Fleet Transport May 2011 by Orla Sweeney

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

MAY 11

€4.50 inc.V.A.T.

STG £3.75

FEATURES:

SCANIA @ EURO 6 • All-New MercedesBenz Actros Unveiled

• Wilker Group goes from Strength to Strength

Scania Parts

Scania Service Exchange. Parts as good as new. Your truck’s place is on the road with the wheels turning and earning, not standing idle in the workshop. To maindone quickly at a reasonable price and with top quality. That’s where Scania Service Exchange comes in: Scania Service Exchange enables you to replace a failed component with a factory-remanufactured equivalent. The replacement is of the same high quality as a brand new Scania Part, but comes at a lower price, lower because we recycle those parts that have retained their original quality. You get the same 12-month warranty as a brand new part, valid everywhere and including labour when the job is done by a Scania dealer. Don’t compromise the high built-in quality of your Scania by buying cheap will-fit parts. Invest in Scania Service Exchange and get the Scania quality. It pays in the long run. Issued by Westward Scania - Importer Ireland Tel: 071 9634500 www.westwardscania.com

Starter motors

Alternators

A Scania Service Exchange starter motor is completely remanufactured. It will give you the same quality and performance as a new starter motor but with a reduced price compared with a brand new one. Warranty 12 months. Terms and conditions apply. Contact your local Scania dealer for details. (Excl VAT)

The alternator performance and the reliability is very important for the power supply to electronic and electrical devices. A Scania Service Exchange alternator is completely remanufactured and gives you the same quality and performance as a new alternator. Contact your local Scania dealer for details. (Excl VAT)

From € 250

contents MAY 2011 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

4 NEWS • McCarthy Report favours private coach operators • Irish Global Logistics appointed by Bridgestone • TimoCom expand services • Volvo introduce FE Hybrid • Modec in demand • Edward Stobart R.I.P. • VW revamps Crafter plus HSA Safety Matters.

www.fleet.ie 29 REVIEW I First Report and photos from the CV Show 2011, Birmingham. 33 Q&A Legal Questions & Answers

8 COVER • Scania develops Euro 6 powertrains • Wraps come off new Mercedes-Benz Actros.

34 TIMES PAST Tracing the history of the Howth Museum premises.

Contributors: Sean Murtagh, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Paul White, Jonathan Lawton, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Jerry Kiersey, Michael Corcoran, Rob Van Dieten, Ailbe Burke, Brian Weatherley, Jessica Duff y

10 TECHNOLOGY Mercedes-Benz first off the blocks with Euro 6

37 LEGAL Health and Safety issues

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Paul White, Michael Corcoran, Rob Van Dieten, Brian Weatherley

12 NEW FLEET Recent purchasers of Renault Trucks, DAF Trucks, Avia Trucks and Renault Master vans featured.

38 FUEL PRICES Latest from the IRU stats from around the world.

Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827 Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey, Helen Maguire Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney Design: Eamonn Wynne

14 TEST Two-week run in the Mercedes-Benz Vito 110 CDI

43 FINANCE Amalgamation advice

19 FLEETING SHOTS Featuring Rallying, Loading Straps and MidAmerican Trucking Show

44 TECHNICAL Ailbe Burke from LIT explains

23 COACHWORKS Profile on the Wilker Group 24 CONFERENCE Report from the IRHA AGM & Conference, Limerick. 25 AWARDS Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year Awards Entry Form

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.

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

40 REVIEW II Multimodal 2011, NEC, Birmingham.

16 TELEMATICS Profile on Tranzaura

20 BUS & COACH Introducing the MAN Lion’s City GL 18.75 metre arctic bus 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.

39 COMMENT Containerised Transport evolves

45 INNOVATION OutTrak on track with Thorntons 46 SHIPPING & FREIGHT Maritime issues 48 WOMEN IN TRANSPORT The Transport Industry – A Woman’s Perspective 49 TRAILER Feature on Muldoon’s concept 50 SOAPBOX Opinion and views from the industry by Jerry Kiersey

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FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

NEWS 1

McCarthy Report to sell off CIE Bus Business is good news for CTTC

ith the McCarthy Report recommending the sale of Dublin Bus & Bus Eireann’s Expressway Service, members of the Coach Tourism & Transport Council (CTTC), reacted that this development was ‘a great day for public transport’! “At last, we can look forward to a proper public transport system in Ireland,” stated Gerry Mullins, Chief Executive of the CTTC, the umbrella group for Ireland’s private bus and coach operators. “Bus Eireann and Dublin Bus together cost too much money, and their presence hampers the development of quality bus services in Ireland. The result is one of the most car-dependent societies in the developed world. Today’s report marks the point when the Government must start looking for a better public transport model, which will involve a far greater use of private operators,” he added.

International also, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CIE. “It is registered in the USA despite having a large operational and management presence in Ireland, why should the State be running a coach touring company?” asked Gerry.

“McCarthy calls for the disposal of Expressway and other bus businesses competing directly with private operators. We have called for this for years. Why should the State spend borrowed money from Europe in order to compete with an Irish company that pays tax to it?” The CTTC agrees with the sale of CIT Tours

He went onto comment on McCarthy’s request for a limit to the level of public subsidy, which he presumes is directed towards CIE companies. “We believe the annual payment of €49m given to Bus Eireann per year, and €83m to Dublin Bus is a waste of taxpayers’ money. In many cases the private sector would provide the same services without a subsidy, and in the remainder of cases on a much reduced subsidy. The saving to the State would be in excess of €60m per year.” “The CTTC calls on the Government to implement the recommendations of the McCarthy Report immediately,” concluded Gerry.

Irish Global Logistics cover Ireland for Bridgestone

rish Global Logistics (Dublin) now handle the distribution of Bridgestone tyres to all 32 counties of Ireland from its main hubs in Swords and Belfast via 12 satellite depots. In addition, Irish Global also provides Bridgestone Ireland with European delivery service from Dublin and now also operates vehicles on contract distribution for Bridgestone Ireland. Brian Faherty, Transport Manager, Bridgestone Ireland speaking on the announcement of the expansion of their existing freight agreement with Irish Global Logistics said, “We were keen to source a transport provider that offered the most operationally and cost effective method of distribution within Ireland whilst keeping the service levels at the highest possible standard.

own vehicle fleet this allows Bridgestone to provide the best tyre delivery service available in Ireland.”

Irish Global has managed to provide us with very high delivery success, whilst dramatically reducing mileage covered and the numbers of trucks on the road by sharing the service with other automotive suppliers. Combined with our

Robert Dickinson, Managing Director of Irish Global Logistics in Dublin stated, “In co-operation with Bridgestone Ireland, our proposal was to provide a fi rst class service to the customer and maintain the high levels of service expected by Bridgestone Ireland’s customers. To that end we have developed a unique national supply chain based on ‘shared user and staged trunking’. This spreads the overall cost of running trucks across several customers, thereby reducing the cost for each customer but also increasing efficiency by reducing running mileage and avoiding long and expensive journeys.”

TimoCom offers the free “TimoCom to go” service! sers of the TimoCom freight and vehicle exchange Truck&Cargo will soon avail of its new service "TimoCom to go" where they can receive information via mobile phone about current freight and vehicle offers no matter where they are. After this service has been successfully adopted in the Czech Republic, it will now be extended to the whole of Europe.

suitable return load at short notice. Who can you call? Why it’s TC Truck&Cargo of course. But what if there is no local connections to the programme? In such cases, TimoCom customers receive information immediately via a service number. There they are informed by many native speaking experts in this sector about current freight and vehicle offers.

Few operators are not aware of the situation of having just set off and then having to fi nd a

So that TimoCom customers can use this service in compliance with its strict security policy, a

few things need to be considered, Marketing Director Christof Thesinga explains: "1) the TimoCom ID and User ID must be kept ready; 2) Then our customers call +49 211 88 26 88 26 with their authorised mobile phone and must make sure that the caller ID is activated and that their mobile phone number is registered in TimoCom‘s transport directory TC Profile. After a quick review, native speaking professionals are immediately at the callers‘ disposal."

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE GROUP The Insurance Centre, 7 Sandyford Business Centre, Sandyford, Dublin 18. Working with the Irish Road Haulage Industry for over 35 years. Just call us for a quote! Tel: 01 2932350 Fax: 01 2932360 Email: info@mikemurphyinsurance.ie Web: www.mikemurphyinsurance.ie Mike Murphy Insurance Group is a trade name of Insureforsure Ltd. Is a member of IBA & Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

4 FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

NEWS II

Volvo goes to market with FE Hybrid

ollowing a series of comprehensive field tests, Volvo Trucks is now ready to enter production of its 26 tonne FE Hybrid. Delivery of the new ultra eco-friendly trucks to customers specialising in distribution and refuse operations in urban environments will occur from 2011 to 2013. The Volvo FE Hybrid will initially be delivered to 13 European countries in selected markets (including the UK & Ireland). “The fact that we are starting production of hybrids now is tremendously inspiring and important for future product development since some form of hybrid technology will exist in most trucks in the future. Hybridization is defi nitely an important piece of the puzzle for more fuel efficient transport,” says Claes Nilsson, President of Volvo Trucks, European Division. Hybrid technology is best suited to dense urban

traffic where the number of stop-start cycles is high. To ensure the right level of quality and service, field tests have been held with a number of Volvo customers since Spring 2008. Depending on the driving cycle, the Volvo FE Hybrid can cut fuel and carbon dioxide emissions by between 15 and 20 per cent. In addition, using the electric compactor on the hybrid refuse trucks, up to 30 per cent can be saved.

The Volvo FE Hybrid is a parallel hybrid, which means that energy from the 7-litre 340 hp diesel engine and 120 kW electric motor, can be utilised either together or independently of one another. The system switches automatically between the two power sources. When the hybrid is driven in fi rst gear, the vehicle is powered solely by its electric motor, giving the driver alert throttle response and thus excellent driveability. Then, when the hybrid mode kicks in, the diesel engine and the electric motor will work in parallel to optimise fuel savings. What is more, Volvo’s hybrid technology is designed to recover as much energy as possible during braking. No extra recharging from external sources is required. Electric power also cuts the overall noise level.

Takeover talks continue as Modec enters liquidisation

odec’s US subsidiary and Liberty Electric Cars have entered bids for the Coventry-based electric commercial vehicle maker, which went into liquidisation following short term administration making half of the workforce redundant. Liberty Electric Cars CEO, Barry Shrier has committed significant resources within the Liberty organisation to see how to help Modec. Mr. Shier said, “It’s a sad day for the automotive industry as the UK has become the epicentre of electric vehicle technology – a position we must not relinquish. I believe Modec needs to be rescued by a UK fi rm to secure jobs and retain engineering expertise in this country.” He went on to say Liberty’s technology road map and growing list of customers, speculating that a combined Liberty/Modec organisation would make a formidable player in the emerging EV sector. Modec was founded by Lord Jamie

Borwick in 2004 and is widely regarded as the market leader in electric commercial vehicles with a number of prominent ‘blue-chip’ companies on its books such as UPS and FedEx, and was considered one of the most promising low-carbon

business opportunities for the West Midlands. When takeover talks with its American partner, Navistar failed, the company had no option but to call in the administrators R K Grant, S J Appell and A C O’Keefe of Zolfo Cooper. The liquidators soon followed. “While I applaud the UK Government for promoting the uptake of ultra-low carbon vehicle technologies with financial assistance for research and for infrastructure development, I wonder why there have been no initiatives towards commercial vehicles. There have been many studies showing the health problems associated with diesel engine exhaust emissions so there are good reasons for the Government providing incentives to purchase electric commercial vehicles – incentives which may have kept Modec in business and saved jobs,” added Barry Shrier.

Tributes flow for the late Edward Stobart

ributes led by his brother William, CEO Stobart Group, the Freight Transport Association and Ford Motorsport on the death of Edward Stobart made headlines across the World of transport. Edward Stobart (56) passed away on 31 March after suffering from heart problems. Although not involved with today’s Stobart Group business, Edward was Managing Director of Eddie Stobart Ltd for over 30 years – a business started by his father Eddie. Edward built the company into the iconic brand it is known today before selling the Cumbria fi rm to William and his business partner Andrew Tinkler in 2004. Edward lived in Warwickshire and is survived by wife Mandy and children. His mother and father continue to reside in Cumbria. “On behalf of Mandy and the Stobart family, I would like to sincerely thank everyone for the overwhelming tributes to Edward and messages of condolences we have received during this difficult time,” said William through Stobart

that bear his name to the public. The haulage industry owes him a debt of gratitude for the way he brought a personal and human touch to the sector and helped earn the public’s respect for the job we do. In addition he laid the foundations for the diversified and successful business that it is today. Our condolences go to his family and friends.”

Members Club. The Freight Transport Association has acknowledged the major contribution to the road haulage industry made by Eddie Stobart. Theo de Pencier, FTA’s Chief Executive, said, “We are saddened to hear news of the death of Eddie Stobart. In a sector not renowned for its public image, Eddie Stobart pioneered a professional and respectable image that endeared the trucks

M-Sport Stobart Ford World Rally Team Principal Malcolm Wilson also paid tribute to Edward. Stobart Motorsport is prominent in the World Rally Championship and British Rally Championship. Malcolm Wilson said, “On behalf of myself and the M-Sport Stobart Ford World Rally Team we are deeply saddened to hear the news about Edward Stobart. He was an extraordinary man and our thoughts go out to his family and friends.” See www.fleet.ie for biography on the late Edward Stobart FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

NEWS 111

Volkswagen crafts new Crafter • With more power, less fuel consumption

s expected Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has installed the 2.0 litre common-rail four-cylinder TDI Euro 5 engine family into the new Crafter. Even in its most powerful form, the bi-turbo 120 kW/163 hp version, familiar from the Amarok Pick-Up and Transport van – has an output of 400 Newton metres of torque yet offers fuel-efficient propulsion. New Crafter sports a re-designed front end with horizontal lines on the radiator grille much closer to each other than the original model. As a result its new appearance is in line with its aforementioned siblings (to include the Caddy) but also looks less aggressive than The new VW Crafter was revealed at a Trade Show in Germany. heretofore. The Crafter’s interior got a make over too with upgraded upholstery fabrics band from 1,500 rpm to 2,250 rpm compared and redesigned instrument cluster. with the previous 5-cylinder version with the same power. With this unit, VW states that Three power versions 80/100/120 kW are fuel consumption of just 7.9 litres per 100 km is available in the new Crafter with the entry level achievable, which is equivalent to CO2 emission of just 208 g/km. Next up the 100 kW/136 80 kW/109 hp TDI offering a broader torque

hp offers the same fuel economy but has more power and torque. Maximum torque here is 340 Nm, which comes in at 1,600 rpm. Th roughout the application range (as before) payload has increased by 10% while operating costs have been lowered by 25% thanks to the vehicle’s low fuel consumption and reduced service costs.

Safety Matters . . . . Safety Matters . . . . Safety Matters . . . . Occupational Safety & Health in the Transport Sector

0 to 60 percent of fatal work accidents are accidents involving vehicles, with up to 20 percent occurring in the transport sector. Professional drivers are more at risk of harm because of the amount of time they spend on the road. Driving at night, in bad weather, under time pressure, in heavy traffic and being distracted by clients and technology increases the risk further. Increasing work pressure and use of technology is contributing to driver fatigue, a major contributor to fatal work accidents. The main physical hazards and risks for transport workers include: • exposure to noise vibrations, static postures such as prolonged sitt ing and standing; • manual handling; • working in confi ned spaces, inhalation of

vapours and fumes, handling dangerous substances (exhaust fumes, chemicals on board, fuel, exposure while loading, unloading and at rest stops, cleaning products, maintenance work); • climatic conditions (heat, cold, draughts, rain, etc) and climatic changes of temperature; • limited scope for adapting ergonomic work conditions and healthy lifestyles. Fatigue is the most frequently mentioned work-related problem and even more so for transport workers according to research and national surveys. Non-standard working times, long shift s and inadequate break organization and facilities, monotonous work and multiple exposures add to the risk of developing fatigue. This has serious health implications for workers:

as many as 20% of serious accidents are reported to be caused by driver fatigue. A priority area for employers should be the management of fatigue. For more information on Safety and Health of Transport workers go to the recently published report from the European Safety Agency entitled OSH in figures: Occupational safety and health in the transport sector — an overview. htt p:// osha.europa.eu/en/publications/reports/ transport-sector_TERO10001ENC/view

Motor Vehicle Repair & Chemical Risks

recent inspection campaign in the Motor Vehicle Repair sector has highlighted a need for improved management of chemical related hazards. Of the 205 inspections completed, 46% of businesses inspected either had no chemical risk assessment or inadequate risk assessments, 28% had inadequate extraction or ventilation arrangements in place and 18% had unsuitable Personal Protective Equipment [PPE] available. If you are spraying isocyanate containing paints air-fed respirators must be used. Nearly half of businesses lacked access to Chemical Safety Data Sheets. However most businesses (96%) did use products that were correctly labelled. Of the inspections conducted, verbal or written advice was given and in all cases an Improvement Notice was issued in 16% of inspections for a specific 6

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

repair activities and arrange work practices to prevent harm to workers. A FR EE poster on Motor Vehicle Repair Hazardous Chemicals is available to download from the HSA website on htt p://www.hsa.ie/ eng/Publications_and_Forms/Publications/ Chemical_and_Hazardous_Substances/ Motor_Vehicle_Repair_Hazardous_ Chemicals.html contravention of legislation. Accident or illness reporting rates in the last 2 years for the motor vehicle repair sector was very low and health surveillance was not routinely available. The Health & Safety Authority is urging employers to make themselves familiar with the risks associated with using chemicals in motor vehicle

For FREE resources to help you to manage the safety, health and welfare of your staff, visit the Health and Safety Authority website www. hsa.ie. In addition you can call our dedicated helpdesk, in confidence, on LoCall: 1890 289 389 (between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday) on any safety query.

