THE OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL VAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
Volume 6. No. 3. Winter ‘09
International Van of the Year 2010
Launch Pad:
in association with VebaBox
• Ford Transit Connect Mk11 • Honda CR-V Commercial • Range Rover Sport Commercial • Toyota Land Cruiser & Hilux • New Volkswagen Amarok
Innovation:
Iveco EcoDaily Hybrid & Hydromethane
Comparison Fiat Fiorino versus Test: Ford Fiesta Van
contents Winter 2009
www.fleet.ie
4
COVER Nissan NV200 conquers the International Van of the Year title
5
NEWS • Van CO2 legislation must change • Fiat Professional extends Doblo Cargo range • Tachos for LCVs and 4x4s • Proposed Post Codes problem
8
LAUNCH PAD
• • • • •
P6
11
Honda CR-V Commercial Ford Transit Connect Range Rover Sport Commercial Volkswagen Amarok Toyota Land Cruiser & Hilux
SALES
Poor as they are, here’s the sales stats for LCVs Q3 2009
P 12
12
ADVENTURE Volkswagen Caddy Maxi completes marathon Transeurasia trek
15
FLEETING SHOTS With a twist! Comparison: Fiat Fiorino versus Ford Fiesta Van
16
LONG TERM TEST Pen Pictures from around the World
18
LCV Citroën broadens its range of big and small vans
20
INNOVATION Iveco develops Hybrid and Hydromethane versions of the EcoDaily
22
TEST First run in the Iveco EcoDaily EEV
24
BUYERS GUIDE Fleet Van & Utility Buyers Guide 2010
P 22
P 24 Fleet Van & Utility D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Postcode: KNQ 952T Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISDN: +353 (0)94 938 8242 ISSN: 1649-9433
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Editor: Jarlath Sweeney Contributors: Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle.
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Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, ttm.nl, Sándor Boncsér Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey, Helen Maguire. Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney. Design: Eamon Wynne
Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Postcode: KNQ 952T Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.
FV&U12.09
Disclaimer: Fleet Transport Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Transport management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers. The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009 3
COVER
Nissan begins global assault with NV200 • Voted International Van of the Year 2010
• • • •
European launch following successful Japanese market introduction Six year project comes to fr uition Genuine stand-alone Nissan product Electric e-LCV to follow in 2012
A
ndy Palmer, Senior Vice President, Nissan Motor Company has achieved his ultimate goal in creating, developing and producing a light commercial vehicle that will have a global impact. Project Nissan NV200 may have taken the best part of 6 years to come to fruition – now it is ready to take on the world. At a press briefing in Paris, Mr. Palmer proudly emphasised that the NV200 is a genuine Nissan product that does not and will not share any of its design or technology with any other manufacturer – not even its alliance partner, Renault. “The only component that is not ours is the 1.5 litre dCi (KGK Euro4) engine supplied by Renault,” he said. “Ultimately the NV200 will be sold in every country in the world. To date it has been successfully launched in Japan (with 56% marketshare) and our top 3 markets in Europe – Spain, Italy and France will see all three versions launched there in November – the panel van, Combi (Crew Cab) and 8 seat passenger version.” On the NV200 winning the International Van of the Year 2010, Andy Palmer, Senior Vice President, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., said, "Everyone within Nissan is very excited for this important achievement and I am personally moved.
“Before the year end practically all European markets will have the NV200 on sale.” Looking further afield, Andy pointed on the map towards China, Indonesia and India as potential market areas and did not rule out North America either. Because of its uniqueness in size and adaptability NV200 will create a new segment in these markets. In Europe, its nearest competitor is the Volkswagen Caddy Maxi but in looks and shape, the NV200 is a different van completely. It is interesting to see what Fiat Professional has done with the new Doblo Cargo to counteract this new threat from Asia - see page 6. Initially Nissan brought in a team of consultants to investigate the commercial vehicle industry and analyse what’s out there in terms of product and more importantly what the needs of the 21st century customer would be. “Exercises were done in Japan, the US and Europe,” Andy explained. “Everything was looked at from the rear-door design to the storage space available in the cabin from the full scope of vehicles that was out there,” he added.
Nissan then concentrated on the drivetrain making the NV200 as economical and safe as possible to run. The use of Renault’s frugal powerplant ensures low cost running, further aided by driver aids such as gear-shift indicator while various safety features such as ESP, ABS and Brake Assist together with an extreme crash test programme made sure that this important angle was covered. Launched in the UK last month, the NV200 will be introduced here as the Vanette van and Combi with a high specification level and competitively priced at €15,995. NV200 TAXI At the recent Tokyo Motor Show Nissan presented an additional version of the NV200 in Taxi form. In a further development of the original London Taxi design with two rows of facing seats, the NV200 Taxi features a separate and secure drivers area, wheelchair accessibility (thanks to its low floor) not to mention its dedicated illuminated signs and markings. Apparently, the Mayor of New York has expressed interest in same - whatever will the ‘big yellow cab’ fraternity think about that move? Blue Citizenship – eLCV
From that point on, the Nissan designers got to work and their first objective with the concept was that the new van must be pleasing to the eye, provide ample space for company branding and a segment breaker in meeting the needs of customers that require a multi-purpose vehicle. It also had to offer good all round visibility from its high seating position as well as to accommodate two Euro pallets in its load area. Once the design framework was decided upon,
Much publicity has been given to Nissan’s Blue Citizenship programme which will see the roll out of an affordable all-electric car (called the Leaf) in 2011. Well, Fleet Van & Utility can exclusively announce that phase two of this plan will see an electric version of the NV200 to be named as the e-LCV (for now). It will differ slightly in appearance from the NV200 from the front but its direct link with the origin of the species remains. More details (known to Fleet) will be revealed later. In the meantime Andy was keen to talk about the newly established relationship with Sumitomo where projects to increase the lifecycle of lithium batteries is to be explored. Concurrently, battery production plants are to be set up in the USA, UK and Portugal in the next few years.
The endorsement we receive from winning the IVoY award represents for us a reason for pride and an opportunity. We are proud of seeing our product recognised as being the best offer on the market this year. The Nissan engineers, marketers, business planners have a reason to celebrate. Winning the IVoY award is a reason for personal pride for me. I cherish this award as a milestone in my career." 4 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
NEWS 1
LCV industry suggests revision to Van CO2 legislation
T
he European Commission has proposed a tough new law to cut average CO2 emissions from vans. Th is sector of the automotive industry remains committed to the continued reduction of road transport emissions but now urge European policy-makers to make the legal framework more supportive and realistic in a move towards a low carbon economy.
Hodac stated in a recent interview with Fleet Transport (November edition) and also on www.fleet.ie. “Industry needs sufficient lead time sand reasonable targets to provide affordable products. These must be fit for purpose as business tools. In the current economic climate EU regulation must maintain the sector’s diversity while encouraging innovation and the move to low carbon models.”
The Commission wants to set van makers a fleet average target of 175g CO2/km or 42.8 mpg from 2014, phased-in to 2016. With seven year product development cycles in the van and light commercial vehicle market, industry feels the lead-times are too short to allow the delivery of affordable products to the market.
Across the EU, demand for vans fell 35% this year. Irish demand is down a staggering 70% in the fi rst nine months of 2009 compared to 2008. Any new legislation should take the economic solution as well as the diversity of the sector and its specific characteristics into account. Industry will now work with the European Council and Parliament to develop the proposal into a workable piece of legislation that delivers for the environment as well as for the economy.
“Vans are an integral part of the European economy and at a time of economic downturn and belt-tightening, businesses do not have the capacity to invest in new products, said an industry spokesman to concur with what Mr. Ivan
FIAT Professional extends scope of Doblo Cargo
S
ince its launch in 2000, over 1.3 million Doblo and Doblo Cargo vans have been produced by Fiat. Following the introduction of MultiJet engines in 2004 and a restyled version in 2006, the time has come for Peter Jansen and his design team at Centro Stile to create a whole new model. New Doblo (passenger) and Doblo Cargo will not only keep its premier league status but also meet its new opposition head-on. In its class, Ford has introduced an updated version of the Transit Connect while Nissan enters the market with a whole new concept called the NV200. It is with the latter that FIAT Professional is mostly threatened by and has included a 1000kg LWB version of the Doblo Cargo that matches the 4.1 m.sq. load volume specification of the NV200. In addition to the standard SWB version, there will also be a LWB flat-bed (chassis/ cab/cowl) type. The SWB Doblo will in itself be marginally bigger than the previous generation, which will offer more width and headroom. Other features include an eco-friendly Stop/Start version while ESP/ Hill Holder plus side and window air bags will also be fitted.
headlights and wraparound windscreen dominating the frontal look, upper and lower side grooves enhance the lineage flow to the rear doors. A vinyl dashboard and numerous storage areas are the main features of the interior. In order to accommodate two bott les in the door pockets, the audio speakers were moved up higher on the door panel. The roof panel shelf is brought over from the previous model. For the 7-seat passenger version, Peter was conscious of rear end protection and not only does the rear bumper look strong, there is plenty of room for luggage even with the third layer of seats in upwards position. Built on the FIAT Grande Punto platform, its aerodynamics or drag co-efficient has been improved from 38.0 to 31.5. The driveline will continue to use Fiat’s MultiJet engines with Natural Power (CNG) and Dualogic automated gearbox added to the range.
For the new generation, Peter Jansen explained to Fleet Van & Utility that he was aware that the Doblo had to continue to appeal to a broad audience be it passenger or business user without going over the top on either direction. He put down several concepts that invoked sportiness while being practical. A number of drawings of the interior were made too before whittling down to one main prototype that was further developed. With a strong car like appearance with large
Update on Tachos for LCVs and 4x4s
W
ith legislation relating to tachographs on Commercial SUVs and Light Commercials towing trailers being more stringently enforced by the Road Safety Authority (RSA), VDO Digital Tachographs can now be installed to Land Rover vehicles. In the majority of HGVs and PSVs, the speed regulations for the tachograph is taken from the vehicle gearbox. Due to the design of some PSV/LCV/ Commercial SUVs – M1/N1 vehicles - there is no place for the KITAS 2171 type sensor, which provides for data security and encription – to the gearbox or drivetrain and the speed signal is taken elsewhere.
