Fleet Transport October 2011 by Orla Sweeney

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

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contents OCT 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 Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827

4 News • Ireland represented on the double at EU Transport Awards • HSA Driving for Work Seminars • New Opel Combo launched • Moffett name change • Iveco & BAE team up • VW upgrades Amarok Pick-Up • Competition! • Renault ups production of Kangoo Z.E. • TimoCom at the end of the phone • Safety Matters column

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney Contributors: Sean Murtagh, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Paul White, Jonathan Lawton, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Jerry Kiersey, Michael Corcoran, Rob Van Dieten, Brian Weatherley, Lloyd Arkill

8 Interview With Guy Heywood, Michelin’s UK & Ireland Operational Sales Manager

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Paul White, Michael Corcoran, Rob Van Dieten,Brian Weatherley, Douglas O'Connor, Dan Castiglia, David Branigan/Oceansport

10 Cover • Hail the new Volvo FH16.750 • Isuzu F-Series goes on sale • Northgate Livery Award Winner

Cartoons: Pat Tracey

12 New Fleet New Scanias, Renault Trucks, Fiat Ducatos & Fusos

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

14 Review TCS&D and F&CF Show, Peterborough, UK 16 Fleeting Shots IVOY trophy presented to Fiat Professional, Iveco Eurocargo Hybrid on exhibit plus Reading Matters: The British at Indianapolis

21 Sector Materials Handling, Manual Handling & related transport issues 26 Survey Who’s Who in EU Logistics 2011

38 Warehousing Address by new UKWA/AIWA Chairman John Maguire 40 Legal Alcohol Limit Regulations 42 Comment Rising Standards 44 Finance Business Development

48 Tyres With SAVA, you save!

52 Review I1 National Ploughing Championships, Athy 54 Operator’s Desk Comment from Sean Murtagh

57 Feature I1 Specially specified: Mercedes-Benz Axors 58 Soapbox France favours its hauliers

Fleet Transport Official Irish Jury Member of the International Truck of the Year Award Fleet Transport represents Ireland on the Trailer 2011 and the European Transport Company of the Year 2012 ajudication panels.

36 Times Past Remembering Rallies

55 Feature I Incentives from eFlow

29 LCV • Launch Pad: Ford Transit Stage 5 & Iveco Daily Generation 8 • Contract: Interview with Lee Saunders, Northgate Vehicle Hire • Long Term Test: Fiat Doblo 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.

34 Technical Truck Brakes explained

50 Bus & Coach News from Northgate, BusWorld & Wrightbus

18 Test DAF CF65.300 4x2 Rigid 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.

33 Fuel Prices/Logistics Latest fuel costs plus Air-freight developments

46 Shipping & Freight Stories from the high seas

Design: Eamonn Wynne Printed in Ireland

www.fleet.ie

Elsa Jones, Nutritional Therapist & TV3 celebrity, pictured at the launch of the Fleet Drive to Fitness Campaign in association with Ford. Check out her advice on www.drivetofitness.ie.

P 18

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

NEWS 1

Two Irish Logistics Companies in contention for top European Award

fter an absence of two years (due to the economic recession) the European Transport Company of the Year Award returns with the finals to be held in Kortrijk, Belgium at the end of November. The past two winners of the Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year Award namely Reynolds Logistics and Johnston Logistics now go forward to represent Ireland in the pan-European Competition. In 2009, Reynolds Logistic scooped the silver medal when up against the best transport operators in Europe.

The Award designed to honour excellence in road transport management is organised by Brussels based Truck Europe Magazine, with Fleet Transport as one of the media/organisation partners and representing Ireland on the adjudication panel. Both Dublin firms Reynolds and Johnston are

aiming to be among the shortlist of 6 finalists and be in a position to make a personal presentation to the 16-member expert panel jury. These finalists will be evaluated on the following categories: Customer Relationships, Finance & Administration, Fleet Management, Safety & Training, Environment and Information Technology. The winner of the European Transport Company of the Year 2012 will be announced at a Gala Dinner held in conjunction with the Trailer 2011 Expo in Kortrijk, Belgium on 24 November.

Driving for Work Seminars 2011

n October, An Garda Siochana, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) will be running a series of FREE Seminars to promote awareness of the importance of having Safe Driving for Work practices. Driving for work involves risks not only for the driver but also for fellow workers, members of the public and road-users, especially vulnerable roadusers such as pedestrians and cyclists. Employers, managers and supervisors must, by law, manage the risks that employees face and create when they drive for work. The seminars will be of particular interest to organisations and companies, big and small, whose employees drive on the road as part of their work in either a company vehicle or their own vehicle.