WORRIED ABOUT FUEL PRICES? The Facts • • • • •

The average tractor unit covers 120,000 kms per year It consumes 42,000 litres of fuel which costs €46,000* It earns an income of €120,000 per year** It makes bottom line, €2,000 annually If you could save a mile per gallon (4lt per 100km) on fuel

YOU WOULD MAKE AN EXTRA €5,000

ALL THE MORE REASON TO TALK TO

RENAULT TRUCKS

CLASS LEADING FUEL ECONOMY COMBINED WITH OPTIFUEL TRAINING SOLUTIONS Lo-call RENAULT TRUCKS 1890 403403 *(based on 8mpg or 35lt per 100 kms & todays fuel at €1.11 per lr) **(based on €1 per km driven) Setanta Vehicle Sales Dublin 12 T: 01 403 4555

Surehaul Commercials Co. Tipperay T: 051 640194

Croom Park Truck & Trailer Co. Limerick T: 061 602866

Transport Services Cork T 021 430 0200

Joe Curran Commercials Shaw Commercials Co Meath Co. Mayo T: 049 854 1114 T: 094 902 5908

Surehaul Commercials Co. Kilkenny T: 056 883 8696

Garahy Commercials Co. Offaly T: 057 912 1366

Kelly Trucks Co. Roscommon T: 071 963 7070

Mike Horgan Commercials Co Kerry T: 068 32086

COVER

Scania ready for Euro 6 (also available with clutch pedal). Manual gear changing can be ordered. Scania Retarder is an option in all combinations. Scania’s extensive testing and customer trials have shown that the performance objectives have been achieved to the full and that there is no noticeable difference in the amount of fuel used. The consumption of AdBlue corresponds to 3-4% of the fuel consumption, compared to 5-6% for Scania’s Euro 5 SCR engines.

The development of the new engine generation and the technology to meet future emission legislation has taken five years and involves costs for Scania of approximately SEK 10 billion (€1 billion).

The new 440 and 480 hp engines are based on Scania’s latest modular engine platform with 130 mm cylinder bore introduced as Euro 5 with EGR in 2007. These engines feature common-rail fuel injection (Scania XPI), EGR and variable-geometry turbocharging (VGT). The fi rst V8 engine on this platform (730 hp, 3,500 Nm) launched in 2010, was also equipped with Scania XPI and VGT, but with SCR exhaust after-treatment like the other Euro 5 V8 engines. Low emitt ing open crankcase ventilation is standard and the new plastic oil sump increases oil capacity by 3 litres, while reducing noise and saving weight. The weight of the engine itself is similar to Euro 5 EGR. Overall vehicle weight however is increased by up to 200 kg due to the AdBlue system (75-litre tank) and the added complexity of the exhaust system. The EGR and SCR processes are continuously balanced to optimise emission performance. Typically, around 50% of NO x emissions are eliminated at source by the EGR system and another 95% in the SCR catalysts and the particular fi lter reduces particulate emissions by 99%.

ell ahead of the 31 December 2012 deadline, Scania has introduced its new Euro 6 engines for the current truck series range. The 440 and 480 hp engines will be available across the G and R-Series for all types of applications, including ADR transport. Multi-wheelers (8x2 and 8x4) will follow next year. Performance from the new 13 litre units is very similar to the Euro 5 EGR engines on which they are based.

Torque-to-power ratio is around 5:2, which is the highest in the industry. As on Scania’s other Euro 5 engines, full torque is available from 1,000 r/ min, giving excellent driveability and the ability to specify vehicles for low-rev cruising at 1,100 r/min or even lower to optimise fuel economy. Transmissions include 12+2-speed range-splitter gearboxes with or without overdrive. Scania Opticruise is recommended to ensure maximum fuel efficiency and to facilitate gear changing

Maintenance intervals are the same as for Scania’s 13-litre Euro 5 EGR engines, ie. up to 90,000 km (12,000 km at max. 36 tonnes GVW), depending on application.

About Euro 6

Euro 6 is a drastic downward step in emission levels compared to Euro 5. Emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulates are around one-fi ft h of those for Euro 5 engines. A new element in emission testing is that the particles also need to be counted, which in practice means that the actual particulate emissions will be around one-sixth of Euro 5. Euro 6 emission standards will enter into force in the European Union and certain neighbouring countries on 31 December 2012 for new vehicle models and one year later for all new vehicles sold.

Scania 13-litre Euro 6 powertrain with integrated silencer and exhaust aft ertreatment, cut-away. 8

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

Euro 6 is the first step towards the implementation of world harmonised emission standards, encompassing Europe, North America and Japan, and this will facilitate co-ordination and development for future standards. The Euro 6 levels are close to those applying in North America (EPA 10) and Japan (Post NLT) which started in 2010. Euro 6 is the fi rst time the new WHDC (World Harmonised Duty Cycle) is stipulated for certification. Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

COVER The Scania Euro 6 engine range was revealed to the trade press via web-based tele-conference, contributions and comments were made from the following during the presentations:Martin Lundstedt, Executive Vice President in charge of sales and marketing, “We are proud to be able to make this remarkable feat of engineering available to our customers now. The new engines are designed to give the same performance and fuel efficiency as their Euro 5 counterparts. These engines make it possible for keen operators to take

the next stop and invest in the greenest technology available in the market. They will be able to benefit from lower motorway charges and other incentives that may be introduced by authorities. Vehicles with the latest emission standard also command a higher value in the second-hand market.” Jonas Hofstedt, Senior Vice President Powertrain Development:“All the development work has been performed in-house at Scania. We have combined all the

new technologies that Scania has developed in recent years: exhaust gas recirculation, variable turbo geometry, common-rail high-pressure fuel injection, selective catalytic reduction and particulate filtering. Add to that our own engine and exhaust management technology, which has now been integrated into one system. We have spared no effort to avoid fuel penalties on these engines. Operators will find that fuel economy, driveability and engine response are fully on a par with our Euro 5 engines,” concluded Mr. Hofstedt.

New Mercedes-Benz Actros unveiled

fter a lengthy series of test trials, the fi rst new truck to be built from the ground up this century has fi nally been revealed. The wraps have come off the all-new Mercedes-Benz Actros in preparation for Euro 6 emission controls. Disguised test versions are still undergoing practical tests at home and abroad before the new model goes on sale in the Autumn. As stated by Andreas Renschler, Head of Daimler’s Truck Division, “Transport operators and drivers can look forward to more profitability, more dynamism and more comfort from these new trucks. Even beneath their disguise, the contours indicate a striking but typical MercedesBenz design with aerodynamic refi nements and an innovative lighting concept. The external dimensions confi rm plenty of working, living and resting space for the driver.”

Daimler’s newly developed Euro 6 engines power this range lowering power bands from 420 hp – 510 hp offering maximum torque from 2,100 Nm to 2,500 Nm. The renewal project began 10 years ago with the drawings fi nally taking shape 5 years ago. It will be available in seven versions covering long haul, fleet, construction and National road transport applications. As Andreas Renschler put it to the invited ‘Truck of the Year’ press at the Staatsgalerie, Stuttgart, “Th is is truly our masterpiece – this truck just rocks!!” Georg Weiberg, Head of Truck Product Engineering & Hubertus Troska, Head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks taking the wraps of the all-new Mercedes-Benz Actros

The future of transport!

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FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

TECHNOLOGY

Euro-6 opening salvo from Mercedes-Benz Fuso (as the 6R10) in Japan. Yet OM471 is a very different beast to its American cousin thanks to 200 changes including different fuel injectors, turbocharger, fl y-wheel, control electronics, exhaust system, compressor, tuning and power and torque ratings. Many of them the direct result of the fact that OM471 will go under the cab of a European tractor, rather than the bonnet of a North American ‘conventional’, where engine cooling and packaging is far less of an issue. For Euro-6, it will be offered at 421, 449, 476 or 510hp with respective torque outputs of 2,100, 2,200, 2,300 and 2,500Nm respectively. The bottom three ratings will also be available with the option of ‘Top Torque’, whereby when you’re driving in top gear (with the standard PowerShift auto) you get an extra 200Nm, which will help reduce the number of gear changes the auto-box needs to make. OM471’s arrival also signals the beginning of the end for Merc’s long-serving V6 and V8 engines, both which will cease to exist (at least in Europe) when Euro-6 comes into effect. Moreover, it ushers in “a new era” of in-line six heavy truck diesels sold under the ‘BlueEfficiency Power’ banner which will ultimately consist of three distinct displacements with new, to-come, engines offered either side of OM471, providing a total horsepower spread of between 350600hp. Why no ‘Big-Banger’ like the Swedes? According to Daimler’s head of truck product engineering George Weiberg, “torque is more important than outright power.” So expect to see 3,000Nm (or thereabouts) on tap from Mercedes-Benz’ biggest displacement Euro-6 diesel when it eventually arrives. And given that Detroit Diesel’s DD13 has provided the ‘engine DNA’ for the European OM471, the top-of-therange Euro-6 engine is likely to be based on the Americans’ 15.6-litre DD16, which has a 600hp top rating in the States.

Current best guesstimates put it at €6,000€8,000 more than a comparable Euro-5 model. So it will be a brave haulier indeed who will be willing to spend more money on a new tractorunit simply to be ‘greener’, sooner.

Mercedes-Benz has fi red the fi rst shot in the Euro-6 batt le with the launch of its all-new 12.8-litre OM471 heavy truck engine. But with the fi rst stage of the lower-emissions regulations not due to kick in until January 2013, and no news yet of any fi nancial incentives to encourage early adoption, who will want to buy a Euro-6 engined truck before they absolutely have to? Then there’s the extra cost of a Euro-6 truck.

Still, there’s no denying Mercedes-Benz is the fi rst manufacturer to put a Euro-6 engine into production and on paper at least OM471 has the credentials to satisfy both operators and drivers. Its arrival also marks the first appearance in Europe of a power unit derived from Merc’s parent Daimler’s ‘Heavy Duty Engine Platform’ (or HDEP) family of global diesel engines. The OM471’s block is already used by Detroit Diesel in North America (in its DD13 motor) and by

ercedes-Benz has unveiled Europe’s first Euro-6 engine two years ahead of the legislative deadline. But who will want one before 2013? And what truck will it appear in first? Fleet Transport reports from Mannheim, Germany.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

One of the most interesting features of the new engine is its ‘X-Pulse’ boosted fuel system developed in association with Bosch. In most rival common-rail set-ups the maximum injection pressure is produced purely via the high-pressure pump in the common rail reservoir, which then feeds the individual injectors. But with ‘X-Pulse’, a high-pressure pump charges the fuel in the common rail to around 900 bar, before it’s then boosted to 2,100bar within the individual injectors. (The Germans say it has the potential to go as high as 2,500bar.) Thus Mercedes-Benz diesel engineers have created a system that not only controls injection timing, fuel quantity and the rate and number of injections, but also one that functions across individual cylinders, evening out any differences. It also continuously adjusts fuel delivery depending on whether the truck is laden or un-laden, pulling away from rest,

TECHNOLOGY

OM471 in production

OM471 turbo

X-Pulse system

or accelerating in the mid-range. For the driver behind the wheel that means a more responsive, driveable engine, while for the owner it ensures maximum fuel efficiency regardless of terrain or load. And with maximum torque available at just 1,000rpm the OM471 has the potential to be a real low-down-lugger - a point we look forward to proving when we roadtest it. To comply with Euro-6 (which demands even further reductions in NOx, and particulates) Mercedes-Benz has combined Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) with Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) (the OM471 has a 35% recirculation rate), and a Particulate Filter. (In effect it’s the same technology Detroit Diesel uses to meet the equivalent EPA10 regs in the States.) The good news is that Mercedes-Benz says it’s been able to ‘stabilise’ the fuel consumption of its new engine to that of an equivalent Euro-5 diesel, while AdBlue dosage rates remain the same. Moreover, service intervals have been extended up to 150,000km. Other features include a new waste-gated ‘asymmetric’ turbocharger which diverts the exhaust gases from the fi rst three cylinders directly through the EGR system before they re-enter the turbine (which helps improve the engine’s thrott le response) and a more-powerful three-stage engine compression brake. One question the Germans have yet to answer is what truck will OM471 be fitted in fi rst? Will it be under the ‘old’ Actros (or even Axor) cab - or in Mercedes-Benz’ much-heralded new heavy truck line-up, versions of which have Text & Photos: Brian Weatherley

been regularly spotted prowling the streets in Germany. Apparently Mercedes-Benz’ ow n sales and marketing people requested the news blackout on that one. To confuse things even further there will also be a Euro-5 version of the OM471 (though why anyone would want one is unclear) which will Georg Weiberg, Head of Truck Product Engineering be more fuel efficient than an equivalent Euro-5 ‘Blue session at the company’s annual business media Tec’ V6 and V8 fitted in the Actros. The day round table in Stuttgart that: “The new vehicle after the official engine launch in Mannheim, will be hitt ing the road this year.” So keep speculation over Mercedes-Benz’ new heavy watching this space! (In fact, turn back to Page 9 truck line-up was further fuelled by Andreas for sneak preview of said new model … Ed). Renschler, board member and overall boss of Daimler Trucks who announced in a Q&A OM471 QUICK SPEC CHECK Type: Euro-6 heavy truck in-line six turbo-diesel Capacity: 12.8-litres Fuel system: Common-rail with ‘X-Pulse’ pressure boost electronic injectors Emission controls: SCR, EGR and regenerating Particulate Filter Power/torque ratings: 421hp/2100Nm* 449hp/2200Nm* 476hp/2300Nm* 510hp/2500Nm (*=available with ‘Top Torque’ providing extra 200Nm in top gear) Bore/stroke: 132 x 156mm Compression ratio: 17:1 Engine brake: Th ree-stage compression brake 544hp at 2,300rpm Lube service interval: Up to 150,000km FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

NEW FLEET

Renault Trucks collects and delivers! collection, especially in bad weather, according to supplier Joe Curran, Joe Curran Commercials, Oldcastle, County Meath. Business is brisk for Joe Curran at present with recent fleet sales to Meath County Council (3 x Premium Lander (270hp) tippers). Paddy Hyland, Summerhill Distribution (Athlone) has taken delivery of a new Premium Long-Distance (Privilege) 450 hp for drinks distribution in the Midlands.

his new Renault Premium Lander 410 8x4 purchased by Gerard O’Reilly, contracted to Lakeland Dairies, Baileborough, County Cavan is ideal for milk

Meanwhile, Harry Nash, M.D. Setanta Vehicle Sales (Dublin) is pictured handing over the keys to one of two new Renault Magnum 6x2 480 hp tractor units purchased by Declan Goggins,

Prompto Despatch Mark Silver Anniversary

atergrasshill, County Cork based Prompto Despatch Ltd is marking its 25th year in business with the fi rst of two new additions to its vehicle fleet. Pictured is the new DAF XF105.460 4x2 Superspace Tractor Unit purchased from DAF Truck Services, Cork in a straight deal.

Goggins Transport, Cummer, Tuam, County Galway.

New Avia for AES

via Trucks Ireland supplied this new Avia D 100 to AES Environmental Solutions in Clonmel, County Tipperary. The 10 tonne GVW 4x2 rigid powered by Cummins 160hp diesel is fitted with Curtainside body built by Thomas McClean & Sons (Dublin). TSS – Technical Support Services, Dublin fitted the Zepro Taillift with livery applied by Cunningham Covers in Naas.

Next month a new Renault Premium rigid will join the line-up.

Air Products Healthcare depend on Renault Master

omecare providers, Air Products Healthcare is putt ing 11 new highspecification Renault Master Vans on the road over the next three months after signing a four-year deal worth €275,000 with fleet management specialists LeasePlan. The 3.5 tonne vans provided by Bill Cullen Motor Fleet, also includes a maintenance and roadside assistance contract. Each van has been customised to a further individual value of €4,000 and the interior fitt ings can be removed and put into other vehicles allowing for greater flexibility. The new Renault Master Vans will also enhance driver

comfort and safety and enable more efficient journey times. The 11 new vehicles will be

deployed along the East Coast, West and North West of the country. Six of the vans will be on the road by mid-April with the remainder Steve Rayner, Group Fleet Sales Manager, Bill Cullen Motor Fleet, Martin following in the coming months Ennis, Operations Field Manager, Air Products Healthcare Ireland and Colm O Buachalla, Leaseplan Fleet Manager pictured with the new Renault Masters.

Steve Rayner, Group Fleet Sales Manager, Bill Cullen Motor Fleet commented on the deal, “Air Products Healthcare through LeasePlan have chosen a vehicle tailor-made for their needs. The new Renault Master not only has great presence on the road it is incredibly economical and the 5 year unlimited mileage warranty gives both Air Products and LeasePlan peace of mind for the duration of the contract”.