From 24th July 2009 EC Tachograph legislation allows MI/N1 type vehicles put into service for the first time between 1st May 2006 – 31st December 2013 to be fitted with a specially designed electronic adaptor. Functions of this adaptor include graphical printouts of speed and mode activity profiles and a fast download function which significantly reduces download times. VDO (part of the Continental Corporation) can now install this system to all Land Rover vehicles. The RSA can provide advice and guidance to operators on tachographs in such vehicles - www.rsa.ie FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009 5
NEWS 11
Proposed Postal Code System not all plain sailing
I
n announcing that a Post Code system is to be introduced into Ireland over the next 15 months, the envisaged method in using an alphanumeric postal system (ABC 123) to identify the location has been met with some concern by experts in this field. Gary Delaney, GPS Ireland Consultants Ltd., said, “A debate in the Seanad stated that the Minister for Communications’ proposal would only guide the user to within 20-50 houses. The proposal will not employ or support the use of GPS – Global Positioning System.” Express delivery companies and other multi-drop operators will not be impressed either as this alphanumeric option will
not be SatNav compatible. Th is will have further repercussions for their collective environmental policies as according to the Way Finder Report issued by the Department for Transport (UK) and Newcastle University which identifies that up to 15% fuel savings can be achieved if a specific address can be used in a SatNav. “Given that 40% of our population live in non-urban areas, we reckon that the saving here could be up to 20%,” added Gary. Gary and his team at GPS Ireland have a fool proof system developed that will be available on every SatNav and will guide the user to the property entrance.
The Department for Communications appointed Working Group stated, “that a Postcode which cost effectively deals with the issue of non-unique addresses, without altering existing addresses, will bring many benefits. It can assist public services, utilities and business in identifying and locating their customers.” Gary outlines below his analysis of Minister for Communications PostCode Proposal compared to Recommendations of the PostCode Project Board dated 23rd May 2005.
Recommendation Number
Page 31 of Postcode Project Board Report Minister’s Proposal 23/05/2005
1
It is a public postcode that is proposed, not a ‘hidden’ or The Minister has stated that only certain organisations will have access to the full technical code. code – thereby indicating that part of the code will be “hidden”
2
It shall be structured, at least to the level of small spatial The area surrounding 40-50 properties will extend to several square kilometres areas within each county in non urban areas – this will not be “small spatial areas”
3
It must be easily memorised so that it will quickly gain a For reasons explained below – as the population grows, the code will have to high level of maximum and accurate usage. change so it will not be conducive to being easily memorised and therefore will cause reluctance to use it.
6 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
LAUNCH PAD 1
Honda’s ‘Executive’ CR-V Commercial
F
rom once you sit into the recently introduced Commercial version of the Honda CR-V you will be impressed by the high level of specification on offer. For less than €27,000 (excl. VAT) one gets leather seats, electric driver’s seat, Sat-Nav, cruise control, 18” alloys, Bluetooth hands free phone connection and dual-zone climate control to start with. From the business end, its unladen weight is 1580kg with a 560kg payload. Apart from all the comforts a ‘commercial traveller’ could wish for, there’s Honda’s superb 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine mated to a 6 speed box and real-time 4-wheel drive system.
Frank Kennedy, Sales & Marketing Director, Universal Honda said, “We see the new ‘Executive’ commercial option appealing to the professional business person who will appreciate the superb driving characteristics and refinement of Honda’s diesel engine technology and savour the outstanding premium level of specification which combine to deliver an outstanding value for money proposition.” He also mentioned that an entry-level version will be added to the range in due course.
Ford Transit Connect – refreshed
L
aunched in Ireland in recent months, without much fanfare, was the new Ford Transit Connect. The fact that the LCV market is on its knees one can see why there wasn’t much noise made about this new model. Sporting minor modifications externally, it was internally that the Transit Connect benefited most from the designer’s mouse. New Connect’s dash is taken from Ford’s successful S-Max which adds a more purposeful feel to the cabin area. The two-tone dash – blue and gray on the version driven - did liven it up also. Even on the SWB version, there was plenty
of room due in no small way to the folding wire mesh bulkhead. The fitting of ESP, electric windows, remote audio controls and gearshift indicator, in particular were appreciated, not to mention the parking sensors! The 1.8 TDCi will once again prove to be the popular engine choice as its 110bhp and 5 speed gearbox blend well together. This UK spec version driven had a host of optional extras fitted so it’s best to contact your local Ford dealer regarding the trim levels available on the Irish market.
Range Rover Sport Commercial enters fray
T
opping the business orientated line-up in the Land Rover range is the new Range Rover Sport Commercial. Two models are on the list namely the 3.0 TDV6 SE Commercial at €53,710 and the flagship HSE Commercial at €56,990. Like its sister SUV the Discovery 4, the Model Year 2010 Range Rover Sport gains some external and internal enhancements, bringing with it new levels of refi nement and craft smanship. The most significant change is the introduction of the new 3.0 litre LR-TDV6 diesel engine that
offers improved fuel economy (30 mpg +) and lower CO2 emissions. Th is new unit betters the 2.7 litre previously used by 29% (power) and 36% (torque) respectively. At 600Nm the torque output of the diesel is thought to be the highest of any six-cylinder passenger car diesel in the world, but with 9% improvements in economy and CO 2 emissions over the 2.7 litre V6. Meanwhile, the Freelander 2 comes with an innovative Stop/Start system on diesel manual models that improves fuel economy by up to 11% and reduces CO2 by almost 8%.
Tough launch pad for the VW Amarok at Dakar Rally
I
t is durable, robust and can tackle any terrain – the new Volkswagen Amarok will have to prove those claims in January 2010 during the world’s toughest rally. As official supplier to the Dakar Rally, the new Pick-Up from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will provide support vehicle to the Rally, which covers 9,000 kilometres crossing Argentina and Chile. The organisers ASO will use 20 Amaroks, with an additional 15 to be used as press and shutt le vehicles. “We are pleased to be able to use the Volkswagen Amarok as our Support Vehicle, because the Dakar Rally demands the highest levels of technical perfection, reliability and endurance – from our Race Touareg as much as from the 8 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
support vehicles. The Amarok is exactly the right vehicle for our team,” explains Kris Nissen, Volkwagen Motorsport Director. The Volkswagen Amarok will be seen at the Dakar Rally in Argentina for the fi rst time and will then be launched initially in South American markets, followed by Europe. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is entering a new vehicle sector. “The Volkswagen Amarok is Volkswagen’s answer to the pick-up and on the Dakar Rally – one of the last great adventures for mankind – it will have the chance to show what it’s made of and to demonstrate its flexibility and durability,” adds Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
LAUNCH PAD 11
New Toyota Land Cruiser – builds on 60 year pedigree
W
hile all of the limelight at the Toyota stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show centred on future models and power sources, the latest Toyota Land Cruiser stood silently, ready and willing to serve its owner. As we know, the highest percentage of Land Cruiser sales in Ireland are the Commercial types and this model has suffered an 80% drop in the last twelve months due to the downturn. At fi rst glance, the new Cruiser gets a new look with more glass on its light cluster and bolder chrome grille. Revisions have
also been made to the side and rear. A revised 170bhp 3.0 litre D-4D engine with an option of 5 speed autobox reduce CO 2 emissions to 214 g/km – an improvement of 5% on the current model. Rigidity has been increased by 11% dovetailing with revisions to the suspension for extra comfort and steering feet. Another new feature is an advance on its Multi-terrain Select, which automatically controls power and braking for different types of off-road surfaces and now incorporates Crawl Control.
More style, power and spec for Toyota Hilux
‘M
uscular SUV styling outside, passenger car comfort inside’ – is how Toyota describes the latest generation Hilux Pick-Up. Catering for the business and leisure crossover sectors, the Hilux features a new grille and grey plate bar while the redesigned bumper gives the impression of a low centre of gravity. Double Cab models are now fitted with a lockable tailgate. Revised styling inside includes new four-spoke steering wheel while the instrument cluster and controls have changed as have the ventilation controls. Powering the popular choice Double Cab is the 170 bhp 3.0 D-4D engine which has a CO2 rating of 236 g/km. Also available is a 2.5 D-4D. Modifications have also been made to enhance safety to include braking – with larger front discs and rear drums.