The information provided at each Seminar will assist employers, managers and supervisors to identify the risks associated with driving for work. You will get assistance on ‘how to’ develop an effective ‘Driving for Work’ management plan. Participants will be updated on the issues that impact on their safety management and operational decisions. The Seminars will feature speakers from two Irish companies who won major EU awards this year for their driving for work policies and practices. Speakers from the ESB and KTL Limited will share how they have taken the management of driving for work to the heart of their business management practices, incorporated the ‘Driving for Work’ guidelines into their daily work practices, improved competitiveness and made cost savings as a result.

Why Attend? These FREE Seminars are designed to help business owners and managers understand how effective management of work-related road risks can benefit the bottom line.

vehicle or their own vehicle. In small companies, the best person to attend may be the Managing Director or General Manager. Examples of the type of audience the Seminars are aimed at include: • • • • • •

Managing Director General Manager Logistics/Transport/Depot Manager Sales Manager Health and Safety Manager Gardai and Transport Officers

How to Book Register for the Seminars online at www. drivingforwork.ie Attendance is free of charge. Places are strictly limited so register your place early to avoid disappointment. Multiple bookings from the same organisation are permitted subject to availability. For any further details on the Seminars, email rsvp@drivingforwork.ie or telephone 01 772 8911.

Aware of your obligations to manage vehicle risks under the law?

At the Seminars, you will get FREE resources to help you manage driving for work risk in your workplace. You will also get practical tips to address the most common driving for work hazards including speed, distraction, impairment, Dates and locations of Seminars: Location Venue load security and vehicle Date maintenance. Wednesday Limerick Strand Hotel

Unsure as to what you should be doing?

Who Should Attend?

In need of practical guidelines and assistance to get you started? If so, then book your place now at www.drivingforwork.ie

The Seminars are aimed at any organisation with employees who drive as part of their job, whether in a company provided

As a business owner/manager, are you?

12 October Thursday 13 October Wednesday 26 October Thursday 27 October

Time 8:45am to 1.00pm

Waterford

Granville Hotel

8:45am to 1.00pm

Galway

Carlton Hotel

8:45am to 1.00pm

Dublin

Green Isle Hotel

8:45am to 1.00pm

New Combo marks new collaboration between Opel and Fiat

ith a lineage that dates back to 1985, the Opel Combo enters a new era. Not only is there a replacement for a popular van across Europe, it represents a new partnership between Opel and Fiat. Here-tofore this collaboration extended to drivelines only as GM Opel/Vauxhall concentrated on its van alliances with Renault/Nissan. Launched at the 64th International Motor Show at Frankfurt last month, the new Opel Combo is based on the International Van of the Year winning Fiat Doblo Cargo. Fiat supplies the basic van and drivetrain and Opel’s engineers put the German brands own stamp on the product. Two wheelbases and two roof heights are offered

4 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

giving an overall vehicle length of 4.39 and 4.74 metres respectively. Load volume ranges from 3,800 litres to 4,600 litres for the LWB version. Distinctive to the Opel Combo is the trapezoidal grille with Opel’s horizontal chrome bar and logo.

Styling changes to the front bumper and rear doors have been made – the latter featuring a lower window edge than the Doblo. Fiat Powertrain Technologies supply the 1.3 litre CDTi and 1.6 CDTi diesel motors each with 66 kW/90 hp as well as a 1.6 litre 77 kW/105 hp unit. There is also a range topping 2.0 litre CDTi block providing 99 kW/135 hp. 5 & 6-speed gearboxes are the manual options. In addition, the 90 bhp 1.3 litre CDTi with Start/Stop technology that is said to offer best-in-class values of 4.8 litres diesel per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 126 g/km. The new Opel Combo goes on sale across Europe early next year.

NEWS II

Moffett Engineering re-branded to Cargotec Ireland

t’s the end of an era at Moffett Engineering Ltd., the Dundalk based manufacturer of Worldrenowned truck-mounted Hiab Moffett fork lifts as it has changed its name to Cargotec Ireland. This was inevitable following the takeover of the long-established Irish entrepreneurial company, which dates back to the 1940s by the Cargotec Corporation.

Cargotec’s big brands and are recognised leaders in cargo and load handling solution providers around the World. Cargotec’s Dundalk facility acts as a hub for truck-mounted forklift research and development, a global Hiab Moffett spare part centre and the prime multi-assembly unit for all Hiab Moffett truck-mounted forklifts. Moffett Engineering Limited started business in the 1940s by developing products for the local agricultural market. In the mid 1980s they created a revolution in the transport industry with the invention of the truck-mounted forklift, a three-wheel drive machine that can be carried on almost any truck or trailer without the loss of load space, achieving significantly faster and more cost-effective deliveries than ever before.