Specialists in Signwriting for all Commercial Trucks and Vans www.artistiksigns.ie Kinnegad, County Westmeath Tel: 044-9375187, 087-2512957 email: artistiksigns@me.com 12

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

TEST

rive Test D : t Repor

Mercedes-Benz Vito 110 CDI What you get now is an award winning, extremely efficient, eco-friendly and more pleasant to drive light commercial. Forgot to mention, that payload capacity has increased also. Significantly reduced noise levels and an upgraded interior add to the overall comfort of the vehicle. During our two-week trial on board the 110 CDI LWB version, we got to like the Vito very much. It’s a substantial van in every sense of the word. The 3-seater offers enough room for burly adults side-by-side without too much discomfort, while the driver appreciates the new coloured trims and simpler to use controls. Those familiar with Mercedes-Benz cars will notice that all of the switchgear is taken from the same parts bin right down to the pedal and lever operated parking brake – the least likeable fitt ing on the whole van.

t may be Mercedes-Benz’ third generation Vito van, but it is safe to say that the Daimler brand’s mid-sized panelled light commercial can now look to the marketplace with confidence. When the fi rst version came out in the mid 1990s there were, let’s say, some quality issues in every department, as the Spanish built 1 tonne + FWD van suffered when it came to reliability as expected with German marques. True to form, the powers that be in Stuttgart got their act together and in 2003, the second incarnation had everything right. Not only that but the one-van-fits-all plan

was broadened to offer 3 wheelbase lengths and 2 roof heights. The engine range was expanded too. Then in 2010, while the body shells remained intact, some cosmetic changes were made but it was underneath the skin that most of the enhancements happened. To begin with, the 2.1 litre 4-cylinder diesel engine (used initially with the Sprinter) was positioned under the bonnet, offering from 95 hp to 258 hp in Euro 5 form. Then a newly developed 6-speed gearbox was fitted and to crown it all, the chassis was completely retuned and suspension system seriously modified.

To engage, the driver has to raise his/her left leg higher than the clutch pedal to fi nd another pedal to press down. To release, a lever to the right of the lower end of the dash must be pulled out. Not the most acceptable system nowadays with electronic parking braking now the norm in many of the ‘triple-pointed-star’ cars. Mentioning the clutch, we did fi nd that this pedal was positioned rather high for safe and comfortable usage. Continuing with the interior fitt ings, the abundance of storage bins was noted with several drinks holders and even a small shelf to the front of the roof line. Did notice, however, that a coat hook or two would not go amiss. The air ventilation system could be more powerful we thought as position ‘2’ on the dial was necessary at most times for the required amount of fresh air. Data on fuel consumption, average speed and fuel tank levels were clearly displayed in the centre of the speedometer and rev counter dials. Th is also informed us if a door was opened and we were frequently reminded that the back door was ajar after going over every bump which was not the case at all – call it a small glitch in the system. It is German after all – better to be forewarned than forlorn. Modification made to the suspension and chassis were clearly evident as handling was surefooted – even when empty. Both front and rear sides have been revised in every detail and specially tuned to match the specific model. Return from the new 2.1 litre 95 hp unit was good with the broader gear ratios from the 6-speed box helping to reduce fuel consumption and, of course, engine emissions. Compared to the Euro 4 engined 109 CDI from the previous generation, fuel

14 FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

TEST

consumption has improved by 15%, according to Mercedes-Benz. Over the 1,000 kms or so driven under various road conditions, the Vito returned 7.9L/100Kms – that’s 35.7 mpg. With the new Vito Mercedes-Benz introduces a fresh face into the very competitive mid-weight light van segment. Its main rival at this level is the Volkswagen Transporter, in terms of freshness as the Ford Transit, Opel Vivaro, Nissan Primastar and the Fiat/PSA Peugeot Citroën trio have been around for a while now. New Mercedes-Benz Vito is undoubtedly well built, well equipped and will take the owner/ driver well into the future in comfort.

“Mercedes-Benz is really forging ahead with its van business,” Volker Mornhinweg Check www.fleet.ie for details on how to win the Continental Irish Van of the Year 2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito!

ith double digit sales growth forecast for 2011, thanks to the resurgence of key markets, Mercedes-Benz vans business is ready to go global. That’s the brand's strategic objective according to Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “Mercedes-Benz Vans performed extremely well in fi scal year 2010 and its 5.8% return on sales is a benchmark result in the van’s segment. We want to be a global growth area for the Daimler Group, which is why we are consistently pursuing an International growth strategy with the slogan ‘Mercedes-Benz Vans goes Global',” he added. So Daimler’s €250 million investment in developing the new range of Vito vans and Viano passenger carriers has started to pay off as demand for mid-size and large vans grew in Europe by almost 10% last year. Come 2012, it is likely that Mercedes-Benz’ market share will increase with a re-entry into the small vans segment following the formation of a strategic alliance with Renault/Nissan. Based on the Renault Kangoo, the new small panel van from Mercedes-Benz comes into the segment where its own offering from a few years ago the Vanio, failed. In the meantime Mercedes-Benz will concentrate on increasing its foothold with the Vito/Viano and Sprinter models in Latin America, China and since last year Russia. In addition to the conventional internal combustion engine versions, the Vito E-CELL, the fi rst series produced electric van, has already made in-roads to the ‘green mobility’ sector with a total of 2,000 units delivered to customers this year. “Mercedes-Benz is really forging ahead with its van business,” said Mr. Mornhinweg. “We have the foundations for this growth, our great products and the right strategy,” he concluded.

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

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

TELEMATICS

TranZaura addresses Fleet Manager needs with new Tachograph Analysis Software

ptimising the use of vehicles and drivers is the objective of every transport manager, whether in charge of one vehicle or thousands. A challenge as any fleet manager will tell you that is easy to say, but exceedingly difficult to execute. Now however, an Irish company is set to offer a product to fleet operators that could be just the solution they need to ensure maximum productivity, while meeting ever more stringent legal and regulatory requirements. Tranzaura Tachograph Management System is a tachograph analysis soft ware programme that makes it easy to analyse digital and analogue driver cards and vehicle units. By quickly identifiying any problems with driver hours and reporting, and by analysing available driver hours for the forthcoming seven days, it offers fleet managers a valuable tool in keeping vehicles and drivers utilised to maximum benefit. Limerick based Tranzaura is the brainchild of Mike Price, an experienced transport professional with over twenty years in the business both in Ireland and the UK. Heavily involved in tachograph analysis work, and managing an extensive fleet of drivers and vehicles in his previous jobs, he was frustrated at the lack of suitable management programmes to aid him in tasks where a fleet manager can spend eighty per cent of the day fire-fighting daily tachograph related issues.

Mike Price, Managing Director, Tranzaura

they didn’t hold a lot of water with Irish companies” he wrily observes. An important development came in October 2010 when Tranzaura was shortlisted for the Innovation Award at the 2011 Fleet Transport Awards for its Route Optimisation software. Although they didn’t win, Mike says that it raised the profile of the company considerably, and from contacts made at the Awards Night, a number of significant projects and contracts were subsequently agreed. Among the high-profi le

“I was using soft ware solutions from companies in the UK and elsewhere and I thought there must be an easier way of doing this,” he recalls. The economic downturn and a resultant redundancy at the end of 2008 proved the incentive to put Roadshow Showcases his ideas for a better solution into action. In order to get things rolling though, his initial Tranzaura Products focus was on a separate but related aid for fleet managers. “I met with a company in Denmark called Transvision. They supply route optimisation soft ware to companies in Scandanavia. I had a look at the system, found it very user friendly, but also discovered that it was the most integrated system that we could adopt in Ireland because of our rather unique position in not having post-codes.” In mid-2009 Mike, together with a business partner established his new business Tranzaura. Later that year it became an Enterprise Ireland client company, and by the start of 2010 the new business was marketing Transvision’s Route Optimisation Software in Ireland. Mike admits that it was a hard sell initially. “We had no track record, a new company, there were no Irish clients. We had some case studies from Scandanavian companies but 16

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

Latest

names that Tranzaura can now count among its customers for the Route Optimisation software are the likes of Cuisine De France, United Drug, Corrib Food Products, Celtic Linen and TDG. Simultaneously, development on Mike’s ideas for tachograph analysis soft ware got underway in earnest. Now, after a year and a half of development, all that hard work is set to come to fruition with the launch of the Tranzaura Tachograph Management System. Mike is very excited about its potential.

Tranzaura is unveiling its new Tachograph Management System as well as its Route Optimization software to transport professionals and other interested parties via a series of free Roadshow Seminars this May. The afternoon sessions from 1pm to 5pm include overview presentations, a case study of an existing Irish customer, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on demonstrations and question and answer sessions. The roadshow commences in Dublin on Tuesday May 10th at Bewleys Hotel, Newlands Cross. On Wednesday May 11th the Strand Hotel, Ennis Road, Limerick is the location, and on Thursday May 12th, the venue is the Radisson Blu Hotel, Litt le Island Cork. All are welcome, please call 0818 287 387 or email info@tranzaura.com for further details. Web: www.tranzaura.com

“This is an Irish product developed by an Irish company run by Irish transport professionals. We’ve shown the soft ware to a number of companies and organisations including the Road Safety Authority and the Road Haulage Association, and the feedback has been hugely positive,” he says. So what exactly is the Tachograph Management System? A web-based programme, it works with a local application that reads the data from a driver’s digital card or scans analogue wax charts, and also allows vehicle unit data to be uploaded. The soft ware is compatible with all existing hardware - all that is needed on the hardware front is a card reader and/ or a scanner, which, as Mike points out, most fleet managers will have already. The soft ware itself is built around two pieces of legislation – Working Time Directive and Driving Time Directive and – giving a clue to the International aspirations of the company - is available in all major European languages.

TELEMATICS

Matt Borland, Transvision and Mike Price, Tranzaura.

A key feature of the soft ware is how easy it is to use - a quick demonstration showed that this is clearly a programme built with practicality and the enduser in mind – built for transport professionals by transport professionals. The soft ware allows the fleet manager to analyse virtually anything to do with driver and vehicle activity within the fleet. For example it can show at a glance what drivers are complying with the twenty one day tachograph download requirement, both in summary form, and by browsing down, more detailed information by driver. An optional function unique to Tranzaura’s soft ware is an SMS messaging service that can send a reminder to a driver when it is time to download his or her card. When it comes to staying within legal requirements when planning the week ahead, the Tranzaura Tachograph Management System makes life easy for fleet managers with vital information on each driver including the last driver activity, the drive availability today, tomorrow and for the next fortnight, and the weekly rest due. “It gives you a seven day planning window for that driver,” explains Mike. “which is very important information. You can plan ahead for that driver confident that you are within legal requirements.” Aimed at fleets of all sizes, pricing is on a pay per driver basis with all uploads to the system free. Mike points out that customers are not tied into long-term contracts, nor are there any hidden costs within the pricing structure. In many ways, the Tachograph Management System compliments the Route Optimisation software also marketed by Tranzaura, and indeed the company is actively working on developing a tie-in between the two programmes at present. As Mike points out, while satnav systems are fine for getting from point A to point B, and tracking systems will tell you where you’ve been and where you are going, neither is the solution when it comes

Richard Gorey - Tachograph Project Manager; Eoghan McCarthy - Route Optimisation Project Manager and Mike Price, Tranzaura

to organising a multi-stop, multi-vehicle planning schedule.This is where the Tranzaura Route Planner and Tranzaura Fleet Planner can offer operators significant cost savings and improved service levels. By putting in all the raw data including geo-coded locations, deliver times and frequencies, and vehicle data such as capacities, depot locations and velocity profiles, the programme uses a number of advanced alogorithms to calculate the optimum route for each vehicle. Using Navteq mapping, it will factor in variables such as speed limits, possible traffic conjestion and specific customer and order requirements to ensure each vehicle in the fleet is used to maximum benefit and subject to minimum delays. The soft ware is highly customisable and easy to use, says Mike, and can be adapted to whatever requirements the customer has. In order to highlight the benefits of the Route Optimisation software Tranzaura has undertaken

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

a number of projects or consultancy reviews. “What we do” says Mike, “is to go to a client, take information such as customer requirements, their vehicle resources and their drivers, put it all into the system and let the system spit out some new routes. Then they can start seeing the benefits – it is their customers, their fleet, their drivers – but they could see the potential savings that can be had [using the Route Optimisation soft ware]. Generally that has lead from projects to full implementation and using the soft ware as a daily planning tool.” Currently with five full time employees, but with additional staff due to be added imminently, Mike says a huge thank you is due to the team at Tranzaura for getting the company to where it is now. Indeed it may be relatively early days yet, but Tranzaura is an example of the type of company that can bring this country out of its current economic woes – an Irish business offering innovative solutions and products with worldwide sales potential. FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

STOP DIESEL GELLING SIMPLE TO USE LONG LASTING ACTIOIL A550 DIESEL FUEL TREATMENT Due to the reduction of Sulphur and increase of Vegetable oils in modern diesel fuel, the problem of clogging and rust from bacteria build up is becoming more frequent. Using Actioil Diesel Fuel Treatment will prevent this from happening and regenerate previously contaminated Fuel. One treatment will last 3 years in a storage tank and up to 1 year in a vehicle’s tank. Cold weather isn’t a problem either with protection down to -280 C. Actions: >>> Eliminates bacteria (through combustion) >>> Lubricates the fuel distribution circuit >>> Safeguards the operation of pumps and injectors >>> Forms a protective ﬁlm for the tank >>> Prevents clogging from FAME (vegetal oil …) >>> Stops the development of corrosion

Results: >>> Tanks free of corrosion >>> Engine protected, performance and consumption restored >>> Fuel retains its initial properties >>> Polluting emissions minimised

The only fuel treatment approved and used by leading engine manufacturers

Sole Distributors in Ireland

FLEETING SHOTS

Sligo Pallets sponsor Border Rally Championship allisodare, County Sligo based Sligo Pallets is the new title sponsor of the 2011 Border Rally Championship the popular Clubman’s series. Owned and operated by Andrew Mullen and his wife Elaine Doherty, both are wellknown rally competitors and have made regular appearances in the Border Rally Championship events over the years.

therefore have gone through rigorous grading procedures before gett ing the Sligo Pallets approval. The recycled pallets are just as robust, and with the same lifespan as new pallets - except at significantly reduced costs. Sligo Pallets offer collection and yard clearance service to hauliers, factories and retailers. Th is service reduces waste, enables the storage area to be cleared weekly and increases efficiency thus reducing costs further.

Sligo Pallets is a limited company that specialises in supplying as new pallets to companies all over Ireland - North and South. The company collect, sort, repair and grade pallets to a high specification. All pallets

Now in its 20th year, the 2011 Sligo Pallets Border Rally Championship is a class based series comprising six events in Mayo, Monaghan, Cavan, Newry, Sligo and Donegal.

Give that load the Titetug

s an agri-constructor, Tim Joyce from Portumna, County Galway always had the problem of load restraining straps coming loose. As a result he came up with the idea of designing a tool that tensions ratchet straps better than the normal method. With the assistance of Galway Enterprise and Enterprise Ireland and working with experts at Athlone IT, the Titetug tool, as its called, is now in the marketplace. Tim explains how it works, “It’s an extensional leverage tool, which takes away the strain from the human body when

tensioning straps on a regular basis. And as the operator is able to tension the strap a litt le tighter with the tool, the strap doesn’t come loose as often, which results in a safe journey for all road users.” Titetug, as a universal tool, has three different socket att achments to cover from 2.5 tonne to 10 tonne ratchet strap applications. For further details on availability and a demonstration video log onto www. titetug.com.

New Western Star & Freightliner trucks launched at the Mid-America Trucking Show

ith the US economy recovering better than expected a few months ago, Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) went to the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky with confidence. Two of its North American brands Western Star and Freightliner launched ‘vocational’ products catering for the construction sector. “One out of every four trucks in Classes 6 to 8 sold in the US is a vocational truck. And now we have the Western Star 4700 and the Freightliner SD lineup, all very competitive new products for tackling this market,” said Martin Daum, President & CEO of DTNA at the Show.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11 19

BUS & COACH

MAN starts up EBSF – The European Bus System of the Future on-board communication centre does not only control the passenger info-system as well as the camera surveillance of the passenger compartment, but is a remote diagnostic system, which transfers ongoing maintenance data in real time. Even in the engine compartment, data transfer happens i.e. in case of fire where an extinguisher can be remotely enabled. Another interesting development is the fitt ing of transparent bellows (that join the front section to the back), which lets in more natural light. Heretofore the area around the pivot was rather dark, creating a type of barrier for many passengers, making them unwilling to spread out evenly throughout the bus. Th is innovation was first installed by MAN in articulated buses in Paris last year. The EBSF MAN articulated bus’ wide opening doors have electric drives mounted in the top of the rotating column. This saves space, saves weight, reduces energy consumption and maintenance effort.