10 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie
Ford
VW
Renault
Toyota
Mercedes
Opel
Fiat Pro
Peugeot Citroen Nissan
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 9 10
30 28 10
84
61
55
84
45
84
129
Sept
372 320 274
445
472
585
1080
946
1080
1864
YTD
Model Transit 260 Transporter Vivaro Trafic Vito Total
1 2 3 4 5
Make Toyota Nissan Land Rover Mitsubishi Isuzu
Pick-Up
1 2 3 4 5
Make VW Ford VW Fiat Ford
Model Hilux Navara Defender L200 D-Max Total
2009 Units 52 44 36 16 14 166
2009 Units 374 254 183 178 153 1488
4.44 3.82 3.27
5.32
5.64
6.99
12.90
11.30
12.90
22.26
Make Hyundai Ford Fiat Model Accent Van Fiesta Van Punto Van Total
Model Focus Van Auris Van Astravan C'eed Van Golf Van Total
% 31.3 26.5 21.7 9.6 8.4
% 25.1 17.1 12.3 12.0 10.3
% mkt 1.1 0.9 0.6 0.4 0.4 3.8
% mkt 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.2 2.0
% mkt 4.5 3.0 2.2 2.1 1.8 17.8
Citroen Peugeot
Ford
Make Renault VW
2008 Units 560 872 162 254 123 2359
2008 Units 208 291 52 76 91 808
2008 Units 831 1008 802 547 561 6011
% 23.7 37.0 6.9 10.8 5.2
% 25.7 36.0 6.4 9.4 11.3
9.5 9.4
13.8
% mkt 2.0 3.1 0.6 0.9 0.4 8.3
% mkt 0.7 1.0 0.2 0.3 0.3 2.8
2.6 2.5 26.9
3.7
% mkt 7.0 5.8
% mkt 1.5 0.6 0.5 0.5 0.5 4.5
% mkt 0.6 0.2 0.1 1.0
% -55 -75 -77 -67 -73 -75
587 423 5664
1227
2008 Units 457 1748
Variance Unit -470 -794 -112 -219 -92 -2043
% -84 -91 -69 -86 -75 -87
10.4 7.5
21.7
% 8.1 30.9
% 31.0 15.7 13.8 2.6 16.5
% 21.4 25.9 6.8
2.1 1.5 20.0
4.3
% mkt 1.6 6.2
% mkt 1.8 0.9 0.8 0.2 1.0 5.9
% mkt 0.2 0.3 0.1 1.0
-372 -212 -3409
-915 -63 -50 -60
-75
Variance Units % 131 29 -1259 -72
Variance Units % -396 -76 -214 -81 -188 -81 -1 -2 -239 -86 -1311 -78
Variance Units % -14 -22 -61 -80 -8 -40 -206 -70
Model Land Cruiser Antara M/Class Pajero Santa Fe Total
Model Transit Sprinter Master Crafter Boxer Total
1 2 3
Make Isuzu Mitsubishi Toyota
Model NKR Canter Dyna Total
Light Truck - Chassis / Cab
1 2 3 4 5
Make Toyota Opel Mercedes Mitsubishi Hyundai
Commercial SUV
1 2 3 4 5
Make Ford Mercedes Renault VW Peugeot
K Segment – Panel Van (Lg)
2008 Units 63 76 20 294 2008 Units 522 264 232 44 278 1686
Variance Units % -156 -75 -247 -85 -16 -31 -60 -79 -77 -85 -642 -79
Variance Units -457 -754 -619 -369 -408 -4523
% 33.6 13.3 11.7 11.5 10.4
% 55.7 17 13.6
% 26.1 21.7
% mkt 2.9 3.6 2.8 1.9 2.0 21.2
215 211 2255
312
% 13.8 16.8 13.3 9.1 9.3
Model Kangoo Caddy Transit Connect Berlingo Partner Total
Panel Vans (Sm)
Make Ford Toyota Opel Kia VW
2009 Units 126 50 44 43 39 375
2009 Units 49 15 12 88
2009 Units 588 489
Car CarDerived DerivedVan Van(Sm) (Sm)
Car Derived Van (Lg)
% 28.5 24.7 15.8 11.1 9.8
% Share
2009 Units 90 78 50 35 31 316
Model Caravelle Bus Transit Bus Caddy Life Scudo Minibus Tourneo Connect Total
K Segment (Bus) Passenger
1 2 3 4 5
Make Ford VW Opel Renault Mercedes
K1 Segment – Panel Van (Med)
Totals: Sept 09 vs Sept 08 = 645 vs 993 = 348/-35.05% Q3 2009 vs Q3 2008 = 8372 vs 28285 = 19,913/-70.40%
Marque
Pos
Light VehiclesJan - Sept 09 LightCommercials Commercial Vehicles
2009 Units 55 29 20 104
2009 Units 344 116 102 77 73 1078
% 52.9 27.9 19.2
% 31.9 10.8 9.5 7.1 6.8
% 52.9 18.2 8.7 6.3 4.4
% mkt 0.7 0.3 0.2 1.2
% mkt 4.1 1.4 1.2 0.9 0.9 12.9
% mkt 11.5 3.9 1.9 1.4 0.9 21.7
104
Light Truck C/C
2009 Units 961 330 158 115 79 1816
316
2008 Units 112 116 108 336
2008 Units 1826 120 135 571 453 5122
2008 Units 2592 889 341 297 62 4968
1078
SUV Commercial Pick-Up
166
1816
Panel Van (Lg) (Bus) Passenger
1488
2255
375
88
8372
Panel Van (Med)
Panel Van (Sm)
Car Derived Van (Sm) Car Derived Van (Lg)
Total Market
Jan – Sept 09
% 33.3 34.5 32.1
% 35.7 2.3 2.6 11.1 8.8
% 52.2 17.9 6.9 6.0 1.2
336
2359
5122
808
4968
6011
5664
1686
294
28285
% mkt 0.4 0.4 0.4 1.2
% mkt 6.4 0.4 0.5 2.0 1.6 18.0
% mkt 9.1 3.1 1.2 1.0 0.2 17.5
Jan – Sept 08
Variance Units -57 -87 -88 -232
Variance Units -1482 -4 -33 -494 -380 -4044
Variance Units -1631 -559 -183 -182 -17 -3152
-232
-2043
-4044
-642
-3152
-4523
-3409
-1311
-206
-19913
Variance Units
% -51 -75 -81 -69
% -81 -3 -24 -87 -84 -79
% -63 -63 -54 -61 27 -63
-69.0
-86.6
-79.0
-79.5
-63.4
-75.2
-60.2
-77.8
-70.1
-70.5
%
Light per Category CategoryJan January May 2009 LightCommercial CommercialRegistration Registration per - Sept-2009 (Q3)
ANALYSIS - SIMI New Registrations – SEPTEMBER 2009
ADVENTURE
Caddy Maxi 4MOTION impresses w
• •
•
From the Atlantic to the Pacific in eight days and 13.5 hours Record-setting team complete over 15,000 kilometres nonstop Caddy Maxi 4MOTION is available to order in time for the winter season
M
onths before its launch, the Caddy Maxi 4MOTION has already created quite a stir: the new model from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has just completed the 15,408 kilometre Transeurasia route from Cabo da Roca (Portugal) to the destination, Magadan (Russia), in a non-stop drive of just eight days, 13 hours and 30 minutes. As a result, the Caddy Maxi 4MOTION now enters the Guinness Book of Records. The Transeurasia is the world’s longest westeast route on one Continent, running for over 15,000 kilometres from Cabo da Roca (Portugal) on the Atlantic to the Russian port of Magadan on the Sea of Okhotsk on the Pacific Ocean at the end of the Russian road network. Eight different countries, eleven different time zones and vast stretches of unknown road make 12 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
up this longest non-stop route. Matt hias Gottenauer (43) and Andreas Renz (42), the Caddy Maxi 4MOTION team, began their journey at noon (GMT) on 2 October 2009 at the westernmost point of the European mainland in Portugal. During the first two days, the team drove through Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Poland, Latvia and Lithuania before embarking on the major part of the journey in Russia. On the morning of the 11 October 2009 at 1.30 am (GMT), 1.30 pm local time, Gottenauer and Renz reached their destination of Magadan. “According to our plans, ten days was an unrealistic target,” Renz emphasised. “But the four-wheel drive Caddy Maxi proved to have enormous stamina on parts of the route that were particularly difficult – it was really the guarantee for a great time. The car’s reliability, robust construction and range made it the third member of our team.” The fi rst part of the route led the Caddy Maxi 4MOTION over motorways and tarred roads, allowing the vehicle to make quick and comfortable progress. As the route led further east, the road surfaces became increasingly dilapidated – the last 5,000 kilometres were particularly challenging for both vehicle
and drivers. The road conditions in central and eastern Russia were, for the most part, unknown. Bumpy tarred roads with deep potholes, rough gravel paths and muddy clay tracks with deep truck wheel-marks were no problem for the four-wheel drive Caddy Maxi. “We weren’t exactly sure what the road conditions would be like on the last stage of the trip, so we were relying on a very robust and reliable vehicle,” admitted Andreas. “The Caddy Maxi 4MOTION is perfect for this type of trip which covered the variety of different road conditions,” added Matthias. The VW Commercial, which also served as a sleeping place for Gottenauer and Renz during the non-stop journey, also tackled virtually impassable rockbed even though the engine, gearbox and body were under immense and continuous strain. “The vehicle has impressively proven its on- and off-road abilities,” said Matt hias Gottenauer after the arrival in Magadan. “The engine and gearbox are perfectly co-ordinated with each other and even at low engine speeds, the 1.9 litre TDI has a lot of power. The fact that we completed this difficult route with the Caddy Maxi 4MOTION, a production vehicle in record time, speaks volumes for the quality of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.”
ADVENTURE
s with Transeurasia - World Record
Following the standard Caddy 4 MOTION’s successful market launch across Europe, the Caddy Maxi 4MOTION with four-wheel drive will be available to order in the near future. Just like its smaller brother, the vehicle is equipped with an electronically controlled Haldex coupling which distributes driving force from the 1.9 litre TDI engine (103bhp/77kW) between the front and rear axles. For transmitt ing this power, the Caddy Maxi has a 6-speed gearbox which provides smooth and easy handling over rough surfaces. The Caddy Maxi 4MOTION also comes with hill-start assist, ESP electronic stabilisation programme and a diesel particulate fi lter as standard. In addition, the ‘touring’ version was fitted with underbody protection and two additional fog lights.
The two adventurers had already set one record in a vehicle from Vol k swagen Com mercia l Vehicles. Ten years ago they completed the Pan Americana, the longest continuous trip from North to South, in a Volkswagen T4 Multivan Synchro TDI (75 kW). Th is took a total of 15 days and 14 hours, which secured the T4 and both of its drivers an entry in the Guinness Book of Records. The record has not yet been broken. It is unlikely that their Transeurasia record will be broken for quite a while either.
Gottenauer and Renz were the fi rst team to traverse Eurasia against the clock. So that their time could be measured exactly, the Caddy Maxi 4MOTION is equipped with a GPS transmitter which sent out a signal twice a day. The team completed the trip in accordance with the old rules from the Guinness Book of Records, which state that only two people may travel in the same vehicle at all times and that the journey must be documented so that it can be traced. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
13
FLEETING SHOTS
Volkswagen to defend Dakar title with the 5 Race Touaregs
V
olkswagen will field fi ve Race Touaregs in a bid to defend one of the most challenging international motorsport events, the Dakar Rally.
with altitudes exceeding 4,700 metres above sea-level. It was over this terrain that Volkswagen made history in 2009 with the Race Touareg becoming the fi rst diesel-powered vehicle to win the legendary event. The Race Touaregs, powered by a 2.5 litre TDI developing 280 PS, won ten out of a possible 13 stage wins on the way to clinching a famous one-two victory. VW’s new Pick-Up, the Amarak will join the crews to provide service and parts back-up.
