Fleet Transport May 2011 by Orla Sweeney

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

KRAKER TRAILERS ENTER IRISH MARKET

HIGH KING VIKING!

MAY 10

€4.50 inc.V.A.T.

STG £2.80

We’ve got a competition for the world’s most skilled young drivers. *Competition is open to full time drivers born in 1975 or later.

And we’ve got the Grand Prize to match.

Read more at www.scania.ie or Please contact Tel: 071 9634503

contents MAY 2010 Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827 Editor: Jarlath Sweeney Contributors: Sean Murtagh, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Paul White, Jonathan Lawton, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Jerry Kiersey, Michael Corcoran, Rob van Dieten, Ailbe Burke, Joe O’Brien. Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Paul White, Michael Corcoran, Rob van Dieten, Paul Sherwood, Mark Healy, Newspress, Joe O’Brien. Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey, Helen Maguire. Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney.

www.fleet.ie

4 NEWS • Volvo offers dedicated construction truck • Combilift takesover Aisle-Master • Renault Trucks introduce Scrappage Scheme • VW Commercial Vehicles launch Business Lease packages • Nissan & Daimler to further collaborate? • Kraker Trailers enters Ireland • Ports show signs of recovery • Changes to WTD for self-employed drivers • Fuelwise gets fundraising • Dennis Eagle upgrades RCV • Gray & Adams go Eco!

45 FUEL PRICES/LEGAL EXPERT Average fuel prices & legal questions answered

8 COVER Scania R730 - the most powerful truck

51 BUS & COACH CTTC get together in Killarney

10 TEST MAN TGL 12.250

52 LEGAL Status of the self-employed driver & the WTD

12 NEW FLEET 2010 reg’d Hino, Isuzu, Smith & Mercedes-Benz

54 FINANCE Seek help

14 FEATURE Workings of the Road Safety Authority, Loughrea

55 REPORT 37th IRHA AGM & Conference

16 FLEETING SHOTS Awards, Anniversaries and Events feature here

56 REVIEW III Energy Show, RDS, Dublin

18 INTERVIEW With David Mullen, M.D. Electric Vehicles Ireland and Gabriel Keane, CEO, Windsor Motors

58 TRAILER Kraker Trailers Ireland

47 WAREHOUSING UKWA luncheon, Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin 48 TIMES PAST Re-entering the ‘70s era 50 COMMENT VOSA and the Western Rail Corridor

Design: Eamonn Wynne.

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime/ Green Fleet Management are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

20 REVIEW I Commercial Vehicle Operators Show 2010, NEC, Birmingham, U.K. 22 REVIEW II Food & Drink Logistics Show, NEC, Birmingham, 25 - 44 FLEET CAR incorporating Direction/adi

60 TYRES Profile on Bridgestone 62 MATERIALS HANDLING New products from Combilift 64 MARITIME Shipping & Freight Newsletter 66 SOAPBOX GreenGold – is Ireland calling?

33 AWARDS Announcing the Fleet Transport Awards 2011 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.

Alfa Giulietta: Bellissi

P 25 FEATURE

EDITORIAL

P 43

Hats off to hauliers & coach operators Irish based International hauliers and coach operators collectively generated plaudits all round, especially on the public relations front for extending a helping hand to the thousands of stranded travellers caught up in the ‘volcanic ash’ debacle.

mo!

Volume 8. No 2. SUMMER 10

Th roughout the week each and every radio station, national and regional had transport and bus operators arranging the collection or transferring of the stranded from all across Europe without any regard to the inconvenience or extra costs involved. Joe Duffy’s Liveline programme on RTE Radio 1 dedicated much air-time during that week in facilitating the logistics involved by

Early Drive

incorporating

Fleet Transport Official Irish Jury Member of the International Truck of the Year Award

IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

LAUNCH PAD

Newsletter for Approved Driving Instructors.

Shooting Break

speaking to both parties – the long suffering and inconvenienced traveller and the true ‘Knights of the Road’ the hauliers and coach operators. Often maligned by those outside the industry this vital cog of our economy gained some additional feathers in their caps in a most positive way. Hats off to all! FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

NEWS 1

Volvo FMX on the right track

olvo Trucks is in the unique position to offer a dedicated range of multi-axle vehicles for the construction sector that also ties in with its sister brand Volvo Construction Equipment. Fitt ingly, the new FMX model line-up based on the new recently launched FM Series were premiered at the Bauma 2010, the major European Construction Show held in Munich last month.

meeting our customers’ needs. We want to leverage on this advantage to grow our business and reaffirm our commitment to providing even better support for our customers’ operations. We see huge potential,” said Staffan Jufors, President and CEO Volvo Trucks. Göran Nyberg, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland adds, “We have a very strong position in the construction segment in the UK and Ireland with our present Volvo FM. With the new purpose-built Volvo FMX and our optimised support for construction operations, we aim to grow our market share in this business significantly.”

FMX gets a new rugged looking exterior that demonstrates a powerful stance while operators will have a driveline choice based on power and efficiency – the 11 litre engine (330hp – 450hp) or the 13 litre (380hp – 500hp). “Together with Volvo Construction Equipment we have the most comprehensive product offering in the construction segment,” says Staffan Jufors.

“We can provide a total solution for on- and offroad construction work and have vast experience

Aisle-Master assumed into Combilift

lectric and Gas powered articulated forklift truck producer Aisle-Master has been acquired in full by shareholders Martin McVicar and Robert Moffett. As a result production will move from its original base in Clontibret, County Monaghan to the County town where Combilift has its headquarters.

Commenting on the many benefits of this inititive, Andy Freeney, General Manager of Renault Trucks Ireland said, “The market in Ireland has seen a significant drop in new truck registrations for the second year running. Th is scrappage incentive combined with extended warranty and free servicing gives existing and potential new truck buyers a much better all inclusive deal. In these testing times, it’s all about offering better value for money.”

Combilift and Aisle-Master have a combined output of over 2,000 units a year, creating an annual turnover of £80m sterling. Substantial growth is expected thanks to a global network of dealers spanning over 50 markets.

‘Business Lease’ option from Volkswagen

has a lower deposit and supports a reduced monthly payment. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have teamed up with industry leaders LeasePlan to deliver this product.

With a ‘Business Lease’, the customer only pays for the operating life of the vehicle that they use, resulting in a much more cost-effective product. The difference between this option and the more traditional Hire Purchase route is that the lease

The ‘Business Lease’ product allows a business to acquire the vehicle for the first portion of its operating life. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is one of the only manufacturers in Ireland to offer this option and the initiative

4 FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

Renault Trucks’ Super Scrappage To co-inside with the successful current Car Scrappage Scheme Renault Trucks Ireland has just launched its own Truck Scrappage Scheme. From now until the end of 2010, Renault Trucks is offering €3000 scrappage against all new Magnum, Premium and Midlum models. To make this offer even more exciting it is also including 3 years maxi warranty and 3 years standard servicing absolutely free.

Aisle-Master is now headed up by Martin McVicar, who comments, “Just as Combilift addressed expansion by establishing its new premises in 2006, Aisle-Master’s move to Monaghan is the next logical step to enable increased production of this very distinct and successful brand. Our engineering expertise and ability to invest substantial resources into research and development will ensure that AisleMaster continues to enjoy its reputation as the quality articulated forklift in the marketplace, not only in the UK and Ireland but throughout the world.”

oday’s economic difficulties have highlighted the importance of cash flow and asset management for many small and medium enterprises and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have reacted with an innovative solution, ‘Business Lease’ an alternative method to acquire vehicles for operation compared with the standard ‘straight purchase’ or ‘hire purchase’ routes.

Full details on the new FMX in next month’s edition. In the meantime see www.fleet.ie for more photos.

The good news doesn’t stop there either, Renault Trucks Ireland has launched its new ‘Truckplus’ range of used trucks. “All Truckplus trucks come with 12 months DOE, are fully serviced and carry a 3 month Driveline Warranty as standard. With prices starting at only €10,000 for a typical 2004 tractor unit these trucks are exceptional value for money and offer buyers complete peace of mind,” said Sean Loft us, Director at Renault Trucks. will be rolled out on the Caddy van range before being extended to other Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle models.

NEWS II

Nissan & Daimler to share van engine programme?

ollowing the announcement of the global alliance between RenaultNissan & Daimler, the Japanese partners in the trio could benefit most as it enters the North American light commercial vehicle market. As part of the agreement, sharing of their U.S. production plants has been cited in order to reduce costs and avoid overlap. “Th is could apply to the light commercial vehicle segment,” stated Dieter Zetsche, Daimler CEO. “And it could apply to some engine manufacturing,” he added. As Nissan plans to enter the U.S. LCV sector later this year with the NV2500 van which will be manufactured in Canton, Mississippi, this will

network. A re-badged NV2500 could ultimately replace the Sprinter which is imported in kit form from Germany and assembled in Charleston, South Carolina.

make its $120m project more viable as Zetsche also hinted at the sharing of a version of the van with its Freightliner or Mercedes-Benz dealer

Interestingly, when asked, Bill Parfitt , Chairman Vauxhall UK was clear that this newly formed alliance would not affect the current arrangement that exists between Renault and GM Opel/Vauxhall. Mr. Parfitt in presenting the new Movano van said the joint agreement goes beyond 2015. With Nissan not part of the new Master/ Morano project to date, one wonders whether Nissan may now plough a furrow with its new global partners from Germany.

Kraker Trailers Ireland Established

ew start up company Kraker Trailers I rela nd, Frenchpa rk , Cou nt y Roscommon has been appointed Irish agents by Kraker, Europe’s leading manufacturers of moving floor trailers. Last September Kraker Trailers celebrated 20 years in this business under the ownership of Jan de Kraker and Jan Schede. The company’s origins date back to 1985. Located in Axel in Southern part of the Netherlands, Kraker, which specializes in catering for the Refuse Collection, Woodchip and Bulk Transport markets also builds box, reefers and innovative side opening trailers.

Kraker Trailers Ireland headed up by Raymond Cogan, is no stranger to the Kraker product as his father’s fi rm Western Casing, which supplies Mushroom Growers Requisites has a number of Kraker moving floor trailers in his fleet. Pictured is Raymond Cogan and Patrick Wieland, Manager, Kraker Trailers signing the agreement to acquire the Kraker franchise for All-Ireland. See feature on Kraker Trailers on Pages 58/59

Irish Ports and Shipping Sector begins recovery

he Irish Ports and Shipping sectors began to show positive signs of recovery towards the last quarter of 2009 following a record fall in volumes earlier in the year as the downturn in the economy bit hardest, according to the latest edition of the Irish Maritime Transport Economist. “While the trend for 2009 was negative, we observed that the pace of decline in economic activity moderated significantly from last spring onwards with some volume recovery in several of our domestic shipping segments recorded to

the year end,” said Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) Director, Mr. Glenn Murphy. “The market segments most heavily hit were those related to the construction industry, which suffered severe difficulties in 2009. Th is resulted in breakbulk volumes in commodities such as timber, aggregates, steel and plaster falling by as much as 49% to pre-boom levels.” The report highlighted the continued contraction of the Irish economy last year and underlying weaker consumer confidence as the cause of a realignment of demand for shipping volumes

across all the key market segments. Th is resulted in bulk volumes falling to levels last seen in 1995. Unitized segments also saw almost 5 years of volume growth dissipate over the course of 18 months, with Lift on/Lift off (Lo/Lo) falling back to 2003 levels and roll on/roll off (Ro/Ro) back to 2005 levels. The report also suggests that the oversupply of residential property, especially in parts of the country where demand is likely to remain weak for many years, will result in continued low shipping volumes for construction materials.

Self Employed Drivers Working Time to be Regulated by E.U.

“A

vote in the Employment and Social Affairs Committee on 28 April confi rms that Self Employed drivers will now be subject to a Directive which limits their working time as distinct from their driving time,” stated a disappointed Ireland West MEP Marian Harkin. As predicted in last month’s edition of Fleet, the vote controversially by the Employment Committee went in favour of the Amendment to the Working Time Directive 30-19. “I am extremely disappointed with the outcome of this vote. Already all drivers are covered by the driving time or Tacograph directive. However, today’s vote confi rms a decision taken in 2002 that self employed drivers will now be subject to the very same

working time regulations as employed drivers. In effect this means that a self employed driver can only work for an average of 48 hours per week. Th is working time includes driving time but also any time spent loading or unloading, assisting passengers boarding and disembarking from their vehicle, all cleaning and technical maintenance, any work intended to ensure the safety of the vehicle including monitoring of loading/unloading, any time spent at a workstation including waiting time and any administrative work that is directly related to the specific transport operation underway, time spent beside the driver while the vehicle is in motion or time spent on a bunk while the vehicle is in motion. All of this time will now be

considered working time and will significantly restrict the driving time of self employed truck drivers,” said Marian. “For the fi rst time ever the E.U. is legislating to control the number of hours worked by self employed persons - this is a retrograde step, it will be virtually unenforceable and it will add to the red tape and bureaucracy. Th is has huge implications for self employed workers particularly in Ireland where the majority of operators are small businesses and individual operators. Unfortunately I believe that the long term impact could be the non viability of businesses particularly in Ireland.” FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

NEWS 111

Fuelwise partner EngageHIV.org to help Aids fight in Africa his month fuel card provider, Fuelwise and its clients are partnering with EnageHIV.org to raise money and help fight the HIV / Aids pandemic in Africa.

For example if a customer takes 2,000 litres during the month of May there will be an extra €10 charge on their invoice. Fuelwise will match that and €20 will be given to EngageHIV.org.

Th is fund-raising campaign aims to help stop the spread of this epidemic that has devastated the continent of Africa for over a generation. Fuelwise is asking clients to add just 0.5 cents per litre to every litre of diesel they take on their Fuelwise fuel cards and if they agree Fuelwise will match their pledge and together will raise over €15,000 for the cause.

Get involved or donate If you would like to donate please follow this link directly to the EngageHIV.org website where you will be able to donate directly and fi nd out more about some of the work they do in their fight against the HIV / Aids pandemic. www. engageHIV.org

100% Action EngageHIV.org guarantee – 100% of your donation is put straight into action. The trustees of EngageHIV.org cover all of the organisational running costs so every single cent that is donated to EngageHIV.org goes directly to its projects.

Dennis Eagle scales new heights with Olympus

uilding on the success of its popular Phoenix 2 Refuse Collection Vehicle, Dennis Eagle has launched the Olympus, its first new RCV body design in eight years. According to Norman Thoday, Managing Director, “the new Olympus comes with a range of enhanced features designed to make life easier for our customers.” Fleet Transport takes a look at some of its key features and benefits. As it’s manufactured from wear resistant steels maximum durability is guaranteed. A new valve system allows variable compaction control from the cab. New Olympus also features a larger electrical junction box thereby eliminating the need for one at the tailgate. An in-cab control panel and CCTV colour monitor is also fitted.

New slim-line LED rear lights are now available as an option and the in-cab control for tailgate lowering to 1 metre will be available as standard. A ‘keel shaped’ body floor and liquid sump to allow efficient drainage minimises the risk of corrosion. Access can be gained via an interlocked 60x80 cms safety door. Euro 5 compatible the drivetrain includes the Volvo D7F (Deutz) engine and Allison automatic transmissions. The new Olympus also meets the requirements for the new Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, which came into force in January. This new legislation covers electrical standards as well as operator and passenger vibration levels and also EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval.

Gray & Adams’ three-pronged Eco attack!

s reported from the recent visit to the Scania Technical Centre, truck and trailer manufacturers are gett ing even more focused on aerodynamics in order to reduce drag and ultimately fuel consumption. Trailer and Body Builder Gray & Adams has developed a number of products that now come under the Eco-Range such as Eco-AER, Eco-Max and Eco-Low. Independent tests undertaken on the Eco-AER, for example, at MIRA in the UK, reveal that a saving of up to 10% in fuel consumption can be achieved. Eco-AER’s main features on the Gray & Adams’ semi-trailers are tapered side-skirts, radiused top cappings and a modified rear roof section, which incorporates a vortex generator. In other words the modification to the roofl ine at the back delays air flow separation behind

the vehicle, while the side skirts and radiused cappings smooth air flow around the vehicle and over the top to lessen drag and consequently reduce fuel consumption. Eco-Max refers to Gray & Adams twin-deck range to which the Eco-AER technology can be installed. Eco-Low incorporates modifications and features, which restrict noise emissions from vehicle components to 60 decibels that aims to meet legislative requirements for night time deliveries in residential areas. “The Eco-Range demonstrates the Gray & Adams philosophy of giving long-term vehicle efficiency and value for money on the initial investment,” said a Gray & Adams spokesperson.

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE GROUP The Insurance Centre, 7 Sandyford Business Centre, Sandyford, Dublin 18. We are over 35 years working for the Haulage Industry. Just call us for a quote! Tel: 01 2932350 Fax: 01 2932360 Email: info@mikemurphyinsurance.ie Web: www.mikemurphyinsurance.ie M.Murphy Insurance Services Ltd. is a member of IBA and regulated by the Financial Regulator.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

www.volkswagen.ie

Caddy TDI on the road for €299 per month (plus VAT). Includes scheduled maintenance.

Want to know what your ﬁrst great business decision should be? Simple. Check out the Volkswagen Caddy Business Lease. For just €299 per month plus VAT you get a brand new Caddy TDI on the road including Scheduled Maintenance for 3 years and 50,000km! Of course there are other model and kilometer options. At the end of the term simply hand back the van to your dealer and get back your deposit which is also low at just €897 plus VAT. Then on to your next great business decision, use your deposit and start again! Makes real business sense doesn’t it? Talk to your dealer today!

Think Vans, Think Us.

For Business Users Only, Terms and Conditions apply. Typical APR 6.2% quoted is for illustrated purposes only. This is a business lease agreement and the goods remain the property of the owner at all times. Current prices at time of printing and may be subject to change. Volkswagen Business Lease is underwritten by LeasePlan Fleet Management Services Ireland Limited part of the LeasePlan Corporation N.V. which is regulated by the Dutch Central Bank. Available at participating Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle dealers only.

COVER

Scania R730 V8 – High King of the Road

ith the launch of the new R-series late last year, Scania’s main aim was to regain the long held mantle of King of the Road. Its defence of the realm was somewhat weakened in the last two years or so with MAN Nutzfahrzeuge introducing their 680 hp V8 which at the time was the most powerful production truck in the marketplace. Scania’s great Swedish rivals Volvo then came out with the 700 hp power option from its new FH16 range. Now, the brand with the legendary ‘Griffi n’ logo has put together all its experience and expertise to produce a new V8 range of common rail engines that stretch from 500 hp to a record breaking 730 hp. And to ensure Scania stakes its place at the top for as long as possible, the new V8 HPI engine programme has all the technical solutions needed to meet Euro 6 emission standards that come into effect at the end of 2013. At a specially hosted web based Press Conference (which att racted over 300 trade journalists) Henrik Henriksson, Senior Vice President Trucks at Scania began the session by saying, “Scania V8 trucks have built a niche of their own in the truck market. The majority of Scania’s V8 customers buy for rational reasons. They need the performance, dependability and availability to get their job done as efficiently as possible.” The new V8 is based on the same modular engine platform and technologies used on Scania’s newest in-line 5 and 6 cylinder engines, while also sharing numerous features and components with the existing V8s. Scania’s V8 pedigree dates back to the late 1960s. Featuring 3500 Nm and 730 hp, Scania’s new flagship has the highest torque and power rating of any truck engine. Other options in the new V8 range include 500 hp (2500 Nm), 560 hp (2700 Nm) and 620 hp (3000 Nm). As Jonas Hofstedt, Senior Vice President Powertrain Development described the new V8 based on a new platform, has a new silencer and updated soft ware. Using the latest XPI technology – the high pressure injection VGT system (jointly developed with Cummins), SCR – Selective Catalytic Reduction is used (as before) to reduce engine emissions to the present Euro 5 levels, Euro 6 and beyond. Other highlights include a compacted yet strong crankshaft, a sister gear to keep noise levels down and add to its service life. A jet action cooling system and three cylinder pump instead of two has been installed. “New performance levels have been reached with smoother power delivery with less vibration.” In fact the new block is compact and even fits under the Day Cab version. Scania’s Opti Cruise transmission is provided either with or without a clutch pedal.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

The introduction of the new range of V8 trucks is the fourth major product launch from Scania during the past 12 months. The initial step was the introduction of a new platform for industrial engines that meets new environmental standards being introduced for this industry in 2011 and 2014. A supply deal with construction giant Terex was subsequently signed. In September 2009, the new R-series was presented; soon after, it was named Europe’s International Truck of the Year 2010. In October 2009 Scania unveiled the Scania Touring, a brand new range of coaches built in cooperation with Chinese bus and coach manufacturer Higer, which will go on sale later this year.

In Summary • • • • •

Complete modular platform for Euro 6 and beyond Broad choice for customers/applications Long term profitability/prolonged service life Strong and powerful: 730 hp – 17% more torque than 620 hp In production from September to all markets

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

TEST

Test Drive Report:

MAN TGL 12.250

or a Liverpool F.C. and Beatles fan a visit to Manchester brings with it mixed connotations – Old Trafford and Maine Road (now replaced by Eastlands) and all that. However, the latter did play host to local group Oasis on a number of occasions, most recently in the Summer of 2009. For those of us from Mayo, we are aware that the Gallagher brother’s mother hails from Charlestown, so its not all that bad. The reason to visit the ‘Capital of the North’ was to carry out an Appraisal Test on the MAN TGL 12 tonne 4x2 rigid truck.

TGL is the lightweight truck range from MAN that covers from 7.5 tonnes to 12 tonnes. Apart from the distribution sector, interest in the TGL has come from Local Authorities and Utility Service providers. Th is is primarily due to its wide cab choice – Standard ‘C’ Day, L or LX Sleeper or ‘DK’ Crew Cab (6 seater). For this trial, the LX Cab high roof sleeper was specified. It was noted for its high level trim and equipped to a high standard, in addition to a large bunk bed that is conveniently accessible. A multifunction stowage shelf or second bunk can be ordered from the optional extras list. Drivers often forget how many steps it takes to get into a truck as they become so used to the routine day-in, day-out. The LX Cab has two steps and the doors open wide through to almost 90 degrees. Grab handles are suitably placed to ensure safe boarding and exiting. Tender spines will appreciate the well-contoured and full-bodied air-sprung seats on board. On

the centre of the wellmeasured steering wheel is a miniature replica of the new black shiny rectangular plate that replaced the louvered bars on the grille from the previous generation model. In order to keep your cab nice and tidy there are a number of storage compartments that combine to a volume of 540 litres. In the high roof LX Cab, there’s freedom of movement like no other thanks to the absence of a locker on one side above the windscreen. The TGL Series is powered by 4 and 6 cylinder engines, with plenty of pulling power and ratings of 150 hp to 250 hp. The 6 cylinder units stretch from 250 hp to 340 hp and while topping the TGL line-up, most of these engines will be used in the next weight range up – that is the TGM from 12 to 26

tonnes. All engines are Euro 5 compatible and use EGR – Exhaust Gas Recirculation, therefore no AdBlue is needed. Mated to these blocks is the TipMatic transmission jointly developed by German specialists ZF. This 250 hp version has 12 speeds. 5, 6 or 9 speed manual gearboxes can also be ordered as can 6 speed TipMatic for some engine variants.