Bus Route No. 86 in Budapest will never be the same again!

hanks to the European Commission funded project – EBSF: the European Bus system of the Future, a new 18.75 metre MAN Lion’s City GL articulated bus will serve this 11 kilometre intercity route in the Hungarian capital for a period of nine months. But this is no ordinary artic bus as it features numerous innovations in technology not only from a passenger vehicle point of view but also to enhance the commuter experience. Budapest is one of seven European cities where these extensive field test operations are taking place. By the end of June, Paris will have followed Bremerhaven in Germany with similar projects in Rouen (France), Madrid (Spain), Brunoy (France), Gothenburg (Sweden) and Rome (Italy). With a €26 million budget, the EBSF 4-year programme has signed up 47 European partners from vehicle manufacturers, IT specialists and passenger transport operators including BKV Zrt which will run the Budapest test trial West of the River Danube. Sporting BKV Zrt’s corporate livery the new MAN Lion’s City GL demonstrator commenced service on 23 March and by the end of November all the operational data will then be gathered along with feedback from regular users for final analysis. One of the special features of the new bus, specially customised to the requirements of BKV Zrt is its unusual door structure with five 1.25 m double leaf doors making it possible for quick passenger flow. Due to a cleaner flexible seat arrangement, the passenger change and the on-board movements of the passengers will also be made easier. Route 86 was chosen as it has one of the highest passenger volumes in Budapest’s inner-city. The line has a

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

Powering the new Lion’s City GL prototype is an eco-friendly 10.5 litre six cylinder 320 hp diesel engine from the MAN D20 common-rail series. It meets the EEV (Euro 5 +) Enhanced Environmentally-friendly Vehicle standard, currently the strictest in the world.

total of 46 stops and connects to the two most important tram-lines as well as to a station on the underground. Approximately 26,000 commuters use Line 86 in each direction every working day. The Budapest Transport Company (BKV) has With maximum torque values of 1,600 Nm at calculated that the average speed of the vehicles 1,000 to 1,400 rpm, the engine is mated to a Voith currently serving this route is 20 km/h, dropping Diwa four-speed automatic transmission that has to 15 km/h in heavy traffic. Th is means that the SensoTop topographical efficiency software which EBSF’s concept will ensure rapid passenger flow contributes to a reduction in fuel consumption through shorter waiting times for commuters at (by 3%) through detecting the terrain covered each stop. The less time needed to serve the route, and adjusting gear-shifts accordingly. the more frequent the route can be served each day, which is another big plus for the user. On Such is the confidence in the reliability of the the MAN Lion’s City GL the number of places vehicle and associated technology involved, BKV for standees is increased by 30% with 39 seats and and MAN Trucks & Bus do not have a back-up standing room for a maximum of 118 passengers – unit on stand-by and will rely on the services of 12 more than the conventionally equipped MAN its National importer and distributor based in artic bus which rolls off the same production nearby Dunaharaszti. line in Poznan, Poland. In order to be able to adapt the capacity to passenger volume, there are seven folding seats in the front section. Depending on the number of passengers, the driver can block or release these seats at the touch of a button on the dashboard. This opens up more standing room and allows for speedier entry/exit. A red light on the seat shows the passenger whether it is free or blocked. Space for wheelchairs and baby buggies are provided opposite the middle door. A kneeling function on the suspension reduces the entrance height from 32 to 24 centimetres for ease of boarding. Over the doors a 3D counter system is fitted to register passenger flow – all part of the EBSF framework. LED displays inform passengers with next The driver’s workplace is separated from the passenger compartment by a wall largely consisting of glass with stop information and other data. For the main objective here being driver safety, an issue that further passenger comfort, the airis becoming increasingly important. conditioning unit is highly efficient and does not need any maintenance. The

BUS & COACH About the EBSF Project The European Bus System of the Future (EBSF) project is the European Commission’s biggest road-traffic project to date. It's objective is to plan and develop an innovative, high quality and thus attractive bus system for urban local public transport. “As one of Europe’s leading manufactures of city buses, MAN Truck & Bus attaches great importance to playing a significant role in the optimisation of local public transport systems for the future,” said Rudi Kuchta, Senior Vice President MAN Truck & Bus AG at the launch of the MAN Lion’s City GL artic bus concept in Budapest, attended by Fleet’s Jarlath Sweeney. The EBSF project, under the leadership of the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), is divided into various sub-projects in which different developmental approaches and options are being tested under real operational conditions in seven European cities. These include optimisation of the driver’s workplace, implementation of new traffic-guidance and passenger-information systems, increase in passenger capacity and flow as well as protection of the environment and energy resources. “MAN Truck & Bus is participating in the activities concerned primarily with increasing the flow of passengers at high volumes and improving the conveyance of those passengers,” added Mr. Kuchta. “In Budapest, urban buses are the daily choice of two million users amongst all modes provided by the public transport network (bus, tram, metro, suburban railway and trolley-bus)," explained Maeva Zebrowski, Project Manager, EBSF who is based in Brussels on behalf of UITP. “Increasing the flow of bus passengers, while improving comfort, space and security, is one of the challenges tested in the EBSF Use Case. Another challenge is to improve efficiency in terms of operational costs while meeting environmental protection objectives. From March to November 2011, the EBSF Use Case partners in Budapest are joining forces to achieve these targets,” he added.

The City of Budapest, the EU home of Innovation & Technology, offers excellent conditions for testing new local public transport technologies in practice by its complex network of public transports. MAN and BKV are also partnered with Hungarian firm Vultron, which is responsible for the information technology at the bus stops and in the bus itself.

The European Bus System of the Future is:1. An intelligent system – • efficient use of information • different bus system solutions adapted to specific needs of all stakeholders 2. Innovative, vehicles and infrastructure – • providing improved comfort to drivers and passengers • providing improved accessibility to all the users • making smart use of energy 3. Integrated in the European urban scenarios – • adapted to different modern and historical city contexts • taking into account the future mobility trends • featuring new services for passengers and operators • core part of the whole transport network for citizens seamless mobility

Volvo articulated buses are currently in use in Budapest.

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

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11 21

T-Series Delivering what matters

Complete Range

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COACHWORKS

Wilker Group – blending Quality with Innovation

urthertoourFeatureonQuinns of Athenry in last month’s edition, the Ambulance body manufacturing element of their business forms a major cog in the range of products and services provided by the Wilker Group. Reference was inadvertently made to the ‘Quinn Ambulance’ in that article which should have read the ‘Wilker Ambulance’, also ‘the construction of the first ambulance to be built by the company for the Royal Air Force (RA F)’ was under contract to Wilkers, so apologies to the Wilker Group. Based in Clara, County Offaly, the Wilker Group is one of the leading suppliers of front line Ambulances, Specialist Van Conversions and Rapid Response Vehicles not only to the Irish and the UK markets but as far afield as Trinidad & Tobago in the West to Cyprus in the East. Quinns of Athenry is one of Wilker’s main sub-contractors in the supply of the bodywork and other furnishings to the vehicles, which here-to-fore was undertaken by a Canadian company. And in the tough economic climate we continue to live and work under, that’s a positive move and guarantees employment for Irish companies. In fact, Wilkers contract a number of component providers locally such as bracket makers and spray paint finishers. Practically everything else is done in-house in its multi-section assembly/ production facility. Wilker Group is run by Donnacha Hurley (CEO), Martin Kerrigan (Commercial Director) and Greg Kerrigan (Sales Director). The business was formed by Martin and Greg’s uncle William over 50 years ago from which the company name is derived from WILliam KERrigan. They take great pride in the high-class products and services their business

provides through its quality craftsmanship and it shows. The Wilker Group is in a position to tender and gain substantial contracts from the Front Line services and all over Ireland and the U.K., which is some achievement judging by the competition that’s out there not only from these islands but across Europe. At present the Wilker Group has over 100 employees on its books between its Clara Headquarters (70) and subsidiary in Sandbach, England where 30 are employed carrying out Van Conversions and Warranty Support for vehicles sold in the U.K.

Benz Sprinter and Peugeot Boxer models destined to fulfil a large order for the Welsh and Scottish Health Services respectively were passing through the assembly line. Greg Kerrigan guided us through the various departments from the CAD design office to the cabinet making area to the quality control centre. A contract on behalf of Toyota Ireland to prepare a large fleet of new Toyota Avensis Saloons and Tourers ready for service is ongoing for An Garda Siochana. As with the other front line vehicles all are fitted with the latest in sophisticated equipment which Wilkers ensures will work on time, everytime. Out in the parking area of this 4 acre plus site situated near the flowing river Brosna, a strong line-up of chassis/cabs, Garda cars and Iveco/ MicroVett electric vans await conversion alongside some readymade Minibuses, all bound to uphold the Wilker tradition – deliver customer expectation and intelligent vehicle solutions that really work.

Donnacha Hurley, C.E.O., Wilker Group mentioned that top quality materials are used to carry out work in order to comply with very stringent in-house Quality and Testing standards to fulfi ll all industry regulatory and customer standards and specifications. “We are ISO approved and accredited to EU Regulation CEN 17892000 for Accident & Emergency Vehicles and Patient Transport Systems.” Martin highlighted the qualities of the Voyager body, now in its third generation. Using composite materials as processed by Quinns of Athenry, the Voyager is designed to find the ultimate in patient comfort and safety whilst providing world-class ergonomics and ease of access for all equipment, thereby ensuring the medical staff comply with the Health & Safety Authority regulations. Such is the strength and durability of the Voyager that it almost always extends through the second life of the chassis and cab, which are replaced every five years. While the ‘coachbuilt’ bodywork remains the popular choice among Health Authorities on both sides of the Irish Sea, Van Converted Emergency Vehicles which feature many of the characteristics of the Voyager technology are proving to be a viable cost saving option. Then there are the PTS vehicles which are used primarily for Patient Transfers and back up to the A&E Ambulance in the event of serious incidents or accidents. While visiting their multi-sectioned workshop area, Ambulances and PTS vehicles built on MercedesFLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

CONFERENCE

IRHA Conference & AGM 2011 – Limerick Strand Hotel

imerick’s Strand Hotel hosted this year’s Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) AGM and as before the social side was enjoyed with friendships renewed in comfortable surroundings with chat and banter going on well into the early hours. Guests were particularly complimentary of the hotel’s main function room, which was resplendent in white and did much to dispel any thoughts of recession. The main agenda of the weekend was the assessment of the Association’s accounts, debating resolutions from the Branches and the election of a new Executive and Management Team. This followed a new concise format previously spread over two days, with all the work completed by late Saturday afternoon in order for the incoming President to address the Dinner audience that night and it worked very well. The election of Eoin Gavin (M.D. Eoin Gavin Transport, Bunratt y, County Clare), the youngest ever President, perhaps best sums up the mood of delegates demanding leadership and change at the IRHA. Indicative of his maiden speech on Saturday night the President has already met with Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, Mr. Leo Viradkar, T.D. to press home the need

Eoin Gavin & Jonathan Molony,

for the core issues of the IRHA’s ‘Five Point Plan’ which it was agreed would be the core of the new team’s goal for 2011. There was more change at Executive level with both new and old faces elected on the team for 2011 including two past-Presidents to posts of Deputy Vice President (Jerry Kiersey) and National Secretary (Gerry McMahon). The core of the ‘Five Point Plan’ presented to the Minister are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. • • •

Essential User Fuel Rebate for Tax compliant Licensed Hauliers and a Carbon Tax collection system. Introduction of a Eurovignette Road Tax System. Prevention of Agricultural Tractors & Trailers engaging in Hire & Reward Haulage Work on Public Roads. Maintenance of the current trailer height limit of 4.65m. Ensure appropriate regulation and enforcement to include: Overtaking Lane on Motorways. DOE Testing. Speed Cameras.

These are the key elements demanded from the Branch Motions and could perhaps be

summed up by the theme of ‘controlled anger’. Despite talk of the need for Street Protests and blockading roads, “controlled anger” was the mood throughout the AGM - anger at the Association’s inability to express the mood of the industry and anger at bureaucracy’s unwillingness to recognise the needs of the industry other than to load more costs when the industry was on its knees. Each element of the plan reflects the outcome of sometimes palpable anger and frustration at a bureaucracy apparently living in an ‘Ivory Tower’ by adding to haulier’s daily burden by loading on licensing agricultural vehicles that undertake haulage plus other legislation such as Driver CPC whilst all around what we see is carnage and the wreckage of decent family companies. Incoming Honorary Secretary and Past President Gerry McMahon captured the heated mood of the meeting very well when he prophesied that the heat would be on the incoming Executive to deliver before the next AGM, and it was the Executive’s job to turn that heat on the bureaucracy. Overall an energy and enthusiasm coupled to a sense of direction from the new team at the head of the IRHA bodes well for the ‘Five Point Plan’.

New IRHA Management Team pictured (l-r) (Front Row): Jerry Kiersey, Jim McDonnell, Eoin Gavin, Gerry McMahon, Seamus McGowan. (Back Row): Jonathan Molony, Vincent Caulfield, George Mills, John Kenny, Michael Collins.

24 FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

Awards 20 2012 Irish Haulier of the Year in association with TOTAL

The leading Awards Programme for the Irish Transport and Haulage Industry. Enter online at www.fleet.ie

Fleet Transport Awards 20 2012 • Irish Haulier of the Year 2012 THE LEADING AWARDS PROGRAMME FOR THE ROAD TRANSPORT AND COMMERCIAL VEHICLE INDUSTRY Fleet Transport is delighted to announce, in association with the Road Safety Authority (RSA), the launch of its 2012 Awards programme with 14 categories in contention this year. If you are a Road Transport Operator in Ireland, however big or small, you are eligible to enter the awards. For the first time you can now enter the awards online at www.fleet.ie making it even simpler to enter. For the sixth year running the Fleet Transport Awards 2012, celebrating excellence in the road transport industry, will take place on Monday 3rd October 2011 at the Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield, County Meath. 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 commercial vehicle brand distributors and road transport operators operating the length and breadth of Ireland. In response to industry demand event organisers Fleet Publications has introduced two new awards ‘Women in Transport’ and ‘Customer Service Excellence’, recognising for the first time the importance of these roles in our industry. 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 firms, demonstrating that companies of all types and sizes 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 will 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 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 best way to demonstrate your company’s commitment to the specific area of the road transport 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 2011 and beyond through Ireland’s leading commercial vehicle magazine, Fleet Transport. 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 Own Account Transport Operator of the Year Owner Driver Operator of the Year Regional Transport Operator of the Year Livery of the Year Safety Award Innovation Award

• • • • • • •

Environment Award Customer Service Excellence (new category) Women in Transport Award (new category) Pallet Network Member of the Year Transport Manager of the Year Technician of the Year Services to the Transport Industry

The overall title of Irish Haulier of the Year 2012, sponsored by Total, will be selected from one of the category winners. This company will then go forward to represent Ireland in the European Road Transport Operator of the Year 2012 Awards. What do I need to do now? ……….. 3 simple steps! There are 3 simple steps in the entire process to complete your submission. STEP 1 Complete the attached entry form (takes approximately 15 minutes to complete) straight away but certainly no later than 30 June and send to Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo. STEP 2 After receipt of your application you will receive a number of questions related to the category/categories, which your company has entered. It will take approximately 3 hours to complete the submission and 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. STEP 3 Only those companies that reach the finalist stage are publicly announced and they will be invited to an informal interview on 6/7 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 tel: 094 93 72819.

Associate Sponsor Road Safety Authority 26 FLEETTRANSPORT AWARDS | SUMMER 11

Award Categories National Haulier of the Year (sponsored by Volvo Trucks) 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 allround commitment to good business practice led by a commercially minded individual. International Haulier of the Year (sponsored by Thermo King)

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. Adhering to European/International legislation is also a key consideration within this category, such as meeting Low Emission Zone areas etc. Own-Account Transport Operator of the Year (Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles) 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. 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. Regional Transport Operator of the Year (sponsored by Bord Gáis Networks)

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 Scania Finance Ireland Ltd)

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 non-carbon emissions such as NOx, particulates etc.

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 do a lot to increase levels of professionalism within the company. Not only are clean, effective graphics and colour schemes required here but the condition of the vehicle carrying the livery is also up for consideration when the marks are allocated. Detail on how the corporate image supports the business objectives/strategy is also key in this category.

Customer Service Excellence (new category) (Sponsor TBC) The ‘Customer Service Excellence’ award recognizes specific accomplishments in customer service, whether they are achievement by an individual, a team, or a department. The Judges will look for evidence of the effort and impact of excellent customer service on the customer and business. Training and demonstrable commitment of the company to customer service will be an added bonus in this category. Customer testimonies will also be of benefit.

Safety Award (Sponsored by Goodyear Dunlop)

Women in Transport Award (new category) (Sponsored by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles) This is a new category designed to recognise women working in all areas of the transport and haulage industry. If you have achieved success in your area of expertise in the road transport industry, the judges will welcome an entry from you, whatever your position. This category aims to recognise women who are positive role models in the industry to encourage more women to see the haulage industry as a worthwhile career. The judges will look for innovation, enthusiasm and dedication in what is often perceived as an unattractive industry by women. As this is a new category, we would particularly welcome entries from all sectors.

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. Innovation Award (Sponsored by Team CV)

The Innovation Category seeks entrants who can demonstrate that their ideas have made a genuine difference to their company resulting for example in either profitability, 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 enter this category Environment Award (Sponsored by Michelin)

Pallet Network Member of the Year (Sponsored by All Ireland Warehousing Association) 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. Transport Manager of the Year (Sponsored by Iveco)

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 Euro 5/EEV or alternatively powered 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

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.

FLEETTRANSPORT AWARDS | SUMMER 11 27

Award Categories Technician of the Year (Sponsored by Sortimo and Cafco) Entrants in this category, which is open to all Technicians, must h av e completed an apprenticeship and have a minimum of two years’ experience. Entrants should be fully competent in the servicing and repair of vehicles, to the highest manufacturer standards in the heavy goods, light commercial, service and passenger carrier industries. As well as technical competence in the mechanics of a vehicle, entrants must have a thorough knowledge of the electrical and electronic components of a vehicle and be comfortable with using the latest diagnostic equipment to identify and rectify faults. Judging will be conducted in association

with the Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) and the Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT). Service to the Transport Industry Award (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 have completed a life time of service.