The current Hiab Moffett model range (with a lift capacity from 1.5 to 3.5 tonnes) includes specialist machines for numerous applications such as construction, agriculture, animal feed, recycling, utilities plus other commercial and industrial uses. The re-branding Hiab Moffett truck mounted forklifts to Cargotec Ireland is in line with its U.S. conglomerates global corporate identity. Hiab Moffett together with Kalmer & MacGregor are

Iveco Defence & BAE Systems bid for US Marine Corps contract

veco Defence Vehicles has joined forces with British based multi-national defence, security and aerospace company BAE Systems to tender for the supply of 600 Marine Personnel Carrier (MPC) Vehicles to the US Marine Corps. The development of the new vehicle, an armoured troop transporter with a 27 tonne GVW and accommodates up to 12 soldiers, is based on the Superav 8x8 used by the Italian Armed Forces. To meet the requirements of the tender, Iveco Defence Vehicles and BAE Systems will combine

excellent mobility, ability to operate effectively in an environment where land is difficult to traverse and in amphibious landing scenarios, whilst ensuring maximum protection against landmines and explosive devices.

their technological expertise to create a vehicle that meets the specific needs of the U.S. Marine Corps. It has outstanding flexibility of use,

Iveco Defence Vehicles, headquartered in Bolzano, Italy is the home of the Lince, the flagship Iveco Light Multi Role armoured vehicle supplied to ten European countries. It is also where the new medium armoured vehicle, the Freccia is built.

Volkswagen advance Amarok with auto box & Stop/Start

he International Pick-Up Award winning Volkswagen Amarok, which sets new benchmarks in fuel consumption, ride comfort and off-road ability has gone a step further with additions to its specification. An 8-speed automatic transmission is being offered and BlueMotion Technology is available on the 2.0 TDI which includes a Stop/Start system to make it even more frugal than the Amarok with a manual gearbox. Consumption of a rated 7.6 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 199 g/ km set this Amarok apart in the 1-tonne Pick-Up market. The new automatic transmission (which

system on VW cars) is combined with four-wheeldrive and the new 132 kW/180 PS 2.0 litre bi-turbo TDI. It has a maximum torque of 420 Nm and has an increased towing capacity of 3.2 tonnes (up to 12% gradient).

is not based on the renowned DSG automated

While the first gear is configurated for pulling away in off-road use or when towing, the spread between 1st and 8th gear makes it possible to achieve a broader gear ratio compared to a conventional automatic transmission. As a result the TDI engine works even more effectively in every rev range and it is more fuel-efficient and agile.

COMPETITION ! Win Rugby World Cup merchandise courtesy of DHL!

HL Global Forwarding (Ireland) Ltd., part of the DHL Group’s participation as Global Logistics Partner of the Rugby World Cup has a number of branded merchandise to mark the tournament held in New Zealand. Up for grabs in this simple to enter email competition are hold-all kit bags and rugby balls. All one has to do is answer this true or false question, email your answer, name, address and mobile number to enquiries@fleet.ie before 20 October next. Winners will be notified by post. Question: DHL is the official Logistics Partner of Rugby World Cup True or False?

DHL will ensure all of the team’s equipment is delivered on time for each match. Maurice Meade, Managing Director, DHL Global Forwarding in Ireland commented on the process, “It’s a complex logistics challenge to ensure everything is where it needs to be, exactly when it is needed and we are delighted to do our bit to support the Irish team.”

DHL Global Forwarding Ireland delivered over 1,200 kg of team equipment and personal baggage to New Zealand for the Irish Rugby Team. In tandem with their Southern Hemisphere partners,

Pictured prior to the departure of the Irish Rugby teams gear to New Zealand are (Back): Declan Berkeley (L) and Matt Taaffe of Air Logistics, Cargo General Sales Agents for Air New Zealand in Ireland. (Front): Maurice Curran, Head of Special Projects with DHL with Teresa Tyrrell, Head of Marketing for DHL Global Forwarding, located in St. Margaretís. FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

NEWS 111

Renault ramps-up production of Kangoo Z.E.

everal weeks before the Kangoo Van Z.E. reached showrooms across Europe, Éric Besson, French Minister for Industry, Energy and the Digital Economy, and Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Renault Group, witnessed the fi rst Kangoo Z.E. to come off the production line on 22 September 2010 at the Maubeuge production facility. MCA (Maubeuge Carrosserie · Automobile), a wholly owned Renault subsidiary, is the sole production site for the Kangoo Z.E. range, comprising Kangoo Z.E. and Kangoo Maxi Z.E. (2 and 5-seater). On sale from November 2011

affordable all-electric van, designed and manufactured in France. · To keep pace with the production ramp-up, Carlos Ghosn confi rms that nearly 100 people will be hired at Maubeuge in 2011.