Accompanied by Stan Egerton from MAN Truck & Bus Demo Team we covered around 120 miles looping the M60 via the A50, M6 North and the M56. As I did the driving, Stan took the notes and did the navigation! It’s difficult to get to know a truck and try to fi nd your way around at the same time! Straight away I liked the size and feel of the steering wheel – just right. Radio controls were operated from here and the actual radio station selected shows on the dash display. “The mobile phone can be remotely activated from this wheel also,” advised Stan. Put on the open road, 80kp/h or 50 mph is achieved at 1450 rpm while the engine brake (BrakeMatic) has a 3 kp/h grace over the set speed. As the 12

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

TEST Spec Check Make: Model: Engine: Power: Torque: Transmission: Suspension: Brakes: Fuel Tank: Tyres: Wheelbase:

MAN TGL LX 12.250 12 tonne 4x2 BB Rigid DO836 LFL63/6 cyliner-in-line/6.8 litre EGR/Common Rail 250 PS @ 2300 rpm 1000 Nm @ 1200-1750 rpm 12 speed MAN/ZF TipMatic automated gearbox Steer Axle: Parabolic Springs Drive Axle: Air Suspension EBS, ABS, Disc Brakes 150 litre 265/70R 17.5 5550mm

speed TipMatic transmission was fitted as standard, which worked effectively and efficiently in every gear the absence of Hill Hold was conspicuous especially for this type of vehicle that earns its bread (and butter!) around the urban environment. Th roughout the journey nothing from the vehicle’s performance or handling raised the blood pressure. If rest was needed, the fitt ing of double bunks ensured that both of us could get a nap in comfort. When fi nished with, the top bed can fold up hammock style, which allows for more storage up top and due to the slant nothing will roll out and hit the driver on the head! Coming near the end of our run a visit was paid to Lymm Services – one of the biggest off-Motorway Service Stations in the UK. It’s technically a Truckstop, but Lymm is deemed a full Service Station as it caters for cars too. Located at the M6/M56 interchange it is said to operate the strictest system

regarding parking fi nes. Now run by MOTO, facilities on the vast site include restaurants, newsagents, communications shop, barbers, fuel pumps, showers, Wi-Fi and a Travelodge Hotel. Such is the space available here, that 600 trucks can park overnight unlike the nearby Knutsford Services, which has only 27 slots. It will be interesting to see what level of facilities will be offered by the developers of the new Motorway Services on the M6 here in Ireland. Construction is well underway on both sides of the new route but many observers have said that their location at Enfield is too near Dublin, particularly for truck and coach drivers, as to have a rest stop there will be of no real benefit in relation to tachograph limitations. With that experience recorded it was back to base at the new MAN Truck & Bus Centre at Trafford Park. Th is impressive new facility is one of Europe’s largest commercial vehicle dealerships, which was purpose built at a cost estimated at £9 million. All services are provided here including the workshop that’s open Saturdays and Sundays from 6am – 8pm as well as round the clock opening from Tuesday – Thursday.

Lymm Services – one of the biggest off -Motorway Service Stations in the UK.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

NEW FLEET

More new metal for Molloys

Celtic Linen – Clean & Green

olloy Metal Recycling Ltd. (Enniscorthy) has added more steel to its vehicle fleet! Clive Gethings, Gethings Garage Ltd., Hino, Iveco and Isuzu Dealers, Bellefield, Enniscorthy, County Wexford recently supplied Molloys with a new Hino 700 Series 8x4 with a (remounted) Palfi nger Scrap Crane and a new Palfi nger Hook Loader. The second vehicle to join the fleet, which is now up to 28 units, is a new Isuzu D-Max 3.0 litre automatic recovery pick-up with Jordan-Snatcher equipment.

eltic Linen Ltd., established in 1926 and headquartered in Tallaght, has just taken delivery of a new Smith Newton 10-tonne electric truck from Electric Vehicles Ireland (Tullamore). Fitted with a box body built by Cahill Bodybuilders, Graiguenamanagh which has been specifically designed to accommodate a flexible internal divide, it also has an electric Zepro tail-lift supplied by TSS. The 4x2 rigid sports a vibrant and eye-catching livery, by Crosbie Brothers Ltd., Wexford, unlike any of the other 50 trucks in Celtic’s fleet. Celtic Linen’s ‘zero carbon emissions’ arrival, powered by the LithiumIon Phosphate batteries and a 120 Kw induction motor, will be based at its Dublin distribution depot, which supplies linen rental products to its Industrial, Hospitality and Healthcare customers. Philip Scallan, Managing Director of Celtic Linen said on the acquisition, “the purchase of this fully electric vehicle is testament to our companys commitment to the protection of the environment in a practical manner, in carrying out our services for our valued customers”.

Cosentino Choose Actros For All-Ireland Deliveries

ne of the World’s leading stone suppliers, Cosentino S.A., earlier this year set up business in Ireland. The Spanish headquartered company’s subsidiary Cosentino Ireland Ltd., has recently taken delivery of a new Mercedes-Benz Actros 1841 L Cab 6x2 rigid truck from MUTEC, through Sales Executive Malcolm McKinstry. It is fitted with a Hiab X5088 crane and Murphy’s built dropside body. From its new base in Forthill Retail Park, the new truck will distribute the range of Cosentino products to customers throughout the 32 Counties.

Isuzu sparkles for Diamond Shipping!

f around and about Limerick City, you’re sure to see this new Isuzu NNR 85 curtainsider truck recently put on the road by Diamond Shipping Services Ltd. Based at the Raheen Industrial Estate, Limerick, the new 3.5 tonne truck will be used to serve local contract deliveries. Pat Reeves, Sales Executive at Dennehy Commercials did the deal with Nessan O’Connor at Diamond Shipping. Pat was keen to outline that all Isuzu N-Series comes with a 2 year unlimited mileage warranty. From their Riverside Park Garage on the Dock Road in Limerick City, Dennehy’s has a full range of diagnostic equipment to provide total back up to all Isuzu users.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

FEATURE

Compliance brings more than safety benefits – Road Safety Authority

RSA Senior Management Team: Denise Barry, Director, Standards & Enforcement; Liam Duggan, Manager, Road Haulage Enforcement, Seán Breathnach, Senior Vehicle Inspector pictured with Jarlath Sweeney, Editor, Fleet Transport magazine.

hose involved in the road transport industry either through haulage or passenger services are well aware of the high levels of enforcement for vehicle roadworthiness that VOSA, the UK Vehicle Standards undertake on a daily basis. Irish registered commercial vehicles and their drivers have featured prominently when statistic listings are issued. In essence, it’s all about compliance to EU legislation be it vehicle roadworthiness or driver regulations. The Irish Government under the Department of Transport has appointed the Road Safety Authority to oversee an improvement all round in relation to the operation of commercial vehicles. As part of the Government’s Decentralisation Programme two branches of the newly established Road Safety Authority (RSA) were located in the West – Ballina and Loughrea. In the intervening four years this one body has done much to reduce fatalities and injuries resulting from accidents on our roads. And the results of their collective efforts are clearly evident as the numbers involved reduce year on year. But these two words ‘Road Safety’ are just too short in describing what the RSA’s portfolio contains, so that our roads are a safer place to be 24/7, particularly in relation to commercial vehicles. So, what’s on the Road Safety Authority’s officials’ agenda on a daily basis? Fleet Transport was invited to the RSA’s Loughrea Office to find out and came away overwhelmed by what has been achieved to date and was drawn-in by the high levels of motivation and enthusiasm from everyone involved. We were greeted by three members of the Senior Management Team – Denise Barry, Director, Standards & Enforcement; Liam Duggan, Manager, Road 14 FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

Haulage Enforcement and Seán Breathnach, Senior Vehicle Inspector. ‘Team’ being the operative word here as all members of staff work closely together with the same objectives in mind – safe vehicles, safe drivers and safe roads. In brief, Denise explained that her role covers the standard of new and imported used vehicles on our roads, the National Car Test programme. It also covers the enforcement of driver’s hours, Road Transport Working Time Directive and Operator licensing as well as the system of commercial vehicle roadworthiness. She works closely with Liam Duggan in relation to transport companies and commercial vehicle operations that include Driver’s Hours, Licensing, Digital Tachograph while inter-twining with Sean Breathnach’s brief of conducting random roadside checks on commercial vehicles (co-ordinated with other Government Agencies) and the standard of testing. Over the past two years an extensive public relation campaign has been undertaken using various methods of communication from a series of Guides (booklets), Internet based information on current and forthcoming EU Legislation, Seminars/Conferences, Wall Planners and attendance at Shows/Exhibitions. Visits to truck/bus operators’ premises are also part of the education process. Within that timeframe, RSA vehicle inspectors and transport officers have increased their presence in the random multi-agency roadside checks programme that includes the Gardai, Revenue Commissioners, Customs Officers and in some cases, Department of Social Welfare, Local Authorities and the EPA – Environmental Protection Agency. Since 2007 in fact, the

amount of roadside checks has trebled from 111 to 318 and that figure is set to rise substantially as the number of RSA inspectors increase backed up by a fleet of customized vans that will have all the information on the offending vehicle/ operator at the touch of a button. In a stringent effort to meet EU requirements with regard to enforcement and compliance a Risk Register has been drawn up with each offender and offence added to this database on an ongoing basis. Th is information will be made available to the multi-agency inspectorate on the roadside so that further action can be taken if the vehicle or operating company is a familiar name in the fi le. As Liam Duggan explained the Risk Register has three colour codes with Red being those logged as serious offenders – the most frequent names to enter the books. Amber designates that some concern about the company’s methods of vehicle condition or day to day running of the business while the majority remain in the Green – where no concern is expressed – as yet. It was also pointed out that non-Irish registered trucks are not exempt from this inspection regime and information gathered will be passed on to the relative authorities in their home country. Th is element is part of a two-pronged approach whereby enforcement leads to legal action and at present some 80 cases are before the Courts. Fines of up to €5,000 for Driver’s Hours or Digital Tachograph offences and/or even a 6 month jail term can be brought upon those found guilty. According to Seán Breathnach’s figures, 56% of all vehicles checked are compliant. Sean gave examples of the three main areas in which the vehicles were found to be unroadworthy. “In 2008 RSA vehicle inspectors stopped 3,244 HGVs at the roadside checks. 21% had braking defects, 21% lighting or other marking defects and 12% had tyre or other wheel defects.” He added,

Denise Barry, Director, Standards & Enforcement, Road Safety Authority

FEATURE headlines in the National press from time-to-time and a discussion ensued in relation to the 90 kp/h governor fitted to trucks even though there is an 80 kp/h speed limit on HGVs in the Irish traffic law. Seán is to investigate into the anomaly there and report back but did mention the maximum speed limits in other countries that affect International hauliers. If trucks did stick to the speed limits, vast savings can be achieved through better fuel consumption and less wear and tear. On the other hand, overtaking manoeuvres would become more difficult and possibly dangerous. With regard to the speed limiter regulations, the inclusion of all vehicles over 3.5 tonnes have now come into the scope of the inspectors on the roadside checks.

“These vehicles were not roadworthy and therefore unsafe to use. Most of these defects would have been noticed if the driver had conducted a walkaround check before the vehicle had started its journey. Liam Duggan was keen to emphasise that the compliant transport operator need not worry about the tougher enforcement regime as they seem to have a proper preventative maintenance structure in place resulting in a safer, and more reliable vehicle. These competent operators can offer a better service to its’ customers, have less downtime, less risk to themselves and other road users.

administrative burden. In contrast there is a much higher percentage of Driver Card holders, which is required for inspection to the Digital Tachograph.

In the advent of the completion of Motorway Service Stations under construction on the M4/ M6 and M1, facilities for the Inspectorate Agencies will be provided that may include weigh-bridges, vehicle lifts and office accommodation. In the meantime, the Gardai and the RSA are carrying out checks on motorway traffic by directing vehicles to the nearest designated Rest Area / Lay by. In line with the new Garda Strategy, each Division will have its own separate unit with fully trained personnel and equipped vehicles to carry out the roadside checks with the other agencies.

Future developments in regard to the reform of the Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness System, includes the transfer of the Vehicle Testing Programme from the Local Authorities to the Road Safety Authority. The sett ing up of the Commercial Vehicle Operators Profi le, which will incorporate all the data stored by the various agencies. Additional authority to check maintenance records during premises inspections is planned in line with other European countries. With regard to operators that have their own workshops, the same requirements will exist. Once the evidence is clear that there is a maintenance programme in place either done in-house or through the vehicle dealer, this should not become an issue for transport managers. A pilot project is currently underway with school bus operators to call to their local Vehicle Testing Centres and undergo regular safety checks that specifically hones-in on brake conditions. Roadworthiness of buses in general has been much in focus with the RSA, following a number of tragic accidents in recent years. Without inconveniencing the operators or the school rota, inspections have been made at schools with the assistance of the Local Garda Division. If required, a visit is made to the local VTN where various tests may be carried out. Compliance with the seat-belt regulations is very much to the fore for both the Bus Eireann owned fleet and private bus owners. Under new proposals set for 2011, the 3 for 2 seat belt arrangement will be revoked. A consultation document currently exists.

Dovetailing this exercise is the regular premises inspections undertaken by the RSA officials to transport companies. Here every aspect of their operation is checked with special emphasis on Driver’s Hours and Tachograph records. At present 70% of the Irish HGV/PSV fleet still has analogue tachographs, which adds to the

Telematics came up in the conversation and all agreed that any system that can improve efficiencies of the vehicle be it through engine management or driver performance apart from the security and navigational benefits are an advantage to operators. Speeding commercial vehicles generate

Denise mentioned the imminent publication of a new RSA Guide ‘to keep your commercial vehicle roadworthy’. The A5 size booklet comprehensively covers the benefits of maintaining goods vehicles, trailers and buses/coaches, the management’s role and responsibilities as well as the driver’s input. Other chapters include preventative and planned maintenance systems and most importantly the driver’s walk around check and the reporting/ recording systems involved. Among the inserts include specific vehicle type walk-around checks posters.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Photos: Gerry Murphy - gerrym@fleet.ie

In relation to the Drivers Licence, a suggestion was made to incorporate the Driver’s Card, Driver CPC module register and Driver’s Licence all in one card similar in size to the existing Driver’s Card. Th is has already been proposed by the RSA to the EU in response to the Consultation Document on the recast of Tachograph Regulation 3821/85. In itself this would raise the status of the driver, and have a professional identification system similar to that of a Press Card Holder. From an authoritative point of view, to have all this information on the driver in one card would increase efficiencies all round. A number of other matters were covered at the meeting pertaining to the everyday procedures required by the transport fraternity, which will be featured in a following edition. We left Clonfert House on Bride Street, Loughrea happy in the knowledge that there is an enthusiastic, energetic team here that are making our roads safer for all users. Day-to-day standards are being improved and achieved by the road transport/passenger service provider in a cost-effective manner. Enforcement is expensive for the operator; prevention brings with it so many economical benefits.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 15

FLEETING SHOTS

Transics to the fore @ EU Transport Company of the Year Awards

leet Management solutions provider Transics took its fair share of the limelight at the European Transport Company of the Year Awards held in Brussels. Transics’ customers Van Diesel Transport (Belgium) and International Lazar Company (Romania) fi nished runner-up and third place respectively in the second running of the Pan-European Award. At the Belgium Transport & Logistics Awards, another Transics customer Thys Tanktransport (Merksem) won National Transporter of the Year 2010.

appreciation. These titles are a nice reward for their daily efforts and prove that they have an eye for innovation, quality and successful entrepreneurship, aspects Transics also cares about and in which we are happy to support our customers.”

CEO of Transics – Walter Mastelinck present at the event attended by 1,200 people, was pleased with the results, “Transics congratulates all of its customers who received national or international

Happy 60th birthday VW Transporter

roduction of the Volkswagen Transporter van officially started in March 1950 and during the 60 years since then it has become one of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ best-selling models globally, as well as one of the most iconic and popular vans in the world. With over 10 million produced, the Volkswagen Transporter has evolved through five generations of functional and practical bodystyles, each representing the ultimate multi-purpose vehicle of its time and loved by business and private users alike for transporting goods or people for work or leisure.

By comparison, the new Transporter (T5) enjoys the refi nement of Volkswagen’s latest 2.0-litre, common rail, turbocharged diesel engine, available with power outputs ranging from 84 PS to 180 PS and a top speed of up to 119 mph, plus the latest stability control systems and braking technology that would have sounded like something from a science fiction novel 60 years ago.

Trucks & Troops – Beaulieu, 29/31 May Enthusiasts of all things military can look forward to a celebration of the development of military transport, combat vehicles and soldiering through the ages at the Truck & Troops event at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. Hosted by the South Hampshire Area of the Military Vehicle Trust, the Show to be held from 29/31 May will have over 250 military vehicles on display, everything from push-bikes to armoured and tracked vehicles, ranging from pre World War II to the Gulf War. The Show is open from 10am each day. Further information on www.beaulieuevents.co.uk

The fi rst T1 ‘split-screen’ model was powered by a four-cylinder, air-cooled, 1.1-litre petrol engine mounted at the back of the vehicle. It produced 25 PS of power and had a top speed of about 60 mph.

Wexford Bus Wins Prestigious Marketing Award

exford Bus emerged as one of the winners of the South East Marketing Awards.

Organised by the Marketing Institute of Ireland South East Region, the awards set out to showcase great marketing in the region and to celebrate what has been achieved by marketing professionals here. The success of Wexford Bus’ marketing strategy was recognised by the judging committee. “We are delighted to have the Wexford Bus marketing activity acknowledged. We have invested in a strong brand identity and have rolled it out across

our buses, bus stops and promotional material,” commented Lorene Crowley, Commercial Director, Wexford Bus. “The results achieved have been outstanding, there has been a 50% growth in passenger numbers and the brand is now much more established.” Pictured from left: Tom Banville, Wexford County Enterprise Board; Amy Pettitt, Marketing Consultant, Wexford Bus; Lorene Crowley, Commercial Director, Wexford Bus; Brendan Crowley, Owner, Wexford Bus and Simon O’Dwyer, Managing Director, Threesixty.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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INTERVIEWS

One-to-Two

n the week that the Government announced the plan to electrify the motor industry through the ESB and the Renault-Nissan Alliance, Fleet’s Group Editor caught up with David Mullen, Managing Director, Electric Vehicles Ireland and Gabriel Keane, C.E.O., Windsor Motors to discuss the new development and other issues. JS. You must be pleased that the Government and ESB are moving ahead and placing Charge Points on City Streets? DM. The charging points are a further indication of the Government’s intent on the whole electric vehicle promotion. Th is will give confidence to prospective customers that they can recharge conveniently while going about their business, whether it’s shopping, visiting a doctor etc. The ESB have been to the forefront of this area by signing agreements with car companies to ensure sufficient supply of electric cars once they become available. These charging points are really announcing that the electric car era has arrived. JS. Is there too much concentration on electric cars when electric commercial vehicles have been in the market place for a few years now? DM. The level of concentration on electric cars has been good, as this is where the volume of EV’s will eventually come from. However, we need to increase the concentration on electric Commercial Vehicles now. Many forward thinking organisations and companies are using electric vans and trucks to do what a

JS. March figures looked promising, will the positive sales trend continue going into Quarter 2? GK. In general most cars are sold in the fi rst quarter of each year. At the moment we expect that the 2010 market will be close to 80,000. Th is will reflect an increase of 40% for the year compared with 2009. JS. How significant is the Scrappage Scheme going forward? GK. The Scrappage Scheme is very important for the Motor Industry as a whole and will continue to be for the rest of the year. Approximately half of the growth for this year to date has been due to the Scrappage offer. The other half is from a modest recovery in consumer confidence. JS. In the advent of plug-in charging facilities for electric vehicles and the arrival of the Nissan Leaf, how will Windsor Motors as a nationwide 18

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

with David Mullen, Managing Director, Electric Vehicles Ireland and Gabriel Keane, C.E.O., Windsor Motors by Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie diesel alternative was doing for them previously. Drivers of these vehicles are finding them reliable, comfortable, reducing driver fatigue and noise-free. The increasing numbers of these being used in every day life will increase the general acceptance of electric cars when they are available, so it’s a great opportunity to emphasise the tremendous benefits at this time. JS. Should the Government offer more financial incentives for purchasers of electric vehicles commercials? DM. If you agree with the overall benefits of the use of EV’s, as we do, then more fi nancial incentives are needed. The initial capital costs are high and will remain high until demand seriously increases. In the short and medium term, fi nancial aid is probably the only way forward. It is disappointing that the €5,000 grant announced by Minister Ryan is directed only towards cars. JS. Do you support the call for free Parking Spaces and use of Bus Lanes for users of electric vehicles? DM. Yes, we have called for both of these items with the current Government. The free parking spaces should be a great incentive and help, particularly in the major cities and towns. The Bus Lanes would also be a great help. Obviously both ideas would have a limited time span, as hopefully the EV population will increase quickly.

David Mullen, Managing Director, Electric Vehicles Ireland

DM. Th is is a very exciting range of smaller electric commercial vehicles from Italy suitable for public sector, airports, universities, hospitals, public parks, industrial sites and buildings and many more. Many different body and application options are available. Built very solidly, they can carry up to 1 tonne and two up to 3 tonne. With low starting prices, these will allow more people to operate, conscience of the environment and public health issues, and save money at the same time.

JS. I see that Electric Vehicles Ireland now sell Alke electric powered utility vehicles – what’s on offer here?

dealership segregate their appeal to the urban customer versus your loyal rural base? GK. Initially electric cars will be targeted to large corporate users and Local Authorities. Retail customers will benefit from good value motoring and also the green aspect of the Nissan Leaf will meet with their needs. However in the immediate future the electric cars will suit more city based/urban commuters. JS. How far away is the electric powered Nissan NV200 from entering the marketplace? GK. At the moment we are unsure of the dates for the electric powered Nissan NV 200. However once the Nissan Leaf is launched in Spring of 2011 we very quickly will have a broad range of electric powered cars and commercials on the market. However in terms of the Nissan NV200 we have no specific details on the dates. Gabriel Keane, C.E.O., Windsor Motors Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

REVIEW 1

ith more than 250 exhibiters, the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham played host to the inaugural Commercial Vehicle Operator Show. Jointly organised by the Road Haulage Association, Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders and the Society of Operations Engineers this event has evolved from the Commercial Vehicle Show, which ceased in 2008. With the focus very much on ‘Operator’, the three-day exhibition

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE OPERATORS SHOW 2010 NEC, BIRMINGHAM, UK was aimed at fleet truck and van users. Halls 4 & 5 were taken up which was less than half of the space used in the glory days of the C.V. Show. That said, first day traffic of the 2010 event was busy with stand holders pleased with the quality of visitors and the amount of new business gained. Fleet Transport’s Editor, Jarlath Sweeney attended. This is the first of a two-part report, the second will feature in the June edition.

