour-divided rev counter which allows the driver to determine power usage and regenerative charging cycles. As with conventional fuel-powered Golfs, mpg readings are also displayed ahead of the driver, while the cars’ s 5.8-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system in the central console shows a plethora of energy source information.

The GTE looks similar to other ‘performance’ Golfs: larger alloys and a rear spoiler feature

A driver profile function offers up five driving settings: E-mode, GTE mode, battery charge, battery hold and hybrid. For ultimate efficiency, the gearbox is decoupled from the engine and provides drag free coasting or kinetic energy recuperation.

An E-range Monitor shows all-electric range as well as power remaining to each source. As with the instrument binnacle computer, a whole spectrum of fuel consumption information is available to be digested. An e-manager function also allows the driver to preset the car’s charging settings as well as the interior cooling and heating options. Remotely accessible via Volkswagen’s smartphone Car-Net app, a three-year subscription comes as standard.

Externally, the GTE is easily recognisable as a member of the Golf ‘GT’ family. Blue highlights and grille strips replace the red items of the GTI, while a GTE styling pack unit sharing the ‘C’-shaped LED running

Cabin of Golf GTE has sports flourishes and high-quality materials

Charge meter replaces rev counter

Charging socket hides behind the VW roundel

Golf GTE marries a 1.4-litre petrol engine to a 77kW electric motor and an 8.7kWh battery pack

lights of the e-Golf. LED headlights and tail lamps are standard. The final additions to the petrol-electric Golf are a unique rear spoiler, a smattering of GTE badges, and 7.5J x 18 ‘Serron’ alloy wheels with 235/40 R18 tyres.

One thing worth noting on a practical level is the reduced luggage capacity of 272 litres (down by 108 litres) when compared to conventionally-fuelled Golfs, thanks to the siting of the electric motor and 40-litre fuel tank.

The best of both worlds?

Volkswagen says that the Golf GTE is ‘The best of both worlds, at the touch of a button’. Both a zero-emission and long distance vehicle in one, the Golf GTE does offer the all-electric benefits of the e-Golf, but with none of the range anxiety which may put off drivers who haven’t experienced electric cars before.

As befits its technology, the GTE sits at the top of the Golf tree, costing £1,890 more than the e-Golf after the Plug-in Car Grant is deducted from the price. Both sit in VED Band A and are tax-free, but if more long distance journeys are to be undertaken, the GTE makes for a more compelling option.

The next best fuel-efficient Golf GT model, the GTD, starts from £26,935 and is has a VED rate of £30 per year. While the GTE’s BIK rate is much lower – 5 per cent compared to the GTD’s 19 per cent – it could still take many years to make up the cost difference, despite the proposed lower per mile running costs. However, if mileage-munching motoring with in-town emission-saving is a priority, there is now at least a – very accomplished – option. There’s still a way to go make it feel as performance-orientated as the Golf GTI, but Volkswagen has succeeded in building a very competent and accessible eco‑car, with a little less emphasis on the eco. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.volkswagen.co.uk

Volume 87 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

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Product Finder

AXIS200 WHEEL ALIGNERS

CLAIMS MANAGEMENT

Haweka

RecoAuto

Unit No 5 Beta, Orchard Trading Estate, Toddington, Gloucestershire GL54 5EB Tel: 01242 621001 www.haweka.co.uk

Tel: 0844 561 0576 hello@recoauto.com www.recoauto.com

As a specialist in fuel and tyre savings, Haweka provide workshops with wheel alignment equipment to help commercial operators reduce their fuel and tyre costs.

The Haweka Axis systems are user friendly, quick to use and very accurate.

Contact us today to find out how Haweka can reduce your carbon footprint.

FLEET MANAGEMENT REPORTING

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

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 MANAGEMENT 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

Jaama 15 Amber Business Village, Amber Close Amington, Tamworth B77 4RP Tel: 0844 8484 333 enquiries@jaama.co.uk www.jaama.com Licence2Check is a web-based electronic driver licence checking service with the DVLA. Batch licence check requests will be sent automatically depending upon the risk profile of the driver. Licence2Check is a simple, effective tool to help you meet your Duty of Care responsibility and obligations under the Health and Safety Executive guidelines.

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247Lighting.net 39 Admin Business Solutions 38 Chevin Fleet Solutions 50 Citroën UK IFC, 4, 5 Clarke Controls 43 DAF Trucks 6 Fiat 16 Fiat Professional 20, 21 Ford 26 Honda 27 Jeep 10 LeasePlan UK 44 Lex Autolease IBC Licence Check 8 Magenta Technology 46 MINI 28, 29 Nissan 32 Peugeot 12 Pinnacle Training Solutions 48 Pro-Align 18 Redtail Telematics 36 Smart Witness 24 SMMT 30 Steertrak 18 Tastecard 54 Toyota OBC Vauxhall 22, 23 Vindis Group 52

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

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH Has there ever been a better time to switch to electric vehicles?

58%

20%

300% growth in UK plug-in hybrid cars in 2014

growth in alternatively fuelled vehicles in 2014

73%

of fleet managers rate environmental impact as a big issue

fall in CO2 emissions in 4 years on the Lex Autolease fleet

45%

of fleet managers have introduced a more environmentally-focussed fleet policy

0344 824 0115 enquiries@lexautolease.co.uk lexautolease.co.uk

MY NAME IS PAUL AND I’M A

QUITTER Set to save over £500,000* and improve UK air quality by quitting a conventional fleet.

By choosing petrol full hybrids over equivalent diesel models, Paul will save his company over half a million pounds in three years. Reduced BIK tax bills mean company car drivers will be on average £5,000 better off. Paul’s also said goodbye to a conventional fleet, improving the air we all breathe.

Read Paul’s story at: brilliantforbusiness.co.uk/paul

Paul James, Facilities Manager, Slimming World.

brilliant for business

*Saving based on switching existing Honda fl eet to Lexus hybrids.