from €16,400 excluding VAT and Government Rebate, with monthly battery hire from €72 per month ex-VAT, Kangoo Z.E. is the fi rst

Renault has been Europe’s leading producer of light commercial vehicles since 1998, with market share of 15.9% in Europe and 32.5% in France in 2010. It now aims to set the standard for electric vans. By adding electric models to its commercial vehicle range, Renault has what it takes to consolidate its position in Europe’s LCV market.

TimoCom provides freight exchange via telephone

n addition to providing information on ongoing freight and vehicle offers via mobile phone, freight exchange provider TimoCom has extended its ‘to go’ service. Customers can now enter their vehicle offers promptly in the TimoCom Truck & Cargo system. Th is helps when freight exchange users fi nd it difficult to gain access to the on-line service. Following the customer’s enquiry via telephone, the offers will immediately be entered in the exchange. The advantage of this is that details of the vehicle offered are directly visible in the program for all potential business partners. In order to take action, TimoCom staff only requires the relevant information from the partner, such as desired route and description of vehicle. For the comparison of data, customers have only to enter their email address in the company’s own

transport directory TC Profi le or inform the native speaking experts on the phone. They then receive a confi rmation email with the collected data of the corresponding order. So that TimoCom customers can use this service correctly and in compliance with its strict security policy, a few things are required: the

users identification number and their TimoCom ID and User ID ready at the beginning of the conversation. Then customers call +49 211 88 26 88 26 with their authorised mobile phone. They must make sure that the caller ID is activated and that their mobile phone number is registered in TimoCom’s transport directory TC Profi le. Chief Representative Marcel Frings explained further on the extended service. “Our qualified staff help customers that are on the road by entering their vehicle offers in the exchange. Our staff are well trained to enter data on behalf of our customers. Thanks to the comprehensive identification process, they can be certain that the customer really is authorised. As usual, we continue to offer TimoCom to go in 24 European languages. Thus, we are the only vendor on the market who actively counteracts the current lack in vehicle space.”

Safety Matters . . . . Safety Matters . . . . Free Seminars & Road Shows

n October, An Garda Síochána, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) will be running a series of FREE seminars in Limerick, Waterford, Galway and Dublin to promote the importance of having Safe Driving for Work practices. Driving for work involves risks not only for the driver but also for fellow workers, members of the public and road-users, especially vulnerable roadusers such as pedestrians and cyclists. Employers, managers and supervisors must, by law, manage the risks that employees face and create when they drive for work. The seminars will be of particular interest to organisations and companies, big and small, whose employees drive on the road as part of their work in either a company vehicle or their own vehicle. These FREE seminars are designed to help business owners and managers understand how effective management of work-related road risks can benefit the bottom line. Places are strictly 6

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

limited. Book now at www.drivingforwork.ieto avoid disappointment Taking Care of Business Road Show. Clayton Hotel, Galway on Tuesday 4 October and Strand Hotel, Limerick on Wednesday 26 October. This FREE event is designed to help small business owners and managers understand how effective management of workplace health and safety can benefit the bottom line. To book your FREE place, go to www.hsa.ie Check your Vehicle Tail Lifts. Vehicle tail lifts are subject to particular examination requirements under Chapter 2 of the 2007 Safety, Health and Welfare (General Application) Regulations, dealing with the use of work equipment. The Health and Safety Authority reminds vehicle owners that tailboard goods lifts are subject to an annual thorough examination by a competent person and that the report of the examination (or a copy of it) must be kept on the truck as

well as being available at the address of the equipment owner. The content of the report is set out in Part E of Schedule 1 to the Regulations. The legislation can be viewed at www.hsa.ie or www.irishstatutebook.ie Geared Up For Winter Driving? The HSA has uploaded information for employers and employees on key seasonal tips for safer work related journeys over the autumn and winter months. The next few months bring more rain, wind, falling leaves, ice and snow. Traffic congestion patterns change owing to the return to the normal routines of school and college. Visibility and lighting levels are worsened due to poor weather conditions and the shorter number of daylight hours. Are you and your staff geared up for winter driving? To find out more go to: www.hsa.ie/ eng/Vehicles_at_Work/Driving_for_Work/ Winter_Driving_Tips/