Allied Electric - www.alliedelectric.co.uk

BMC – www.bmcplc.com

A selection of all-electric light commercials and passenger cars from the expanding Allied Electric range impressed visitors. The Scott ish Company had a new Bipper and eExpert Tepee alongside the eBoxer and the eExpert Van based on Peugeot products. Donald Parr, General Manager – Marketing mentioned that Allied would also be present at the SEAI Energy Show at the RDS, Dublin. See report on pages 56 & 57 in this edition.

Placed prominently on the BMC plc stand was this Narrow Cab Refuse truck run by Holden Plant Sales, Kilkenny. As this was primarily an Operator Show, Company M.D. Rory McNally was anxious to have a customer’s truck on display. Th is prime year old example as contracted to Cork County Council fits the bill perfectly. Cummins, Allison, Meriter and Michelin are the blue chip component suppliers to this brand.

Continental VDO – www.vdo.com/uk

ecoFridge – www.ecofridge.com

GM Opel/Vauxhall – www.vauxhall.co.uk

Plenty of developments at the Continental Automotive Trading UK stand with the launch of the VDO Alcohol Interlock – an in-vehicle breathalyser. A drug test system is also to be introduced. Peter Needham was on hand to demonstrate the full range of digital and analogue tachograph data management products. In association with Qualcomm, a new fleet management system with remote data download is now available.

A nitrogen based, silent running, emission free, refrigeration system which offers an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional diesel fridge units and helps by eliminating CO2 emissions and noise pollution was premiered by ecoFridge. “The system,” said Liam Olliff, M.D. “pulls down to set temperature up to 70% faster than a mechanical unit and is significantly less expensive to operate.”

Among the few actual show debutants was the all-new GM Vauxhall Movano. Denis Chick, Director, Communications, GM UK & Ireland introduced the new panel van, double cab, platform, chassis and crew cab versions that extend from 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes. Bill Parfitt , Chairman, Vauxhall UK met with the press to discuss the sales strategy and stated that he wants the top van sales spot for the fi rm.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

Chevin Fleet Solutions – www.chevinfleet.co.uk A system designed to simplify and reduce the administrative burden of driver licence management was launched by Chevin. The ‘plug & play’ module provides a fully automated process for any business to verify the licence status of all fleet vehicle drivers. With data supplied by the DVLA, this module also provides automatic alerts to system users when an ‘at risk’ driver is identified.

REVIEW 1 Fiat Professional – www.fiatprofessional.co.uk

Mix Telematics – www.mixtelematics.co.uk

Lightfoot Logistics, the sitcom fleet management fi rm introduced in Fiat Professional’s TV and internet campaign ‘The Fleet’, featured strongly at its arena together with the six vans used in the campaign. Taking centre stage were two new Doblo Cargos, which have just been introduced into the marketplace. Although the new Punto Evo has gone on sale it will be next year before a commercial version will be launched.

Two years ago Mix Telematics introduced its Fleet Managers and the global provider of vehicle tracking and fleet management products and service celebrated the 10,000th UK connection. Steve Coffin, Marketing & Operations Director made a presentation to Paul Wreaves, Operation Director, ETS Distribution Ltd. to mark the occasion. Launched at the Show was Mix Insight Reports, a new reporting tool for use in conjunction with its range of other products.

Nissan – www.nissan.co.uk

Peugeot – www.peugeot.com

Renault – www.renault.co.uk

The International Van of the Year 2010 winning NV200 was the star attraction at the Nissan stand. On the fi rst day of the Show UK & Irish jury members Andy Salter and Jarlath Sweeney stood in with Tony Lewis, Nissan’s Corporate Sales Director for the photo-shoot. Also on the stand was the full range of Nissan commercials from Primastar to Cabstar light truck conversions.

Taking its fair share of the limelight in Hall 5 was the Peugeot Boxer with Roadload U-tail concept. Th is flexible modular transport and storage system added to the Boxer chassis cab has an automatic lift ing and lowering/tilting system. U-tail offers a range of load modules including a tipper, flat bed and a range of load boxes. The prototype was joined by a Partner Crew Van, plus an electric Expert Van.

‘Trust Europe’s No. 1 Van Manufacturer’ was the new strap line launched by Renault Vans at the CVO Show. Renault UK also used the Birmingham event for a Dealer Conference to coincide with the launch of the new Kangoo Van Maxi, Trafic Phase 3 and, of course, the new Master. Also in attendance was JeanJacques Azuar, Vice-President, Vans Programme Director, LCV Division, Renault. In all, Renault Vans showcased 9 models.

Smith Electric Vehicles – www.smithelectricvehicles.com

Suprotec – www.suprotec.ie

Tranzaura – www.tranzaura.com

Start-up company, Suprotec located at the Riverview Business Park, Nangor Road, Dublin had Igor Cikareu on hand to explain the new Nano Technology product now on sale. Suprotec increases the operational life of combustion engines, gearboxes and other components. Once applied, a chemical reaction begins and the process removes debris from all internal surfaces. As a result fuel economy is enhanced.

Mike Price (pictured) was pleased with the first day of business conducted at the CVO Show. The Castletroy native was busy explaining the merits of his Route Planner Programme which operators can use to substantially improve service levels and reduce costs at the same time. Mike has over 20 years experience working directly in the transport and logistics sectors both in Ireland and UK.

Celebrating its 90th Anniversary Smith Electric Vehicles premiered two bespoke versions of its best selling Edison models that are based on the Ford Transit. Southern Electric Contract has specified a twin wheel utility while Essex County Council ordered a zero emission minibus for its Community Link Service. In order to further reduce running costs, a new Telemetry system was launched.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Multipart – www.multipart.com Thanks to its newly formed alliance with leading full-range parts supplier Diesel Technic from Germany, Multipart is now in a position to offer a fast parts supply service for 5 of the top truck makes. As mentioned previously, Multipart covers the full range of parts for the LDV van brand. Diesel Technic stocks over 20,000 parts and offer savings of up to 20% on OE products. A 2 year warranty is offered.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 21

REVIEW 11

Food & Drink Logistics Show, NEC, Birmingham, UK

hankfully, despite the recession, we still have to eat and drink and so the Food & Drink Logistics Show which was held at the NEC in Birmingham from 21/23 March was well attended and provided a unique and dedicated platform for suppliers to showcase their products to decision makers from the food and drink sectors. The food and drink logistics market in the UK is worth around £12bn a year and forms around 10% of food and drink companies’ total spend. In the current economic climate, these companies

are actively seeking new and innovative solutions and services to help them maximise the efficiency of their supply chain. The new Food & Drink Logistics Show enabled companies involved with warehousing, palletised transport, 3rd party logistics, supply chain solutions and many other areas to showcase their products to top-level decision makers from the food and drink sectors. The Show was well supported from within the industry, including the UK Warehouse Association (UKWA) and the Chartered

Aisle-Master

Monaghan based Aisle-Master was one of three articulated forklift companies represented at the show. The company had their latest AC Electric powered machine on display, with capacities of upto 2500kgs and lift heights up to 12.5m. Following the recent departure of Managing Director Gerry McHugh, the company will now be headed up by Combilift’s Martin McVicar who will oversee the transfer of production from Clontibret and integration of manufacture into the Combilift facility in Monaghan town, which is expected to facilitate the company’s plans to increase production by 50% in 2010.

Schaefer

SSI Schaefer unveiled its latest technology in automated Deep Pallet Storage and Retrieval at the Birmingham event. The device allows for high density storage with channels in excess of 20 pallets in depth with rapid availability of the selected pallets on demand using selective racks mounted on mobile bases. The Schaefer Orbiter System increases capacity over traditional drive-in storage methods which can be operated in either First in Last Out or First in First Out. Provided as a two piece set, the easy to use Schaefer Orbiter is locked safely into the docking station at all times allowing for the safe movement from one aisle to another. When the unit is required in a specific channel, a standard fork-lift picks up the docking station with the Orbiter and places the device into place at the front of the supporting racking system – the storage and retrieval commands are then transmitted via radio frequency using a hand-held remote control in the cab of the fork lift operator. Other advantages i nclude: H ig h speed – one metre per second; User friendly icons on the remote control and suitabilit y for deep freeze environments.

Joloada

Loading specialist Joloada had a simulated model of its automatic Factory-to-Vehicle loading skate on display, which the company claims can not only save money but also reduce the carbon foot print through eliminating the need to load individual pallets with a forklift or powered pallet truck. With the Hydraroll Trailer Skate a complete vehicle load is assembled on the accumulation conveyor system. The vehicle driver then initiates loading by 22

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT). “The addition of a specialist logistics Show within the established Food and Drink format is a welcome innovation which recognises the vital role that logistics plays in serving the needs of all suppliers and consumers”, commented Steve Agg, CILT (UK) Chief Executive. The Show was co-located with FoodEx, Baking Industry Exhibition, Food & Drink Expo, Convenience Retailing Show, Café+@CRS, Off Licence Show and IFFE.

Bendi

Specialist manufacturer Bendi (Translift) exhibited two of its ever-increasing range of articulated forklifts including their unique B313 three-wheel model which can operate in aisles as narrow as 1.6m with a lifting capacity of 1.35 tonne to heights of 7.2m. Visibility is enhanced with the 110 degree overrotating steering and side shift which also makes pallet placement easier at height and reduces rack damage. Simon Brown who took over two years ago as Managing Director from his father Freddy, believes they have not been affected by the recession to the same extent as some of the conventional forklift manufacturers. “Companies are looking at their materials handling requirements more critically than ever now and some are opting for articulated forklifts as opposed to a combination of underutilized counterbalance forklifts and reach tracks,” says Simon.

Gray & Adams

Those involved in the transport / distribution industry will be familiar with Gray & Adams for manufacturing temperature-controlled equipment, but most would associate the company with trailers and larger rigids, perhaps those for 18 or 26 tonne operations. However at this year’s Food & Drink Logistics Show, the Company exhibited a refrigerated 3.5 tonne rigid box body to demonstrate the manufacturer’s capabilities in this market and now offers a full range of temperature-controlled products, right up to twin deck trailers. The manufacturing process for 3.5 tonne box bodies can take two routes. The first is a bespoke-design to build a body that will be tailored specifically to the customer’s individual operational requirement. The second option is that Gray & Adams can produce a number of boxes for 3.5 tonne operations of identical specification. This is obviously more cost effective, and depending on chassis availability, the completed vehicle could be on the road in a matter of days. This box comes with double or treble rear doors, a single side door, pullout steps and 60mm insulation as standard. Ancillary equipment, such as interior shelving and load restraint systems can be retrofitted.

simply pressing a button on the operator control panel located on the conveyor close to the rear of the vehicle. Once activated the Hydraroll Trailer Skate drives the complete load forward into the waiting vehicle. Steel channels in the trailer floor guide the skates into position. The in-fill floor between the channels provides a non-slip surface to support the pallets in the trailer, after the skates have been withdrawn. The Hydraroll Trailer Skate can load a 13.6 metre semi-trailer

in less than 4 minutes. The company also promoted its ‘Vanloada’ rollerbed modular system which can be fitted to delivery or service vans enabling pallets of up to 1000kgs to be loaded or unloaded without the need for a forklift or pallet truck. The pneumatically operated system is powered by a 12v compressor and is connected to the cigarette socket of the vehicle.

REVIEW 11 Toyota

Toyota Materials Handling UK displayed its recently launched Traigo 48 electric forklift. The AC powered machine has been designed to combine power with agility in confined spaces and features Toyota’s unique System of Active Stability (SAS), which provides speed reduction through corners with good lateral stability when turning. The rear wheels on the four-wheel model have on over-centre steering rotation and front wheels that can counter-rotate allowing a 9.2% reduction in the turning circle. Also on show for the first time was the BT Pro lifter pallet truck which is claimed to require 67% less effort to set it in motion, compared to the standard model. The ergonomic steering tiller has been located to give the operator the best possible all round visibility, including the fork tips.

Transdek

Transdek UK had the latest in their range of double deck loading systems, a 20 tonne capacity dock lift. The new lifts, which incorporate a number of innovative energy saving and reliability-enhancement features, are designed for the loading and unloading of both fi xed and powered double deck trailers at retail distribution centres and have already gone into operation with one major supermarket chain. With only a single powerful ram to drive the lift platform up and down, the system benefits from a simplified mechanical operation. “The more rams involved in a lift mechanism, the greater the likelihood of them working out of synch and tipping the load platform. It is impossible for the lift to move out of synch with the single ram design, a factor that significantly improves operating reliability,” said Leon Butler, Transdek’s Operations Director. The horizontal ram mounting and rope lifting mechanism allow the lift platform to lower to the ground without the unit being sunk into a pit. This means the equipment can be used for the cost effective loading of low-floor (200mm) Continental stub axle double deckers. Transdek also claims the units dual-speed lift capability, saves up to 42% on power usage, unlike some designs, which require the hydraulics motor to function continually on both lifting and lowering, the main motor on Transdek’s lift automatically switches off during lowering. A series of highefficiency 24V solenoids are sufficient to return the hydraulic fluid to the tank.

Redirack

Redirack’s new Managing Director, Andrew Forsythe, was in a positive mood at the Show stating, “As the economy begins to recover it is essential that Redirack promotes itself to stay ahead. Th is is a chance for us to Show people just how good our pallet racking and mezzanine floors are, and meet potential customers face-to-face.” The company which specialises in customised storage solutions has been involved in a number of refit jobs recently involving articulated forklift s to increase stage density. Viscount Catering in Sheffield has increased the number of pallet storage locations at their 25,000 sq ft warehouse through the integration of refit including Redirack and Flexi articulated forklifts. Rack decks, sacrificial legs and rack end barriers were also included in the design.

Ecomax Craemer

Ecomax Craemer showcased its plastic alternative to wooden half-pallets which do not always meet the high standards in the pallet exchange pools of trade and industry and can create additional costs. Even after initial usage, these show the first signs of damage and then need to be repaired or disposed of straight away. Frank Bücker, Sales Manager at Craemer says, “There are not only economic reasons that cause trade and industry to increasingly look for alternatives to the wooden pallet. In an age of diminishing raw materials and the demand to reduce CO2 output in Europe by 30 percent, the need has grown for an alternative that offers greater durability and functionality. Craemer’s believe that through the careful use of resources and the controlled use of recyclable materials, cost saving and environmentally friendly goals can be fed back into the cycle.

Still

Long established German forklift producer Still, highlighted the ‘Lateral battery change’ facility on all its models from 1,000kgs to 4,999kgs, which is believed to make battery changing faster and safer than with machines where the battery must be removed from above. Representatives on the stand were also keen to highlight the company’s award winning Hybrid technology on its IC forklift – the RX70 and its fuel saving benefits. The machine has two different drive types and two energy storage systems. In addition to the standard diesel tank the RX70 has a reservoir for electrical energy resulting in lower fuel consumption and service costs, according to a spokesman.

The Ecomax half pallets not only guarantee a longer useful life, but also enables universal application throughout the entire supply chain - from manufacturers and processors, right through to the retail market. The high handling capacity of the range is achieved through the additional strengthening of the runner material. The enlargement of the entry width to 573 mm provides optimal conditions for handling the pallets with industrial trucks. Non-slip stoppers which act on the top and under-side of the deck ensures transportation safety when conveyed by fork-lift trucks and the ‘Lego structure’ facilitates the safe stacking of empty pallets. Control and traceability of pallet movements by means of RFID technology ensure reliable data management. Ecomax half-pallets are already in use by a number of retail chains in Germany who use them to maximise the number of different product lines which can be displayed in an outlet without increasing the store footprint. Text & Photos: Joe O’Brien - enquiries@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 23

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IRELANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

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Volume 8. No 2. Summer 10

FEATURE

Early Drive

incorporating

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LAUNCH PAD

Newsletter for Approved Driving Instructors.

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contents SUMMER 2010 28 NEWS • Telematics to reduce battery range anxiety • Energy and transport sectors to be electrified • Kia secures major fleet deal • New car market gets smaller – literally! PLUS Junction Box – short stories 30 DIRECTION/adi Feature – Early Drive – teaching them young! Interview – With Mark Dodd AdvanceDrive Test – Skoda Octavia 1.6 TDI & RS Combi 2.0 TDI 40 LAUNCH PAD Featuring Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Mazda & Nissan

SUBSCRIPTION FORM Please send me an issue of Fleet Transport magazine (plus supplements) every month for one year starting with the next available issue for the cost of €65 (Ireland), €85 (Europe) €120 US. Name: Job Title Company: Email: Address: Phone: Fax: Three ways to subscribe: 1. Cheque made payable to Fleet Transport for € 2. Please charge my debit/credit card for the amount of € Laser, Mastercard, Visa, Electron & Maestro. Card No. Expiry Date: CVV No. Signature: Date: 3. Please invoice me for € Purchase Order No. (if applicable). Send completed form to: Subscriptions, Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Fax: +353 94 937357

42 INTERVIEW With Shane Teskey, Benchmark Fleet Services Ltd. 43 FLEETING SHOTS Book Review, New NCTS Centre, Toyota Presentation & 2010 Dakar winning VW Race Touareg gets mentioned here

P 29

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FC 5.10

Cover picture: Cathal Doyle. Location: Balocco, Italy.

Lightning Strike F1 hits the podium!

n an effort to emulate Adrian Newey and Mike Gascoyne, Chief Designers at the Red Bull and Lotus Formula 1 outfits, two Claremorris teams participated in the Finals of the F1 in Schools Technology Challenge. The International competition organised by the Irish Computer Society (ICS) challenges secondary school students to design, build and race model Formula 1 cars that are powered by compressed air canisters. The all girls team Orange Demons F1 representing Mount Saint Michael’s Secondary School, Claremorris, County Mayo and the Lightning Strike F1 team representing St. Colman’s College, Claremorris, County Mayo

Team Orange Demons F1 - Pictured (l-r) – Vicky Lynch, Emma Loft us, Rebecca McKitt erick and Ellie Loft us.

qualified for the Finals, through a series of regional rounds. At the National Finals for F1 in Schools 2009/10 took place at Griffith College on Dublin’s South Circular Road on 29 April, Lightning Strike F1 fi nished third in the Junior Section, much to the delight of team captain, Tautyvdas Kersulus. “We were delighted when our name was called out. We all thoroughly enjoyed the experience and hope to enter the competition again next year! Thanks for your support and help.” Fleet Publications was one of the sponsors to both teams.

Team Lightning Strike F1 – Pictured (l-r) Jim Friars (ICS) Tautyvdas Kersulis (Team Manager, Car Design Engineer and Graphic Designer), Liam Connolly (Marketing Manager), Micheal Mangan (Manufacturing Manager), Dylan Higgins (Resource Manager), Mark Killeen (Design Engineer and Graphic Designer) and Ronan Armstrong (Assistant Manufacturing Engineer). FLEETCAR | Summer 2010 27

NEWS 1

Telematics Can Reduce Range Anxiety and enhance Electric Vehicle Ownership

ange anxiety remains the major challenge to be resolved to facilitate mass adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the coming years. The introduction of telematics in EVs to provide point(s) of interest (POI) and alerts packages that make the user aware of the charging environment, can resolve this issue. Unlike conventional vehicles for which it is still an expensive option, most hardware elements required for enabling these services will be built into the cost of the EV. An EV driver will only pay an incremental amount for services included in the subscription they pay for battery leasing and energy plans. New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, Strategic Market and Technology Assessment of Telematics Applications for Electric Vehicles, finds that telematics will have a penetration of more than 80 per cent of all new EVs sold by 2015. Smart navigation hardware will become a standard feature in all new EVs sold by 2015, however users will face additional service costs that are bundled along with energy subscription plans. The most important telematics service will be to provide charging environment-related POIs like the location of the next charging station and the ability

to book that charging station. Other significant telematics services will include connecting to the battery and knowing the state of charge. These services will enter the market fi rst. Several OEMs, including Renault, Nissan and GM, are currently developing ingenious telematics concepts for their upcoming EV models like the Fluence, L E A F a nd Chev rolet Volt. Their real challenge, however, will be to ensure mass market adoption of EVs while providing adequate infrastr ucture support. Moreover, as EVs will remain niche products for a majority of the conventional OEMs, it remains to be seen whether they will incur development expenses or invest the time to create dedicated telematics concepts for their EVs. Th is will indirectly impact the involvement of traditional telematics companies in the EV initiative. “Although EVs lead to a potentially new business model for telematics to be sold as a standard feature rather than a costly option, the future of this market depends on infrastructure development and smart energy planning,” explains Praveen Chandrasekar. “Telematics development will be noticeably slow, if it remains a niche segment.”

Irish Energy and transport sectors to be transformed

“I

rish motorists can look forward to the cash, cars and charging points that will make the electric car the smart choice for the Irish motorist,” stated Eamon Ryan, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources at the announcement of the ‘Def initive A greement’ bet ween the ESB, the Renault-Nissan Alliance and Government Department. As planned under the agreement, the ESB aims to roll out 3,500 Charge Points Nationwide by December 2011, which will include 30 fast Charge Points. Nissan will market its new all-electric, five-seater LEAF hatchback to Ireland early next year while Renault will launch its Fluence ZE (Zero Emission) passenger car and Kangoo ZE van a bit later. To encourage conventional combustion eng ined motorists to electric power (and achieve the target to have 10% of Ireland’s vehicles fleet 28 FLEETCAR | Summer 2010

to be electric by 2020), the Government is offering a €5,000 grant off the retail price of an electric car as well as exemption from Vehicle Registration Tax. “Ireland will be one of the first countries in the world to have a nationwide electric charging network which will offer opportunities for enterprise and job creation, as well as the obvious environmental benefits of ultimately having a decarbonised transport f leet,” said ESB Chief Executive Padraig McManus at the event. Ironically, it will be the ESB, Government Bodies and Local Authorities that will be the biggest customers of electric vehicles initially. Another look at the charge points is required also as most of the units have only single plug-ins. An additional point of note is that the ESB’s Nationwide charging network is branded ‘ecars’ which somewhat alienates commercial vehicles in the whole project.

D-Max the force!

Isuzu Ireland has developed this Isuzu D-Max 3.0 litre prototype specially for the Police Force and other emergency service providers.

B a r a b d i

The concept features a purpose built ‘Pod’ covering the pick-up area to facilitate the safe storage of traffic cones, road signs, fi re extinguishers, compressors etc. An in-house designed racking is also installed to store smaller items. Th is vehicle will also be demonstrated to the Coast Guard and Fire Services.

Th m M c a I

Renault Clio with swivel seat! Renault has increased its commitment to mobility by becoming the fi rst European manufacturer to develop a front swivel seat for the Clio model. With one simple movement, a lever enables the seat to turn towards the door and then re-positions the seat to face the direction of travel with ease. A s a factor y f it ment , t he new swivel seat will be available in 6 European markets initially in June with other markets to follow. Savings of up to €1,000 are said to be achieved compa red to aftermarket conversion.