The 2010 ‘Dakar’ Rally course starts from Buenos Aires in Argentina on 1 January. The five teams wil be tested to the limits, traveling 9,000 kilometres (5,625 miles) across the Andes, through the Atacama deserts demanding dune fields in the north of Chile and back,
10 strong new Unimog U300 fleet for ESB Networks
T
he
Unimog's pictured are part of a 10 strong f leet purchase by ESB Networks that w ill serve depots nationwide. Chosen for their extreme off-road capabilities, they are the new U300 4x4 8.5t GV W model which replaces the older U140 and
U140L of which the ESB Networks currently operate over 100 units. The vehicles are finished in customary ESB Highway Yellow and are all fitted with a EPS semi-automatic transmission and independent inf lation a nd de f l at ion t y re system. The bodies are specially com m issioned a nd bu i lt by Mooretow n E ng i ne er i ng , w h ic h includes a winch to the rear to transport and lay electrical cable.
Rugby League Ireland try-out Renault to produce Electric Subaru Forester Commercials Kangoo Van
I
n a two-year lease deal, Subaru Ireland has supplied three vehicles to Rugby League Ireland. The three Forester Commercial diesels will be used by the RLI coaches on their day-to-day business of visiting clubs and schools promoting rugby league all over Ireland.
Taking delivery of the new vehicles from Mr. Neville Matt hews, MD Subaru Ireland, David Southern PRO of the RLI said, “We chose Subaru because of their reputation for safety and reliability and, of course, the new diesel paired with full-time four wheel drive”. The vehicles will be easily spotted in their green and white livery travelling throughout the country.
Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
R
enault has announced that it will manufacture its future electric, zero-emission Kangoo Van and M.C.A. (Maubeuge Construction Automobile), in northern France, starting in the fi rst half of 2011. A specialist LCV (light commercial vehicle) plant for twenty years, Maubeuge currently produces Kangoo, Kangoo Van and Kangoo be bob (three-door car version available on the Continent) and is able to continuously adapt to demand and the diverse nature of these types of vehicles. Kangoo be bop Z.E. and Kangoo Z.E. Concept were the precursors of the future electric Kangoo Van, which will be designed for professionals, primarily for urban and suburban use. Not only will the new model have a minimal impact on the environment, it will also boast a low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) figure, making it a highly attractive solution for both individual customers and larger fleet operators.
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
15
LONG TERM TEST
COMPARISON: FIAT FIORINO
VERSUS
t last it was my turn to take the wheel of the Fleet Transport Fiat Fiorino Long-Term Test van some months after it arrived at Fleet HQ. There is now 5,500 kilometres on the clock and as you would expect, the Fiorino is showing litt le wear at this early stage – apart from the scratch on the door. Who did that?
A
journey is continually interrupted by traffic, traffic lights and the general stop-start nature of our city streets. It also benefits from a great driver position. Visibility is top class through the huge front windscreen and the substantial side windows. You also get decent door mirrors which do a fi ne job too – all essential tools for urban deliveries.
Seriously, though, all’s well with the Fiorino. You have to be impressed, even with the small enough mileage that there is, as yet not even a hint of a squeak or a ratt le anywhere, either up front or in the cargo bay. Th at’s despite most of the van’s work is carrying Fleet Magazines about the place, which is not light work by any means as a pallet of boxes full of paper is a heavy load.
Out on the open road the criteria changes and the Fiorino, while small in stature is a steady van and comfortable enough for longer runs. On the fi rst day that I had it, the weather was dreadful – come to think of it, it was dreadful all the time I had it. I mention this because the overall stability of vans is sometimes compromised by high winds, slippery surfaces and the antics of other road users. In the case of the Fiorino, there was no uncomfortable buffeting from the gusting wind, the ride was positive and it reacts well to sharp changes in direction when the need arises.
Th is van has two characters, depending on where you drive it. About town, the clutch free Comfort-Matic comes into its own where your
However, here the gearbox has its limitations. In full automatic mode it seems to be very unsure and continued to shift from sixth to fi fth at constant speeds around 100km/h. But, taking the limitations of the gearbox out of the equation, on the open road the outstanding feature of the Fiorino is it impressive stability, even when empty. Back into town and we get some reward from the 6-speed Comfort-Matic gearbox. At times it does have a mind of its own but once you come to terms with that and you use the manual option on gradients and when you need a quicker gear change, it becomes quite useful. Besides the Fiorino’s size is the real bonus with tricky parking made easy and once it will fit in the space, it is simple to manoeuvre even into the smallest parking space. The ease of access to the back, especially through the side sliding doors is also noticeable here as is the good floor height for handballing items of cargo. 16 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
FORD FIESTA VAN
Under the hood, the Fiat 1.3-litre MultiJet Euro 4 compliant engine remains a real gem. Fiat claims that it will return 4.5L/100km, my best return was 6.0L/100km. That’s a sizeable improvement from the fi rst test under normal working conditions but it is still a litt le off what you might expect. Mind you, I didn’t spare it on the expressed instructions from the editor, you understand! And given the limitations of the gearbox, that figure should improve with a lighter touch and more economical driving. And here’s the valid point. What with all this talk of the gearbox, wouldn’t this be a super litt le grafter with a regular 5-speed manual box and an experienced operator at the wheel? Yes it would! And when you consider its high level of driver comfort, its smashing engine and the fact that it will take a full euro pallet easily, there is not a lot left to argue against the Fiat Fiorino. Gerry Murphy
LONG TERM TEST which can make it awkward for retrieving goods at the front of the cargo area, while intruding wheel arches, the sloping roof and a raised lip on the rear door make it much less practical as a load lugger than the purpose built Fiorino.
The Fiat Fiorino and the latest generation of sub-compact vans represent a new threat to a long established category in Ireland – that of the car derived van. Over the years these have proven ideal for people who need to transport a limited amount of goods, but still want the creature comforts and driveability of passenger cars, albeit without rear seats. The new sub-compact vans however significantly undercut car vans on price while competing in many other aspects as well. With the latest generation Ford Fiesta van having recently gone on sale we took the opportunity to check it out and see how one of Ireland’s most popular compact car vans compares against our Fleet Transport Fiat Fiorino long term test vehicle. First things fi rst, if load carrying capabilities are the top priority, there is no competition between the Fiorino and Fiesta van. Despite the short dimensions of the Fiat it still offers a payload of 610 kg, and a total load space of 2.5 cubic metres, most of which can be used thanks to the square shape of the cargo area. The side doors help make it very accessible while the floor is flush with the doors making it easy to slide items in and out. In comparison the Fiesta has to manage with a payload of 507 kg and a total load space of 1 cubic metre. Access is only via the rear hatch
On the positive side the Fiesta comes with a durable rubber floor that will stand the test of time, while four cargo tie-down hooks for securing loads are included – a feature not always provided on these types of conversions. Add in the half-sized bulkhead and in our opinion this is one of the best car to van conversions that we have seen. So what’s it like to drive? Well, the Fiesta in passenger form is widely acknowledged to be one of the best handling small cars on the market, and the van version scores strongly in this respect also. Whereas the Fiorino can be a litt le bouncy on bumpy roads, particularly when unladen, the Fiesta handles all surfaces with aplomb. It has a conventional driving position - you sit lower than the Fiorino so all-round visibility isn’t as good, although it does have the benefit of a rear-view mirror. The 68 PS 1.4 TDCi engine comes with a five speed manual gearbox, so most drivers will feel instantly at home. Fuel economy wise, Ford quote a combined figure of 4.2 l/100 km (67.3 mpg). Ford also offers the Fiesta van with an 82 PS 1.25 litre Duratec petrol engine or a 90 PS 1.6 litre TDCi, but in our opinion the 1.4 TDCi is a good fit for this vehicle, offering more than sufficient get up and go even when fully laden. One of the appeals of car derived vans for many is that at a glance they can be mistaken for regular cars, only the body coloured
Text: Gerry Murphy & Cathal Doyle Photos: Cathal Doyle
solid panels replacing the rear windows differentiating the passenger and van models. The latest Fiesta is a stylish and modern looking design which looks equally smart in van specification. For anyone that may want to use their van for personal as well as work transport, the Fiesta can look the part in either role. In comparison, for all its cutesy looks nobody will mistake the Fiorino for anything other than a van
Conclusion Although these two vehicles may be competing for the same market segment they are in reality very different vehicles, and which one you choose will really depend on what uses you require for it. If load carrying is the priority, or having easy access to the load area is important it is hard to look beyond the Fiorino. Equally the Fiat impresses with how easy and car-like it is to drive, and indeed many may prefer its higher driving position to that of the Ford. For some its sit-up-and-beg looks will appeal but for others it is too obviously a van, a fact that will push them towards the car-like attractions of the Fiesta. Ultimately for many it will come down to price, and while the Fiesta is good value starting from €15,310 (VRT inc), the Fiorino at €12,995 (VRT inc) will prove a very tempting option in these recessionary times. Cathal Doyle
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
17
LCV
Citroën - Offering LCV’s For Every Requirement already includes a range of dropsides, tippers, Luton vans, glass-carrying vans, temperaturecontrolled vans, car transporters and dual-fuel vans from a range of specialist converters and bodybuilders. An additional four products have just been annouced under the 'Ready to Run' programme including a wheelchair accessible minibus built by Tawe Coachbuilders, a high-payload multi-purpose small plant carrier from TFS, a selection of temperature controlled box van bodies from Somers, and a low-loading glass carrying Relay van from Supertrucks.
C
itroën in Ireland is undergoing a restructuring at the moment, following the announcement that the parent company in France is to take over distribution of the brand in this country from the Gallic Group. Details of the exact new operational structure have yet to be announced as we go to press, but what seems probable is that there will be at least some closer cooperation with Citroën’s UK operation than has been the case up to now. Therefore an invitation to attend a press briefing of Citroën UK’s Commercial operation proved opportune, as it is quite possible that many of the models and specifications being offered there may shortly be appearing in the Irish market. UK Market Down but Citroën Bucking the Trend Although not as severe as the sales collapse in Ireland, the UK commercial market has
18
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
suffered badly this year with the LCV market down 18.55% to October and five of the top eight manufacturers suffering sales drops of more than 35% in spite of the introduction of an LCV scrappage scheme. Citroën however is on the up, increasing market share and outperforming the market by about 5%. As of the end of October, Citroën accounted for 10.62% market share in the UK which compares favourable with its 3.7% market share in Ireland this year.