Fleet Transport Awards 2012 Irish Haulier of the Year 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 Own Account Transport Operator of the Year Owner Driver Operator of the Year Regional Transport Operator of the Year Livery of the Year Safety Award Innovation Award

Environment Award Customer Service Excellence Women in Transport Award Pallet Network Member of the Year Transport Manager of the Year Technician of the Year Services to the Transport Industry

‘I have read and understood the terms and conditions of entering the 2012 Fleet Transport Awards’. Signature: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Please send completed Entry Form plus additional material by Thursday 30 June 2011 to Competition Secretary, Fleet Transport Awards 2012, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo. Alternatively it is much simpler and quicker toenter online at www.fleet.ie. 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 2012, established to honour excellence in operation or services to the transport industry. Entries must be received by Thursday 30 June 2011 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. Confirmation of receipt of entries will be sent out to all applicants. The completed entry form can be accompanied by a 1000 word document outlining further details on your company and its operations. Photographs and customer testimonials can be included. The finalists will be published in the September edition of Fleet Transport Magazine. Short listed candidates will be called for interviews on Tuesday 6 September and Wednesday 7 September. A five minute video or Powerpoint presentation will be welcomed on the day of the interview. Presentation of the Awards will take place on Monday 3 October 2011 at an Awards Gala Dinner at the Johnstown House Hotel, Enfield, County Meath. The decision of the Adjudication Panel is final and no correspondence will be entered into afterwards.

28 FLEETTRANSPORT AWARDS | SUMMER 11

REVIEW 1

Positivity returns to the transport industry

he road transport industry has always been an accurate barometer for the economy and that many of the van and truck brands decided to exhibit at the Commercial Vehicle Show (at the NEC, Birmingham) was a positive development and indicates that the turnaround is happening. This year’s event had well over 350 exhibitors showcasing vehicles, bodywork, maintenance and a vast array of support services. Mentioning repair and maintenance, there was a special section

called ‘Workshop’ in Hall 4 catering for this area. Roughly half of the truck brands were present namely DAF Trucks, Fuso, Mercedes-Benz, Hino, Iveco and MAN with Renault Trucks, Scania and Volvo conspicuous in their absence. The majority of the van manufacturers were there with Ford leading the charge (literally) with the debuts of the Transit Connect Electric and the all-new Ford Ranger Pick-Up. Nissan premiered its Interstar replacement the NV400, which is basically a rebadged Renault Master/Opel Movano, a change of

plan from its original stance of producing a standalone light commercial range which began with the award-winning NV200. The global credit crunch put paid to that. Volkswagen stirred emotion with the launch of their latest Caddy Racing van and at last we saw the Amarok on these shores officially having won the International Pick-Up Award from the jury test trials held in Ireland. On this page and page 26 details of other product news are featured, compiled by Jarlath Sweeney and Cathal Doyle.

More Economical Driving with Ashwoods EcoDrive 2 Ashwoods Automotive is a rapidly growing hybrid-electric commercial vehicle manufacturer specializing in the provision of low carbon Ford Transits, but at the CV Show, the company launched its low cost technology EcoDrive 2 that aims to improve driver-driving performance via a stick rather than a carrot approach. Essentially a dashboard fitted display that provides a real-time indicator via a series of lights on how

economically the vehicle is being driven at that point in time, the stick is in the form of a second long-term driver display which measures driver performance over a longer period. Consistently uneconomically driving will result in EcoDrive 2 sending an automatic notification to the fleet manager – not something any driver would welcome on their return to base.

Recognising that standards achieved during driving training are typically not maintained subsequently, Ashwoods says that EcoDrive is a simple and focused solution to ensuring drivers remain on message to achieve better fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions. The Exeter company estimates that fuel consumption will be improved by between 5% and 10% with EcoDrive installed. The system can be retrofitted for larger fleets.

Specialist Vehicles light-up with Carnation Designs The Garda Siochana’s Rapid Response Emergency Unit’s Volvo XC70’s are fitted with it, as are the AA’s Breakdown Service vehicles, and many Fire Appliances. Carnation Designs Ltd genisys system is a management system for specialist vehicles that allows an easy-to-integrate solution for controlling auxiliary electronics and power management.

vehicle to the operating system on a cable-drawn railway system such as that in Cape Point Nature Reserve in South Africa.

By replacing hard-wired relays and fuses with solid-state technology, genisys allows modules to control virtually any electronic equipment via the central electronic control module. This can range from the flashing lights on an emergency

The West Yorkshire based company showcased the flexibility of the system at the CV Show via a BMW Police Interceptor. Craig Hall, Sales Director at Carnation Designs explained that the system allows easy installation of Police equipment by providing a single unit to communicate with the vehicle’s CANBus and effectively manage all electronic equipment. Carnation Designs say that the genisys system would also be suitable for any commercial vehicle operator looking to improve operational health and safety, or standardize the fleet’s electronics management.

Eminox geared up for London LEZ Phases 3 & 4 One of the busiest stands at the CV Show 2011 wasn’t, as you might expect, one of the large volume truck or van manufacturers, rather an SME providing a specialist product. That company was Eminox Ltd, and the reason for its popularity at the Show was the forthcoming London Low Emission Zone (LEZ) phases 3 and 4 legislation.

As of 3 January, 2012, Transport for London (TfL) is implementing stricter LEZ standards which will mean that 150,000 vehicles with emissions of Euro 3 or worse currently entering the zone will be subject to daily charges of £200 unless

Eminox designs and manufactures exhaust emission control systems using Continuously Regenerating Trap (CRT) and Fuel Borne Catalyst (FBC) technology. These ‘full filtration’ diesel particulate filters reduce particulate matter emissions by more than 90%. Located in Lincolnshire, the firm can retrofit its systems to virtually all commercial vehicles – in fact they haven’t met a vehicle that has defeated them yet stated Director of Marketing Mike Galey. Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney & Cathal Doyle

they take steps to retrofit to Euro 4 standards. With over 20,000 of these expected to take the retrofit compliance option, it’s no wonder that the Eminox stand was busy. For occasional visitors to the London LEZ area, a category that many Irish Cross-Channel hauliers and van operators will fall under, Eminox estimates that retrofitting is economical for operators who make between 15-30 or more journeys into the Zone. Eminox has three fitting centres including one near Heathrow, and can complete conversions for most vehicles within half a day, including the necessary certification to allow the vehicle to be approved to enter the LEZ zone. Pictured are Kathye Henderson, Marketing Manager and Mike Galey, Director of Marketing. CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11 29

REVIEW 1

Commercial Vehicle Show 2011 BAE Systems

Bandvulc

As a global supplier of hybrid propulsion systems with thousands of its eco-friendly systems currently in use every day, having collaborated with Alexander Dennis Buses in the past, a new supply contract has been signed with Dennis Eagle which specializes in refuse collection/waste management, for its new HybriDrive Parallel system just launched for heavy duty trucks. While BAE systems develop the drivetrain, leading plant and component supplier and fellow US company Caterpiller is also involved in the project.

Now more than ever is tyre management an issue with all road transport operators. Bandvulc, the Devon based company that is involved in recycling tyres for over 40 years has introduced its latest range of premium products that features specialist in-house compounds. According to Patrick O’Connell, Bandvulc has an increasing number of large fleet companies on its books on both sides of the Irish Sea. If this trend continues in Ireland, a stand-alone branch working with existing agents is on the cards.

Blue Tree Systems

Bridgestone

DAF

Enhanced features and greater savings are the main selling parts of Blue Tree’s R:COM Fleet Management Systems. From its Galway headquarters, Charlie Cahill and his team has installed over 60,000 units on some of the larger fleets in Europe and USA. R:COM is the only system to connect to all truck and van engines and to record detailed driver and engine performance data, providing savings of up to 20% in fuel costs.

Bridgestone launched its new Ecopia tyre at the CV Show. A range of new and retreaded steer (new only), drive and trailer tyres, with the focus fi rmly on a more environmentally friendly product, Bridgestone says the Ecopia offers operators significant cost savings thanks to low rolling resistance and the longest wearing tread life for both new and retread tyres.

No new products from DAF but the truck manufacturer did have its LF Hybrid, now in production at its factory at Leyland, among those vehicles on display at the Show. Managing Director Ray Ashworth said the UK’s leading truck manufacturer was reasonably optimistic for 2011 with orders for Q1 over four times up on 2010 levels. Look out for a test drive report on the LF Hybrid soon.

Dometic

Fiat Professional

Ford

Best known for its products dedicated to the mobile leisure business, Dometic also supplies the transport industry with a complete range of air conditioners, refrigerators, workshop equipment for service and maintenance of built in air-conditioners and other equipment. Members of the press were treated to the talents of singer and violist Nina Garcia, former member of popular group Jigsaw.

Aston Villa FC fans were pleased to see the club colours on the Punto Evo van launched at the Show. Other vehicles on display including the current International Van of the Year Doblo Cargo, Scudo and Fiorino all decked up in fleet customer colours – and all powered by Euro 5 drivetrains. To come later this year is the new Doblo Cargo work-up, a cross between a pick-up and drop-side 1-tonne light commercial.

With the UK CV industry showing a 26.4% increase from light to heavy, Ford Commercial Vehicles recorded 29% growth with a 24.3% market share. To continue that upward spiral, the ‘blue ovals’ assault on the marketplace includes the all-new Ranger, Euro 5 Transit (with minor facelift and 2.2 litre engine) and the Transit Connect Electric. As a show-stopper the Transit Super Sport Van with 3.2 litre (200PS) on the SWB body got pulses racing.

he Commercial Vehicle Show made a welcome return to the NEC Birmingham last month. Halls 4 & 5 were filled to capacity with exhibits and while it may not have reached the heady heights of the past pre-recession, the event is heading in the right direction. Fleet Transport’s Jarlath Sweeney and Cathal Doyle report from the three day Show.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

REVIEW 1

– NEC, Birmingham. GreenChem

Hankook

Hatcher

AdBlue suppliers GreenChem showcased its Smart One product, an all-inclusive storage and dispensing unit which the company says is the next step on from IBC’s. Suitable for fleets with ten or more trucks, owners do not need to worry about refi lling as GreenChem will automatically monitor usage and deliver fresh AdBlue when required. The company is looking at opportunities to establish a production facility in Ireland in collaboration with partner Maxol Lubricants.

“We are looking forward to the next few years with increased optimism for the commercial market and we’re particularly excited to be showcasing new fuel efficient products at the Commercial Vehicle Show. These products coupled with an increased capacity at new plants around the world reinforce our commitment to our customers and the environment,” stated David Thorp, newly appinted Sales Manager for Hankook Tyres UK.

Europe’s cab conversion aerodynamic specialists, Hatcher Components demonstrated its innovative roof mounted ‘air management’ systems that not only reduces fuel consumption but are electronically adjustable to match the vehicle body height. Its Fridge Body spoiler for example can easily be fitted on site whether (new or retro), provides adequate fridge ventilation and clearance and also provides a safe working area for ‘fridge servicing’ through a cat-walk plate.

Mercedes-Benz Hino J. Harris Assemblers, the Dublin based importer and distributor of the Hino brand of trucks in the UK for over 20 years had an example of its range of rigids from the 7.5 tonne 300 Series, the 500 Series 18 tonne and 700 Series 32 tonne chassis. Pictured are Liam O’Neill and Carl Murphy (Harris Hino) along with Ronnie Verner, General Manager, Kel-Berg Trailers & Trucks Ltd. Liam informed us that Hino recorded its best-ever sales figure for Quarter 1 2011 since 2007. Look out for more developments from the Harris Group soon.

The Press Conference hosted by Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles was well attended with Ian Jones, Managing Director outlining that its market share is up mainly due to the successful uptake of its fi nance package offering. Every aspect of its product line-up was represented including the new Green Commercial award winning Vito E-CELL electric van, the Sprinter in Natural Gas form and revised Atego – reigning International Truck of the Year and Axor plus the range-topping Actros Mega Space. The new improved Euro 5 (EEV) Fuso Canter was also there.

Roadload PolyBilt John Dennis Coachbuilders, European agents for PolyBilt showed a number of vehicles with bodywork made of the co-polymer material which is stronger, lighter and tougher than aluminium and GRP composites. It can be manufactured into any shape or size and has a high quality finish that doesn’t corrode, rust, crack or chip.

The OHM Group (Dublin), has an interest in Roadload Ltd, the Thetford Norfolk based company that specializes in designing and producing innovative U-tail range of demountable, ground loading/unloading vehicles. Additions to its range now include a 4.0 tonne Boxer (payload 2,500 kg) and Nissan Cabstar artic (payload 3,500 kg). Leading supermarket chains are interested in their freight and chilled boxes, which come in lengths from 3.6m to 5.5m and heights up to 3.0m.

Michelin Michelin showed a number of new products including the 295/80 R22.5 XDW Ice Grip, a tyre popular in Nordic markets that Michelin believes will be of interest to fleet operators here following successive bad winters. Also shown were the X Energy SaverGreen XZ and X Energy SaverGreen XD steer and drive tyres in 80 series – previously these were only offered in the smaller 70 series size.

Sortimo Sortimo’s Area Manager for Ireland, Peter O’Connor was manning the stand to meet and greet his Irish customers at the event. Since his appointment, the German van racking/shelving system developer and supplier has gone from strength to strength. News of a big van fleet fitout with Irish Rail was announced. Meanwhile, Sortimo in the UK with branches in Warrington and Birmingham has kitted out its 1,000th vehicle since opening for business in August 2008.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11 31

REVIEW 1 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

New attachments expand versatility of Multihog Multihog, the multi-purpose utility vehicle that is designed and manufactured in Dundalk, County Louth is continuing to expand its presence across Europe, having recently appointed new dealers and distributors in Belgium, Poland and Germany. In the UK since June 2010, the Irish-owned company was at the CV Show to demonstrate the rapidly expanding range of applications that make Multihog such a versatile vehicle.

road surface 400mm wide down to a depth of 110mm. This provides a solid base for resurfacing,

and limits the cost of infi ll materials by only removing what is needed. Another new application at the Show was a simplex mast including forks, just one in a selection of simplex, duplex and triplex masts available covering a range of lift height options. Also on display was a Berti flail deck, a front mounted rotary mower, and a hydraulic sweeper, while the Multihog on the stand was equipped for Winter duties with a front mounted snow plough and rear mounted gritter unit.

Applications such as a patch planer made by Universal Bingham. Designed to provide an efficient and cost-effective method for repairing pot-holes and other road repairs, it can plane a

Nissan makes bold statement with NV400 Having made its World debut at the Commercial Vehicles show in Hanover, Germany last Autumn, Nissan’s all new NV400 premiered here is a big brother to NV200, and adopts a bold interpretation of Nissan’s familiar ‘balanced angle strut’ grille.

The frontal design changes between NV400 and other versions of the van on which it is based, namely the Renault Master and Opel Movano, are comprehensive. NV400 has a unique bonnet, front wings, grille and bumper assembly, according to Atsushi - “The bonnet line on NV400 is much

The look (which has drawn mixed opinion from the assembled press) is reminiscent of the design used on Nissan’s acclaimed range of SUVs and PickUps and the self-assured, grounded appearance is designed to accentuate the new van’s undoubted strengths. The NV400’s visual identity was created at Nissan Design Europe and engineered at Nissan Technical Centre Europe. Led by Studio Chief Designer Atsushi Maeda, the NDE team has adapted three key elements of the Nissan look bonnet, grille and headlamps - to create a range of vans and trucks guaranteed to stand out from the crowd.

higher than on other versions of the van, this helps give a more pronounced and dominant front end. This, in turn, has allowed us to use a taller and broader version of the angle strut grille.” “We have ensured the headlamp treatment is quite different, too. The grille and headlight assemblies have been designed as a single piece of architecture rather than a series of interlocking shapes to give that grounded, stable shape. The result exaggerates the vehicle’s width making it appearing more dynamic.” The line of the bonnet’s leading edge extends through the headlight assembly. The top half of the assembly houses the direction indicators with the highly efficient dipped and main beam lamps beneath: in testing, NV400’s lighting performance has comfortably surpassed those of rival vans.

Changes to Tachograph Regulations is a hot topic The new tachograph regulation EU 1266/2009 that comes into effect from October this year for new vehicles was a source of much discussion at the NEC hosted event. A number of tachograph manufacturers including Stoneridge and Continental Automotive Trading (VDO) took time to explain to show visitors how the changes will impact operators and drivers.

Both VDO and Stoneridge highlighted updated digitial tachographs that are compliant with regulation EU 1266/2009 at the Show. VDO had the DTCO 1381 Release 1.4, while Stoneridge showed the SE5000 Exakt.

Pirelli ECO Feelpure While there are a number of elements to the changes to specification (Annex 1b) for the EU Digital Tachograph, including protection of motion sensor and the input of manual entries, the changes to the ‘One Minute Rule’ for drive time recording will have an immediate impact and is expected to benefit multi-drop operators who should see large differences in drive recording. Unlike the current system which allocates a recorded minute to ‘Drive’ provided any driving took place, the new regulation allocates minutes to the longest activity within that minute. 32

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

However the 3-minute rule will still apply where one minute of non-drive between drive periods will still be recorded as driving. In real-life tests, additional driving times of between seventeen and forty eight minutes were recorded according to Stoneridge. There are no requirements to retrofit to meet the new regulation, but both companies said they expected a significant number of operators to do so.

Pirelli Eco Technology, part of the Pirelli Group continues its expansion across Europe and enters the British market in time for the new Low Emission Zone (LEZ) legislation due next year. It showcased the Feelpure range of products developed to reduce regulated emissions from diesel engines. Retrofitted, the system betters the air quality legislation currently existing in Europe. It allows Euro 2/3/4 vehicles to reach Euro 5 for all regulated pollutants.

Ask the Expert

LEGAL EXPERT

t: 094 9038087 m: 0861 510938 e-mail: jlservices@eircom.net Address: Parkmore, 16 Watersville, Castlebar, Co Mayo.