M i

Th n c 1 t lo c

O lo i

Ford Fiesta is EU’s Top The latest generation Ford Fiesta was Europe’s best-selling car in March and for the fi rst quarter 2010, according to the latest figures from JATO Dynamics. 68,630 Ford Fiestas were sold in March, a 25.8 percent increase from the same month last year, and almost 11,800 units ahead of its nearest rival, the Volkswagen Golf.

I t 5

“ m s I ( D

NEWS 11

KIA propels Hibernia Evros to new heights! RX Hybrid 4 BOD Brian O’Driscoll was recently presented with a Lexus RX hybrid as the luxury car brand renews its support for the Irish rugby captain and Leinster legend. Brian is a long standing brand ambassador for Lexus Ireland and has driven a number of Lexus models in the past, including the Lexus ISF and IS250.

ibernia Evros Technology Group has chosen the Kia cee’d and procee’d as the vehicles to help drive on their business. As an IT managed services specialist Hibernia Evros provides a complete range of outsourcing, support and data centre services that are designed to keep your technology running.

Mr. Gus Corrigan, Dealer Principal at K & C Garages, Churchtown is delighted to have Hibernia Evros as a new fleet customer and is committed to delivering the required top-level fleet service. Kia Motors industry leading 7 year warranty was one of the overriding factors for Hibernia Evros choosing Kia.

The presentation of the hybrid vehicle was made by Lexus Ireland, Managing Director, Mark Teevan in acknowledgment of his continued outstanding rugby career to date and his long standing relationship with Lexus Ireland.

Ciaran Molumby, Hibernia Evros; Denise Fitzgerald, Kia Ireland; Gus Corrigan, K & C Garages; Bob Murray, Hibernia Evros

Mazda3 Saloon zoomsin! The Mazda3, Ireland’s favourite Mazda has now been joined by a saloon version to compliment the 3 & 5 door hatchback range. Its 1.6 litre (109 bhp) diesel @ €22,525 is proving to be the most popular choice. Sitt ing in the lowest road tax Band A (€104), this diesel unit can stretch to 62mpg – 4.5l/100km. One of the reasons behind the success is its looks as this compact saloon car gives the impressive of a much larger model.

New car market set for ‘size and prestige’ revolution

he new car market is set for a minor revolution as manufacturers overturn a century of linking a car’s size with its prestige, according to motor industry consultancy Network Automotive. Managing Director Colin Bruder says that the arrival of cars such as the Audi A1, Aston Martin Cygnet and potential sub-1-Series BMW signals a major shift . “Since the motor industry achieved a recognisable structure in the 1920s, manufacturers and customers have almost always linked a car’s size with its prestige. A luxury car was a large car”, he said. “However, we are seeing real efforts to overturn that thinking. The MINI has paved the way for this in recent years as a mainstream hatchback but now we are seeing further steps.”

Seller In the fi rst quarter of 2010, JATO records that 140,496 Ford Fiestas were sold - over 5,400 units ahead of its nearest rival. “Fiesta simply outpaced VW Golf, with its move to pole position particularly due to its strong March sales in the UK (+14.7%) and Italy (+87%) where 57% of all Fiestas sold (11,251) were LPG-powered,” said JATO Dynamics.

Bruder pointed to the Aston Martin Cygnet – a bespoke version of the Toyota IQ city car – as the most extreme example of this trend but said that the real shift was occurring with the arrival of the Audi A1, the Citroen DS3 and the mooted BMW 0 Series, a front wheel drive hatch which has been the

subject of speculation in motoring magazines and could be based on the MINI platform. He explained: “These are prestige small hatchbacks that will carry price tags around 40% higher than a comparable mainstream car. Customers will be asked to pay a heft y premium for a prestige brand and, I believe, will do so.” Bruder said that the divorcing of prestige and size was necessary if the motor industry was to meet its future obligations to reduce environmental impact. He said: “BMW, for example, has made huge progress in driving the CO 2 output of its cars in recent years but if it is going to continue to make improvements, really needs to encourage customers to downsize into smaller, lighter machines. “It is possible to envisage a situation in 15 years where BMW’s core model is no longer the 3 Series but an 0 or 1 Series hatchback which sells in large numbers to the fleet sector and has an ultra low CO2 output by today’s standards.” www.fleetcar.ie | Summer 2010 29

FEATURE

Early-Drive puts Transition year students on the right road more difficult due to high insurance costs and increased traffic volumes.” Over the course of the half-day session the programme consists of classroom/tutorial, Brake Reaction Simulator/Brake Test Demonstration and driving lesson in a dual-control car under the guidance of an ISM instructor. To round off, students are given the unique opportunity to visit the Mondello Motor Museum where the focus is again on safety and the evolution of racing car design.

ondello Park, the venue for top class motor racing always has safety as its number one priority both on and off the circuit. One of its non-competitive activities includes Early-Drive – a specially designed programme dedicated to begin the process of developing the driving skills of young people in a safe, controlled environment. Early-Drive is a joint venture project established in 2004 in association with the Irish School of Motoring (ISM), aimed at

Transition Year Student Groups. John Morris, Managing Director of Mondello Park explains, “Teenagers are very impressionable and we aim to make a lasting impression of safe and responsible driving. It has been proven that if a driver is trained properly from the start they will carry both a better att itude and a higher standard of driving skill into the future. We want all our young drivers to be trained professionally, in order for them to become more responsible on the roads, yet on the road training has become

Direction’s Jarlath Sweeney, sat in with the recent visit of Collinstown Community College, Clondalkin to the County Kildare Motorsport Circuit. Under the guidance of teachers Walter Doolin and Cristine Cowpp, the Transition Year Students were directed to the various workshops co-ordinated by Mondello Park’s Conor Flood. Normally 3 groups are formed so that around 15 students can comfortably concentrate on each of the elements proceedings. Tutor Mark Hafter welcomed us to the classroom located in one of Mondello’s hospitality rooms overlooking the track, and explained the activities ahead. The session began with a video, which demonstrated some good but mostly bad driving habits. Interviews with members of the Garda Traffic Division, emergency services and Mark Procter, the team doctor to BP Ford WRC. While behind the wheel he showed some exemplary driving and made an unforgett able comment – the good thing about being a driver is that you are an “Alive Driver”. Therefore some respect should be made to that statement something that we take so much for granted. Respect to themselves and other road users. In addition to rules of the road and speed limits, issues such as the effect of minimal alcohol consumption on drivers was shown using a video recorded at Mondello Circuit by the Automobile Association and the Gardai. Following that Mark asked a number of multiple choice questions in relation to the various presentations which drew good interaction and discussion from the attentive students. The classroom session concluded with a moving video from Noleen Murphy who tragically lost two sons in separate road accidents. After a short break, the practical elements were introduced. Each student then experienced the Brake Test Simulator. With Mark sitt ing alongside the driver in a stationary MG Rover 25, the simulator measures the time taken by each

30 DIRECTION FLEETCAR | Summer | Summer 2010 2010

Text & Photo: Gerry Murphy - gerrym@fleet.ie

FEATURE driver to move their foot from the accelerator to the brake in an emergency and Mark then calls out how far the car would have travelled during this reflex action. According to Mark, the average is 0.67 seconds. The lowest recorded here was 0.35 seconds with the slowest exceeding 1.1 seconds. The Brake Test Demonstration had Conor Flood behind the wheel of another MG Rover 25. Here the famed Mondello straight is used. Th is test sets out to demonstrate the actual distance required to stop the car travelling at 50 km/h when the brakes are applied suddenly simulating an emergency stop. The students are asked to predict the stopping point and place traffic cones alongside the test run and once safely behind the barrier the test begins. Students are genuinely astonished at the distance required to bring the car to a complete halt and invariably it is at least 20 metres further than they have estimated. The students then discuss the results with the tutor who explains the various factors that influence the stopping distance of a car and students are asked to consider the result of this test from three different perspectives:• As pedestrians crossing roads • As cyclists who share the roads with motorists and • As motorists when they begin driving. Driving on the track proved to be the most popular aspect of the Early-Drive Course. Th is ISM instructed session lasts 20 minutes per student and is seen as an introduction to driving for the majority attending. Some of them

maybe due to get their first provisional driving licence. A tour of the Museum of Motorsport culminates the visit and it is here that the students are presented with their Certificate and gather for a group photograph. Congratulations to all involved with EarlyDrive. It’s so much more than a glorified driving lesson. The course carefully blends the theoretical with the practical with litt le or no time for the student to get bored. Every European countr y except Ireland has some element of compulsory car driving tuition – it’s time to readdress that imbalance now by starting with taking a leaf or two from the Mondello/ISM EarlyDrive programme.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleetcar.ie | Summer 2010 31

Continental Tyre Group Ireland, Clyde Lodge, 15 Clyde Road, Dublin 4, Tel. (01) 660 7633

Awards 20 2011 Irish Haulier of the Year in association with Castrol

The established Awards Programme for the Irish Transport and Haulage Industry.

Fleet Transport Awards 2 20 011 The established Awards Programme for the Transport and Haulage Industry ENTRY FORM Fleet Transport is once again delighted to announce the launch of its 2011 Awards programme for its Irish Haulier of the Year competition, with 12 categories this year. If you are a haulier or transport operator registered in Ireland, however big or small, you are eligible to enter the awards. For the fifth consecutive year Fleet Transport Awards, which takes place on Monday 4th October 2010 at the Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield, County Meath, celebrates excellence in the road transport and commercial vehicle industry. In addition to numerous awards recognising all areas of the industry, the ‘Irish Haulier of the Year’ and the ‘Irish Truck of the Year’ awards will be presented at this national event, bringing together manufacturers and hauliers operating the width and breadth of Ireland. For the past 5 years this awards ceremony has received the support of the industry, not just from the leading operators in the country but also from small relatively unknown companies demonstrating that all types of companies, are recognised and awarded. Whether you operate or manage a large, small or medium sized company your application will be welcomed. This is the only awards programme that is truly supported by the industry. Why Enter? Winning an award can have a direct commercial impact on your business by not only retaining existing clients, but also in securing new business. In the current economic climate, it is more important than ever to differentiate your company from the competition and a Fleet Transport Award is an independent stamp of approval which is now highly valued by customers. See for yourself the benefits of winning an award as told by some of the previous winners at www.fleet.ie Entering the awards is also the perfect way to demonstrate your company’s commitment to the specific area of the transport and haulage industry in which you operate and to be associated with management excellence and best practice. Companies that reach the finalist stage will gain extensive recognition and profile building opportunities during 2010 and beyond through Ireland’s leading commercial vehicle magazine, Fleet Transport, distributed across Ireland. What category can my company enter? You may enter as many of the following categories as you wish. A full description of each category is included on the attached application form. • • • • • •

National Haulier of the Year International Haulier of the Year Owner Driver Operator of the Year Own Account Transport Operator of the Year Regional Transport Operator of the Year Pallet Network Member of the Year

• • • • • •

Livery of the Year Safety Award Innovation Award Environment Award Transport Manager Award Technician of the Year

• The overall title of Irish Haulier of the Year 2011, sponsored by Castrol will be selected from each category winner. This company will then go forward to represent Ireland in the European Transport Company of the Year 2012 Awards. What do I need to do now? There are 3 simple steps in the entire process to complete your submission. • The first step, which you must do now, is complete the attached entry form and send to Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co Mayo no later than 30 June. After receipt of your application you will receive a number of questions related to the category/categories which your company has entered. You will be given approximately 1 month to complete the paperwork. All information submitted as part of this process is handled in the strictest confidence and is protected under the Data Protection Act. Only those companies that reach the finalist stage are publicly announced and they will be invited for interview on 6th and 7th September so please mark those dates in your diary now. Questions? If you have any queries or would like to discuss any aspect of the process, please do contact us by email at awards@fleet.ie or telephone 094 9372819.

Supported by the Road Safety Authority 34 AWARDS | Summer 2010

Award Categories NATIONAL HAULIER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Volvo

REGIONAL OPERATOR OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Nightline

This category is open to operators that transport goods within Ireland and are registered in the Irish Republic. Companies will need to show the active measures they have taken to improve service levels and to grow the company, in both size and profitability. The judges will be looking for all-round commitment to good business practice led by a commercially minded individual. INTERNATIONAL HAULIER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Thermo King

This category is open to operators who transport goods within a specific region of Ireland. High levels of customer service together with efficiency and reliability are key factors here. If a member of a network, please state. Details of types of vehicles as well as service and maintenance routine should be outlined. LIVERY OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Teleroute

INNOVATION Sponsored by Reynolds Logistics

The Innovation Category seeks entrants who can demonstrate that their ideas have made a genuine difference to their company resulting in profitability or a new or altered business process within the company or changes in the products and services provided. Companies that have entered new sectors/markets or have introduced a new product should be particularly interested in this category. The judging panel will consider innovation within a company as well as innovation on a broader industry level. ENVIRONMENT Sponsored by Michelin

Open to Irish registered hauliers that transport goods overseas. Details of vehicle fleet and type of contracts undertaken must be outlined. If there are depots overseas, please state together with measures taken in terms of driver and load security when overseas. European/international legislation is also a key consideration within this category. OWNER-DRIVER HAULIER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by MAN Truck & Bus Operators of own vehicle(s) as an ownerdriver are eligible to enter this category. History of involvement in business and type of work undertaken must be outlined as well as vehicle details. National, international and regional hauliers can be in contention for this Award. Details of vehicle fleet should also be outlined together with service and maintenance routine. OWN-ACCOUNT TRANSPORT OPERATOR OF YEAR Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Entrants must operate their own fleet of vehicles to distribute their own goods. Companies will need to show the active measures they have taken to improve service levels and to grow the company, in both size and profitability. Judges will focus on investments made to increase efficiency of the distribution sector of your business/ production facility.

A good corporate image can be achieved through stylish and modern livery on operators’ vehicles. These mobile advertising billboards can impress both the customer and public alike and does a lot to increase levels of professionalism within the company. Not only are clean, effective graphics and colour scheme required here but the conditions of the vehicle carrying the livery is also up for consideration when the marks are allocated. If employees wear company uniforms please state. How the company’s corporate image is portrayed on its website will also be considered. SAFETY Sponsored by Goodyear Dunlop

Companies entering this category should show evidence that their company embraces safety as a culture and provides the same resources to it as all other activities in the organisation. An active safety management system which includes Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment must be in operation for all the company’s activities. Investment in safety procedures through implementation of staff training or safety items must be outlined. A copy of your Safety Plan should be made available if required.

Associate Sponsor

WESTWARD SCANIA

Companies will need to demonstrate how they have developed environmental impact assessments and environmental statements to meet planning, transport and other environmental consent requirements. Increases in efficiencies through reducing empty running, driver training, purchasing of the latest Euro engine emission controls of Euro 4 / 5 engines will prove your care of the environment as will recycling/ waste disposal regime. Special emphasis will be placed on vehicle telematics, tyre monitoring and maintenance. Companies entering this category could include a successful overall, company-wide environmental or sustainability policy, improved recycling of waste material, reduced use of raw materials and other non-renewable resources, reduced noise or cuts in local pollution by reducing noncarbon emissions such as NOx, particulates etc. PALLET NETWORK MEMBER OF THE YEAR Sponsor to be confirmed Introduced for the first time in 2009, this award proved hugely popular. All links in this logistics chain must be equally strong to deliver efficiencies throughout the operation. Companies entering this category should demonstrate how their business has capitalised on the benefits of being involved in the Network. Also outline what contribution has been made in building up the success of their own Network.

Supported by the Road Safety Authority AWARDS | Summer 2010 35

Award Categories TRANSPORT MANAGER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Iveco

Overseeing the efficient and safe operation of a fleet of trucks and their drivers are what the Judges will look for here. Methods of reducing costs as well as knowledge of IT techniques in improving the day to day running of the business must also be detailed. Type of vehicles used and employment responsibilities should also be outlined.

SERVICE TO THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY Sponsored by Mike Murphy Insurance

Any individual who has made a significant contribution to the transport industry can be nominated in this category. Those who have helped to raise standards or are actively involved in campaigns on behalf of the transport industry will be acknowledged with this award. It is open to nominees of all ages not just those who completed a life time of service.

Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year Awards 2011 Entry Form Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Position: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Company Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Company Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Telephone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mobile: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fax: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. of Vehicles: . . . . . . . .

Category Entering - Please tick boxes National Haulier of the Year International Haulier of the Year Owner/Driver Haulier of the Year Own Account Transport Operator of the Year Regional Transport Operator of the Year Pallet Network Member of the Year

Livery of the Year Safety Award Environment Award Transport Manager of the Year Technician of the Year Innovation Award

‘I have read and understood the terms and conditions of entering the 2010 Fleet Transport Awards’. Your Signature: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Please send completed Entry Form plus additional material by Wednesday 30th June 2010 to Competition Secretary, Fleet Transport Awards 2011, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo. Tel: 094 93 72819 Fax: 094 93 73571 Email: awards@fleet.ie Terms and Conditions: • Any licensed haulier or own account Transport Operator is eligible to enter in the Fleet Transport Awards 2011, established to honour excellence in operation or services to the transport industry. • Entries must be received by Wednesday 30 June 2010 and will not be returned. There is no entry fee. • All entries will be treated in strict confidence and are judged by a panel of experts from the industry. • The completed entry form can be accompanied by any supporting documentation outlining furthrt details on your company and its operations. Photographs and customer testimonials can be included. • A short-list will be published in the September edition of Fleet Transport Magazine. • Short listed candidates will be called for interviews on Monday 6 September and Tuesday 7 September. A five minute video or Powerpoint presentation will be welcomed on the day of the interview. • The decision of the Adjudication Panel is final and no correspondence will be entered into afterwards. Award winners are permitted to promote the prize in their advertising campaigns (subject to certain criteria). • Confirmation of receipt of entries will be sent out to all applicants. Award entries received after the deadline date will not be included in the competition. • Presentation of the Awards will take place on Monday 4 October 2011 at an awards dinner at the Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield, County Meath.

Supported by the Road Safety Authority 36 AWARDS | Summer 2010

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FORESTER DIESEL. Price from

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Denis & Mary Ryan, Bishopstown, Cork. Tel: 021-434 6655

Dermot Healy Motors, Killarney, Kerry.Tel: 064-6632242

Slatterys Garage Ltd, Nenagh, Tipperary. Tel: 067-24 111

Browne’s Autos, Lifford, Donegal. Tel: 074-9141225

T.P. Waters Ltd, Monasterevin Rd., Kildare. Tel: 045-521400

The Sweep Garage Ltd, Kilmeaden, Waterford. Tel: 051-384134

Carroll & Roche Cars Ltd. Clondalkin, Dublin. Tel: 01-4642444

J.J. Burke Car Sales Ltd, Ballinrobe, Mayo. Tel: 094-9541359

Castle Garage Ltd., Bray, Wicklow. Tel: 01-2862125/2863940

INTERVIEW

One-to-One with Mark Dodd, AdvanceDrive by Jarlath Sweeney editor@fleet.ie

not seeing the training as relevant. There is also the perception among course participants that many of the trainers are simply not up to delivering CPC material and do not have a comprehensive knowledge of the subject they are teaching. I have heard of many cases, from reliable sources I might add, where trainers simply spend the day reading from the book without using the slide presentations or any reference material. I would like to see CPC trainers going through an examination and testing process similar to the very comprehensive and professional ‘Approved Driver Instruction’ testing process conducted by the RSA on driving instructors. JS When will we see a practical element introduced into the Eco-Driving module?

Tom Sharkey & Mark Dodd

ligo based Mark Dodd, Managing Director, AdvanceDrive is in a unique position to discuss issues within the broad portfolio that is Driving Instruction. Mark is an Approved Driving Instructor (adi), and AdvanceDrive is approved by the RSA to deliver its adi training programme to prospective adis. Mark is an approved trainer for the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) and the Transport Manager’s Certificate of Competence (CILT). AdvanceDrive is also an ‘Approved Training Organisation’ for the delivery of the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council’s Emergency Driving syllabus, (the organisation that set training and testing standards for the ambulance sector), and in addition to training ambulance drivers to advanced standard.

In the lead up to the Chief Fire Officer’s Conference 2010 Jarlath Sweeney met up with Mark. JS Has the Driver CPC requirement finally sunkin amongst the HGV and PSV sectors that the course is a positive move in creating and raising standards in the industry? MD Not yet or for a long time to come I think. It will take time to change the negative att itudes among drivers as training within the transport sector to date has been poor and drivers in general are very reluctant to take part in any training. More often than not because they are simply not used to it. We train quite a lot in the emergency services where a very good culture of training and refresher programmes exists and because of this culture we rarely encounter resistance or negative attitudes. Until training becomes the norm in the transport sector and the courses have a more credible image negative att itudes will persist. Th is lack of credibility is also contributed to by the theory-only training material. Driving is a practical occupation and it is my experience that without a practical element, drivers can find it most difficult to relate to theory alone. Notwithstanding fairly positive assessment sheets drivers in private will generally admit to 38 DIRECTION | Summer 2010

MD Not soon enough! The weakness of the EU allowing each Member State to transpose the Directive as they saw fit has resulted in Driver CPC being delivered in many different ways in different countries. For example if I was to undertake Driver CPC in Denmark or Holland it is likely that I would spend more than half of the required 35 hours in a truck. I have been training drivers for Scania in economical driving practices since 1998 and it is simply not possible to have effective training unless it is done in a loaded vehicle over a specific route and utilizing a Flow-Meter to measure fuel usage. Theory in this instance will only reinforce the practical subject material and can never be effective training alone. The Irish Driver CPC system of theory only training will be weak and ineffective until a practical element is introduced. JS As an improved Driving Instructor, what is the standard at present among the current batch of learner drivers? MD It does not vary greatly from one year to another in our experience. The difference though since the introduction of the Driver CPC is that people are no longer taking the test simply ‘to have the truck licence’. The people we now see are committed to getting their truck licence with the objective of pursuing a career where a truck licence is required such as a truck driver or heavy vehicle mechanic. JS What is required to attract more young people into the sector – male and female? MD Professional driving is poorly regarded, and even more so now than when I was driving in the eighties and nineties. Th is is because of an abundant supply of good quality drivers, mainly from abroad who are prepared to work for poor rates. Driver CPC will not improve this situation. Regulation and enforcement will event ua l ly ensu re drivers are not exploited b y u n s c r upu lou s employers but only a levelling of standards of living among EU member states will

ensure drivers demand better rates. Only then can the job become more att ractive. JS Part of your business takes in Driver Training and Advanced Driver Training for Emergency Services – what’s involved here? MD We take personnel who have already passed their driving test, for the vehicle they are driving, Fire Appliance, Ambulance etc and take them through a 10 day Advanced Driver Programme based on the standard system of Police Advanced Driving. Th is involves refreshing the learner on basic driving skills in addition to teaching commentary skills, i.e. the driver, while driving is constantly identifying all actual and potential hazards encountered and talking through the correct position, speed and gear to negotiate the hazard. We also take the learner night driving and get them to perform several emergency stops under strictly controlled conditions. We also spend up to 1.5 hours covering theory each day, an important part of which is teaching how our att itudes affect the way we drive and how we learn or why we do not from our mistakes. At the end of ten days learners are tested by an ex-Garda Driving School Tester and if successful are accredited as an advanced driver. We provide refresher training after 5 years. JS The Scania Young European Truck Driver of the Year Competition comes around in 2010, you are involved in the organisation of same again? MD Yes, I am this year’s co-ordinator again and delighted to be asked. Of course with the economic climate we must cut our cloth accordingly and the competition will be smaller but good drivers will have ample opportunity to take part and represent Ireland in Sweden. We have 3 RSA Driving Testers again as assessors and judging panel again this year and I would like to pass on thanks to Michael Rowland of the RSA for his help. Anyone interested should log on to www.scania. ie and navigate through the Driver Competition section to apply. JS Of course, the Irish representative can go one step further than Tom Sharkey who finished runner-up in the European Finals last time around. MD Yes, Tom came second in 2007 and did us proud and I’m sure we will have as good a fi nalist again this year. It would be great to see the new Scania R-series truck, (which is first prize) coming to Ireland. This interview continues on www.fleetcar.ie

TEST

Skoda Octavia – The Model Range With Something For Everyone

t can be easy to dismiss the Skoda Octavia as old hat; after all it has been part of our motoring landscape now for over a decade, and even though it has undergone a couple of updates in that time, the familiar silhouette of the car which fi rst saw light of day in 1999 has been retained. It is a car that has enjoyed considerable success in Ireland, not least we suspect because of its saloon like looks despite being a hatchback. Indeed, the Octavia is responsible more so than any other model for the transformation in Skoda’s image. Only those stuck in a 1980’s time warp will dismiss a Skoda as an inferior product these days.