Another product scheduled to go into production is a wheelchair-accessible taxi and people carrier based on the Dispatch Combi. Converted by Glasgow-based Allied Vehicles Group, specialists in wheelchairaccessible vehicles as well as the Allied-ZEV electric vehicle range, the company will market a EuroTaxi equipped to full Hackney cab specification and offering seating for up to seven passengers. Additionally a Citroën Independence model is designed to meet the requirements of large familes, and can seat one wheelchair user and up to five seated passengers, or two wheelchair users and four seated passengers depending on specification. A rear fold-out wheelchair access ramp is fitted as standard.
Expansion of Ready to Run Programme
New Berlingo Models Increase Versatility
As is the case in this country Citroën UK offers the full selection of commercial vehicles ranging from the Nemo to the Relay. But while standard off-the-production-line models account for the vast majority of sales, there is also a strong focus on offering officially approved tailor-built solutions to meet specialist requirements. Marketed under the Ready to Run banner, the programme
The Berlingo van has long been a popular model, accounting for the majority of Citroën LCV sales both in Ireland and the UK. As well as the familiar L1 and L2 versions with payloads of 625 kg or 825 kg (L1) and 750kg (L2), there are also a selection of more specialised factory produced options available. These include a 5 seater crew van version and a platform cab for specialist
LCV bodywork. Additionally Citroën recently announced an enhanced traction Berlingo XTR+ as well as a Dispatch XTR+. Featuring a limited-slip differential, raised heavy-duty suspension and under-body protection, it is aimed at providing a degree of off-road capability without compromising on-road driving characteristics, and will supercede the C-Crosser van currently being offered in the UK. We got the opportunity to drive the Berlingo XTR+ on an off-road course, and while it won’t challenge a genuine 4WD for serious all-terrain capabilites, it proved surprisingly adept at tackling muddy and slippery conditions into which you would hesitate bringing a regular vehicle.
Citroën’s LCV Heritage As befitt ing a company celebrating its 90th anniversary, Citroën has a proud history in the field of commercial vehicles. Th is was underlined by the presence at the briefi ng of three immaculate examples of vans from days of yore. The oldest vehicle present was a TUB van from 1941. Despite only having a short production run due to the outbreak of war, the TUB was a pioneer for current LCV configurations featuring front wheel drive and mechanicals inherited from the ground-breaking Traction Avant car. Fitted with a 9CV engine and three speed gearbox, it had a payload of 850kg. Other feature included rack and pinion steering, hydraulic brakes and torsion bar suspension.
Looking forward to 2010 Citroën is hoping to introduce a Berlingo First electric van. Currently undergoing trials with La Poste in France, it has a sodium nickel chloride battery giving a 75 mile (120 kms) range between charges. Also coming in 2010 is a Euro 5 version of the HDi engine which will offer improved fuel economy and performance. Among the other vehicles available for test drive we also drove was a Berlingo running on LPG built by engine specialists Nicholson McLaren and based on the 1.6 litre petrol engine. Another offering on display was a fully specified motorhome on a Berlingo chassis built by Romahome. For such a compact vehicle it offers a surprising degree of space, although afficianados of truly small camper vans will be interested to know that the company also offers a conversion based on the Nemo. New Enterprise Range For owners and drivers looking for more creature comforts from their LCV, Citroën UK is introducing a new Enterprise version on its Nemo, Berlingo, Dispatch and Relay models. On sale from January, the Enterprise specification includes air-condition, Bluetooth phone connectivity and reverse parking sensors over and above the standard models. Business Centre Programme to be Extended Following a successful pilot operation last year Citroën UK has committed to expanding its Business Centre programme. Th is panEuropean initiative is aimed to support small/ medium and car fleet buyers by offering an expanded range of services from selected centres. These will include LCV technical support staff with special training, a wider range of display products, vehicles from the Ready to Run programme on display, and a large range of demonstrators and approved used LCVs. The company is in the process of appointing some 90 strategically located Business Centres from within the existing Citroën UK network by the end of 2009.
Citroën TUB van If the TUB had a short life, its successor the H series was the opposite, remaining in production from 1948 to 1982, with the example on show one of the last off the line from 1981. Again using mechanicals from the Traction Avant, the H series saw many specification changes during its life with a wide range of body styles on offer. Its most unusal feature was that it had different wheelbases on each side. It remained the rarest of beasts on this side of the English channel with only 3 converted to right hand drive by Citroën UK for internal use.
Citroën H- Series
The quirky 2CV is one of Citroën’s defi ning products and naturally there was a commercial variant, the Fourgonette which remained in production for nearly thirty years. At its debut in 1950 it was powered by a 375cc engine that gave it a top speed of just 27mph and a payload of 250kg, but it proved highly popular with small business owners and tradesmen and is still a familiar sight in parts of France to this day.
Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie
Citroën 2CV Fourgonette FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
19
INNOVATION
Iveco’s future is here! products that have been rewarded with 20,000 unit orders for the new EcoDaily in only five months, despite the economic conditions.” In this situation, Iveco is doing quite well, thanks to the great effort by our distributor network,” he added. “Our response in difficult times is always to look to the future and therefore offer to customers economy, ecology, innovation and lasting value. With EcoDaily we are moving even closer to sustainable transport ….. with the only LCV to offer all feasible ecological solutions available.”
Sustainable LCVs
• Hydromethane EcoDaily developed
I
veco is about to become the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer in the field of providing alternative fuels and alternative tractions. Following the successful launch of the latest generation of the Daily range of vans and light trucks that includes Natural Gas and Electric power sources, two additional and innovative developments have emerged that will also come under the EcoDaily banner similar to the aforementioned energy propulsion systems.
solutions. And Fleet Van & Utility had the exclusive opportunity to drive these new alternative tractions at the Fiat Group owned test track at Balocco, an hour from Milan. More about that experience later.
Communication initiatives
During June and July, Iveco began a strong commercial presentation campaign to the marketplace to promote the new Daily and the EcoDaily range in particular. Following on from the ‘Strong by Nature’ Popeye theme, the legendary cartoon character’s musical score was used on the web based ‘Daily Radio’ which has att racted 12,000 regular listeners per month. The specially created multi-lingual EcoDaily website has had over 100,000 hits since launch in June while the blog and social Milan, the original home of Iveco’s sister brand networks pages are now reaching around Alfa Romeo was the chosen venue to present 25,000 contacts per month. For the fi rst time the EcoDaily Hybrid Powertrain (Diesel/ ever, Iveco brought the brand name EcoDaily Electric) and the ‘super green’ Hydromethane to the Australian Moto GP Grand Prix, Phillip blend that will both play a strategic role as Island, which sent home a high profile message ‘Bridge Technology’ towards zero emissions to a global audience. (A different audience (80,000) was att racted to the San Siro Stadium in Milan for the Rugby Test between Italy and The All Blacks. Both teams are sponsored by Iveco). Co-incidentally, Iveco provide transport solutions to the Fiat backed Yamaha Team that boasts multi-world champion Valentino Rossi and new charger Jorge Lorenzo while Alfa Romeo support the Italian Ducati outfit. “It’s all about gett ing closer to our customer,” emphasised Franco Miniero, Iveco Senior ViceGiuliano Giovannini, Iveco Product Marketing Director President, Sales & Marketing. “Th is and Franco Miniero, Iveco Senior Vice-President, Sales intensive effort to show and explain & Marketing the outstanding qualities of the new 20 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
Under the ‘Alternative Fuels’ banner comes the EcoDaily Natural Power (CNG) version, which offers the lowest tail-pipe emissions available among those using internal combustion engines. Wearing the ‘Alternative Tractions’ that is the EcoDaily Electric which is available as a 3.5 tonne or 5.2 tonne van, chassis/cab or crew cab, offering load volumes of up to 17m3 and a payload capacity of almost 3.0 tonnes. “But we want to go even further,” stated Giuliano Giovannini, Iveco Product Marketing Director. “Today we can present to you other solutions that are very important for the future of mobility and transport – the EcoDaily Hybrid and the Hydromethane EcoDaily. To date a number of field tests have been carried out with FedEx in Italy and with ATM, a public transport company in the City of Milan (pictured top right). “The advantages offered by this technology are twofold,” Giuliano continued, “From one side it reduces even further pollution emissions and on the other offers fuel consumption and CO2 reductions of up to 30%.”
INNOVATION The same logic has led Iveco to experiment Hydromethane as a vehicle fuel – a blend of hydrogen and methane. “It’s a fascinating project aimed at shortening the distance between future hydrogen vehicles and today’s vehicles,” enthused Giuliano. “In fact, our Hydromethane EcoDaily is derived directly from our Natural Power version.” Andrea Gerini, Head of Alternative Fuel Engines R esea rc h Depa r t ment outlined details of the most recent fruits of the Fiat Group research activity in sustainable transport. He began by posing the question – “Why are we so interested in hydrogen?” Because it can (and it has …) to be produced from renewable energy sources,” was his answer. He went on to explain. “Blended with natural gas, it can be easily used also as internal combustion engine fuel and it doesn’t generate CO2 during combustion – only H2O – that is water.” “Fueling EcoDaily with a mix of 30% hydrogen and 70% methane gives us immediate access to this energy source. If hydrogen is not available, the vehicle can normally operate with CNG.” The Hydromethane EcoDaily prototype development began last September for experimentation with Italian motorway company, Modena Brennero with the hydrogen for the blend provided from surplus energy coming from a hydro-electric power station. “Energy born in the water and that returns to water: a rather beautiful symbol to represent as always, cleaner future of transport.”
Test Drives EcoDaily Hybrid
Hydromethane EcoDaily
Iveco has adapted the so called mild-hybrid configuration, based on a parallel Diesel Electric system as used by MercedesBenz and Fuso in their Atego and Canter respectively (as featured in Fleet recently). The downsized 2.3 litre Diesel (116 bhp) engine and the 32 kW electric motor/ generator are used either together or independently under the direct control of the hybrid powertrain.