We offer assistance with: • Employment documentation • Health and Safety documentation • Dismissal and redundancy procedures • Transport administration and documentation

J L SERVICES

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

YOUR CALL! Send in your legal questions or queries to ASK THE EXPERT – Contact: jonathan@fleet.ie Q: - I employ a number of drivers who are away from the depot for a great deal of their working time. How can I be made responsible for their safety when they are away? A: - The law makes you responsible for ensuring that your employees have the necessary skills to carry out their work in a safe manner. Th is means that any equipment that they use, and clearly ‘equipment’ includes a vehicle, is in a safe condition, and that the worker has been adequately trained to do the relevant work. It is very important to accept that you have a direct responsibility to each of your employees. The fact that a new employee may have worked for many years in the transport industry does not remove your obligation to provide adequate training. There should be a written record of every training course, with a signature to confirm an employee’s attendance on the course. It is no less important to try to encourage your employees to understand and support your training programme, and it may be a good idea to issue certificates when an employee has attended and passed a training course.

Q: - My work as a driver takes me into various customers’ premises. Do I have to obey Health & Safety notices displayed on these customers premises? One customer won’t let me get out of my cab unless I wear a ‘HiViz’ vest. A: - Any person going on to commercial prem ises must obey Health & Safety notices. They will have been

displayed because the company has identified a risk and, even if you don’t think the notice is necessary, it must be followed. As a matter of observation it is arguable that no-one should be in an open area on commercial premises, or in a warehouse, unless they are wearing some form of high visibility clothing.

TIMES PAST

TWENTY-FIVE YEARS IN HOWTH Broadstone was an important staging point to and from which vehicles were shifted as necessary. The opening date was provisionally fi xed for Sunday 1 June, everybody making the maximum effort to get things properly organised. The fi rst vehicles were moved from Parsons on 16 May and during the following two weeks the number grew steadily until by Saturday 31 May we were washing the last of the 25 items and parking them in their allotted spaces. We duly opened the following day but the volume of work seemed to increase steadily after that.

Extending Roof - Oct 1985

ecently, just how quickly the years pass was brought home very forcibly when a friend asked what was planned to mark the twenty-fi ft h anniversary of Howth Museum on 1st June. Struggling as always to keep the show on the road neither I nor any of my colleagues had even thought about the subject but on reflection there is much on which to reflect. During the 1970s the Howth Estate developed the Deerpark Hotel and golf courses, moving progressively out of farming. Th is resulted in a complex of agricultural buildings becoming redundant. Captain Gaisford St Lawrence heard from the late Terry Andrews that the TMSI was seeking a base in the Dublin area and the result was that space was offered to the Society in the Howth Estate. Negotiations took place in 1984 and work under an AnCo (now FAS) programme began in 1985 to convert a large shed in two stages. Stage One, with a floor area of about 600 square metres, was tackled fi rst. A new concrete floor incorporating two lines of tram track was laid,

the roof was repaired and extended. Lighting was installed and new sliding doors fitted to the front of the building. At that time, the collection consisted of just one hundred vehicles of which about twenty-five could be displayed in Stage One. The logistics of moving vehicles was mindboggling. Most of them were based at Castleruddery in West Wicklow while others were stored at Broadstone, courtesy of CIE. Simultaneously to the development of Howth, we had a parallel AnCo programme operating at Broombridge (Cabra) where vehicles were being restored for the Museum. Th is particular programme, which ran from February 1985 to March 1990, processed seventeen very varied vehicles and was regarded as one of the most successful of any AnCo project at the time. And I am glad to record that several of the trainees who worked on that programme still visit the Museum from time to time, showing their children the vehicles with which they were involved. Moving vehicles to where they were wanted made for very hard work for everybody. The fi rst delivery of four small items were transported on a forty-foot f lat from Castleruddery on 8 February 1986 in conditions so icy that several members suffered multiple falls that day. Several similar operations took place during the following months and we were greatly facilitated by being granted storage space in what was until recently the Techrete (Parsons in 1986) factory in Howth, just across the road from the gates of the Castle.

GNR Gardner reversing into building, 16 May 1986 - Liam Kelly and Ellie Corcoran 34

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

The Estate gave us the use of an unoccupied house beside the Museum which we later converted into a canteen and toilets; we were subsequently given the adjacent house which has become our archive repository. Work soon began on Stage Two, a mirror image of the fi rst stage and which came into operation in 1994. Th is gives a display capacity of some fi ft y vehicles, according to size. There are also some other sheds which were adapted and made secure as storage and workshop facilities. Howth has unfortunately been a mecca for vandals who have infl icted severe damage from time to time. There have been two fi res, the fi rst of which, in 1996, resulted in the loss of a milk float and severe damage to another van. The following year saw the disastrous fi re caused by an intruder who dropped a cigarette butt into the upholstery of our very rare Rochester coach. Th is vehicle was lost, as was a Shelvoke and Drewry refuse freighter. We lost the roof of the storage building and two other vehicles suffered severe damage. A regrett able feature of museums, about which our colleagues in the UK have warned us frequently, is the visitor who comes equipped with a screwdriver and removes vehicle name

Our superb canteen in 1992 - Pat Fullam, Jim Crosland and Bert Brown

TIMES PAST

• Vehicle Wash Systems - Manual & Automatic • Water Recycling, Rainwater Harvesting & Pollution Control • Steel Safety Gantries and Platforms • High Pressure Wash Systems

Rochester and Leyland Hippo - Fire, April 1997

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The OPW Foden heads a line up in Stage Two

and number plates and just about anything else he can steal. We have some experience of these types and have even managed to identify the fetish of one particular thief who visited us several times – he hasn’t been around recently.

technological museums in this Republic. Th is situation has been sharply pointed up by the loss, some years ago, of the splendid Killarney Motor Museum and the recent closure of the wonderful Fry Model Railway at Malahide.

The most positive aspects of our twenty-five years in Howth have been the support given by the various transport companies and public services, without which we would not have survived. Being recognised and assisted by the Heritage Council has been a huge plus and to have been included in their Accreditation Programme has worked wonderfully in enabling us to adopt recognised museum standards. There is still much to learn and it will be a long time before we can achieve the highest standards set for transport museums. However, we are glad that we have managed to make up in some way for the deplorable lack of

We established Howth during a decade of recession. Many of us had lived through the horrible poverty of the 1950s and here we are yet again in an era of stringent austerity. We will have to work harder than ever to survive and the passage of time sees most of us with less energy than we had in 1986. There have also been the sad loss of so many very active members who are no longer with us and who we all remember with great affection. But the work must go on. There are now about 180 vehicles in the collection and much more

time than formerly is spent in assisting people working on various projects. The trouble is that most of these individuals seem to think that we are a State-funded organisation – the mind boggles and in a future offering I hope to outline some of our more bizarre experiences.

The National Transport Museum, 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: Vehicles in Stage One, Bedford School Bus in centre

Visitors inspect vehicles in the yard

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

Monday - Saturday, 10.00am - 5.00pm. FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

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LEGAL

Health and Safety

needs continuous attention

opefully, those of you who read this magazine regularly will have seen the report by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) on their new national programme. The HSA has developed the programme to apply nationwide to highlight vehicle related risks, and has supported the programme by issuing a number of safety alerts. The fact is that the transport industry is one of a number of dangerous occupations and, in line with other EC Member States, the HSA is taking steps to try to reduce the number of accidents by increasing the employer’s awareness of their responsibility for their employees safety and the safety of others who might be affected by the company’s work. The fi nancial implications of a serious accident are substantial, quite apart from the effect of any resulting injury, there may be no insurance if the insurers decide that the company has failed to act in a proper manner. Additionally there is the possibility of at least one Court case, whether criminal or civil, with the further possibility that a Director or Manager of the company might be sent to prison. Although it is in the nature of an accident to be unexpected, in the majority of cases an accident can be predicted and, in the context of the current legislation, an employer is expected to predict, and therefore prevent accidents that might arise in the course of the company’s business. The key to a good health and safety regime lies in establishing good ‘risk assessments’. Some employers appear to consider the need to carry out risk assessments as yet another unnecessary burden on their time but the reality is that it is a legal requirement under the Safety, Health at Work Act 2005 and, in the event of an accident, the fi rst thing that the investigating officers will want to see is the relevant assessment. Once the purpose of a risk assessment is understood, and a procedure established, an employer should not find the process particularly burdensome. In simple terms an employer is required to look at each individual work activity, determine whether there is any risk of injury either to the employee or to any other person, and, in the event that there is risk, put steps in place either to remove the risk, or in exceptional circumstances, to reduce the risk to an acceptable level. There is no doubt that this process of assessing risks leads to a much safer working environment. Consider, as an example, the process of a walk round check before a vehicle is taken out. Inevitably, considering the risks presented by the use of an unsafe vehicle, a competent assessor would require a check before the vehicle was used, and, no doubt for that reason, walk round checks are now a standard requirement. It is important to ensure that the person who is carrying out these risk assessments has sufficient experience of the process to understand the risks that each action involves, and to make effective suggestions as to how the apparent risks can be removed or substantially reduced. Once the assessments are done then it is only a question of making sure that the assessments are reviewed periodically depending on the particular circumstances. Clearly there will need to be an assessment whenever a new piece of equipment is brought in, or a new process is introduced. It is critical that the records of these assessments are kept and matched to any training records. An employer must be able to show a real determination to ensure that the workplace is safe and the majority of risk assessments are likely to require training. Many prosecutions are based on cases in which, following an accident, it is discovered that the employee had not been adequately trained. Text: Jonathan Lawton – jonathan@fleet.ie

Every employer should visit the HSA’s website (www.hsa.ie) on a regular basis. Not only will it identify those areas of safety which are att racting particular attention but also, and perhaps more importantly, there are a number of free resources available, which can only improve an employer’s understanding of the requirements of the Safety and Health legislation.

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FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

FUEL PRICE UPDATE

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE GROUP The Insurance Centre, 7 Sandyford Business Centre, Sandyford, Dublin 18. Tel: 01 2932350 Fax: 01 2932360 Email: info@mikemurphyinsurance.ie Web: www.mikemurphyinsurance.ie Mike Murphy Insurance Group is a trade name of Insureforsure Ltd. Is a member of IBA & Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

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 17). Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Albania

ALL

174.00

182.00

173.00

Lithuania

LTL

4.76

4.90

4.44

Andorra

EUR

1.190

1.240

1.110

Luxemburg

EUR

1.344

1.367

1.194

Austria

EUR

1.392

1.533

1.358

Macedonia

MKD

77.00

78.50

68.50

Belarus

EUR

0.851

0.715

Moldova

MDL

16.13

16.59

15.39

Belgium

EUR

1.660

1.679

1.456

Montenegro

EUR

1.360

1.370

1.300

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.30

2.40

Netherlands

EUR

1.753

1.819

1.419

Bulgaria

BGL

2.37

2.55

2.47

Norway

NOK

14.60

14.91

13.65

Croatia

HRK

9.92

10.28

9.41

Poland

PLN

5.15

5.39

5.07

Czech Republic

CZK

35.40

36.20

34.70

Portugal

EUR

1.626

1.739

1.440

Denmark

DKK

12.72

13.06

11.38

Romania

RON

5.29

5.78

5.36

Estonia

EEK

1.224

1.264

1.239

Russia

RUB

26.18

27.13

24.63

Finland

EUR

1.583

1.630

1.380

Serbia

RSD

122.10

127.00

France

EUR

1.565

1.600

1.392

Slovakia

EUR

1.473

1.366

Georgia

GEL

2.25

2.30

2.35

Slovenia

EUR

1.292

1.319

1.254

Germany

EUR

1.553

1.647

1.435

Spain

EUR

1.370

1.480

1.300

Greece

EUR

1.593

1.785

1.391

Sweden

SEK

14.68

15.08

14.69

Hungary

HUF

369.00

367.00

Switzerland

CHF

1.810

1.870

1.920

Ireland

EUR

1.529

1.479

Turkey

TRY

4.20

4.25

3.58

Italy

EUR

1.555

1.641

1.455

Ukraine

UAH

10.00

11.10

9.70

Kosovo

EUR

1.22

GBP

1.363

1.436

1.424

Latvia

LVL

0.912

0.942

0.902

USA

USD

1.083

The Road Transport Specialists www.scitrans.ie

Digital Tachograph Solutions for the Irish Market

Scitrans

Solutions for Bus and Truck Operators

Would your company pass a Road Safety Authority Inspection? The RSA are now visiting all road transport operators to inspect tachograph records and systems. New tachograph legislation (SI 431/2010) now imposes fines of up to €100,000 on those who fail to keep proper tachograph records. Our Tachograph Systems Audit will evaluate your tachograph records and documentation. Based on the Audit findings, Scitrans will deliver recommendations that will enable you to meet (and exceed) the RSA’s requirements. The Systems Audit also extends to your vehicle maintenance program. We will review the recording and scheduling of vehicle maintenance and make recommendations for legal compliance.

Passenger & Haulage Services Scitrans cater for both the Passenger and the Haulage market. Services include on-site training for drivers and managers in; • Driver CPC (Haulage & Passenger) • Logistics • Fleet Maintenance • Analogue and Digital Tachographs

Contact

Robert Whoriskey Ardrumman, Ramelton, Donegal, Ireland.

38 FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

EasyTac Downloader Software and Hardware Our kits are really easy to install and use. Unlike other software suppliers there are no annual fees to pay, updates and support are free to all purchasers of EasyTac Downloader. The kit provides you with the means to meet all of your legal requirements under Tachograph Legislation. Scitrans can provide you with the following essential supplies for your tachograph system;

Land Line : (00353) (0)74 9151164 • High quality tachograph rolls Mobile : (00353) (0)85 134 0022 • Tachograph Infringement E-Mail : robert@scitrans.ie Reports Web : www.scitrans.ie • Driver Daily Vehicle Check Book

COMMENT

The evolution of Containerised Transport continues

he UK Rail Freight Group held a seminar alongside the recent Multimodal Exhibition in Birmingham which had a number of interesting papers on the sustained development of Intermodal, specifically, container traffic. Th is not only dealt with traffic moving from the Ports to Distribution Centres, some of which, like the Hams Hall Terminal operated by ABP (Associated British Ports) really deserve the name of Inland Port. Trains operate there from such Ports as Southampton, Tilbury and Felixstowe, while others run on to other Terminals in Scotland. There was also focus on the International container trains connecting UK Terminals with others in an increasing range of European countries through the Channel Tunnel. Interestingly, all such services do not necessarily work to plan and a major casualty in the competitive transport environment was the much publicised Eddie Stobart/DB Schenker fresh fruit train that commenced to run ex-Valencia in Spain through to Daventry. Graeme Undy, the Stobart Rail Freight Operations Manager told me that, no sooner than the service was up and running and despite the inherent complications of running from Iberia where the track gauge is different to the rest of mainland Europe, it did work, with fruit arriving in perfect condition. He said, that the average reefer truck haulage price for the same route dropped by €1,000, as a result the rail service could not compete with this and had to be withdrawn. The presentation that really caught my attention came from DHL and focussed on how it was able to switch a significant proportion of the trunking of hanging garments for M&S from their major Distribution Centres to the stores from trailers to containers. The key to this was that they were able to design a hanging rail kit that could be installed in the container within minutes and gave the same loadability as the fi xed rails used in trailers. On completion of the run, the kit was taken down and was packed down to the size of a large matt ress. There are three big advantages in this system. First, by using normal freight containers rather than specialist trailers the capital or leasing costs involved in the operation fall dramatically. Second, using the ability of the racking kit to be packed away into a corner, the container can be loaded with return cargo. Many of these units run from the English Midlands into Scotland, and thus the containers can be used to bring whisky and similar products for which tautliners would be unsuitable back to base. Again, the cost benefits here are clear.

From where I'm sitting - Howard Knott 6 inches high containers on normal spec railway lines. Normal wheeled flat wagons are too high to carry high cube containers on most lines in Britain and many in Ireland, and to carry such boxes 60 foot long ‘pocket’ wagons have to be used. Of course, as the overall train length is limited, longer wagons equate to a lesser number of containers carried. The W.H. Davis wagons are equipped with smaller wheeled bogies. Th is would seem to be simple to make but, in fact, it took the best part of ten years to develop and test before the wagon could be offered to users. Rail Freight Operator, Direct Rail Services, has now ordered fi ft y of these wagons and Ferrymasters has made an agreement with Davis to charter trains using this stock to run from Teesport through to Liverpool carrying 45 foot boxes shipped in from their Continental services. Before the introduction of the new wagons, such trains would have to go South almost as far as London before heading up to Liverpool, now they will be able to go straight across the Pennines. The introduction of similar wagons onto the Irish system would make any rail connected town high cube container accessible by this mode. There is one potential snag in all of this. When the global recession hit, one of the fi rst activities to stop was the building of freight containers. Now Chinese builders are struggling to catch up on an exploding demand. Could this be another business that would move back from the Far East?