The Octavia received a facelift last year bringing it more in line visually with the new Superb, and giving it generally a more contemporary appearance. Inside too the cabin benefits from some detail changes and now exudes a feeling of quality up there with the best of its Volkswagen brethren. We recently drove two different models in the Octavia range, both diesel, but appealing to different markets. First up was an Elegance specified saloon with a new common rail 1.6 TDI CR engine and 7-Speed DSG automatic gearbox. Replacing the tried and tested direct injection 1.9 TDI, it offers significantly improved emissions and fuel consumption. Falling into the tax band B with CO2 emissions of 123 g/km (the manual version gets into the lowest band with 119 g/km CO 2) our week with the car returned average fuel consumption of 5.2 litres/100 km (54.3 mpg). Not quite up to Skoda’s quoted 4.7 l/100 km but impressive nonetheless. The engine is a refi ned unit that feels much more rapid than the 0-100 km/h of 12 seconds would indicate. Compared to the old 1.9 it is perhaps not as torquey, but has a wider power band making for a relaxed drive. The DSG gearbox provides silky smooth and instant gear-changes. Sadly the fact that it puts the car into a higher tax band compared to the manual version is likely to deter most customers for going for this option. It’s a shame as it would be our choice every time. As an all-round family car the Octavia takes some beating. Long lauded for the size of its boot (which is indeed generous to a fault), there is still an amazing amount of cabin room for a car that shares its floorplan with the VW Golf. Prices for the 1.6 diesel start from €19,340. We’d be tempted though to stretch to the Elegance specification as tested, which comes with nearly every toy and extra you could wish for.

If the 1.6 TDI Elegance model is about refi nement, practicality and fuel consumption, the RS 2.0 TDI Combi offers a more sporting take on Skoda’s best seller. While hot hatches may not figure too highly on many fleet managers lists, this is a performance car that presents a very plausible case for a rethink on company car policies. With 170 bhp it is more than respectably quick, yet falls into tax band C while returning fuel consumption figures most petrol cars can only dream of (5.7 l/100 km officially, we averaged 6.4). And in Combi (estate) form it is even more capacious than its hatchback brother. Unlike other hot hatches the sporty suspension set-up is just about right for Irish roads – not too soft for enthusiastic cornering without threatening to remove your fi llings. Extremely well equipped as standard, visually too the RS looks the part thanks to LED daytime running lights and exterior body modifications giving a purposeful yet subtle appearance.

Conclusion It is not hard to see why the Skoda Octavia has been a sales success over the past eleven years. Reliable and long lasting, it offers big car practicality for small car money. Interior fi nish, an occasional criticism of older models has been addressed with the latest facelift , and build quality is now right up there with VW’s best. With the latest generation diesel engines offering both performance and economy we would have no hesitation in recommending anyone looking for a family car to put the Skoda on their shortlist.

Skoda Octavia Elegance 1.6 TDI CR DSG Price (as tested): €25,300 Capacity: 1,598 cc Power: 105 bhp Torque: 250 Nm at 1,500 – 2,500 rpm Top speed: 190 km/h 0-100kmh: 12 seconds Economy: 4.7 l/100km (60.1 mpg) CO2 emissions: 123 g/km

Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

Skoda Octavia RS Combi 2.0 TDI CR Price (as tested): €28,615 Capacity: 1,968 cc Power: 170 bhp Torque: 350 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm Top speed: 225 km/h 0-100kmh: 8.4 seconds Economy: 5.7 l/100km (49.5 mpg) CO2 emissions: 155 g/km www.fleetcar.ie | Summer 2010 39

LAUNCH PAD

Alfa’s New Giulietta Targets Golf Market

lfa Romeo’s new mid-sized family hatchback may recall a classic name, but the new Giuliett a which goes on sale in Ireland this Summer is an all-new product, one which Alfa believes will make it a fi rm contender against class leaders such as the Ford Focus and VW Golf. The replacement for the 147 is the fi rst model featuring Fiat Group’s new Compact floor-plan which will form the basis for future Alfa and Fiat C-segment vehicles. With an extensive use of high and ultra-high strength materials, Alfa says it gives a more rigid platform without any increase in weight. Critically also, the five door only Giulietta comes with multilink rear suspension, considered essential to compete against the best handling cars in the segment, while a new electric power steering system uses two pinions fitted directly to the rack of the steering box to give a natural driving feel. Two petrol engine – a 1.4TB with 120 hp and a 170 hp 1.4TB Multiair, and two Multijet 1.6 litre diesel engines with 105 hp and 170 hp will be available at launch. There will also be a 235 hp 1750 TBi Quadrifoglio Verde performance model. All are fitted with a six-speed manual box while an ‘Alfa TCT’ automatic transmission will be available later. All cars come with Stop/Start technology as standard. First Drive Report is featured on www.fleetcar.ie Prices have yet to be fi nalised for the Irish market, but are expected to start at approximately €23,000. Cathal Doyle

Citroen Plans For Expansion In Irish Market

itroen has ambitious plans to increase its market share in Ireland to 4% within three years, up from the 1.7% it achieved in 2009. Now under direct Citroen (France) management with assistance from Citroen UK following the ending of the contract with former distributer the Gowan Group, the company plans greater focus on its dealer network and better customer service together with a fresh range of models as its strategy for future success. “We aim to improve customer service through quality,” says Citroen Ireland Managing Director, Thierry Calewaert. “The entire customer experience needs to be improved, for example through subsidized service packs and new aftersales standards.”

Product wise a new corporate identity will be rolled out across all models in the next two years with a focus on improving the brand image through creative technology rather than the discounting policies pursued in the past. Citroen’s success in World Championship rallying will also be promoted to a greater extent, with the company the title sponsor of this year’s Citroen Irish Tarmac Rally Championship.

Plans for dealerships include training to improve technical competence and fi rst time fi xes, demo schemes for dealer test-drives, and dealer rewards for high after-sales standards.

Shooting Benz!

ercedes-Benz has joined Alfa Romeo, Audi and BMW in creating an estate car with seriously sporty styling. Premiered at Auto China 2010 the Shooting Break concept car is a striking evolution of the successful Mercedes-Benz CLS four-door coupé launched in 2005. Apart from its dynamic look, the interior’s eye-catching feature is the full-length centre console. It will be powered by Mercedes’ new range of V6 3.5 litre petrol engine that produces 306 bhp and torque levels of 370 Nm and there is also a Stop/ Start function. Break, or the homonym Brake dates back to the period of horses and carriage to when bodies were fitted to the carts for shooting exercises – hence Shooting Break!

40 FLEETCAR | Summer 2010

Driving the new brand image will be models like the new sporty DS3 evoking a famous name from the past. It goes on sale in Ireland imminently while other recent arrivals include the new C3 and C3 Picasso. Future developments include a CZero electric car to be launched before the end of 2010. Cathal Doyle

LAUNCH PAD

Renault Fluence takes over from Megane Saloon

reland’s love aff air with saloon cars continues! Put a good looking saloon car beside a hatchback and it has its advantages – large boot and more substantial road presence. Now that the Megane II saloon has been discontinued Renault introduces the Fluence – an att ractive car at enticing price! Apart from its sporty exterior and comfortable cabin Fluence will target customers with its choice of diesel engines – 1.5 litre (86bhp) dCi and 108 bhp version. There is also a 1.6 litre 16V (110bhp) petrol. By the end of 2011, an electric version will be on sale here. Prices start at €18,890 for the entry level Fluence Royal 1.6 16V. At the launch Eric Basset, Managing Director, Renault Ireland paid tribute to the saloon car loving Irish motorist. “We are delighted to bring the much awaited Fluence to Ireland and when we say that if ever a car was built for the Irish market, that the Fluence is it, we do mean that. The Irish driver and the saloon car almost have a tradition and history and we believe the Fluence will exceed all expectations of the saloon car in Ireland. It’s stunning looks, fantastic roominess, a great diesel engine and at an amazing entry price will be a big temptation to Irish drivers. With the Fluence, you are driving upgraded – its look, size, and specifications for the price of a smaller car, will blow Irish drivers away.”

Mazda refreshes 6

ust over two years ago Mazda revolutionised the family car sector with the arrival of the new 6 range. Combined sales of 270,000 units were achieved with this new shape. Now, as seen at the Geneva Motor Show a redesigned Mazda 6 sports a new face with new headlamps and rear light clusters. Inside, the quality feel has been enhanced with chrome-look plating around the new dials and knobs.

Under the bonnet, the 2.0 litre DISI petrol engine is Euro 5 compatible. Handling stability and ride comfort have also been improved. Meanwhile, Mazda has signed an agreement with Toyota on the supply under licence, the hybrid technology as used in the Toyota Prius.

Ireland Among The First To Receive Nissan Electric Vehicle

reland is to become one of a select few European markets to be fi rst in line to receive supplies of the Leaf, Nissan’s new electric vehicle that goes on sale at the end of 2010.

“Ireland is one of the fi rst countries in Europe that is developing a proper electric vehicle infrastructure,” says Tom Smith, Electric Vehicle Chief Marketing Manager for Nissan Europe. “We are moving into a new era of mobility.” A full sized five door family hatchback, the Nissan Leaf is a zero emissions vehicle fitted with 42 of the latest technology lithium-ion batteries giving it an average range of 160km between charges. Batteries are expected to have a life of eight to ten years. “We picked this size vehicle to overcome some of the myths that electric vehicles are only golf-sized buggies,” says Tom Smith. “It can be electric and still be fully functional.” Onboard technology includes a sophisticated IT system which gives detailed information on remaining driving distance and nearest charging points, and features ‘Connected Mobility’ functions within the car that can be operated via mobile phone, such as adjusting the heating controls or notifying you once the car has reached full charge. Nissan hasn’t finalised pricing for the Leaf in Ireland yet, but says that overall cost of ownership taking into account energy and maintenance costs and Government incentives will be comparable to a C-segment diesel car. Cathal Doyle

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

www.fleetcar.ie | Summer 2010 41

INTERVIEW

One-to-One with Shane Teskey Benchmark Fleet Services Ltd by Gerry Murphy gerrym@fleet.ie

enchmark Fleet Services Limited (“Benchmark”) is a company with a different outlook as it offers a unique service to its customers. Benckmark was established in October 2002 by Shane Teskey and Michael Rochford and since then they have gone on to expand their services into other areas. Shane and Michael also run Motorcheck, reputedly Ireland’s number 1 car history check provider and premier Irish motoring statistics website. Shane and Michael have come from completely different backgrounds. Having worked at a senior level in the Car Rental and Fleet Management Industry for 6 years Shane had a wealth of experience in the contract hire and leasing arena together with a specialist understanding of ‘Fleet Management’ as a corporate service. Michael’s expertise lay in the field of web design and at the time they launched Benchmark he was running his own successful web development company. Fleet Car’s Gerry Murphy recently visited Benchmark and spoke with Shane Teskey about Benchmark and Motorcheck. GM. What is unique about Benchmark?

ST. Operating as a fleet consultancy Benchmark specializes in producing ‘Benchmark Reports’ for vehicles that were to be purchased, leased or contract hired by a corporate entity. Unlike other operators, Benchmark doesn’t view the supply of a vehicle as a profit centre and consequently is able to provide ‘open-book’ quotations that reflect the cost price of supply, fi nance and re-marketing a company car. GM. A fleet company that doesn’t make a margin on cars – how does that work? ST. Benchmark developed a system known as the Benchmark Price-Net (BPN). Th is is a be-spoke quoting system that sits behind the company website at www.benchmark.ie. Access to the system is granted by annual license and reflects the number of vehicles the user runs in their fleet. GM. What does your system do for its customers? ST. When a client requests a quotation on the BPN each portion of the requirement is 42 FLEETCAR | Summer 2010

identified and quoted separately on an ‘openbook ’ basis. Our Benchmark Reports detail precisely; the Fleet Discount, the Finance Rate and the Residual Value. Clients then use the report either to order a vehicle directly through Benchmark or leverage more favourable terms for a not her suppl ier. Either option is open as it’s not the supply of the vehicle that interests Benchmark but the annual licence fee to its soft ware. GM. We’re living in changing times, how have things changed for you since the company was formed? ST. Since our inception in 2002 the company has grown organically year on year. We now employ 10 staff and have an annual turnover in excess of €9 million. Benchmark today is more of an IT company than a fleet provider. 50% of our team work exclusively in IT. Maintaining current systems and developing new services is a significant part of the business. Having developed the BPN in 2002 we moved on to create a mileage capture system called ‘Tripometer’ (A mobile phone system that records business trips in a Revenue compliant manner for BIK purposes) before developing the Car History Check service at Motorcheck.ie. GM. What is the core business of the company today? ST. Whilst fleet services is still at the heart of the organisation, the majority of our focus today is on providing technological solutions and managed services to both retail and corporate markets. We’ve worked hard to develop an automotive database that in its structure and content is

classed as one of the best in the world and stands head and shoulders above anything available in Ireland today. It’s from this core service that we are able to deliver a myriad of services such as vehicle history check information at Motorcheck.ie as well as a number of bespoke solutions for insurance companies, web businesses, mobile phone platforms, government agencies and trade associations. GM. What does the future hold for the company? ST. Development, development and more development! It’s a very exciting time to be working in IT and we fi nd it difficult to keep up with the opportunities presenting themselves on a daily basis. I’m continually amazed at the applications our partners find to use our data for and with the steep rise we’re seeing in Smart Phone penetration and the Mobile Web, a significant part of our research and development time is spent on exploring how we can serve our customers better with this new technology. Of course maintaining our position as Ireland’s number one car history check provider is priority number one and we’re delighted to have the support of the Irish consumer while we continue to develop the range of products available at Motorcheck.ie.

FLEETING SHOTS

The Essential Buyer’s Guide Applus+ Appointed As New NCTS Testers Ford Capri by Mark Paxton www.velocebooks.com

hat was it that the Ford Capri had different to other cars of its generation? Why has the ‘Blue Oval’ brand failed to come up with the same appeal for a two-door coupé ever since? In fairness Ford tried hard with the launch of the Puma and Cougar but never set the European market alight like the Capri. In 1969, Ford on launching the Capri described it as “the car you always promised yourself.” The buying public took this sleek, sporty, three-door hatch very much to their hearts. According to Mark Paxton, author of The Essential Buyer’s Guide – Ford Capri, “the new car also boasted an unparalleled range of mechanical and trim options to complete an already att ractive package.” By the end of its lifecycle in 1986 more than 1.8 million were built. For me, the 1978 version (Mk 3) was the most att ractive with its twin headlights and aerodynamic body updates. With regard to handling it wasn’t the best performer out there as its rear wheel drive in the wet made the car a litt le nervous.That said, its running gear was sound and running costs were not bank-breaking. Today the Capri is classed as a milestone in European motoring development. As Mark puts it, ”If having a Capri grace your driveway is a dream that you would like to make a reality, then this volume will take you through a buying process that will weed out the obviously unsuitable, then move on to a stepby-step look at the more promising cars.” Mark’s book examines the most common frailties with precision both from a bodywork and mechanical point of view. In many ways reading this book alone brings you back to the aura that surrounded the Capri in its hayday.

Toyota Ireland partners with ECO-UNESCO

n a joint effort to further raise environmental awareness, promote the protection and conservation of the environment as well as promoting the personal development of young people, Toyota Ireland has teamed up with Eco-Unesco. Apart from providing a Toyota Prius Hybrid to the organisation, Toyota Ireland will sponsor the Club of the Year Award, which is held to recognise the outstanding Green achievements of young people f rom youth groups and schools across Ireland. The Showcase and Awards Ceremony takes place in The Mansion House, Dublin on 12 May.

pplus+, a Spanish multi-national company specialising in testing, inspection, certification and technological services, has been formally announced as the new provider for the National Car Test Service (NCTS). Applus+ commenced operations on 4 January of this year under a ten year contract. The company will create 50 new jobs in its first year of operation in Ireland, bringing the total number of people employed to 550. Making the announcement at the opening of a new NCTS Centre in Greenhills, Tallaght in Dublin on 12 April, Minister for Transport Mr. Noel Dempsey TD acknowledged the huge success that the NCT had made in improving safety on our roads. He noted however, that in excess of 84,000 vehicles were still on our roads in 2008 without valid NCT certificates. Noel Brett, CEO of the Road Safety Authority said the decision to appoint Applus+ as the new provider for the NCTS was made after an extensive strategic review. Applus+ is the world’s second largest operator in the field of vehicle testing, performing more than 17 million inspections in 2009. The company is expected to carry out 1 million inspections in Ireland in 2010. The new testing centre at Tallaght is the 46th NCTS centre to open nationwide, and the fourth in the Dublin area. It has the capability to inspect 1,000 cars weekly. Another NCTS centre in Carndonagh, Co. Donegal was opened recently, while a further Test Centre is being planned for the Galway/Athlone/ Ballinasloe area. Cathal Doyle

2010 Dakar winning VW Race Touareg guests at Circuit

otorsport fans had the opportunity to see the VW Race Touareg, in its fi rst visit to Ireland, as it cleared the 15 Special Stages of this year’s Circuit of Ireland Rally which started in Dundalk on Holy Saturday morning before crossing counties Armagh, Monaghan, Louth and Down over Easter weekend. Derek McGarrity and James McKee emerged victorious from this second round of this year’s Citroen Irish Tarmac Rally Championship. The Subaru Impreza WRC pairing had over 40 seconds to spare over Gareth McHale/ Brian Murphy (Ford Focus WRC) with Alister Fisher/ Marshall Clarke in a Group N Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 9 third.

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE GROUP The Insurance Centre, 7 Sandyford Business Centre, Sandyford, Dublin 18. Just call us for a quote! Tel: 01 2932350 Fax: 01 2932360 Email: info@mikemurphyinsurance.ie Web: www.mikemurphyinsurance.ie M.Murphy Insurance Services Ltd. is a member of IBA and regulated by the Financial Regulator.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

FLEETCAR | Summer 2010

Awards in five categories • • • • •

concept chassis body components safety

This international award scheme, established in 2002, is designed to recognise and reward innovative trailer engineering. Entries will be judged by the editors of ten leading European road transport magazines, working in association with Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA) of Germany, and the award-winners will be announced on 24 September 2010 at the VDA's big IAA (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung) commercial vehicles show in Hannover. • Auto-en Transportwereld (Netherlands) • Fleet Transport (Ireland) • KFZ-Anzeiger (Germany) • Strassengüterverkehr (Austria) • Trailer Journal (Germany)

Closing date date for for entries: entries: 30 June 2010

www.trailer-innovation.com

• Truck & Business (Belgium, Luxembourg) • Truck & Business (Czech Republic) • Truck Auto.pl (Poland) • Commercial Vehicle Engineer (United Kingdom) • Tranzit (Romania)

Entry more information fromfrom www.trailer-innovation.com Entryforms formsand and more information www.trailer-innovation.com or from fromFleet Commercial Engineer on +44 (0) 1428 605605, or TransportVehicle on +353 (0)94 9372819/9372826 e-mail:editor@ﬂ info@cvengineer.com, www.cvengineer.com. e-mail: eet.ie, www.ﬂeet.ie

FUEL PRICE UPDATE / LEGAL EXPERT The price of fuel is an important element in costing an international trip. Drivers are invited to check this report which is compiled fortnightly from information supplied by IRU national associations and by ‘TCS Touirsme et Documents’, Geneva. Prices you can see here are an average for each country (for week 16). Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Albania

ALL

135.00

155.00

Lithuania

LTL

4.15

4.23

3.55

Andorra

EUR

1.080

1.130

0.945

Luxemburg

EUR

1.199

1.225

1.018

Austria

EUR

1.225

1.355

1.129

Macedonia

MKD

70.50

72.00

57.50

Belarus

EUR

0.762

0.607

Moldova

MDL

14.40

14.80

13.00

Belgium

EUR

1.474

1.498

1.205

Montenegro

EUR

1.190

1.110

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.07

2.14

2.01

Netherlands

EUR

1.573

1.639

1.223

Bulgaria

BGL

2.19

2.37

2.21

Norway

NOK

13.13

13.44

11.98

Croatia

HRK

8.42

8.52

7.96

Poland

PLN

4.58

4.84

4.22

Czech Republic

CZK

32.20

33.80

30.50

Portugal

EUR

1.426

1.529

1.184

Denmark

DKK

11.15

11.49

9.79

Romania

RON

4.44

4.81

4.23

Estonia

EEK

18.00

18.50

17.70

Russia

RUB

24.23

25.18

20.10

Finland

EUR

1.441

1.475

1.141

Serbia

RSD

115.70

110.90

France

EUR

1.400

1.436

1.184

Slovakia

EUR

1.262

1.106

Georgia

GEL

1.95

2.00

1.95

Slovenia

EUR

1.211

1.234

1.151

Germany

EUR

1.433

1.504

1.230

Spain

EUR

1.180

1.300

1.090

Greece

EUR

1.431

1.613

1.215

Sweden

SEK

13.37

13.77

13.01

Hungary

HUF

326.00

304.00

Switzerland

CHF

1.700

1.740

1.720

Ireland

EUR

1.339

1.239

Turkey

TRY

3.74

3.78

3.09

Italy

EUR

1.389

1.508

1.219

Ukraine

UAH

8.00

9.00

7.00

Kosovo

EUR

0.96

0.91

GBP

1.209

1.281

1.219

Latvia

LVL

0.787

0.817

0.767

USA

USD

0.812

Ask the Expert Q 1. Should I have a company procedure for dealing with accidents whether to my own staff or to others? A. Any accident can be extremely costly to an employer and, in some cases, can lead to a Court appearance. Even if there is insurance cover a company’s premiums are likely to be increased if there is a successful claim. It is, therefore, very important to have an established procedure for dealing with accidents. The most important thing is to obtain any evidence at the earliest moment. People’s memories play tricks, and those involved tend to change their recollection to suit their own ideas of responsibility. A photograph taken as soon as possible after the accident is often the best evidence, and there is a strong argument to support the idea of providing drivers with disposable cameras to be kept in the cab. Any accident will result in shock and drivers should be encouraged not to make a statement, other than one to their employer, whether to

YOUR CALL! Send in your legal questions or queries to ASK THE EXPERT – Contact: jonathan@fleet.ie

the Guard or anyone else immediately after the accident. There is no need to refuse, a driver should say, “I am a bit shaken at the moment, but I will make a statement later.” A driver should try to get the names and addresses of any witnesses at the scene, and must provide details of his name and address, and that of his employers. The Guard will want details of his insurance. There should be precisely the same approach if the accident occurs on the employer’s premises. A photograph may be the only accurate record of the position of any equipment that was involved. It is worth sett ing out the company’s procedure in writing, checking it with the insurers, and then making sure that all employees have, or see, a copy. Drivers, of course, should carry the procedure with them. Q 2. In view of the recession I am thinking of closing my small limited company and becoming a sole trader. Is that a good idea?