Allegedly Howard Hughes, the Hollywood legend that developed a car which runs on water but when the oil companies heard about the project it was soon buried. Well, the time has come to look at hydro technology in the automotive industry in a different light and Iveco has come up with a readymade solution. The Hydromethane system (co-developed by CRF Centro Ricerche Fiat) and Fiat Powertrain Technologies is able to recognise the mixture composition and estimate the operating parameters in real time similar to the Flex-Fuel concept as in Brazil where petrol, alcohol and natural gas all work together. Around the challenging Balocco track, the Hydrogen/Natural Gas mix performed much better than expected. Acceleration speed recovery was on par with the Natural Power (CNG) version driven last June, although it was surprisingly noisier.
To further reduce fuel consumption, a Stop/ Start system is used alongside the Daily’s AGile 6 speed automated transmission. Regenerative braking is also in place although this could not be monitored during our test drive as the only information on the dash is when the ‘battery’ graphic was displayed to inform the driver when the vehicle is in full battery propulsion mode. To be honest, a test track of this nature was not the most suitable location for this particular analysis run as there were too many corners en-route, which resulted in the gears hopping around the mid-range all too often affecting the smooth flow of the vehicle, like it should be.
Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
Due to its simple chemical structure combustion of methane results in lower levels of CO2 and the benefit of hydromethane (30% hydrogen) effectively doubles any natural gas benefit versus diesel. This development could lead into the further promotion of hydrogen and the fact that it is sourced from an already generated surplus will add to its sustainability and viability.
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
21
TEST
Iveco EcoDaily 50C17 EEV Euro 5
“N
ew aspects of this vehicle are based on two key words – Ecology and Economy – highlighting its ecological and competitive characteristics, confi rming Iveco’s strong commitment to meet the needs of ever more sustainable transport solutions,” Franco Miniero, Senior Vice-President, Sales & Marketing Iveco. Mr. Miniero was talking about the new Iveco EcoDaily, a version of which Fleet Van & Utility had the opportunity to have the fi rst drive on home terrain in November, months before its official launch in Ireland. As an EEV – Environmentally Enhanced friendly Vehicle – this version of the new Daily range qualifies to have the ‘Eco’ tag attached under Euro 5 guidelines. Iveco has further invested in the ‘green’ theme with the introduction of electric, diesel/electric hybrid and natural gas powered engines for the Model Year 2010 Dailys. EcoDaily with the EEV engine line-up actually meets future Euro 6 standards. The 3.0 Common Rail EEV with 140 hp (350 Nm) and 170 hp (400 Nm) unit met this standard without resorting to SCR (that requires AdBlue), while improving combustion through optimised EGR. The broad range of Daily engines provide 10 different power
outputs (from 96 – 176 hp). New Daily sports a new one-piece honeycomb grille while the front headlamps now have built in fog lamps. Wide angle mirrors provide excellent rear visibility as discovered on our 200 kilometre test run. Daily’s interior has benefited more from the creativity of the Centro Stile (within the Fiat Group) with a totally new dash board that’s pleasing to the eye. ISRI seating that is multi-adjustable provides a comfortable posture. Another vital area that will be appreciated are the numerous storage areas placed strategically around the cabin. Th is 50C17 model slots in at around the middle of a comprehensive weight range that stretches from 2.8 to a new maximum GVW of 7.0 tonnes. With a wheelbase of 3950 mm and an internal height of 1900 mm the 15.6 m3 available offers a payload of up to 2630 kg. The fi rst two numbers, five and zero denote that it’s a 5.0 tonne vehicle while the ‘C’ means it’s twin-wheeled while the 17 covers the engine horsepower at 170. Depending on the engine, Daily is equipped with a five or six speed manual gearbox. Iveco’s AGile automated transmission is also available on all versions. Following the successful introduction of the Fiat Group’s Blue & Me Fleet Management interface (i n association w ith Microsoft) in the
Stralis, the Daily now has this Bluetooth based telematics/communications system. For the legal requirement that is the tachograph, Blue & Me Fleet can remotely download tachograph readings as well as assessing driving style and fuel consumption. Our test run took us through South Mayo and North/East Galway during which the twin turbos worked hard. Apparently, one turbo provides low down torque while the other boosts top end power. On occasions the presence of the turbos at work were noted, especially when the shoe was down. On the tight and twisty sections, the EcoDaily 50C17 handled extremely well – never once did this loaded vehicle step out of line. From the 60 litre tank, 360 miles (580 kilometers) were within its range from our time on board and according to the trip the average was around 26 - 28 mpg (9 - 8.4 l/100kms). Iveco Dailys were always built strong and from our experience the new ‘even greener’ EcoDaily version will not only pay its way for the operator but pave its way well into the future.
Emissions Comparison - (g/k Wh)
22 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
PM – Particulates
NOx – Nitrogen Oxides
Euro 4
0.03
3.5
Euro 5
0.03
2.0
EEV
0.02
2.0
Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
BUYERS’ GUIDE
with n o i t a i in assoc
The Nitro by Dodge is the only SUV which the now Fiat Group owned company offers in commercial mode. It is a true giant of a vehicle that gives you road presence along with genuine off-road ability. While it is a big bulky lump of metal it still carries enough style and individuality to be taken serious if you want to be noticed. It is powered by a 2.8 litre CRD diesel engine with 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic. Everything is in the name. 4x4 pedigree, proven engines and a near perfect, super-competent four-wheel drive system – Selec-Trac II – all add up to make the Jeep range of 4x4’s so revered all over the world. And there is such a selection of different models, the Cherokee 2.8-litre CRD, Grand Cherokee 3.0-litre
www.dodge.ie
Dodge Nitro CRD, Patriot 2.0-litre CRD and the mighty www.jeep.ie Wrangler 2.8-litre CRD Sport commercial offer customers a wide array of off-road vehicles with many different characteristics. Another good reason to consider Jeep is the very att ractive price range, which in these time are not to be sniffed at.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Cherokee
Jeep Wrangler Sport
Jeep Patriot
Jeep Wrangler Quite a few new dealerships have been added to the Fiat Professional family recently and there’s a new Doblo Cargo coming too. Fiat Professional has a complete commercial catalogue of award-winning vans and the new
Doblo will add another new dimension to the range. At the low end the agile Fiorino is a joint International Van of the Year winner 2009 with PSA Peugeot/Citroën and Fiat’s 1.3-litre MultiJet engine is a real gem. Prior to the Fiorino, the Fiat Scudo was the Van
New Doblo Cargo
Fiorino 24 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
Text: Gerry Murphy – gerrym@fleet.ie
BUYERS’ GUIDE
There are big changes at Citroën. Now coming under the distribution of the parent company, we can expect to hear a lot more from the French giant. Despite the collapse of commercial vehicle sales in Ireland, the Berlingo, which is still available in its old shape as well as its new form, together with the Nemo are well placed holding their market share. The Nemo was the International Van of the Year 2009 and is proving poplar with customers who want a decent load cube but a smaller engine. Nemo is powered by a 1.4HDi diesel engine and can
C4
www.citroen.ie carry loads up to 2.8 cu.m. Its payload is 610kg. It easy to park and has CO2 emission figures of just 119g/km. Car Derived Vans tend to have some success in recessionary times and the ultra-stylish Citroën C4 CDV could prove popular with both private and commercial buyers. In the bigger range, both the Citroen Dispatch and the Relay are also part of the modern van movement that put the driver’s need first and still provides the practical tools to deliver the goods.
Nemo
Berlingo First
Dispatch
Relay
Berlingo
Commercial SUV
C-Crosser
C-Crosser is Citroën’s celebrated first 4x4. On the market since 2009,the C-Crosser has a refi ned image. Despite that, you can comfortably take it to the dirt tracks where it performs admirably. It is powered by a 2.2-litre HDi 156bhp engine, which is more than capable of carrying this car with a full load on board. There are two specification levels and with Citroën dropping some prices recently, you can buy a C-Crosser for under €30,000, which is not bad value.
of the Year in 2008. Fiorino’s unusual shape gives it the flexibility of a larger panel van and the nimbleness of a smaller city van. It will carry a decent load too. In the medium and bigger groups Fiat Professional has plenty to offer too with the Ducato which it still holds its own in the sales charts.
Scudo
www.fiat.ie
Also in the small CDV category Fiat offers the plucky Punto CDV. It handles well and is suitable for smaller run-around work especially in urban situations.
Ducato
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
25
BUYERS’ GUIDE www.ford.ie Even Ford sales are suffering these days but the Transit is still Ireland’s favorite van. Across the range of front-wheel, rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, the Transit name covers all angles: power trains, roof heights and wheel bases. There is a great tradition of Ford commercial transport in this country and an extensive dealer network. The Transit Connect has been upgraded and while it is similar to the previous model on the outside, there are substantial changes inside with more emphasis on the passenger compartment and the needs of the driver. Pricing starts at €14,050. Using a range of Duratorc TDCi engines it has been shortlisted for the Continental Irish Van of the Year 2010. In the CDV area, Ford now has the new Fiesta CDV in the range. In contention for the Continental Irish CDV of the Year category award, it is both stylish and practical and is a very attractive little van. Meanwhile, the Ford Focus CDV comes with great driving dynamics and the functionality that Fiesta Van the car derived van gives. Across its range Ford offers Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) for extra safety.
Focus Van
Transit
Transit Connect
Commercial SUV Ford’s all-new Kuga has now been added to the Ford commercial range. Th is is a particularly handsome vehicle and the company’s design theme is obvious with its styling. Ford says that the all-wheel-drive Kuga Van with 2.0 TDCi Duratorq 136PS powertrain is tapping into the market for high-spec car-like vans. Prices start at €27,800 including VAT. On the Utility stage a new Ranger Pick-Up
Kuga
is on the way. It is tough, muscular and offers excellent off-road ability. Towing power is good and it is not too uncomfortable on the public roads either. Sporting a new face, the refreshed Ranger now has chrome bars on the grille to give it a more upmarket appearance. Its interior has been enhanced also.