Kärcher Truck & Bus Wash

The third advantage and perhaps the one that brought the subject onto the Rail Freight Group Agenda is, of course, that the use of containers means that DHL can use rail services for the trunking. Not only is this good for the M&S ‘green’ credentials, but it also uses a mode that is less vulnerable to peaking oil prices and to increasing pressure on the UK trucking fleet as the recovery takes hold. Regular readers will know that I am not an engineer but am a fan of simple solutions. The versatility and potential uses for the standard big metal box that fi rst came to the World’s attention with its exploitation by Malcolm McLean of Sealand Container fame in the 1960s, continues to fascinate me. I was even reading the other day, in one of those rather technical yachting magazines, about the revolution in high performance yacht building in which craft intended for European owners are designed in New Zealand and built in China. The key design feature is that the hull should be no more than 39 feet long and the keel detachable so that a complete boat can be shipped to Europe on a normal 40 ft ISO flat. Even the mast would come in two pieces so that it can be containerised. Also at the Birmingham event I met Ian Whelpton of rail wagon manufacturer W.H. Davis, which exhibited its fi rst production models of the lowliner rail freight wagon that is designed to carry 45 foot long, 9 foot Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

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FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11 39

REVIEW 11

SDC TRA ILERS

– Full true cross-section of the global transport and logistics industry was exhibited at Multimodal 2011 in Birmingham last month. “Multimodal is the only UK and Irish event for the freight and transport sector that embraces all modes of the supply chain: rail, sea/water, road and air as well as warehousing and IT,” said Robert Jarvis, Organiser, Multimodal 2011.

REDHEAD INTERNATIONAL

Multimodal 2011, the fourth consecutive annual event, which was held at the NEC hosted its strongest exhibition contingent yet, with over 200 companies almost filling Hall 4, including 40 that showcased their wares for the first time. The Exhibition, which is now 100% larger than when it started in 2008 offered visitors the opportunity to compare suppliers, modes and routes to help reduce costs, increase efficiencies and find greener supply chains, as well as being able to keep up with current trends and developments in the free seminars and briefings. Over the four years, Multimodal has witnessed a growing number of Irish companies present, and no more so than the 2011 event, which is an indication in itself that we as a nation are hitting the prolonged recession head-on, getting out there and looking for business. Jarlath Sweeney attended and met with the Irish firms represented over the three days.

SDC Trailers With no less than 8 examples of their products on display, SDC Trailers dominated the Irish element. Not only that but two new innovative products were launched here. Sporting David Nestor Freight Services Ltd Livery, SDC’s first low-ride extendable Skeletal Trailer capable of hosting a Genset was premiered, while on its stand was a video footage of its new splitting skeleton trailer, both of which are made at SDC’s Toomebridge factory in County Antrim.

Redhead International ACE EXPRESS

One stand stood out among all the others for its ingenuity and thought-provoking nature. Redhead International came up with the theme ‘the Art of Smart freight’ using various famous art works superimposed with Redhead branding of some sort. Damien Donnelly, Sales Manager, explains, “Science is hard fact proven by consistent outcomes using the same methodology. Art, however, is all about the perceptions of the creator or viewer – and these are rarely consistent. That’s why we’d like to introduce you to The Art of Smart freight. If all our customers’ freight needs were identical we’d be happy to call it a science. But they are not. As Redhead has experienced in over 30 years of rock solid business, nearly every freight enquiry requires a creative, customised solution. And this is where smart freight really shows its colours. Because it tailors your individual needs to provide the fastest, most efficient, flexible and cost-effective answers.”

Ace Express Freight GEODIS_FORTEC

‘When service is important’ is the motto of Ace Express Freight, the Lusk, County Dublin transport company which shared a stand with its Scottish network partner Bullet Express. Mark Tracey (Director) and Eamon Galavan (Business Development Manager) are pictured here. Expansion to serve Europe primarily Germany, The Netherlands and Belgium is well underway this year.

Fortec Distribution Network As part of the Geodis Group, Europe’s fourth largest global supply chain operator that delivers transport solutions, Fortec Distribution Network and Geodis Group works closely with Geodis Ireland. According to its PR Representative John Clarke, Geodis Ireland plans to increase its profile over here in a number of ways. Watch this space!

Nightline

NIGHTLINE

Dave Field, CEO, Nightline represented the Finglas based independent delivery firm that has a branch in Accrington, Lancashire. In the past few years, Nightline has built up a strong reputation in customer service and has won awards for its innovative technology.

Air-Seal Wells tyres, Bangor, County Down is the agent for Air-Seal Products Ltd which includes tyre sealants which not only protect tyres from punctures but will extend the life of your tyre by up to 20% and will also decrease your fuel bills. Nina Wells, Business Development Manager, said that most of their business is from road transport operators. She also said that the sealant could be applied to the tyre in advance of the puncture.

TT Club

AIR-SEAL

With over 40 years of experience dedicated to insuring the International freight transport sector, the TT Club has launched an on-line service providing swift, extensive cargo cover for freight forwarders and logistics operators globally. The product, known as TT Club Forwarders, allows brokers to apply on behalf of their client for access to the system and once registered, the forwarder has the ability to request cover for a specific move on-line. Graham Hooper, TT Club’s Senior Underwriter, stated that the company has some growth potential in Ireland as export volumes increase. 40 FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

REVIEW 11 TT CLUB

Steam Ahead! Simon Wagstaff, UK Sales Manager, Brittany Ferries accompanied Jon Clarke, Director of Freight on its stand. We spoke about the recent press trip on the ‘Barfleur’ vessel with our own Gerry Murphy on the Poole-Cherbourge route, which turned out to be a useful exercise for the Dorset shipper.

BRITTANY FERRIES

New to the marketplace is Imtech Logistics Soft ware. “Whether you are a large logistics operator or are a growing company, Imtech can offer the right solution with a rapid return on investment,” stated Michael Till, Customer Support, Imtech. Although a Dutch company, Imtech is based in Dornbirn, Austria and has Rob Gibney appointed as UK Country Manager. Ireland will come into its scope in due course.

IMTECH

Met with Conor Anderson, Director Analytiqa who is based in Dublin for the first time. His colleague Mark O’Bornick who looks after Research & Analysis is more familiar to us and was present too. Both mentioned that the company that specializes in the provision of quality and commercially relevant business intelligence to clients across the global supply chain will be issuing the results of a pan-European survey to various mediums including Fleet Transport shortly. Seabridge Freight Service’s stand resplendent in green was no accident as it specializes in providing services to the island of Ireland. It has offices in London, Manchester, Belfast, Dublin and Cork and headquarters in St. Helens, Merseyside. Mentioning ‘Ferries across the Mersey’ Paul Copsey, Business Development Manager, Port of Liverpool is proud of the investment made on the 36 mile Manchester Ship Canal which means ‘Efficient Logistics: From Ship to Door’. Pivot bridges along the route allow the 120 T/U barge to make the journey each way each day. Next phase of development includes an in-river two-berth container terminal. Eurotunnel, the preferred route for cross-channel hauliers first opened on 6 May 1994. By 2010, 15 million trucks had passed through the 30 mile plus long tunnel. With one train every 4 minutes, the Eurotunnel railway network is up there as the busiest in the world. Among the 3 main routes that link Great Britain and the Continent, the Straits of Dover route (as per the Eurotunnel) is used most – 70% compared to the North Sea route at 24%.

ANALYTIQA

On the cover of Forward Link, the company news magazine of PD Ports, the headline reads, “£29m container terminal expansion plans take flight at Teesport”. Work has commenced on the Terminal 2 Project which will not only give much needed capacity but will help strengthen its position as a leading UK Port Operator. PD Ports has been recognised at the ASDA Carrier Awards for the second year in a row, winning the UK Container Carrier Award 2011 for the combination of its Logistical Link and PD Logistics Services. The United Kingdom Warehousing Association (UKWA) formally introduced a new specialist recruitment service for the logistics industry. Run by David Coombes, Managing Director, Logistics Jobshop and backed by former Executive Chairman of Tibbett & Britten Group plc John Harvey members of the UKWA affiliate, the All-Ireland Warehousing Association will soon be in a position to avail of this facility through its dedicated website –www.warehousingireland.ie.

SEABRIDGE

TEG, the Transport Exchange Group Ltd, operator of the UK’s busiest freight exchanges launched two new products under the banner of Enterprise Solutions. They are aimed at larger companies or more complex organisations that want greater control over which suppliers they work with, to achieve carbon footprint reduction, and benefit from tighter collaboration with suppliers and trading partners. “The twin pressures of sustainability and commercial requirements are driving interest in collaborative logistics,” said Lyall Cresswell, TEG Managing Director at the launch. “The opportunity to unlock substantial gains from horizontal collaboration has become a recognised aspect of the business landscape. However, many organisations still struggle to achieve these wins.” “The Enterprise Solutions bring our ten years of experience in operating freight exchanges to meet that challenge.”

EUROTUNNEL

PORT OF LIVERPOOL

PD PORTS

First customer for the new Corporate Exchange is one of the UK’s leading palletised distribution networks, The Pallet Network Ltd (TPN).

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

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11 41

The New Vito has arrived - A van that doesn't break the bank. My van. The new Vito A van that doesn't generate any unnecessary cost. Because long service intervals and short downtimes ensure that a Vito isn't left standing around doing nothing. And the running costs hardly blot the balance sheet either: the new Euro 5 diesel engines see to it that fuel consumption is reduced. The Vito is more profitable than ever.

The New Vito has now arrived. Motor Distributors Ltd., Naas Road, Dublin 12. Tel (01) 4094 444

FINANCE

Business Amalgamation

t is a widely accepted fact that the economic downturn has resulted in transport companies with overcapacity due to reduced turnover and changing customer needs and demands. Most transport fi rms have overhead costs associated with turnover figures much higher than current markets demand. A simple solution (but difficult to implement in practice) is strip away all excess overheads and capacity and place yourself back at the coalface of your business. A transport business owner who places himself/herself back at transport routing, driving and maintenance along with all the other business responsibilities has to be admired and many business owners do not want or cannot step back into the boots they once wore.

In many businesses amalgamations will take place in the next number of years, a prime example will be in our lending institutions. The aim is to cut costs and be cost effective in a changing market. Transport and logistics fi rms will have to access their business and know how best to strategically plan for lower volumes and competition from dominant International Logistics giants that have the fi nancial capacity to control the market.

For transport fi rms that are well funded and well run, opportunities will exist to take over competitors businesses as they will have the business capacity to absorb additional volume. They will also have the business sense to realise that amalgamation is the only realistic route available for profit and survival. The value of a business for amalgamation may only be the market value of assets, no surplus for goodwill unless the amalgamation would deliver clear cost savings and increase in profits for a defi nite period into the future. The issue of transfer of undertaking and the retention of staff may be an issue as the amalgamated entity to benefit most from the deal will require a combined customer base but with an overall reduction in overheads and operating costs, otherwise the new business is not at its most efficient. Many transport operators believe that business amalgamations are not necessary, they perceive that additional volume will be gained over time as unprofitable businesses leave the market. Unfortunately this may be the case but normally as a business declines, customers and rates decrease steadily and to a number of different competitors. The secret of a successful amalgamation is to access a suitable business, look at its strengths and weaknesses and fi nancially and operationally access how your combined businesses will develop. If you have support from your fi nancial institution and are keen to develop the size and bottom line of your business then an amalgamation with a likeminded competitor may bring additional business, margin and abilities that you cannot achieve on your own. The amalgamation may result in a new business being formed (new trading entity) or it may simply be absorbed into your business but in either case a new clear management structure is formed with one boss. If the new entity is managed by a combination of staff from both companies then clear roles and authority must be outlined or else resentment and complacency will set in. Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

Call to your nearest MAN Dealer for further details: MAN Importers Irl, Dublin 12. Tel: 01 419 1300 Dennehy Commercials, Limerick. Tel: 061 229900 Cork. Tel: 021 488 3344 MS Commercials, New Ross. Tel: 051 422277

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly Commercials, Ballinalack. Tel: 044 93 71360 Newtown Trucks, Newtowncunningham. Tel: 074 91 56666 Athenry Truck Centre Ltd., Galway. Tel: 091 849 375

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11 43

TECHNICAL

Truck ABS/EBS - Part 11

ast month’s Technical column we looked at the basic components and layout of a commercial vehicle ABS system (Fig 1.) In this edition, Ailbe Burke takes a closer look at the components and describes how they are made and how they operate.

Figure 1

Number 1 in the diagram, the toothed wheel, is usually made from mild steel and is interference fitted or manufactured as part of the wheel hub. On a 4x2 tractor unit there is a toothed wheel for each hub on the front and rear axle. But if there were extra axles fitted to the truck extra toothed wheels may not need to be fitted. For example on 6x2, 6x4, 8x2 or 8x4 vehicles, there may only be toothed wheels on one front axle and one rear axle hubs. Th is is because if a wheel has locked up the likelihood that any wheel directly behind or in front of the locked wheel is more often to be locked up as well, so the one signal from that area to the ECU will do.

faulty. A worn or loose wheel bearing could cause the hub to float in and out which would increase the gap between the sensor and the toothed wheel. Th is gap which is determined by the vehicle manufacturer Fig 3 (approx. 0.5 to 1.0 mm) would if increased bring on the ABS warning light either intermittently or permanently. The reason for the gap is to get the optimum output signal from the sensor without damaging the sensor by rubbing against it. Th is floating in and out could damage the ABS sensor or knock it out of position adding further faults to the ABS system. One unintended advantage of the ABS warning light coming on as a result of a worn wheel bearing is that if the ABS fault is investigated speedily the worn wheel bearing will be found and a more serious breakdown or accident would be averted. Another fault associated with the toothed wheel which would bring on the ABS warning light is if there is a leaking hub seal the oil will gather around the toothed wheel att racting dust and dirt to fi ll in the spaces between the teeth. Th is dirt would also have metal fi lings from the brake linings and if packed between the teeth of the toothed wheel its signal generating capacity would be weakened, as the spaces between the toothed wheels teeth need to be clear. AC voltage at the ABS sensor is shown in Figure 4 by means of an oscilloscope reading . The waveform in blue represents the teeth of the toothed wheel passing over the ABS sensor. If you hold a piece of mild steel close to a magnet you will feel the pull of the magnet on the steel. The closer you get the stronger the pull and again if you pull the steel away you will feel the magnetic pull weaken. The oscilloscope wave form Fig 4 shows the same principle but it’s the toothed wheel and each of the teeth passing the magnetic sensor that gives us the reading. A blocked toothed wheel at the same distance from the sensor would not be able to create the wave form as there would be no difference in magnetic pull proposed to the sensor. Figure 4 PicoScope

Figure 2 shows a typical layout for an ABS Sensor and toothed wheel fitted to a heavy duty vehicle where the ABS sensor is fitted into the sensor block Figure 2 and the adjustment is set Canada Public between the ABS sensor Information and toothed wheel. The sensor block usually has a spring loaded sleeve which clamps the sensor tight enough so it doesn’t move but also allows the sensor to be moved by technicians to set correct clearance. Th is is done using pressure evenly applied to the sensor and pushing it in or out so its optimum position can be set. Figure 3 looks at the correct positioning of the ABS sensors where the toothed wheel must run square to the axle. The toothed wheel must be free from any damage or burrs and the sensor must be positioned centrally over the teeth.

Figure 3

The ABS sensor also shown in Figures 2 and 3 comes in two forms, the active type and the passive, in next month’s issue, the sensors will be featured in greater detail.

Information supplied by the Department of Mechanical & Automobile Engineering, Limerick Institute of Technology, Moylish, Limerick.

As the toothed wheels are fitted to hubs close to the brake linings a number of problems can arise which could lead to the ABS becoming 44

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

Text: Ailbe Burke

INNOVATION

OutTrak: The Paperless Office – ‘as promised’

t is well over twenty years since we were fi rst promised that the office of the future would be ‘paperless’. Despite the unimaginable advances in information technology we now enjoy, we appear to require ever more increasing amounts of paper.

Since 1994, ‘OutTrak’ of Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, County Dublin has been at the forefront of paperless administration systems for the transport industry. While there have been several track and trace systems available to the warehousing and transport industries, many fell short on their promises leaving operators sceptical about investing again. What makes OutTrak different is its practicality and the fact that it already has a proven track record in some tough areas of work. One of OutTrak’s principal customers is Thorntons Recycling, who use the system to track and monitor the company’s fleet of over 100 trucks and almost endless pieces of equipment which are spread far and wide. As with any company involved in the waste recycling industry, controlling the vast customer base is paramount. Thornton’s Conor Sunderland says, “they had previously tried other systems and been disappointed. So they were cautious about investing again, but over the past six years their experience with OutTrak has been nothing but positive, and the system is now an integral part of the company.” He added that Thornton’s drivers, and administration staff found the changeover simple and appreciated the benefits of viewing data in real time. Using OutTrak the driver’s day is downloaded to the vehicle’s ‘dashboard viewer’ with jobs routed appropriately. In addition to the preferred route, the download provides details of specific skip type/s individual customers require. Moreover information noting special arrangements, such as opening hours, or cash on delivery agreements can also be displayed. Once the job is complete and signed off, the data is transferred via the GSM Network back to the office where an invoice is raised in PDF format and emailed to the customer. The system also accounts for the expected problems which arise when a driver cannot access the drop off point or for some reason is unable to deliver. In this case the system logs a record of incomplete jobs or wasted journeys. Thorntons is a good example of how effective and easy to use the system interface is, and also demonstrates how robust the devices are working in this area of transport. Because OutTrak easily manages the volume of paperwork associated with numerous movements, Thorntons has realised savings in man-hours and ensured all work is accounted for and invoiced.

debtor days should help improve cash flow, and eliminate the hours spent chasing paperwork from truck to truck. While there is always some apprehension about changing to new systems, OutTrak has proven itself with some demanding customers, and performs well across a variety of applications. It can be programmed to tackle an almost endless number of specific tasks, and easily tailored to run with any companies current operating methods. So, maybe we will get the paperless office we were promised all those years ago.