J L SERVICES

A. Part of this answer will depend on the tax situation both of the limited company and of the individual. These are important issues, but are more properly issues for an accountant, and no decision should be taken without discussing it with your accountant. Subject to the tax implications I am not certain why anyone should want to become a sole trader. The one advantage of trading as a limited company is that it protects the owner from personal liability, and, in a time of recession this is an important factor. The change will reduce the amount of administrative paper work of course but I doubt if that fact alone could ever justify the change. It is very difficult to give a general answer to this question as so much depends on the owner’s personal circumstances. It is essential to take individual advice perhaps starting with the accountant. Do remember however that the accountant may not be sufficiently familiar with the laws relating to Transport Operators.

Consultant: Jonathan Lawton (MACantab) (UK Solicitor-Advocate)

We offer assistance with: • Employment documentation • Health and Safety documentation • Dismissal and redundancy procedures • Transport administration and documentation t: 094 9038087 m: 0861 510938 e-mail: jlservices@eircom.net Address: Parkmore, 16 Watersville, Castlebar, Co Mayo. FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 45

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WAREHOUSING

Shipping industry akin to Irish NAMA situation – Irish Logistics Network event, Dublin So we have an industry that has a reliability of once every 2 times. 7 out of 10 orders finally get made and that’s really very serious because at the end of the day what we’re saying is that that’s the standard, that’s our standard in this business. So you can’t guarantee anything to anybody Just In Time.

Kieran Ring, CEO Global Institute of Logistics

efore introducing guest speaker, Kieran Ring, CEO Global Institute of Logistics, United Kingdom Warehousing Association (UKWA) National Chairman, Derrick Potter welcomed guests to the second annual Irish Logistics Network Lunch held at the Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin and thanked the event sponsors – Linde, PD Ports, TDG, RedPrairie and Heavey RF and joint organisers CILT (Ireland). Dublin native Kieran Ring presented an interesting and informative address to the audience consisting of leading Logistics Directors and CEOs together with suppliers who have business links in Ireland. Fleet Transport’s editor, Jarlath Sweeney, attended and excerpts from Mr. Ring’s speech are as follows: “There are 2 ways to make money in a gold rush – you can either get into the mountain and find the gold or you can sell shovels. The reality is that the gold rush is in the East. We’re living in what is described as the Asian Century. Even if we consider 80 million people around the world, well, 50 million of them are in Asia. Of course Asia/Europe is a very important trade, trans-Pacific is very important but inter-Asia is a huge trade. Let me give you a sense of what’s happening through the de-industrialisation of the West to the re-industrialisation of the East. Well, you gentlemen are the arteries. Everything flows through us and 10 years ago we were just transport/warehousing people and prett y much a service industry and we came in last. And now 10 years later we’re the first. What we’re interested in understanding is the non-tariff barriers to world trade. There’s a whole family of health barriers to world trade. You can’t move certain goods across certain borders without they meet certain temperature controls. Let’s talk about the barriers to world trade in our business. Well, here’s the facts – only 43 out of 100 MSC sailings arrived on time. Maersk will tell you that they in fact had the best service – 60 of their ships arrived against schedule. 30% of all cargo never shows up, never. Maersk has just announced that they’re going to introduce a $100 tariff for ‘no show’.

There’s war at the moment. This year the Conference floors have literally been covered with the blood of liner shipping companies and shippers over their cargo. We’re literally in Civil war. Now they tell us they’re going to slow the ships down. They discovered that if they had 11 ships with 10,000 TEU and they slow them by 2 knots, which adds one week from Chennai to Dublin, they save $120 million. Well, let me tell you what slowing down actually does. The innovation cycle on products is now very short, very quick and the engineers see the changes in the market which has never been greater because we want more choice, more often – that’s who we are today. I don’t like that colour, give me a different package. It’s called Mass Customisation. Henry Ford told us – you can have any colour you want, so long as it’s black. Michael Dell told us you can have any colour you want. We went from Mass to Mass Customisation. That’s what the consumer wants. Speed is vital now, absolutely vital. Here’s a logistics dollar expense. Every dollar in total landing costs is 50 cents moving on transport mode, 28% holding, which is your warehousing fees and the remainder is the inventory carrying costs. The cost of having the inventory on your balance sheet hasn’t moved. They want to now double that amount of time. The shippers are saying we only have this percentage of GDP, our revenue, to spend on logistics costs. In America its 9.6%, its considered best in France, it’s 15.6% in China. We’re expecting to pay $9.6 per 100 on our total logistics. We know 22% of that is going to be carrying costs. So I think you need to be aware of that. In fact, to financial controllers it’s a big issue. So what’s going on? From a Maersk point of view 9.3% of the world’s fleet is laid up, we know that. 9.3% of all container vessels are idling somewhere. We now have at this minute only 3 ships in the world capable of 10,000 boxes or more. We now know that in 24 months another 150 ships are due to be delivered capable of carrying 10,000 boxes or more. We have a huge amount of space coming down the track, it is usually a matter of capacity coming down the track and they’re going to absorb the capacity by slowing down the ships. So if they deploy 8 vessels in a string, if they slow it down by 2 knots they can put another 2 vessels on the string. So their tactics for dealing with this is NAMA. We are dealing with the biggest misappropriation ever seen by the world. In Ireland you all focus on houses – we’ve got warehousing in places we don’t need it, we’ve got ships we don’t want. A huge mis-application of assets etc. That’s where we’re at. Here’s what we think the solution is and the

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Derrick Potter, United Kingdom Warehousing Association (UKWA) National Chairman

solution will also tell you what the problem is. We’re not sophisticated enough as an industry to be able to do product differentiation. We can’t do it! Why? Well, if you go into a container yard, a container is a container, can you tell me which one is the fast one? Can you tell me which is the slow one? We’d have to create a whole infrastructure in a container terminal – this is the fast lane, all boxes go here, no-one can tell you what’s in the box because if you open a container you’ll never know what’s in it. So there’s the whole dilemma. We can’t even do that with containers. I’m just telling you the truth. So what we’re trying to understand as the first generation of business people who’ve been given the global franchise – we cannot hand our industry over to our children in this condition. We cannot hand them an industry that is 43% reliable, where 30% of cargo doesn’t turn up and we’re slowing down the supply chain. In a way there is an agenda of slowing down the supply chain. This new dynamic that’s coming into play now – rising fuel prices and lesser demand is going to possibly lead to what we now call ‘near-shore’, so you may see supply chains move a little bit shorter, closer to home. You can decide whether you think that’s progress or not. From a global logistics point of view we would not see that as being progressive. Obviously our stock-in-trade is global trade. Now going back to selling shovels, I know Irish people are very welcome in Asia to be ‘knowledge aggregators’. There is a lot of demand for knowledge East West – go East young man.”

Mark Boulton, MD, TDG Ireland with the winner of the bottle of a 2005 Chateau La Fauconnerie Champagne - John Maher, Business Analyst, Geodis Ireland FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 47

TIMES PAST

MORE ABOUT THE 1970s city, operating trams (which ceased in 1954), trolleybuses (fi nished 1968) and motorbuses, introduced in 1926. In 1953 the first of a hundred Daimler double-deckers, all but one Gardnerengined and with Harkness bodywork (Nos. 350-449) entered service. Forty-five of these vehicles were destroyed in violent incidents up to the withdrawal of the last examples in 1975, which also saw the fi nal changeover to oneperson operation by Citybus, which had just taken over the Corporations’ buses. No. 432, one of the last Daimlers in service and which came to the museum in August 1975, is a most important item in the collection. But, like many other museum vehicles, it has suffered at the hands of smash-and-grab component thieves.

One of a fleet of Volvo Ailsas built by Van Hool McArdle at Spa Road for South Yorkshire

ontinuing with the theme of the 1970s and events that took place nearly forty years ago, this second visit recalls some incidents involving vehicles, their builders and connections to the National Transport Museum. The recollections range from happy to tragic and are as fresh in my memory as if they happened only yesterday. And a further thought about recollections: I am probably not the only one who, on being reminded of something that happened in 1970 thinks, ‘That was thirty years ago’ – somehow losing a whole decade, a time-slip syndrome also experienced when 1960, 1980 or any other twentieth century year crops up. 1970s memories come to mind at random. One that occurs immediately, especially in terms of vehicles in the National Transport Museum collection, centres on the transfer of the CIE bodyshops at Spa Road, Inchicore, to Van

Hool-McArdle in 1973. The Works, which has featured before in Times Past, always recalls for me the immortal lines from Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar about the evil that men do living after them while the good is interred with their bones. These sentiments assuredly apply to William Martin Murphy, reviled in Irish history but who in 1882 set up the Spa Road Works to build trams, saying that he would not import into this country anything that could be made within it. Spa Road built vehicles that were the envy of transport operators everywhere and of which several examples survive in the Transport Museum and other collections. Entering its last five years of existence in 1973, this fi nal phase of production included vehicles for export. Among the numerous museum vehicles with connections to the 1970s is Daimler bus OZ 6686, which bridges the chasm to some of the more repulsive memories of that decade. Until 1973, Belfast Corporation provided public transport in the

Belfast Daimler No. 432 at Wynne’s Hotel, Lr. Abbey St Dublin, April 1976 48

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

A particular recollection is of Friday 17 May when, waiting in evening traffic at Marino, I heard an explosion some distance away and wondered what had happened. I had hardly got in the door at home when my mother, who was visiting her sister in London, was on the phone asking anxiously if our family and friends were safe: she had just seen a television news report about the appalling bombings in Dublin and Monaghan that claimed so many lives – and she heard about it before any of us did. It so happened that a vehicle that later became part of the museum collection several years later was among the many ambulances in service on that terrible evening. The vehicle now in the museum collection is Bedford HZU 738, which entered service with Dublin Fire Brigade in June 1969. It is based on the J1 chassis, introduced in 1957, available for nearly 20 years and widely used as the basis for ambulance bodywork. The J1 chassis was the frequent choice of ambulance authorities throughout Ireland and became the standard vehicle in several fleets. HZU 738 has bodywork by Herbert Lomas Ltd. of Wilmslow in Cheshire, whose products were rated very highly. Th is Bedford has a 3.52 litre six-cylinder petrol engine, four-speed synchromesh gearbox and hydraulic brakes. Like every other ambulance in Dublin, HZU 738 was worked hard on that tragic day in May 1974.

Dublin Fire Brigade 1969 Bedford J1 Ambulance HZU 738

TIMES PAST

Eastern Health Board 1976 Bedford CF Ambulance 708 GYI

CIE Leyland Atlanteans awaiting crowds returning from Phoenix Park, 29 September 1979

It subsequently reverted to its accustomed and barely noticed service to sick or injured people until the 1980s when it went to Dundalk Fire Brigade as an Emergency Tender, and was so employed up to 1993. It returned to Dublin in 2000 and, under the direction of Ray Murphy in the Fire Brigade Workshops, was overhauled and handsomely repainted. It entered the museum collection in 2004, and is one of five ambulances in our care. A second Bedford ambulance in the museum collection is 708 GYI, which was the subject of a Times Past contribution nine years ago. Th is Bedford, although only seven years younger than the J1 just described, is based on the very different CF chassis, introduced in 1969 and regarded as a direct competitor to the Ford Transit, fi rst seen in 1965. The CF’s 1.9-litre four-cylinder engine, which had been developed for the Vauxhall Victor car, is inclined at an angle of 45 degrees and is coupled to a four-speed synchromesh gearbox with the brakes hydraulic. However, the most important feature of the museum’s CF is the bodywork, built by Hanlon’s of Longford Noel Hanlon began building ambulances in the 1960s, achieving great success following the introduction of the Ford Transit and later, the Bedford CF. Hanlon’s built up a formidable export business and at one time was the dominant supplier to most British Health Authorities. Th is was brought home very forcibly to this writer on visiting the Transport Museum at Kelvin Hall in Glasgow in 1996, when one of the fi rst exhibits encountered was a Hanlon-bodied Scott ish Bedford. Unfortunately the Hanlon enterprise eventually ran into industrial relations trouble and Longford ambulance production ceased. Returning to 708 GYI: this vehicle entered service with Gleeson’s Ambulance Service of Stillorgan, Co. Dublin on 11 June 1976 and was claimed to be Dublin’s fi rst heart ambulance. It passed to the Eastern Health Board when Gleeson’s was taken over by the Board. Nonstandard in the EHB’s largely Ford Transit fleet, 708 GYI was used for crew training before being withdrawn in 1985 when it was given to the museum. Th is vehicle occupies an important niche in the collection, representing an important Irish vehicle builder and an outstanding Bedford model, which remained available up to the regrett able disappearance of the make in the late 1980s.

Brian O’Leary’s beautifully restored AEC Mercury commemorates this vanished make.

The 1970s is rich in transport memories and from my point of view the most notable has to be the opening of our fi rst museum in 1975, which I hope to resile very soon. Meanwhile, I conclude this month with two very different events of the decade. One is the visit of Pope John Paul II in September 1979 when massive feats of public transport saw hundreds of thousands of people In store awaiting major restoration - the museum’s priceless 1939 AEC brought , accident-free, Mammoth Major to the venues at which the Pope appeared. threatened or about to vanish and what was popularly called the foreign invasion became A very different and regrett able event from ever more fi rmly established. And there were 1979 was the demise of AEC as a vehicle several vehicles that were new in the 1970s and builder, disappearing into the ill-fated British are now in the musuem collection. Watch this Leyland empire. Other marques were also either space ......

Text & Photos: Michael Corcoran – enquiries@fleet.ie

The National TransportMuseum, Heritage Depot,Howth Demense, Howth. Opening Times: Sept - May: Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays, 2.00 - 5.00pm. 26 Dec - 1 Jan: 2.00 - 5.00pm daily. June - August: Monday - Saturday, 10.00am - 5.00pm. FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 49

COMMENT

Makin’ Tracks

ast month we talked about the potential benefits that could flow from making some use of the derelict rail lines rather than just lett ing them sit there and rot quietly away. The piece generated quite a response and, of course, the pot was further fi lled by the proposals by Irish Rail to close down services on the Rosslare to Waterford Line.

Let’s talk about this a litt le, but I also want to get to the potentially much more thorny issue of VOSA and Irish registered trucks transiting Britain. In a situation where about 50% of Irish trucks pulled over by VOSA are in some way defective and are, thus, a good source of ‘on-thespot’ fi nes does seem to be quite ludicrous. Let’s start by gett ing back onto the rail tracks. In the April Fleet we spoke about the advantages of re-opening the Limerick Foynes Line with particular focus on the reduction of traffic congestion on the roads of West Limerick. Well, Shannon/Foynes Port, together with Stevedores, the Burke Group came back to point out that the real merits would be to facilitate that Port to dramatically develop Bulk cargoes through that Port at a relatively modest cost. The steady rise in world mineral prices has quickened interest in the development of the Zinc deposits at Pallasgreen, near Limerick Junction and, indeed, there was a further fi nd close by within the last month. Th is is a ‘natural’ product for shipment through the County Limerick Port. Add to this the fact that burning peat in Power Stations will have to stop before 2020 and that these Electricity Generation Stations will have replaced the product of the local bogs by some millions of tonnes of biomass, most of it from overseas, and the Foynes Rail link seems to become very cheap, even at ‘gold plated’ pricing. I was on the inaugural train restoring the Limerick to Galway service on 29 March and got talking with the West-on-Track people about this notion of using derelict rail lines as walking and cycling routes. They threw in a serious caution on this one. It would have to be very carefully thought out and arranged from a legal point of view. Two particular issues emerge. The fi rst would be to establish who is responsible for upkeep and safety of users of the route; who is sued if a walker is injured? The second arises when the rail infrastructure company decides that now is the time to return the line to service and for the leisure users to go elsewhere; would there be a big Man against leviathan batt les? Are these problems insuperable? They shouldn’t be and I suspect that Coillte has already been there in dealing with such questions as they open up the forests to leisure use. It also brings me back to one of my favourite gripes of the last 20 years – why do we in Ireland not have a similar regime to that in France and elsewhere in which everyone has their own personal accident and injury insurance? When something bad happens when out and about people can claim off this insurance rather than getting into 50

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

legal claims battles with some Authority, which wastes a lot of time and benefits no one other than the lawyers.

Back to the re-opening of the Limerick to Galway Line, as the photo shows the weather was atrocious but the crowds and general level of enthusiasm was fantastic. Irish Rail and local groups had clearly done a huge amount to hype the event and it does seem that the services on that line have got off to a very strong start. The issue there now has to be to establish a proper Clare/ South Galway public transport network involving trains, buses, taxis, etc. with good Park and Ride facilities at stations and other transport nodes. Crucial to this is the scheduling of the trains – I was a bit surprised that the last train leaves Galway for Limerick at 17.15, surely far too early – and this seems to be the big issue that has led to the rows about closing Rosslare to Waterford services. It cannot be that one service a day in either direction is a real public service. Back to this issue of VOSA and penalising Irish trucks. Th is is an issue in which other people are a great deal more expert than I, but I understand from comments from the Freight Transport Association (FTA) that the fundamental problem is a disconnect between the truck and driver control systems operated in the Republic of Ireland and those in Britain. Th is body contend that the Northern Ireland administration has brought a new Operator licensing regime that mirrors that in Britain and that information from the northern system is routinely passed across the water. This sharing of data has allowed VOSA Inspectors to let NI vehicles that their system shows up as compliant to pass unhindered and to

From where I'm sitting Howard Knott

focus their attentions on the Irish Republic registered vehicles. Th is is surely a matter on which the Road Safety Authority (RSA), Department of Transport, the IRHA, the Ferry Companies and the Irish Exporters Association, should sit down with VOSA and work out a plan so that all vehicles from this island are treated equally and the growth of export trade is facilitated.

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Text: Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie Photo: Mark Healy

BUS & COACH

CTTC ‘think-in’ @ Lake Hotel, Killarney Hyde, who had arrived from Loughborough the day before. Kerry Coaches had just taken possession of a new Volvo 9700, and it was displayed to members in the grounds of the Hotel. The same vehicle was used for a mini-Ring of Kerry tour on the second day, which allowed members view Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, the Killarney National Park, and elevated views of the famous Lakes. The intension was to allow coach owners to sit at the back of a coach for a change, and see the area as a tourist would see it.

Gerry Mullins CTTC with Volvo Coach Sale’s James Hyde

ollowing the example of the politicians, the Coach Tourism & Transport Council (CTTC) held its own ‘thinkin’ at the Lake Hotel in Killarney on 12th and 13th April. The purpose of the gathering was to facilitate the CTTC’s ordinary monthly Executive and Members meetings, but also to provide an opportunity for members to meet in a social and relaxed atmosphere. While the sun blazed out of the Kerry sky, the members also received presentations from a range of people and organisations associated with the coach tourism industry. Lunch on the fi rst day was sponsored by Liam Farrelly of Central Bus & Coach who recently became the distributor for UNVI bus and coach products in Ireland. An UNVI GT Vario and a Vega GT Sprinter were on display in the hotel’s forecourt and Liam Farrelly reports some sales arising from the event. More than 30 members dined that evening in the Lake Hotel at a four-course meal sponsored by Volvo Coach Sales. The dinner was attended and addressed by Volvo Coach Sale’s James

but I’ve no photograph of the bus.” “Was that Guy Vixon’s registration plate GWP88?” asked Corcoran. “Yes,” cried Kennedy, “GWP88!” “I photographed it near Dingle in 1965,” said Corcoran. “Give me your address and I’ll send you a copy.” There was hardly a dry eye in the house.

The group enjoyed lunch at Avoca at Moll’s Gap on the Ring of Kerry. The Manager at Avoca, Eileen O’Leary, said she was delighted to host the complimentary lunch as “a nice way for us to say thank you for your business to date, and who knows maybe gather some more!” Back at the Hotel, Fáilte Ireland provided an interesting workshop for CTTC members on pricing for the coach industry. The copresentation by Leo McMorrow and Josephine O’Driscoll, also introduced the members to Fáilte Ireland’s free online business tools service – www.businesstools.failteireland.ie

Liam Farrelly of Central Bus & Coach

There was also time for nostalgia. Michael Corcoran of the National Transport Museum in Howth, and who writes the Times Past column in Fleet Transport, presented a slideshow on the history of coach tourism in Ireland. Michael, who has taken and collected photographs of Irish coaches for more than half a century, regaled his audience with tales of charabanc trips, and the emergence of today’s modern coach industry from the ‘slightly imperfect’ second hand vehicles brought over from Britain. The highlight for many was when Paddy Kennedy of Kennedy Coaches in Annascaul raised his hand to ask if Michael Corcoran might have a photograph of a 1948 Guy Vixon his father used to operate in the Kerry region. “I have such fond memories of it that I have kept the engine as a souvenir,” said Kennedy. “So I have the engine,

Michael Corcoran from ‘Times Past’

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

LEGAL

Self-employed drivers and the Working Time Directive (WTD)

elf-employed drivers are, of course, excluded from the provisions of the Working Time Directive (WTD). Given that the intention of the WTD was to protect the public from the danger of fatigued drivers the exemption did not make sense, but, for various reasons, including the problem of effective control, the decision was made that self-employed drivers would not be subject to the WTD until March 2009. The decision to implement the intention to include those drivers needs to be formally ratified and, as this is written, that ratification has not occurred. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the lobby opposing the inclusion of these drivers is very strong, and this has delayed the implementation of the original plan. The intention to include selfemployed drivers in the WTD is still seen as a priority, however, and there is litt le doubt that the necessary legislative change will be effected sooner rather than later. There is no doubt that many operators saw the use of ‘self-employed drivers’ as an opportunity to avoid the administrative problems that resulted from the need to ensure that a drivers ‘average hours’ did not infringe the WTD. Many drivers found that they had been invited to become ‘selfemployed’, combined with an assurance that it would make no difference either to their pay or to their hours of work. In reality the definition of a ‘self-employed’ driver in Section 1.4 of the regulations is very restrictive and it is worth sett ing it out in full. ‘Self-employed driver’ means anyone whose main occupation is to transport passengers or goods by road for hire or reward within the meaning of Community legislation under cover of a Community licence or any other professional authorisation to carry out such transport, who is entitled to work for himself and who is not tied to an employer by an employment contract or by any other type of working hierarchical relationship, who is free to organise the relevant working activities, whose income depends directly on the profits made and who has the freedom, individually or through a co-operation between self-employed drivers, to have commercial relations with several customers, (Regulation 2 of SI 2005 No. 639).” The two key points are firstly that the driver must be free to work for himself. Th is means that there can be no requirement to be at a certain place at a certain time on a regular basis. Clearly once a job is accepted the driver must make himself available to do that work, but any suggestion that the commitment is regular, and cannot be broken, is likely to remove the ‘self-employed’ status. The second key requirement is that the driver must have his own customers, be paid for the work, and

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

depend on the profit for his living. It must not be forgotten that both the vehicle and the driver need to be insured and, whilst the self-employed driver would be expected to have his own vehicle and, therefore, his own insurance. These requirements effectively make it impossible for an operator to rely on the services of a ‘selfemployed ’ d r iver because the operator’s need to provide a regular and reliable service to his customer creates a relationship that is directly contradictory to the defi nition of ‘self-employed’. It is clear that there will continue to be ‘borderline’ cases but not only is the defi nition set out in Section 1.4 clear, but, in normal circumstances, common sense will tell you whether the claim to be self-employed is real.