Transit Jumbo
Tourneo Connect
Transit Bus
Ranger
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
27
BUYERS’ GUIDE www.mitsubishifuso.ie
www.honda.ie
With fi fteen dealers nationwide (Mitsubishi) Fuso is well placed to look after customers who buy their Canter range of light trucks. Daimler owned Fuso completely re-engineered the Canter TD a few years ago and the current Euro 5 model does offer significant positives in flexibility, comfort, safety, performance and functionality. Like its competitors, sales are a struggle in this sector and although that is likely to continue for some time, the Fuso Canter, as it is to be called from now on, is primed to satisfy buyers when the market rises again.
Universal Honda has introduced its fi rst commercial vehicle into the Irish market with the launch of a CR-V commercial derivative. The new ‘Executive’ business offering is powered by Honda’s award winning 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine and is equipped with the Japanese fi rms real time 4 wheel drive system. Few commercial SUV come with such an impressive specification as the CR-V. That includes an 8 way power assisted driver seat, leather upholstery, 18” alloy wheels, cruise control, Bluetooth Hands Free telephone system, built in satellite navigation system, dual zone climate control, and much more besides. All that for €32,000 including VAT and €26,595 excluding VAT.
Fuso Canter
CR-V
www.hyundai.ie
Hyundai’s H1 is an att ractive van that would enhance the image of any company. It comes with a very healthy 2.5-litre CRDi diesel engine that delivers 170bhp and a payload capacity of 1049kgs. ESP with antirollover is standard with two swinging rear doors and two sliding side doors. You also get a full bulkhead and three front seats and driver and passenger airbags as standard. Hyundai has also added a handsome Crew-Cab H1 to the mix for added flexibility.
H1
Commercial SUV Hyundai carries two specialist SUV cars in its catalogue. One of the most successful SUV’s in better times, the Santa Fe is great example of a 4x4 workhorse. It has the size, the power and the stature that you want from a la rge SU V. It i s a l so blessed w it h a good Santa Fe
28 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
driving manner, lots of style and a credible ability for every job. At a smaller level, Hyundai offers the attractive Tuscon in 2WD only. Hyundai has reduced its prices recently making its range of SU Vs even more affordable.
Tucson
BUYERS’ GUIDE www.isuzu.ie N-Series Isuzu’s N-Series of light duty trucks continues to be one of the most popular and cost effective with their legendry diesel engines. You also get a decent level of comfort and that special character that makes it suitable for so many commercial uses. Stability is sound, handling is responsive and you get a tight turning circle for gett ing in and out of those awkward places. From 3,500 kgs, the entry level N-Series is the vehicle of choice for the most demanding customers and comes with a tried and tested, fuelefficient 3.0 litre 150bhp engine. Look out for the all-electric version supplied by Zeroed.
Commercial SUV Isuzu specialises in the supply of light and medium Commercial Vehicles and its D-Max is the ultimate multi-purpose PickUp vehicle. It m a k e s light work of tough roads, w i l l car r y a variety of cargo and is a real master at tow i ng heavy leisure D-MAX Tipper equipment.
You can choose from two new diesel engines: 2.5-litre diesel and 3.0-litre common-rail diesel. Both use the most advanced common-rail technology, offer excellent fuel economy and engine performance that gets the job done. The D-Max is an original of the species w i t h t he toughest credentials.
D-MAX Stallion
www.ivecotdi.ie Iveco customers are usually happy with their lot. They demand teak tough vehicles and for over 30 years, Iveco’s experience of building vans that have a reputation for versatility, strength and reliability is unrivalled. You get the complete range of three wheelbases and three different roof heights, totalling eight load capacities from 7 to 17m3.
Engine choices are a 2.3-litre HPI and the universally acclaimed 3.0-litre HPI that is legendry for its pulling power and strength. Iveco now offer a passenger cabin that can rival most in term of comfort, driving dynamics and noise reduction.
Daily Chassis/Cab
Daily Van
Commercial SUV It’s not a 4x4 in the traditional sense but the Iveco Daily 4x4 is the Italian company’s only off-road offering available in RHD. It will be fitted with the highly acclaimed 3.0-litre 146hp - 176 hp engines found in the Daily van range. Generally a vehicle that has few applications but it is ideal for many of the tasks carried out by utility organisations and Local Authorities.
Daily 4x4
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
29
BUYERS’ GUIDE www.kiamotors.ie With its industry-best 7-year warranty, the Kia cee’d Car Derived Vans must be taken seriously. Aside from that Kia offers the cee’d range in its five-door hatch version of the car, the very stylish three-
Prtocee’d Van
Commercial SUV Kia has plans for a new Sorento. However, there are plenty of the existing models in stock and if you are in the market, now might be a good time to approach you local Kia dealer. Sideby-side with the Sportage both Kia SUV’s h ave m ade quite a name Sorento for themselves
door Procee’d and the Sporty Wagon’ cee’d SW estate model. The model range comes with a 1.6-litre engine that offers 4.2l/100kms fuel consumption a CO 2 emissions of 125g/km.
Cee’d Van
Cee’d SW Van
in recent times. Both well priced and offer 4x2 and 4x4 options in the 2.0-litre CRDi 136hp Sportage and 4x4 in the 2.5-litre CRDi 163hp Sorento. They are also plea sa nt to drive a nd are highly functional on and off-road.
Sportage
www.landrover.ie
Land Rover products are under new stewardship with the OHM Group taking the distribution reins for the now Tata owned brand earlier this Defender year. Discovery 4 is its new version of a 4x4 classic. More contemporary to look at, it is powered by the LR-TDV6 3.0 Advanced Sequential Turbo Diesel engine which has more Torque and better economic results.
Freelander
Smaller than the Discovery is the popular Freelander with a 2.2 litre Turbo Diesel. Still a favourite with the sporty set, the Freelander is the quintessential small off-roader that will tow a trailer or horsebox with ease and still looks Discovery4 good in the driveway. At the tough end of the SUV market, the Defender has no equals. Easily adapted for whatever job, this World leading 4x4 is the tried and trusted answer no matter what terrain you throw it at. From it 2.4-litre engine to the selection of body types there is no job too tough. The Range Rover Sport 3.0 TDV6 Commercial is also available in two specification levels.
30 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
Range Rover Sport Commercial
BUYERS’ GUIDE www.mazda.ie There is a new Mazda BT-50 Pick-Up on the way that continues to share the same platform with the Ford Ranger. Available in Single- and Double-Cab format, we know that the truck will handle all the tough jobs while still being happy on the open road. The previous Mazda BT-50 offered excellent handling and ride; we can expect even better from the new one whether the cargo box is empty or full. Mazda will continue with the well-proven common-rail 2.5 litre diesel engine, which will have some technical differences and better fuel consumption.
BT50
www.mercedes-benz.ie
Progressive developments at Mercedes-Benz see the Sprinter NGT(Natural Gas Technology) join the range with an eye for the future. This new concept combines petrol power and natural gas, which provides customers with a green solution without compromising performance. Lack of natural gas supply is yet the only drawback to this idea. That is likely to improve in the near term. The Sprinter was the 2008 Semperit Irish Van of the Year and the new Euro 5 version is available with four
Vito
body lengths, three roof heights and a capacity up to 17m3. At the smaller panel van level the Vito still cuts a stylish figure. You can have three body lengths, two different roof heights and a range of powerful engines from 70 kW (95 hp) up to 190 kW (258 hp). The veteran Vario range of bulk carrying vans and adaptable chassis cabs is also an option for those with big cargo needs.
Sprinter
Vario
Commercial SUV
Mercedes-Benz offer the M-Class, a commercial version of its prestigious SUV for those who want a bit extra. There are two commercial choices: ML 280 and ML 320. The ML 280 CDI delivers 140 kW (190 hp) with a maximum torque of 440 Nm, achieving a top speed of 205 km/h. The ML 320 CDI has an output of 165 kW (224 hp) and a maximum torque of 510 Nm. Its maximum speed: 215 km/h. MercedesBenz has put a lot of emphasis on the efficiency of their cars with improvement in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to the forefront, not to mention reduced prices.
As small CDV’s go the Mitsubishi Colt is one of the smartest litt le run-arounds you can buy. There is a choice of two engine options; a 75bhp 1.1L petrol variant and a 95bhp 1.5L Diesel. Both are stylish and nimble and come with driver and passenger front airbags, ABS with EBD braking, a four speaker CD audio system, immobiliser and electric windows as standard. As well as being fun to drive and great to look at, the Colt van range is backed by a confident 3-year/100,000km warranty.
32 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
M-Class
www.mitsubishi-motors.ie Colt Van
Commercial SUV Mitsubishi’s Pajero, a favourite in Ireland for 25 years now along with the L200 are amongst the most capable SUVs around. They are also amongst the better looking. You can have the L200 Pick-Up in Single or Double-Cab formats and the Pajero with long and short-wheel base. Both have excellent pulling power, lots of torque and the character both
BUYERS’ GUIDE Nissan is one van maker that is on the move in the panel van sector with its all-new NV200 Vanette due to be launched in the New Year. Built on Nissan’s B platform it is already an award winner with the International Van of the Year Jury crowning the new Nissan NV200 as the Van of the Year 2010. It replaces the defunct Kubistar with generous space; enough for two euro pallets and a total cargo volume of 4.1m3. That’s around 25 per cent greater than its key rivals. Power comes from the well-proven 1.5-litre dCi, diesel and delivery starts in January 2010.
Note Van
www.nissan.ie Nissan’s Primastar – shared with Opel and Renault - has the style and comforts of a car. For the Interstar, plans are in the latter stages for introducing a new one. It is the biggest van in the range with two roof heights: medium and high. At the Car Derived Van level the Nissan Note and Tiida Van both play a big part in the CDV sector. Powered by the 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine, both are functional and in the case of the Note in particular are stylish vans.
Tiida Van
NV200 Primastar
Interstar
Commercial SUV Since its recent upgrade the Nissan X-Trail van is now as comfortable as any passenger car. Nissan says that it is an everyday vehicle providing practical as well as emotional rewards. Nissan also offers
Navara
Pathfinder
on- and off-road that you want from this type of vehicle. Mitsubishi also has the Outlander Business. Based on its classy crossover, it has a 2.0L 140bhp engine and a payload of 705 kgs.