Thorntons are only one of a number of clients on the books at OutTrak. Other high-profi le customers include Deli-Meats, Pat the Baker, and recently OutTrak has entered the fuel distribution sector with Jones Oil. All of these companies require high levels of product tracking and stock reconciliation across a large and varied customer base. The OutTrak soft ware is not just suitable to multi-drop operators; there are also interesting possibilities for long haul transport. By enabling electronic copies of CMRs to be transmitted back to the office from anywhere in Europe as soon as the goods are delivered, invoices can be raised without having to wait for the driver’s return to base. Th is could prove very cost effective for both the transporter and their customer, as the exporter could also invoice their customer long before the vehicle arrives back in the country – which could take days if not weeks. The potential to reduce

Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

SHIPPING & FREIGHT

Dublin Port plans for the future

ublin Port Company has, as a part of an extensive consultation process, produced a draft Masterplan looking towards a Port handling 60 million tonnes of cargo by 2040. Th is is more than double the current cargo volumes being handled and assumes a traffic growth rate through the Port of 2.5% annually. Th irty years ago cargo volumes were just over 7 tonnes a year. The Masterplan states that, in order to reach 60 million tonnes by 2040, there will need to be some re-configuration of the existing Port with new developments as required. It goes on to say that there is a limit to how much more freight can be put through the existing estate and that their best estimate is that they will need in the order of thirty to forty additional hectares to cater for 60 million tonnes by 2040. The company accepts that the cheapest alternative is always to make more of present resources and they say that they will continue to do this.

tend to be more limited in their design draft in order to be able to access a wider range of ports and to ensure chartering and re-sale flexibility. Thus, the authors consider that the length and width of future vessels will increase rather than there being any significant increase in draft. At present, the berths do limit vessel length to 200 metres.

The draft Masterplan states that, in addition to improving the state of the ground areas at the Port for unitised operations, the Port must look to accommodating the size and type of ship that is likely to be a feature of unitised operations in the future. For Lo-Lo traffic these plans are based on vessels of around 2500 teu, more than double the present size of vessels feeding containers through the Port. The plan also takes into account the likely increase in size of Ro-Ro vessels. These vessels

Looking to the fast developing cruise ship business the plan envisages development of a dedicated berth close to the East Link Bridge, the location trialled for the call of ‘The World’ last August. Dublin Port Company has requested receipt of submissions on the plan by 31 May 2011. They can be made by email to masterplan@dublinport. ie. The draft plan can be downloaded from the Port’s website.

Port Portals The Port of Workington located on the English North-West coast and owned by the Cumbria County Council expects to shortly announce the establishment of a number of new Lo-Lo services giving direct links to Ports including Dublin, Belfast and Rotterdam. Th is will follow completion of a £5.7 million investment in the Port’s facilities including the purchase of a mobile container/bulk crane from Leibherr. Locally headquartered, Direct Rail Services (DRS) will provide container rail services to a number of UK hubs direct from the Port. Dublin based Quality Freight Group has partnered with Peel Ports Mersey to re-open the rail head at Ellesmere Port on the Manchester Ship Canal. The link had been out of action for twenty years. Opening the facility, Manchester Ship Canal General Manager, Dean Hammond is quoted as saying, "the rail head creates a truly multi-modal facility at Ellesmere Port. Our strategy is to promote choice for our customers.”

46 FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

One option being trialled is to use the facility for car import and distribution. Humberto Moyano, spokesman for the Port of Gijon told Fleet Maritime at a recent Conference in Brussels of the planned upgrade of the recently established ferry service linking that port with Nantes on the French Bay of Biscay coast. The EU ‘Motorways of the Sea’ backed service operates three times weekly and has been operated by LD Lines as a primarily freight service. Suadiaz Line has now become a partner in the operation and the service will now be operated using a larger Ro-Pax vessel. Th is is in response to the unexpected demand for a passenger service that avoids the congestion on the trans-Pyrenees roads and rail routes.

The Port of Cork has won fi rst place for ‘Best Destination Experience (Organised)’ in the World and second place for ‘Best Port Welcome’ at the Cruise Shipping Miami event, the World’s largest annual Cruise Industry Conference. This is the fi fteenth year of these ‘Dream Destination Cruise Destination’ awards. Speaking about the awards Cork Port Commercial Manager, Captain Michael McCarthy said, “we are committed to growing the cruise liner business in Cork and winning these awards gives us the confidence to make this happen. The cruise liner business is worth an average of €8 million a year directly to the Cork region and many local businesses can benefit from these vessels.” Over 50 cruise vessels annually call to Cork.

At the same event Jose Anselmo of DG Move spoke about the need for European Ports to offer re-fuelling facilities for LNG powered vessels. The European Commission is actively seeking out ports to engage in practical research on the provision of such facilities. While vessels operating within the Irish and Celtic seas will not be subject to the Marine Pollution (Marpol) restrictions on emissions which come into force in January 2012, the Commission’s view is that LNG offers a more cost efficient long-term marine propellant than scrubbed fuel oil. Due to its bulk, vessels using LNG will require more frequent re-fuelling than is presently the case.

Text: Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie

…are you registered? From 3 January 2012 emissions standards are tightening and more vehicle types will be included. Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight, (including buses and coaches weighing more than 5 tonnes gross vehicle weight) will need to meet Euro IV emissions standards or pay a £200 daily charge. Larger vans and other specialist vehicles between 1.205 unladen and 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight, plus minibuses with more than 8 passenger seats weighing 5 tonnes or less, will need to meet Euro 3 emissions standards or pay a £100 daily charge. Once your vehicle meets these standards, you will need to register with TfL before you drive in to London. For advice on your options and a registration form, visit tﬂ.gov.uk/lezlondon or call +44 20 7310 8998

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT

The Transport Industry – A Woman’s Perspective concentrated on Alternative Energy Sources in Vehicles. On Graduation Day, once more, I was the only person wearing a cap. However, my education certainly was not capped that day.

Jessica Duff y

have never had any issue with being a woman in a male dominated industry. Engineering was my favourite subject throughout school and I have had an interest in cars from a young age so it seemed a natural progression for me to study Automobile Technology in Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT). I was the only female in a class of 28. It may sound intimidating but it was completely the opposite. The course proved fascinating and I loved my time there. Sometimes the lads would make jokes; while walking into our Garage Class I’d hear shouts of “this isn’t the kitchen” or they would point to the Zetec engine and kindly remind me that it was not a washing machine! However, while there was certainly no malice in these remarks, I did feel I needed to work that bit harder than the rest of the class to prove myself. For this reason, I worked in garages during the summers off from college, which was a great experience for me. Graduating top of the class and receiving an award from Volkswagen Audi Ireland during the Graduation ceremony made it all worthwhile. Looking around that day, I was the only person wearing a Graduation ‘cap’, which symbolises the end of a woman’s education. After Graduation, it was decision time. Do I find a garage willing to take on a female apprentice or do I follow another path? Ultimately, I decided not to pursue the apprenticeship. Although there are very few female mechanics in Ireland (a rate even lower than in Britain and the US), it was not because I felt that I would not be taken on in a garage that I made this decision. Rather, it was because a course was due to commence in LIT that had caught my attention: Road Transport Technology and Management. The majority of my former lecturers were teaching this course and I was eligible to transfer onto it. With this in mind, I jumped at the opportunity. I was eager to work on our recently acquired Guinness truck and to learn the theory on International Trade, while continuing to undertake Garage and Businessoriented classes. A requirement of the concluding year was the Final Year Project (FYP), in which I

While college provided an ideal foundation for the transport industry, your education reaches a new level once you begin working. Looking for a job, I got a lucky break. The Managing Director of a company I had worked for the previous summer gave me a call and I accepted the offer without hesitation. The fact that I knew the staff from my previous time there was a bonus. The people I was working with had a vast amount of knowledge, which was built from years of experience in the industry. Their success was built from this experience, not to mention a great deal of hard work. It was a wholly Irish owned company, employing 65 people at its peak, with a 60,000 sq foot facility. The company assembled, stored and delivered high volume low value products as a sideline to its main business of Freight Forwarding. On a given day I could be monitoring Inter-Asia shipments, clearing freight through Customs in Shannon/Cork or ordering product from the North for assembly the following day. We had a number of important contracts, some National and some International. Dealing with all types of staff proved to be invaluable experience. Whether it be liaising with our drivers on the frontline to dealing with the logistics managers of our clients, all for a variety of different reasons. Was I treated any differently to how a male counterpart would have been? I do not think so and I certainly did not try to use my femininity to make my job easier. I did not need to because if I needed advice I could lean on my colleagues.

as going to the office next door. My colleagues are based everywhere from Japan, through Europe to the US and Brazil. It can be a case of being up early enough to be in contact with Asian colleagues or staying back in order to liaise with US colleagues. You do not just deal with traffic jams and flight delays, my concerns are snow storms, earthquakes, floods, strikes and, of course, the Chinese New Year! Being a woman certainly does not make you immune from all these, but then it does not make them any harder than they need to be. I do not believe that my experiences have been hindered because I am female. From my time in LIT and the various companies I have worked for, I have felt welcome and able to progress. The support I have been offered by my colleagues and the opportunities presented to me for progression have been identical to any opportunities that a man might be offered. I am in contact with colleagues from stations in at least 15 different countries daily and from this I know that women are not in the minority. Perhaps this is not a true representation of the transport industry as a whole but it is the reality from where I am based. Hopefully, my experiences will provide food for thought to women who may be interested in entering the field. It is certainly worthwhile and I would hope to see many more women choosing the transport industry as a profession in the near future. It is high energy, fast paced and 24/7, where the ‘uncontrollable’ factors ensure that no two days are the same. As I was advised on day one, “A pat on the back is only six inches from a kick in the arse” … and that is true for women as much as it is for male counterparts!

Five years have since passed and I am currently working for one of the largest Global Freight Forwarders. I am a ‘Control Tower Operator’ (Implant) at the customers’ site (also a Global leader in its division), along with 3 male colleagues. I did not think I would enjoy working on site but I have been pleasantly surprised. Of course, when everything is operating as it should and we are reaching our Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), the customer is rarely down. The advantage of physically being on site, and literally in the epicentre, is that you have a true understanding of what your customer requires and expects of you. This, I believe, is the key but it is also a huge challenge. It goes with the territory that this is a 24 hour job. Looking for information is not as easy

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

Text: Jessica Duffy

TRAILER

Has Muldoon Trailers got the answer to ‘Longer Heavier Vehicles’?

uldoon Trailers near Dungannon, County Tyrone is one of the many small and medium sized companies that lead the World with innovative ideas in their chosen field of business. Gerald Muldoon has been creating bespoke trailers for a wide range of customers for over three decades and his answer to the question of increasing vehicle lengths is a realistic and workable solution, which offers a compromise that may be acceptable to all sides. Throughout the European Union there appears no resolution to the seemingly endless debate on the subject of longer and/or heavier vehicles on the roads. While different countries are currently engaged in numerous tests and trials, the Scandinavians wonder what all the fuss is about. They have been running 25.25 metre vehicles at 60 tonnes for years, and are at an advanced stage with the testing of 30 metre long combinations with 90 tonnes gross weight. The chances of such vehicles in daily use in Ireland are unlikely. However from his years of experience in trailer making Gerald has created a tri-axle trailer with an overall length of 15.65 metres,

which handles better than a standard 13.6. He has accomplished this feat by fitting Muldoon’s patented ‘Sidewinder’ positive rear steer system. While the thought of pulling an extra two metres behind may fill some with dread, the concerns are unfounded. Even with an extra two metres the overall length (18.55 metres) remains within the maximum limits for drawbar combinations

(18.75 metres). When compared to other markets rear-steer trailers are few and far between in Ireland and with good reason. A number of operators experienced difficulties previously. However, Gerald Muldoon’s record of solving engineering problems, enabled him to recognise and develop a practical solution with few moving parts that works simply, with any tractor unit or trailer type - including stepframes. By fitting a wedge mounted on a turntable to the trailer rubbing plate just behind the trailer kingpin, means that when the tractor is connected the wedge sits just into the fi fth wheel jaws. As the tractor begins to turn, the fi fth wheel acts on the wedge, rotating the turntable. Attached to the turntable are two connecting rods which run the length of the trailer to another turntable located above the rearmost axle.

Jacqui Boyce with her father Gerald Muldoon. Jacqui's brother Justin is pictured on page 3. Text: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie

Once the tractor has turned more that 2° from straight the rear axle begins to steer. Sidewinder quickly achieves its maximum lock of 24° when the tractor is at only a 40° angle to the trailer. Other systems needed to continue through to 90° to achieve the same result. On reaching 40° Sidewinder disengages, and only re-engages as the tractor is turned back

to the straight ahead position. This means no excess pressure on hydraulic rams and other components – so maintenance is minimal. In addition, Muldoon’s have been fitting Sidewinder to standard trailers for years so the system is well proven, and when fitted to a 15.65 one it is just another trailer. Driving the longer trailer is a surprise, the extra two metres requires no change in driving style, and on the sharper turns is more manoeuvrable as the trailer ‘goes around’ the corner, rather than dragging across the apex as is often the case with a standard tri-axle. Increasing levels of interest have been expressed by large scale manufacturers wanting to use Sidewinder for their own applications. Also the 15.65 has been tested by a number of large transport companies who have given a commitment to purchase if the Department for Transport in the UK grants approval on completion of the current test period at the end of June 2011. Despite being longer the 15.65 trailer performs exceptionally well in town centres and at tight road junctions. Emphasised even more when the 12 metre container trailer in front of us glanced the kerb exiting a roundabout, and we cleared the exit with room to spare. The mention of Swedish style 25.25 metre combinations taking to the roads of Ireland would see ‘Liveline’s Joe Duff y’ through to his pension. However running one of Muldoon’s trailers with an overall length of 18.55 metres - few would even notice. FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11 49

SOAPBOX

RSA and Vehicle Testing Procedures Consultation

he Road Safety Authority (RSA) has announced a consultation into current commercial vehicle standards of testing. In the introduction to the document it states as follows:“The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is currently engaged in the implementation of a wide ranging Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness (CVR) reform programme. Th is reform programme will drive a step change in the roadworthiness standards of commercial vehicles operating on Ireland's roads, with the: Purpose: of saving lives and preventing injuries by reducing the number of accidents involving commercial vehicles on Ireland's roads. Benefits: of reducing congestion and other economic costs to the State; creating a level playing field for Ireland's operators through targeting those who choose not to maintain the roadworthiness of their fleet; enhancing testing and testing efficiencies for Ireland's network of commercial vehicle & ADR test centres (which test roadworthiness of vehicles carrying dangerous goods); and ensuring greater compliance of Commercial Vehicle annual testing.” If the foregoing were achievable by what has been suggested in the consultation document I would heartily support it. However, I have found nothing that supports these aims in the document and talk of saving lives on our roads from the same organisation that is proposing to issue haulage licences to agricultural tractors simply confi rms my view that this is nothing more than empire building and securing of future income streams for the RSA. The fact that the RSA can seek to implement these changes whilst we still do not have an own account licensing system is inexplicable. The RSA consultation implies (and I agree with them) that unsafe commercial vehicles are currently on the road with ‘dodgy’ test certificates, if so why are they not prosecuting the issuers, is that not a part of their current remit? They refer to a reduction in ‘congestion’, but where is this congestion? Statements such as these require substantiation or are they just ‘spin’ to impress? The number of commercial

vehicles on the road has fallen by thirty percent so it cannot be on the roads. I have not heard a Test Centre complain of having too much business, yet in proposing that all vehicles are tested from their ‘birth day’, congestion will be the order of the day for owners of test centres as truck registration is heavily loaded to the front of the year. All truck owners spread their tests across the year, the Japanese call that a ‘lean system’, there is litt le ‘lean’ in this proposal. Commercial vehicles are currently tested by due date of last test unless the vehicle is off the road. As we know only too well, many trucks are currently parked up and as the RSA is proposing “changing the fee structure”, will we now have to have vehicles for which we have no work fully tested? Before this goes any further a complete breakdown of proposed fee structures needs to be clarified. Remember the lessons of the tolls? Roadworthiness Test Certificates are to be issued by the RSA on receipt of the test results from the VTN – Vehicle Test Network Centre, by IT if the Centre is linked up or through the postal system if it is not. Th is could take weeks as opposed to the current system and should not be acceptable to truck operators who need to be able to produce the Certificate when abroad. In further justification the RSA refers to the number of ‘fi rst time’ fails as a reason for these changes, yet many operators use just such a ‘pre test’ to find out if their vehicle is 100%. Is the RSA saying that they should not ‘pre test’ or is it that it simply does not understand why it is done? The Country and the industry are on their knees, we need cost effective enforcement to ensure that a system that was not working is made effective. The current economic climate has seen an increased number of truck operators willing

to operate outside the law as is evidenced by the large number of diesel washing operations being discovered. If an operator is prepared to use ‘green’ diesel then there are many opportunities such as duplicated registration numbers, tax discs from cars and falsified insurance discs with which to save even more money. Does the RSA believe its proposals will do anything to get this sort of operator off the road? Th is type of operator is a danger to all road users as in many cases the driver will also be illegal. They do exist as the IRHA can confi rm, yet there is nothing in the RSA proposal that will take them off the road. The consultation document is too large for a thorough analysis in this article but I can say that it is riddled with increased costs at a time when we are supposed to be trying to get Ireland more competitive. Who is going to pay these costs, the transport operator, of course! Bureaucracy seems only able to enforce new legislation on the compliant and this is particularly so with truck operators. Th is bureaucratic exercise including as it does, a conjoining of vehicle testing and the Working Time Directive leads me to the unfortunate conclusion that this document is more about the needs of the RSA than the public and will do damn all to improve road safety.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 11

Text: Jerry Kiersey – jerry@fleet.ie

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