At the end of all this there may still be questions about the status of a driver who claims to be self-employed.

Even if the EC remove the exemption with the effect that ‘selfemployed’ drivers come into the scope of the WTD there will still be issues for an operator to face. The operator will have to be clear as to whether or not he has the responsibility for ensuring that a selfemployed driver does not breach the WTD. The operator will have to ensure that there is adequate insurance in place, and that the driver’s, and vehicle, records are properly secured. It may be that the operator will have to check the selfemployed driver’s safety policy, and certainly the operator will have to be sure that the driver is properly licensed with the CPC. Text: Jonathan Lawton – jonathan@fleet.ie

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FINANCE

Seek help portfolio of clients, have a knowledge of what sector opportunities may arise and a good manager w ill see opportunities for key customers in transport a nd i ndust r y to interact.

Auditors a nd Accountants

n this series of ten crucial financial steps that must be in place in transport operations, the most important and obvious requirement of any business is to seek timely and appropriate help when the company needs it. In 2008 operators were hit with spiralling fuel prices, in 2009 most presumed we were nearing the end of the reduction in volume due to the recession and now in 2010 we are in the middle of another rise in fuel costs again and volumes of freight have not yet stabilised, never mind show an increase. Some sectors of consumer spending are up, an example is new cars, but look closely and you will see that is because prices have dramatically dropped out to Government VRT changes, the Scrappage Scheme, and distributors slashing costs. The type of new cars sold has changed from high cost to frugal value for money. The volume of food transported per head of population has not decreased but the monetary value has dropped as all multiples seek to maintain market share with low margin special offers. General consumer spending has decreased and this along with the decimation of our building industry means we must operate in a reduced volume market for the foreseeable future. While exports may increase, competition and overcapacity in the transport market will further lower rates.

The main function of accountants has been the production of annual accounts and the requirement to keep your business compliant, while you enjoyed a reasonable living from your hard work. Your accountant is now well aware of the issues in your business, namely cash flow and lack of profitability. He or she can assist in discussions with the banks, they can review business costs and especially overheads and offer suggestions re cost control. They will know the measures taken by other companies regarding wage reductions and they also are an independent eye on the long term viability of your business. What elements of your business are profitable? What is the best action to safeguard the equity you have built up in the business?

Workforce

The best asset in your business should be your workers. What suggestions do they have to rectify a problem? Do they see obvious waste? Do they want to change work practices and wage rates to safeguard the business and their jobs? Are there some bad apples still in the mix that are creating issues?

Customers

Looking for help from your customer may be the last place you would consider, however, if fuel cost increase warrants a 10% increase and fear of approaching your customer because your work will go to the market, may not be the case. If there is a long-term business relationship in place your customer may have a vested interest in assisting you in cutt ing costs, being more productive and operating with a margin. While customers are hugely cost conscious at present they also realise its in their interest to be in partnership with a well managed viable transport provider as opposed to a short term low cost option that will either raise rates or exit the market in the future.

Public Relations

Transport and Logistics are crucial to Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progression out of recession yet we do not receive any support from Government Bodies or Institutes of Employers Associations. Perhaps it is time to highlight the need for help and assistance, promote the fact that investment in our industry saves money long term and gives our economy a viable and competitive means to transport our product to market. If Ireland is to develop its Agri industry and process food to a high quality here in Ireland, where is the investment in a National and European chilled logistics chain?

Against the backdrop of lower volume, higher fuel cost, slower payments and lack of profit where can one turn for help?

Bank and Financial Institutions

In the early 80s the banks had a name for giving you an umbrella when all is fi ne and taking it away when it rains! Now banks and leasing companies have one clear policy, work with clients so that the banks liability can be reduced in an organised manner. Only low risk, well managed fi rms will gain fi nance in the future but in the interim, bank mangers will work with fi rms if a clear business strategy is in place and the business owners themselves demonstrate the ability to manage the business in tough times and make the difficult decisions. Bank Managers have a wide 54

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

Text: Donal Dempsey â&#x20AC;&#x201C; donal@fleet.ie

REPORT

37th IRHA AGM & Conference 2010 In a call from the floor for some determined action and protest at the state of the industry, the delegates said that the seriousness of the industry would warrant it. In response, Vincent Caulfield said that he would take directions from the Council and the Members but that his own feeling was that most companies were more interested in working their way through the recession rather than rebelling against their customers. Speaking about the price of fuel and the Carbon Tax the President said they would not stop lobbying the Government on the removal of Carbon Tax as a cost to hauliers. Vincent Caulfield & Minister Éamon Ó Cuiv

ddressing the delegates attending the 37th Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) AGM & Conference at the Galway Bay Hotel, Éamon Ó Cuiv, Minister for Social Protection, welcomed those present and apologised that he was not briefed on transport issues. He replaced Transport Minister Noel Dempsey who had a previous engagement. In a very dignified response IRHA President Vincent Caulfield informed Minister Ó Cuiv that the Government had delivered very little to the transport industry. He said the IRHA was particularly disappointed at the introduction of the Carbon Tax in last year’s Budget. President Caulfield said that the IRHA had prepared a very comprehensive submission for the Department of Finance, which was largely ignored. Earlier in the day Mr. Caulfield told delegates that the IRHA had the same number of paid up members at the Conference this year as at per 2009. In a frank and fair exchange with Members during the Any Other Business session he empathised with Members present from Donegal who face severe difficulties in their day-to-day business with a change in Cabotage rules coming into force. Council Member for Donegal, George Mills said that some transport companies in Donegal were being forced into setting up companies in Northern Ireland to retain work they had for a number of years. While accepting that the changes in the Cabotage regulations were good for the industry as a whole, he said that for those living in Donegal and those based on the Inishowen Peninsula the uniqueness of their situation presented them with particular challenges.

Resolutions from Branches Members of the Management Team will be busy over the next year following the motions passed at the A.G.M. Some details as follows: • All branch Chairs have been selected and elected as Members of the Council. Th is should improve communication between the Association and its Members. • Management to ensure that the proposals on Gross Vehicle Weights will be implemented in legislation. • A sub-Committee has been established to look at the further development of alternative fuels for viable usage. • Put forward a proposal on Carbon Tax to be a charge on transport rather than transport companies. • Road Safety Authority (RSA) to be asked to raise awareness with consignors of the consequences of unnecessary delays at collection and delivery points. • Representations to be made to the newly appointed Financial Regulator to see if some of the banks are breaking regulations in the way they offer finance to hauliers.

Honorary Life Member – Michael O’Donovan Michael O’Donovan from Enniscorthy, County Wexford was presented with Honorary Life Membership of the Irish Road Haulage Association. Semi-retired according to himself, Michael set up his business in the mid 1970’s and became involved in the IRHA almost immediately. For 20 years he was the Treasurer of the South East Branch and he has the distinction of being the last Chairman of the BH A (Beet Hauliers Association).

Accompanied by his wife Nora, the presentation was made to him at the Banquet on the Saturday night. Officially known to his friends as the ‘Cigar and Rolls man’ Michael’s sense of humour and turn of phrase endears him to everyone.

Intense Discussion (IRHA AGM) I expressed the hope in last months Fleet Transport that the IRHA AGM & Conference would bring the renewal of old friendships, intense debate and serious politicking. It certainly achieved for me the first two. However, it was a sign of the times that there was no politicking – no breakaway group engaged in whispered discussion that would lead to a heave against the leadership. I think most people were of the same opinion as myself, extremely grateful to have Vincent Caulfield at the helm, a man of calm control. The social side was well catered for and heavy discussions took place into the small hours of Friday and Saturday night, this was very evident in the toll it took on some of the members. The Minister for Social Protection Éamon Ó Cuiv did little to justify his new title as the guest of honour at the Saturday Night Banquet. He delivered a couple of good jokes and then just about blamed everybody but his Government for the current state of affairs, thankfully, he did not manage to spoil a really good night. Sunday lunch was a spectacular affair and will be remembered by all who attended. For me the main business of the meeting was the decision by Council to call for a rescinding of the Working Time Directive that covers Road Transport. This was in response to the failure of the European Parliament’s Transport Committee to agree a way forward to include self employed drivers in the Amendment to the Directive. This failure, the meeting agreed, led to serious Health and Safety issues and placed companies who employed drivers at a competitive disadvantage. The IRHA will now seek a meeting with Commission officials.

Jaap Berkhof & Neil White, representing DKV which were sponsors and exhibitors at the event Text: Sean Murtagh & Jerry Kiersey Photos: Paul Sherwood

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 55

REVIEW 111

The Energy Show 2010, RDS, Dublin

‘M

aximising Ireland’s Low Carbon Oppor tunities’ was the theme of the 2010 Energy Show hosted by SEAI – Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. The event held at the RDS, Dublin took place on the same week that both Nissan and Renault launched their new electric cars destined for the Irish market following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Irish Government last year. Surprisingly neither brand was present among the exhibitors on the designated Electric & Hybrid Vehicles Area. In that section, Commercial Vehicles dominated not only for their size but also for the amount on display. With Government ambitions targeting 10% of Ireland’s vehicles to be electric by 2020, almost all of the concentration is on electric cars. And while a selection of all-electric powered cars will become available in due course, buoyant sales of electric commercials will be required in order to reach that elusive figure. But the financial incentives offered for zero emission cars with up to €5,000 discounts available, the same benefit does not include electric commercials. To date the choice available for commercial users opting for electric power is much broader, than that offered by car manufacturers. Fuso, Smith Electric, Modec, Verde Autos, Green Machines and Toyota Ireland were among the established names that were present. One and all were in agreement that the fi rst day of the two-day Show was much busier with high levels of footfall and interest in their products and services. First part of call was to the OHM Group stand to where the Modec (pic 1) electric commercial vehicle and Hyster electric forklift were displayed. In the advent of EU Whole Vehicle Type Approval, the Modec is the only battery powered commercial to achieve this accreditation. The 5.5 GVW commercial comes in many guises. It offers a payload of up to 2 tonnes, a top speed of 80 kp/h and a range of up to 160 kms – depending on load and road conditions.

he said. Th is version, a 1.8 tonne, comes into the range that extends from 1.5 – 5.5 tonnes.

Next up was Electric Ve h ic le s I r e l a nd , which made a number of a n nou ncements at the Energy Show. The Tullamore based National distributor for Smith Electric Vehicles has now added two more importerships – Optare Electric Buses and Alkè Electric Utility Vehicles. Optare the award winning Bus & Coach Company has added an electric range of commuter buses to its line-up. John Horn, Sales Director at Optare was on hand to meet potential customers (pictured with David Mu l lin, Manag ing Di rec tor, Elec t r ic Vehicles Ireland)(pic 3). More details in the next edition of Fleet Bus & Coach. David is

Pictured alongside the Hyster J 1.8 XN AC all electric forklift is Wayne Uzell, National Sales Manager, Irish Lift Trucks and Colin McCourt, General Manager (pic 2). The Hyster electric range which starts at €17,000 + VAT is Irish built, in fact the Craigorian plant is the German company’s Centre of Excellence. According to Wayne, Hyster electric forklift s are the most efficient in the marketplace as it has a bigger battery capacity, “capable of doing double shifts,”

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

REVIEW 111

5 pictured sitting in the new Alkè high performance electric utility. Manufactured in Padora, Italy Alkè zero emission utilities have a starting price of €15,000 + VAT. Fully charged up, it can travel along at 40 kp/h for around 70 kms which is more than adequate to do a days work around urban areas, inside Parks or Industrial Estates (pic 4). Established in 1992, Alkè vehicles are successfully marketed in 30 countries worldwide. On exhibit was the ATE 200E Tipper which runs on 6 kW/48V power, has a 600 kg payload and 2.0 tonne towing capacity. A 4x4 version is also available. The third announcement relates to the appointment of Jack Middleton as Sales Manager at Electric Vehicles Ireland (pic 5). Jack from Roscrea has built up vast experience in sales of plant, machinery and more recently trucks and vans. Positioned near the side entrance of the RDS was the fi rst of a 10 strong batch of Fuso Canter diesel-electric hybrid due for delivery to the ESB by Daimler through Mitsubishi Motors Ireland.

Georg Staskiewicz, International Sales Fleets & Body Builders for Daimler Fuso Division came over from Stuttgart for the event and is pictured here with Nick Halligan, Mitsubishi Motors Ireland (pic 6). Allied Electric, the Glasgow firm that specializes in transforming Peugeot commercials and cars from conventional combustion engines to electric power has appointed Gowan Distributors as its Irish agents. It is a perfect fit for Gowans as the company is the importer/distributor for the French brand for decades. Allied Vehicles Group’s Corporate Sales Manager Colin McQueen stood in for this picture (pic 7). The full range of its Peugeot’s electric will be available in Ireland.

Vett Fiorino Electric, which comes as a cargo or 5 seater combi version (pic 8). There is also the Electric Ducato from the Fiat Pro stable and a BiPower version of the Iveco Daily Van & Bus. With the ESB establishing a charging point network around the country one of the suppliers is MCC Controls which is headquartered at the Robinhood Business Park in Dublin 22. Joe McCarthy, Managing Director explained the workings of the new plug-in system, which we will all have to get used to in time to come.

Another electric vehicle supplier to the Irish market for the past few years – since 2001, actually is Green Machines. Apart from bicycles, scooters and Aixam Mega e-City Cars, the MicroVett range of commercial vehicles based in the Fiat Professional products is now added to the portfolio. For example Eoin Wall, Marketing Manager is standing alongside the new Micro-

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 57

TRAILER

Kraker Trailers Ireland the Moving Floor Trailers Specialists palletised goods and then pick up a load of gravel for the return journey. What other kind of trailer offers that versatility?” An after-sales and service network is essential to the success of a venture such as this, and potential customers will be assured to know that there will be a range of authorised service partners throughout the country to look after their needs. Already Stephen Rice Commercials in Tuam, County Galway has been appointed as service agent for the west and midlands region, while Johnny Ryan – Mechanical Repairs in Cahir, County Tipperary will look after the south of the country. Further service agents in Limerick and for the Dublin and North of Ireland regions are set to be announced imminently. All the agents will receive full training from Kraker Trailers in Holland before commencing operations.

Kraker Trailers – Masters In Moving Floor Trailers

f you are of a suitable vintage you might recall the television ad from the 1980’s for Remmington shavers. The one where an appropriately clean-shaven Victor Kiam was so taken with the company’s products that he famously declared ‘I liked it so much I bought the company’. Well Raymond Cogan may not have bought Kraker Trailers (nor are we suggesting any intentions to do so), but the young businessman and haulier from Frenchpark in County Roscommon was sufficiently impressed with the Dutch manufacturer that he has become distributor for their moving floor trailers on the island of Ireland. He believes the company’s signature moving floor design offers a flexibility other trailers cannot match, and has the potential to become a sales success here. The moving floor trailer concept has not been widely adopted in Ireland, but offers significant benefits over conventional floors, primarily in the flexibility for carrying and loading/unloading different product types, from loose materials to pallets and almost everything in between. The principle behind moving floors is as simple as it is effective, essentially that of friction between floor and cargo. On a standard 2.5 metre floor, a series of longitudinally laid floor panels are divided into three groups of seven profiles. Each of these groups can move separately or as a whole, but only all moving together will cause the load to move in tandem. Therefore to empty a load, each of the three groups of floor profi les are moved inwards separately (without the load moving), then when all are retracted, the floor moves out as a unit, bringing the load with it. Depending on the type of pump system used, a fully loaded trailer can be emptied in between three and eight minutes.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

For Raymond Cogan, the relationship with Kraker Trailers came about through the family business Western Casing Ltd, which produces casing soil for the mushroom industry. Looking for suitable trailers to facilitate easy unloading of the peat based produce, a visit to the Kraker factory proved to be the solution to their needs. “We were looking for a strong and reliable moving floor trailer for transporting mushroom casing,” explains Raymond. “Kraker Trailers worked with us to come up with a specialised funneling system for unloading which we have been more than happy with.” Western Casing now operates four Kraker Trailers, including a ten year old example acquired second hand which Raymond says has never given a moment’s bother. One satisfied customer, and with the Dutch manufacturer on the look-out for an agent for the Irish market, cue the opportunity for Raymond to take on the agency to sell Kraker Trailers here. He is excited if realistic about the opportunity. “Ireland doesn’t have a history of using moving f loor trailers unlike some other European markets,” he says. “It will take time to get the message across, but I think this kind of trailer would be ideal for the waste industry for example.” He sees the flexibility offered by the moving floor concept a big appeal for hauliers carrying a range of goods. “An operator can off-load a delivery of

Based in the small Netherlands town of Axel close to the Belgian border, Kraker Trailers is the only European manufacturer that specialises solely in the development and production of moving floor trailers. The company itself has an engineering background dating back as far as 1897, but it was just over twenty years ago when the current owner Jan de Kraker (no relation to the original company bearing the same name) and his business partner Jan Scheele acquired the company. Initially producing mainly tipper bodies, that same year 1989 saw the fi rst moving floor built in a container box. It was followed in 1991 by Kraker’s first self carrying trailer. In 2000

TRAILER a new factory was built, and the following year the decision was made to stop production of tippers and focus purely on the design and manufacture of moving floor trailers. Now well established as the leading manufacturer of moving floor trailers, Kraker Trailers has seen a steady 10-15% growth year on year since 1995. Forty five staff produce ten units per week, with Germany, the Benelux countries and Scandinavia the biggest markets. The company presently markets a range comprising of fourteen different model types, but one development the economic downturn has brought about is more customers requesting special products. “Up to 2008 about 90% of our trailer production was standard units,” says Manager Patrick Wieland. “Now about 40% are special orders.” Th is flexibility to design and produce one-off trailers is a key component of the Kraker philosophy and highly valued by customers. “All our engineering is done in-house with four full-time design engineers” explains Patrick. “Every customer has specific requirements, plus each country has its own regulations.” With an all-aluminium body, Kraker Trailers may not be the cheapest trailers on the market, but are built to last, with a focus on attention to detail and operator friendliness. Trailers are stress tested for durability, there is a ten year warranty on the galvanised chassis, while the company offers a five year warranty on construction and paint subject to the trailer undergoing yearly inspections. Technology and innovation are very much to the forefront, and Kraker Trailers has been a leader in identifying and developing new ideas. A recent significant example has been the option to select Hardox floors instead of conventional steel. Designed in conjunction with partner CargoFloor for the transportation of heavy wear and tear materials such as construction waste, sand, gravel and glass, the floorboards are made of an aluminium sub-floor with a hardox wear strip on top. It guarantees a large impact strength, while the completely flat floor is also suitable for the transportation of pallets, giving owners and operators huge flexibility in the range of goods they can transport. Another fi rst for the moving floor trailer sector has been the introduction of an electro-hydraulic steering system. Available as an option, Electronic Truck & Trailer Steering (ETS) is a digitally controlled steering system designed by Kraker Trailers partner VSE. Available on either one or two axles, it offers excellent maneuverability while adding litt le weight and low maintenance costs. An innovative company working to meet customer needs. If you want to see a Kraker Trailer up close and in action, Raymond will be showing an example at the Full Of The Pipe Truck Show which takes place at Athlone IT on the Bank Holiday week-end from June 5th to 7th. Contact Raymond Cogan, Kraker Trailers Ireland on 086 3827120

Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle– cathal@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 59

TYRES

BRIDGESTONE’s

“Solutions for Tyres”

hen you look behind many of the world’s major companies, which are now recognised as household names, you often find that they began life from very humble beginnings. For example, several of the greatest brands in vehicle manufacturing evolved from an idea in someone’s garden shed. It is also not uncommon to find that the company is now far removed from the original idea, product line or service. The Bridgestone Corporation is one of these companies. The founder Shojiro Ishibashi began making footwear in the 1930’s before seeing an opportunity in tyre manufacturing and so founded Bridgestone. The Bridgestone name comes from the English translation of his own name Ishibashi, which means ‘stone bridge’. While Bridgestone may have begun as a tyre manufacturer, it has grown to become a producer of an almost endless range of products, from conveyer belts to sports equipment. Since 2003, Bridgestone’s Irish operations are controlled from the Head Office located in a state of the art premises in Balbriggan, County Dublin. The modern purpose built facility houses all aspects of sales, distribution and customer support. In addition to the office space, the 9-metre high 7,000 sq metre warehouse section houses approximately 80,000 tyres at any one time. Tyres from Bridgestone’s manufacturing plants are brought to Balbriggan by Lo/Lo container and distributed throughout the North and South of Ireland by Bridgestone Ireland Ltd’s own fleet of vehicles. With hands on control, they can ensure overnight delivery to all their dealers, and if required a logistics company is on standby too for any emergencies that arise. The facility also delivers pre-assembled wheels to customers involved in vehicle manufacturing and/or assembly. As well as warehousing and distribution, Balbriggan boasts the only full tyre inspection facility in Ireland. It is here that tyres, returned by customers are assessed for faults. While it must be said that well over 90% of the faults are down to tyre maintenance issues, Bridgestone Ireland believes this to be a valuable asset in product development. Any faults or issues that arise with

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

the manufacturing process are highlighted quickly and reported back to the European Headquarters in Belgium - allowing any remedial action to be taken immediately. For any commercial vehicle operator the costs associated with tyre replacement is one which gives many sleepless nights, and as such is coming under more and more scrutiny. Gone are the days when a truck, bus or coach needed rubber, and the offending item was replaced with the cheapest available. Operators now realise that the cheapest tyre initially is often far from the good value in the long run, when related costs such as fuel efficiency and residual casing value are factored in to the equation. As a response to demands from vehicle operators, Bridgestone has conceived the ‘Total Fleet Management’ system (TFM). TFM can be customised to suit any size fleet, and will firstly assess the company’s needs. It considers many factors such as the number and type of vehicles involved, the type of work undertaken, how heavy are the average loads - whether it’s stop/ start city driving, regional, highway, off road, and so on. Bridgestone will then develop a complete tyre system to meet the needs of that particular company.