L200
the Pathfi nder and the Navara in commercial form, both based on the same frame and both placed at the top end of the SUV and PickUp league in terms of specification and image. Fitted with 2.5 litre turbocharged common rail diesel engines, both the Pathfi nder and the Navara deliver 170bhp and are both smooth and powerful.
Outlander Business
X-Trail
Mitsubishi offers a 3-year warranty, which is prett y good for a working vehicle and it demonstrates confidence in its products.
Pajero
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
33
BUYERS’ GUIDE Opel, a brand while in a slight state of flux hasn’t let their takeover troubles halt the supply of new models. We can expect that the new Astra will generate new commercials too. Th at, however, may be some time away yet. In other news, the Movano is due for a change next year while the rest of the range remains the same. At the smaller end of the scale there is the trusty Opel Combo and the Corsavan; both are perfectly appointed although the Combo is gett ing
a litt le long in the tooth. While the Corsavan is available in petrol too, the others range in engine size from the sprightly Fiat Auto’s MultiJet 1.3 diesel to the well known 1.7-litre diesel. In the panel van sector, apart from the Movano gett ing a new look, the Vivaro is a match for most and carries the same DNA as the Nissan and Renault counterparts. Opel offers a combination of wheel bases, roof heights and lengths as well as a selection of 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre engines. www.opel.ie
Astrvan
Corsavan
Astra Sport Hatch Van
Combo 1
Vivaro
Movano
Commercial SUV
Opel’s Antara is really stylish and is pitched at active fun-lovers who are looking for a good-looking SUV with commercial credentials. The Antara is available only in 4WD with a 2.0-litre CDTi diesel engine that delivers 150PS and plenty of low end torque. That stylish image continues inside too and although it is a commercial vehicle, you get a high level of comfort and a fair dollop of luxury. Antara
www.mitsubishifuso.ie In 1995 Piaggio started fitt ing electric engines on its Porter models to demonstrate the Italian company’s serious commitment to improve the quality of life without impacting negatively on the environment. Up to then it was diesel only. Now fourteen years later the Porter is the top selling electrically propelled
commercial vehicle in Europe. Alongside the Porter, the 50cc Piaggio Ape is like a scooter with a cargo box and is a flexible three-wheel range of city commercials, commonplace on many European city streets.
Porter Van
Ape
34 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
Porter Chassis/Cab
BUYERS’ GUIDE Peugeot has quite an extensive catalogue of commercial vehicles in its range. Van buyers will be well aware of the excellent diesel engines that they produce and while they are directly similar to the Citroen line-up, it does offer some differences in terms of supply and aftersales. Peugeot’s Partner is the French manufacturer’s most popular van.
In the Car Derived arena, Peugeot has the 1.4-litre HDi 70bhp 207 XRA D van which was one of the best selling CDVs in Ireland, but now discontinued.We wait for the 208 version. Peugeot offers the bigger 1.6 HDi 90bhp 307 XRA D van which is also holding its share in the sales charts. At the top end, its bigger panel van range includes the 2008 International Van of the Year winning Peugeot Expert and the Peugeot Boxer.
www.peugeot.ie Expert
307 Van
Partner
Commercial SUV
Boxer
Peugeot offers the 4007 in the commercial SUV market with its commanding looks and excellent 156bhp 2.2-litre HDi diesel engine. A quick look through the specification sheets and the extensive options will show that, even though this is the fi rst SUV manufactured by Peugeot, all the right applications are there. You can select 16” or 18” alloys depending on your work load. It matches the passenger version with all the key features of specification, comfort, in-car entertainment and safety.
4007
www.renault.ie
The big news from Renault in 2009 was the arrival of the new Kangoo that replaces one of Renault’s more popular vans. Better quality, more specification and a selection the most popular being the 1.5 dCi diesel are the big selling points for the new Kangoo. Also it drives very well and all those Postmen (and women!) that are running around in the new Kangoo must be very pleased. There is a new Scenic in the passenger sector and it is only a matter of time before they launch it in commercial form too. With any Renault product we have come to expect a high level of equipment, style, safety and functionality.
Further up the chain the Trafic and the Master are in line for some upgrading too. In fact, the new Master should be here this Spring. Those contemplating a fleet change could well benefit from doing a deal at that time. Renault continues to be the biggest selling van company in Europe although that doesn’t follow through here in Ireland, the Master does outsell the Opel and Nissan big vans but the Trafic falls behind the others in their class.
Trafic
Kangoo
Master
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
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BUYERS’ GUIDE www.seat.ie
SEAT’s only commercial offering is the Seat Altea XL Van with a strong 1.9-litre TDi engine that delivers 105bhp. You get sizable vehicle that maintains it car-like looks and all the features that come with the passenger version. That includes the rear doors which gives the user additional access and a lot of flexibility. The Seat XL van drives beautifully and has oodles of power with a high level of standard equipment.
Altea Van
www.ssangyong.ie SsangYong offers a wide range of Commercial SUVs. Most popular is the Rexton. A true 4x4, the Rexton II RX270 has a powerful 2.7-litre Xdi and is well designed and affordable.
available in 2WD and 4WD, and is powered by a 2.0-litre Xdi diesel. Meanwhile, the Actyon uses the same engine as the Kyron. Aimed at young, active types, which is also a play on its name the Actyon is another head-turner full of spirit, vitality and adventure.
Rexton II continues this philosophy with a new look inside and out. You will certainly take notice of the Kyron for its unusual shape. It is
Rexton
Kyron
Actyon
Actyon Sport
www.subaru.ie The arrival in the market of the cracking Subaru Forester Commercial is one of the most positive developments in the SUV market in recent years. It is blessed with the impressive new Subaru Boxer 2.0TD diesel engine, their Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel Drive) and other new technologies that have been the driving force behind Subaru for many years. You also get a myriad of features and a three-year or 160,000 kilometres warranty, plus twelve year anti-corrosion cover and three year paintwork warranty.
36 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
Forester Commercial
BUYERS’ GUIDE www.suzuki.ie
Commercial SUV
Suzuki’s Grand Vitara, might be more suited to the City Centre but it is just as competent off-road, It is powered by a 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine that comfortably handles reasonably heavy work and towing jobs. It is also very subtle about town. Reliability is also a respected plus-point for Suzuki vehicles. These Japanese engineers have unrivalled experience in the manufacture of 4x4 vehicles and offer a 3-year/100.000km warranty with the Grand Vitara Commercial. World renowned for their ability to produce small cars, Suzuki offer a commercial version of the SX4 for those who want SUV looks without the bulk. It is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine and is a capable small-load carrier especially around town, where it will dart in and out of small spaces with ease.
Grand Vitara
SX4 Van
www.toyota.ie Toyota reliability comes as standard with its van range too. The Auris van is its offering in the CDV market. Popular in that bracket, the Auris van is surprisingly spacious and you get their highly respected 1.4-litre D-4D diesel engine. It looks just like the car and has a payload of 535kgs. Still a strong seller in the panel van market, the famous Hiace is Toyota’s most popular van. It was modernised recently and comes with a 2.5-litre
Auris Van
Dyna
engine that is also tried and trusted. It feels like the Hiace has been around for a lifetime and is still as popular today as it was over the generations. In the small truck sector the Dyna is Toyota’s flexible solution. It is powered by a 3.0 litre D-4D common rail turbo diesel engine and extra power and torque is there in abundance. While the cab is stylish and well equipped giving the driver confidence. Add that to its good road manners, the Dyna is a reliable friend.
Hiace
Commercial SUV
not to be faulted. Power comes from a 3.0 Litre D–4D in Commercial GL and GX and long or short wheelbases.
Toyota vehicles are almost bullet-proof in terms of reliability. Pound for pound the Land Cruiser and the Hilux might just be the best vehicles that they produce. Land Cruiser has been given a facelift recently and is still a Toyota signature vehicle and the top selling 4x4 in Ireland. Land Cruiser customers keep coming back for more – most of the commercial customers - as on- and off-road the driving dynamics are
The same can be said for the Hilux in the Pick-Up market. It too is getting a makeover and it features a choice of 2.5 D–4D and 3.0 D–4D engines and comes in Single Cab and Double Cab formats. It is famed for its off-road capabilities, durability, reliability and versatility.
Land Cruiser
Hilux
FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
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BUYERS’ GUIDE www.volkswagenvans.ie Few vans stand the test of time like the Volkswagen Transporter. For more than sixty years it has been a trusty warrior for Volkswagen and its many customers. From 800kg up to 1,400kg carrying weight, there is a great loyalty amongst Transporter drivers. A revised version of the current T5 model has been introduced, sporting a new face and eco-friendly engines. At the bigger end the Crafter has many practical physical features to make access easy and big loads a doddle. Volkswagen engineers pride themselves in offering as many options as they can for any job. At the lower end of the size range the quality and sturdiness of the Caddy and the new Caddy Maxi offer the right balance of compact and medium size vans. Powerful engines and positive driving dynamics give the operator a confident drive. The noticeable extra space that is offered by the Caddy Maxi is quite surprising. A new Golf Van can be expected to follow shortly with the recent arrival of the new Golf passenger car.
Commercial SUV You can’t fail to notice Volkswagen’s Touareg Business. It is big and bold with superb off-road ability. When times were better it was a firm favourite with the building industry and hailed for its 50:50 split four-wheel drive system that will automatically direct 100% of the torque to a single wheel should the conditions prove so demanding. Volkswagen offers two engine choices: 2.5-litre TDi and 3.0-litre TDi V6. The tougher the job, the tough Touareg has all the answers. It is just as comfortable cruising along the motorway.
Touareg Caddy
Golf Van
Developed from scratch, the Amarok will be launched this Spring as a Double-Cab Pick-Up with four-wheel drive. Amarok is an important new model in the strategic growth plans for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. It will be powered by Volkswagen’s powerful yet efficient, next generation 2.0 litre common rail turbo diesel engines which will achieve class leading fuel consumption and emissions. It has a stunning design and is aimed at the sports conscious and the business set. And since you’re asking, the name means ‘wolf’ in the language of the Inuit, one of the Eskimo tribes who live in northern Canada and Greenland.
Caddy Maxi
Crafter
Amarok Transporter
38 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Winter 2009
Text: Gerry Murphy – gerrym@fleet.ie