TFM begins with possibly the most important area - correct tyre selection. The system then continues right through the life of the tyre to final scrappage and disposal. Primarily TFM is broken into modules, which operators can select to meet their own individual operating needs. Among the modules companies can opt for are centralised billing and performance reporting, staff training and casing management. Constant monitoring of tyre performance helps to expose other problems such as wheel alignment, which will affect tyre lifespan regardless of what brand of tyre is fitted. Through its ‘Truck Point’ network, Bridgestone’s TFM also provides peace of mind with 24-hour Breakdown Assistance. Truck Point not only operates in Ireland but on a European wide basis through a multi-lingual Call Centre. One major benefit being that the ‘call-out’ costs are standardised into geographical zones with the charges billed through Bridgestone Ireland to your account. The company is the market leader in Ireland and in fact, Bridgestone Ireland has the highest market share of any of the Bridgestone operations throughout Europe. One possible reason for their success was the iconic ‘M 711’ drive tyre, which

TYRES found favour with many Irish operators. The success of this tyre had the effect of bringing many new customers to Bridgestone, and keeping them loyal to the brand. Bridgestone hopes to replicate this success with the ‘Bandag’ brand name - now a wholly owned Bridgestone company. Though available in Ireland for many years, to date Bandag has not achieved the popularity and loyalty it enjoys in many other countries, particularity the Unites States. However, Bridgestone see a change on the horizon, with companies across the board seeking to reduce costs, allied to the environmental benefits of retreading more operators are showing interest. The change to Bandag may gain momentum with any future increase in oil prices. While we all realise the importance of, as well as the costs concerned, efficient tyre management is a very time consuming aspect of running a fleet. Many operators have invested countless hours trying to put systems in place to monitor the wear patterns, inflation pressures, and damage to vehicle tyres. However, as vehicles move in and out of yards round the clock and often are working remotely, great attention to detail and dedication is needed to keep accurate records.

Colm Conyngham; Bridgestone Ireland’s Marketing & Public Relations Manager

It was in response to their customers highlighting these problems that Bridgestone initiated the TFM system. Bridgestone Ireland’s Marketing & Public Relations Manager Colm Conyngham says it is not just about selling tyres anymore it is about selling “solutions for tyres”. In the very near future Bridgestone’s TFM system could be an invaluable helping hand to transport operators. Currently (profit) margins are tight as can be and while transport rates are not going up, costs certainly are. Colm is in no doubt that tyre prices will rise due to the increasing price of raw materials, a strengthening Dollar, and greater demand from developing countries. Of late, we are witnessing price hikes at the fuel pumps on an almost daily basis, adding pressure on companies trying to operate in a shrinking economy. If revenue cannot keep pace then costs must be cut. Colm is confident that companies who engage in a partnership with Bridgestone will realise cost benefits. Bridgestone’s products are well regarded worldwide and with good reason. Now it can offer customers an alternative with the Bandag range of tyres. Th is alternative will appeal to many. In addition it immediately lowers costs by reducing the initial purchase price of replacement tyres, because a retread uses less than one-third the amount of oil to produce - when compared to manufacturing a tyre from scratch. It may also enhance a company’s image by allowing operators to wave the ‘green’ flag. Furthermore as ‘green’ issues are becoming ever more important when meeting customer requirements, anything that can provide an edge when tendering for work has to be a good thing. Based on what we learned from our visit to Balbriggan, it would appear that Bridgestone Ireland does have ‘solutions for tyres’ - now might be the right time to contact them and ask for some solutions to your particular tyre questions. Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10 61

MATERIALS HANDLING

iFT L COMBi Providing Materials Handling Solutions

onaghan firm Combilift is set to reach new heights – literally – with the launch of its largest ever forklift to date, the 25 tonne capacity C25000 model. Another new product, the Combilift Straddle Carrier offers a cost effective solution for the movement of containers. Since its establishment in 1998, Combilift has become a major Irish success story, in just twelve years becoming the global leader in the manufacture of forklifts and long-load materials handling equipment. The company now has an annual turnover of €80 million, and employs 180 people worldwide.

Founded by Martin McVicar and Robert Moffett, key figures behind the phenomenally successful Moffett Mounty truck-mounted forklift, the pair identified the need for a niche product to handle long and awkward loads. The resulting product – the 4-way Combilift C4000, a self-powered multidirectional forklift - was launched to immediate critical acclaim, and has formed the basis for a whole range of specialist machines offering unrivalled maneuverability and load carrying capabilities. Today Combilift is in operation in over fi ft y countries, with over 11,000 units having been produced, and offering up to twenty base products from 2.5 tonnes to the new 25t forklift. Indeed a measure of just how important Combilift has become to the world of materials handling could be seen at the launch of its latest new products at its headquarters and manufacturing facility in Monaghan, where in excess of 150 people from over 30 countries from every corner of the World were in attendance.

New Combilift C25000 - The Biggest Forklift Yet The new C25000 breaks a new size barrier for a Combilift product, the previously largest forklift offered being the 14 tonne model. Using a John Deere 6068 HF engine with 170 hp capacity instead of the Kubota units used in smaller machines, the C25000 is a formidable machine with dimensions of around 5m by 5m and an unladen weight of 32 tonnes. Designed to meet the needs of operators in such sectors as manufacturing and the timber and construction sectors, the first production model shown here will be shipped to the UK for the BladeRoom Group Ltd, where it will be put to use moving fully fitted out modular data centres weighing in at 18 tonnes.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

New Straddle Carrier – The Perfect Container Mover The Combilift Straddle Carrier has been designed as a cost-effective solution for distribution, shipping and haulage companies needing to move even a relatively low number of containers around a site. Combilift says it is a much more economical option than conventional forklifts, mobile cranes or reach stackers. The standard unit is a patented three-wheel design while a four-wheel version complete with suspension is also offered. The Straddle Carrier has a 35 tonne capacity, can carry all standard ISO containers and has the option available to stack containers two high. A low-level operators cab provides good all-round visibility, while the design allows the diesel powered Carrier (LPG Gas is available as an option) to be operated over uneven surfaces. Flexibility is at the core of Combilift’s philosophy, with a firm focus on customizing products to meet customer needs. In fact 9% of all turnover is reinvested in R&D, with a team of engineers available to design customized handling solutions. Two examples of engineering solutions of interest to hauliers were on show for the press visit – a trailer mounted unit for loading and unloading containers without the need for a separate forklift or crane, and a container lifter. The latter unit can position a container into a vertical position, making it ideal for loading objects such as scrap metal which would fall out under conventional loading. In fact

Combilift C25000

Combilift Straddle Carrier

Combilift estimates that the unit can double the tonnage in a twenty-foot container, making it very quickly a worthwhile investment.

Aisle-Master Comes Under Combilift Production Another recent development has been the moving of production of sister company Aisle-Master to the Combilift manufacturing plant in Monaghan. Aisle-Master produces electric and LPG powered articulated forklifts designed to work in very narrow aisles, with capacities of up to 2,500kg and lift heights of 12.5 metres. Going forward, AisleMaster products will be marketed through the Combilift dealer network, with Martin McVicar promising continued development and expansion of this unique product.

Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

Integrated Ticketing Scheme Greater Dublin Area Railway Procurement Agency is in the process of establishing an Integrated Ticketing Scheme. The scheme is open to certain transport operators serving the Greater Dublin Area. For more details and to find out if you qualify to participate in the scheme:

Log on to www.rpa.ie or

Email gerry@cttc.ie or

Write to Gerry Mullins, CTTC, 6th floor O'Connell Bridge House, D'Olier Street, Dublin 2, Ireland.

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MARITIME I

fleetMaritime: IRISH SHIPPING & FREIGHT Compiled by Howard Knott Edited by Jarlath Sweeney email: maritime@fleet.ie

Volume 5, No. 2 Summer 2010

Dublin Port- steady as she goes!

oinciding with the arrival at the Port of the P & O Lines Cruise Liner ‘Oriana’ with 1900 passengers aboard, kicking off what the Port expects to be its biggest year ever in welcoming such vessels, the Dublin Port Company announced strong traffic results for February 2010. These showed trade levels increasing for the third successive month compared to the corresponding months a year earlier. Total cargo tonnage throughput at the Port was 6.4% higher than in February 2009 with export volumes up by 10.7% in the month, while imports grew by 3.7%. Unitised cargo throughput for the month was 1.7 million tonnes and accounted for 80% of the Port’s throughput. Another significant figure was the continued increase in ferry passenger traffic through the Port, at almost seventy-two thousand passengers, an increase of 5.8% over the same month last year. Commenting on the figures, soon to retire Chief Executive, Enda Connellan said, “We remain focused on ensuring that Dublin Port Company can play its role in helping to fuel the return to economic growth by keeping Ireland’s main Port efficient and competitive.” Dublin Port expects to achieve

a throughput in 2010 of about 28 million tonnes. Over the April to September period some 86 Cruise Liners are already booked to dock, some with up to 3,500 passengers and 900 crew on board.

Basin and to the Portroe and DFT terminals. At present, Irish Freight Forwarder International Warehousing and Transport (IWT) operates a three times weekly container train service linking the Port with Ballina and these track extensions within the Port will facilitate the commencement of further services. The Port plans to spend €150 million developing the ‘Dublin Gateway’ project. The planning application for this development, which would involve an extension of the Port facilities eastward toward the mouth of the Liffey, is currently being considered by An Bord Pleanala. A decision is expected very soon.

Dublin Port has a €500 million investment programme running over the next 10 years. It will fund this from its own resources which include the €109 million that the Port received for its share in the Irish Glass bottle site close to the South Quays. The Port has just taken over two new tugs and is extending the rail tracks that run down the North side of the estate to the Quayside at Alexandra

The ‘Dublin Gateway’ is designed to facilitate the working of 2000 TEU container ships and the largest Ro-Ro ferries currently in use. It will be ‘future proofed’ insofar as the Quayside depths can be increased by dredging though Port Director of Operations, Seamus McLoughlin, does not envisage the need to do this anytime soon. The facility will also be rail-linked and with clear access to the Port Tunnel.

Competition on Southern Corridor

he arrival of the Fastnet Lines’ Cork – Swansea ferry service in early March has provoked a strong competitive response from Irish Ferries. Irish Ferries are promoting their Pembroke to Rosslare service for passenger and freight traffic alike on the basis of a twice daily frequency and a trailer capacity aboard the ‘Isle of Inishmore’ of 120 units. It also points out that access to the South and West from Rosslare has been greatly improved with the recent opening of the Waterford By-pass route. Both Irish Ferries and Stena had previously complained about what they both saw as unfair State aid for Fastnet Line.

Fastnet Ferries, ‘Julia’ a promotional overnight rate of one euro. X-Press Container Line has launched Cork Port’s second new UK service for 2010. The weekly LoLo service sails from Southampton each Friday, discharging containers mainly from Deep Sea services from the Far East and elsewhere on Saturday morning. She then returns directly to

Southampton. On the direct routes out of Rosslare to France, there is intense competition between Irish Ferries and Celtic Link. The latter Company has withdrawn the Falkland war veteran ‘Diplomat’ from service and is sailing three round trips a week between Rosslare and Cherbourg with the chartered LD Lines vessel ‘Norman Voyager’. Stena Line has reduced capacity on its Rosslare – Fishguard service transferring the fast ferry ‘Stena Lynx’ to the Dun Laoghaire – Holyhead route for all but the months of July and August.

Meanwhile, a group of hotels based in West Cork are offering guests travelling to Cork aboard the

Former ‘Dawn Merchant’ makes an appearance on Norfolk Line’s Dublin – Birkenhead route

n mid-April the former Merchant Ferries’ vessel temporarily took over the ‘Dublin Viking’ slot, the evening Dublin to Birkenhead Norfolkline service, returning to Dublin in the following afternoon. The vessel, one of four sister ships, operated this route from her launch in 1999 through to 2005 when she was sold to Spanish Baleria Line and was re-named Pau

Cassels. She is currently carrying the name ‘T Rex’ and prior to coming to Dublin was laid up for a period in Cadiz. One of her sister ships, the former ‘Midnight Merchant’ was bought by P & O Ferries in 2006 and, renamed ‘European Endeavour’ which normally sails on the Dover – Calais route but

will now operate the Company’s new Dover – Zeebrugge route. In 2008 and 2009 this vessel stood in each of the Company’s Irish Sea service vessels as they went for annual re-fits. The ‘Norcape’ undertook some similar duties this year. She started her career in the early 1980’s sailing from Dublin to Fleetwood as the ‘Tipperary’ in the B & I Line / Pandoro joint service.

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MARITIME II

After the Sailboats now Galway scores in the world of powerboats

he 2009 Volvo Ocean Race Stopover in Galway was such a success that, not only did the City and its Port secure the grand fi nale and fi nish of the 2012 Volvo Round the World Yacht Race, but next month it will host the start and fi nish of the ‘Around Ireland Off shore Powerboat Race’. On Monday 7 June over 50 World-class Powerboats will leave Galway Bay in pursuit of the Around Ireland Off-shore title. The race will circumnavigate the entire coast of Ireland with stops at Killybegs, Bangor, Waterford and Fenit en route. It is reckoned to be the toughest endurance powerboat race on the International circuit.

SH I PPI NG SHORTS Galway Harbour Company is awaiting confi rmation from an Bord Pleanala that its planned new Port development will qualify for adjudication under the Bord’s Essential Infrastructure fast-track planning procedure. Harbour company CEO, Eamon Bradshaw told Fleet Maritime that the new Port projecting out into the Bay from the existing harbour will facilitate the development of the Cruise Liner business at the Port and also consolidate Galway’s position as a major bulk cargo and fuel import port. The new Port will be directly rail connected and the Harbour Company has commissioned a video presentation on the total development. Th is can be accessed on www. galwayharbour.com. Eamon Bradshaw also confirmed that an important feature of the new development will be the creation of enhanced facilities at the existing harbour for leisure use.

‘Fugro Synergy’ is one of a new series of ‘lightweight’ drill ships and has been active in Dublin Bay during the Spring season. Results of this work, which has involved drills of over 3,000 metres on the Kish Bank have been very positive. The Exploration Company, VP Power Ltd., is seeking to develop a potential coal seam which could be exploited as an in-situ gas-from-coal project. Killybegs based, Mooney Boats has further enhanced its international reputation as a builder of Aluminium craft for the offshore and for the ferry businesses. The recently launched and commissioned multi-purpose catamaran ‘Ocean Cat’ will cater for coastal survey, crew transfer for off shore wind farms as well as bird and whale watching. The vessel is equipped with oil spill response, waste oil collection and bunkering capabilities and can operate up to 200 miles off shore. B9 Shipping will launch a renewably powered cargo ship in 2012. The Larne based technology Company has designed a 3,000 dwt. cargo ship for trading between small island States. About 60% of the thrust will come from conventional soft sails and, in calm conditions, or to manoeuvre in Port, a carbon neutral biomethane engine is used. The ships can be adapted to carry both refrigerated cargo and passengers, thus, improving sustainable tourism offerings in small island states.

During the two days prior to the start of this race, Galway Bay will host the Powerboat P1 Galway Grand Prix of the Sea. Th is event is part of a series which, this year, also includes Croatia, the UK and Sweden. 20 teams will compete in the Powerboat SuperStock Championships. To coincide with the fi nish of the Round Ireland Race Irish P750 competitors and clubs together with the UK Thundercats compete in a 20 boat cross-border challenge in the Bay.

Shannon Foynes Port Company has announced its intention to become Ireland’s Ocean Energy Hub in a project undertaken jointly with IDA Ireland, Sustainable Energy Authority and Shannon Development. The West Limerick Port has, within the last five years, become the major import point for Wind Turbines and the broad, deep Shannon Estuary is an ideal location for the testing and development of wave energy devices.

Zeebrugge based C2C /ECS has added a direct call to the Port of Waterford to their Irish schedule. The line had quit the Port six months ago to consolidate all activities into Dublin. Effective from week 16, the C2C vessel servicing the Radicatel – Dublin route will sail on to Waterford taking not only cargo ex the French Port but also adding containers that have come in on the Cobelfret vessel from Zeebrugge. Arrival in Waterford is on Monday evening, sailing again for Dublin on Wednesday evening with cargo for Zeebrugge and Radicatel.

Team Lines has enlarged its service linking Rott erdam and Felixstowe to Ireland. The Ireland network will consist of three separate loops giving Dublin and Belfast two weekly links with Rotterdam, Cork and Belfast, twice a week from Rotterdam and once weekly from Felixstowe. The Team Lines services call at three of the Rotterdam Deep Sea service terminals giving quick transit to and from Irish customers.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

SOAPBOX

There’s GreenGold in them fields!

Rebated Fuel for the Irish Road Haulage Industry has been the “Pot of Gold” at the end of the Rainbow for IRHA, much talked about but never really sighted. Government’s indifference to taxing the movement of Irish Goods has been highlighted by the recent imposition of a Carbon Tax on fuel. Rape Seed Oil or GreenGold could well be that “Pot of Gold” for the Irish Road Haulage Industry. GreenGold is the name given to an entry in the “Your Country, Your Call” competition that will power haulage trucks with a 100% renewable indigenous Irish fuel, an energy source that has been in use in Ireland since the early nineteenth century.

dollars is foreseeable. The recent London Peak Oil Conference has again highlighted the future price of oil. Rape oil offers import substitution of diesel and animal feed and long term security of supply in the event of global supply chain calamities. Every tonne produced will create an equal carbon credit to the country and these credits will in turn have a value (currently €13 per tonne) and will be offset against Kyoto payments. Oilseed Rape production will help secure the fi nancial stability of the growers and create employment in rural areas. The production and installation of the processing plants and conversion kits for trucks and ongoing operation

It seeks to emulate the German success particularly in Bavaria where six hundred producers with an annual output of 300 million litres powers sixty thousand trucks annually. Ireland can support 100 or more rural based small businesses each producing 1,000,000 litres of rape seed oil per annum which can power twenty long distance trucks for one year, that’s two thousand trucks. The Irish road haulage industry is mainly rural based as are their Bavarian counterparts and is ideally placed to use locally produced fuel. Rape Seed is grown only as a break crop in a mainly cereal rotation, much like sugar beet and potatoes. If the land previously dedicated for sugar beet alone was used this would supply enough oil for twelve hundred trucks (source Hippo Project). In excess of 5 tonnes of seed can be harvested from one hectare, this in turn produces 1666 litres of rape oil and 3.33 tonnes of high quality animal feed pellets or fuel. A turnkey plant capable of producing one million litres per annum will cost in the order of €300,000 plus the cost of the building. It is proposed to have an Irish designed and built containerised plant which can be both delivered to the processor and operational within 24 hours. It would ideally be sited on a farm where storage for the Oilseed Rape and the Rape Pellets might be available but it could equally be a co-op, grain merchant or the haulier. In 2008 a barrel of oil was costing almost $150, despite the economic downturn (some would argue triggered/contributed to by the price of oil). Currently oil is trading as $80 per barrel and demand from China and India is increasing. In the event of a global economic recovery a price of $200

June 7th - 16th 2010 West Thurrock • Warrington Leeds • Teesside • Grangemouth Belfast • Dublin • Cork

www.grwroadshow.co.uk 66

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 10

and maintenance will create and maintain skilled employment with future export potential. It is intended to design a kit in Ireland that will have reliability and speed and simplicity of installation as its goals. Trucks that carry Ireland’s exports abroad, particularly our food exports, will be doing so with a fuel that will bring a unique selling point to those products.

all transport fuel. Th is scheme will be referred to as the Biofuel Obligation Scheme (BOS). While BOS, unlike MOTR I & II, may well achieve its objective in increasing the use of biofuels it will be based almost totally on imports and therefore will do little or nothing for Irish biofuel production or fuel security. The Government has also introduced a carbon tax on some fossil fuels to further encourage the use of renewable biofuels and has greatly reduced both the Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) and annual road tax on low emission cars. Minister Eamon Ryan announced the introduction of a grant scheme of €5,000 per vehicle for the purchase of electric cars and a reduction of the VRT by €4,500. Th is will apply to 2000 cars and will cost the exchequer €37m. The electricity used to power electric cars will be free of excise even though, while the cars may be emission free, 87% of our electricity is produced from fossil fuel. We hope to gain Government support for the production and use of the only biofuel that is both 100% Irish and 100% environmentally sustainable and a renewable replacement for imported liquid fossil fuel by exempting Irish rape oil from excise duty. The excise lost (about €40m per annum based on our target of 100m litres) would be more than offset by securing long term employment, the cost of carbon credits and fuel security.

The EU imports 48% of its energy while Ireland imports 87% and is one of the most dependent on imported energy in the EU after Cyprus, Malta, and Luxembourg. The Government has invested vast amounts of public resources over the last number of years to encourage the production and use of renewable replacements for imported fossil fuels with very limited success, particularly in the transport fuel sector. Both the Mineral Oil Tax Relief Schemes (MOTR I & II) have failed to reach their target and are based mainly on imported biofuel with litt le or no additional fuel security and no verification of environmental sustainability.

The National Oil Reserve Agency (NORA) will gain in strategic capacity and the reduction in imports and improved balance of payments (€60m oil and €30m animal feed per annum). It will also reduce the potential for penalties that will arise if we do not reach our EU and other International obligations. To incentivise truck conversions Government will have to offer a reduction of, say, €1,000 per annum on the annual road tax on HGVs that have been fitted with conversion kits to use rape oil by submitt ing proof of using a minimum amount of Rape Oil in the previous year. It is extremely important that such conversions are only from approved sources as the use of unconverted or improperly converted vehicles is as polluting as diesel in a badly maintained truck. €2,000,000 per annum would be the sum forgone in annual road tax based on 2000 HGV’s and this principle is already well established in low emissions cars paying less road tax.

The Government is currently enacting legislation to oblige the big oil companies to include 4.75% of biofuel in their annual sales of some, but not

It is our belief that the proposal if fully supported by the Government would, in fact, be truly selffi nancing.

TANKER ROADSHOW Coming to a venue near you soon! GRW along with some of their key suppliers will be bringing a state of the art mobile exhibition unit to a location near you in June this year. They will together demonstrate the improved quality and new features of the 2010 range of equipment.

Text: Jerry Kiersey – jerry@fleet.ie

Driven to Perfection

Most recent purchase by CAB Freight Services. A New HINO 700 SERIES 2638 6x4 26 tonne Curtainside rigid.

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