IMPORTANT NOTICE CHILD SAFETY ON PRIVATE BUSES If you’re involved in transporting children on private buses or mini-buses, be aware of the following new legal requirements and your new responsibilities. From October 31st 2011, all buses involved in the organised transport of children MUST be ﬁtted with approved safety belts or restraint systems. This includes buses carrying children to and from school, on school trips, to sporting events, and on all other organised outings. If you own, operate or drive such a vehicle, you MUST ensure that it is ﬁtted with approved safety belts. If you hire or contract bus services for transporting children, you too should make sure that your supplier’s vehicles are compliant. Safety belts save lives. Know your responsibilities: visit www.rsa.ie/en/RSA/Vehiclesand- Legislation/Vehicle-Standards/Safety-Belts-on-Buses or contact the Road Safety Authority at 096-25014 or at vehiclestandards@rsa.ie.

SÁBHÁILTEACHT LINBH AR BHUSANNA PRÍOBHÁIDEACHA Má tá baint agat le leanaí a iompar ar bhusanna nó ar mhionbhusanna príobháideacha, bíodh feasacht agat ar na díotha dlíthiúla nua agus na freagrachtaí nua atá ort. Ón 31 Deireadh Fómhair 2011, NÍ MÓR do gach bus atá bainteach le hiompar leanaí eagraithe a bheith feistithe le criosanna sábhála nó córais sriain. Cuimsíonn sé seo busanna a iompraíonn leanaí chuig an agus ón scoil, ar thurais scoile, chuig imeachtaí spóirt, agus ar thurais eagraithe eile. Má tá feithicil mar seo agat féin, i bhfeidhm ceann, nó má thiomáineann tú ceann, NÍ MÓR duit a chinntiú go bhfuil sé feistithe le criosanna sábhála faofa. Má fhaigheann tú bus ar cíos nó ar chonradh chun leanaí a iompar, ba cheart duit a chinntiú go bhfuil feithiclí an tsoláthraí oiriúnach freisin. Sábhálann criosanna sábhála beathaí. Bíodh eolas agat ar d’fhreagrachtaí. Tabhair cuairt ar www.rsa.ie/en/RSA/Vehicles-and-Legislation/Vehicle-Standards/SafetyBelts-on-Buses nó déan teagmháil leis an Údarás um Shábháilteacht ar Bhóithre ar 096—25014 nó ag vehiclestandards@rsa.ie

INTERVIEW

One-to-One Guy Heywood, Michelin's UK & Republic of Ireland Operational Sales Manager with Jarlath Sweeney, editor@fleet.ie JS. From talking to bus and truck operators over the past months, more and more seem to be converting to Michelin. Why is that? GH. In the current fi nancial climate fleets are looking to trim their operating costs, and Michelin has been helping them to do this. Our tyres provide a very low cost per mile solution for road transport, which in turn gives the lowest cost of ownership over the life of the tyres. Selecting your tyre policy based on best value is not the same as spending as little as possible in the fi rst instance. At Michelin we are fi rm believers in value for money. Our tyres are unlikely to be the cheapest at point of sale because of the considerable levels of technology and research that goes into their development. But we are confident that the whole life cost of a Michelin tyre, combined with enhanced performance, reliability, low rolling resistance, safety and environmental credentials, means they are an excellent option for fleets. JS. Michelin’s Energy SaverGreen tyres are also popular with various big name truck and coach brands – what’s so significant about this particular tyre? GH. These are the tyres of choice for fleets travelling long distances and wanting to save fuel. We manufacture them using our cutt ingedge Energy Flex casing, which limits the heat build-up caused by multiple tyre flexions when a vehicle is rolling. As a result, energy loss is reduced, meaning the tyres deliver a measurable reduction in fuel consumption. TÜV SÜD, the German Automotive body carried out some independent trials with our Energy SaverGreen tyres fitted across a tractor unit and trailer combination. Compared to our competitor’s average, they improved the fuel efficiency by 1.7 litres for every 100 km travelled. Given the price of diesel at the pumps, that translates into a healthy saving for any truck or coach fleet’s bottom line. JS. I understand that Michelin has the largest number of ‘Road Staff ’ representatives of any truck tyre manufacturer. What services do they offer and at what cost to the operator? GH. Tom Dennigan, Sales Manager, heads up our Road Staff in Ireland. They are a professional 8

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

team of account managers who are available to give operators free practical advice on any tyre-related issue. Their aim when talking to any fleet is to help them buy fewer tyres. Th is might sound strange for a tyre manufacturer to say, but they do this by encouraging operators to realise the true benefits of a set of Michelins, which can be regrooved, remoulded and regrooved again to maximise tyre life. They can also help a fleet to reveal the tweaks it needs to make to deliver a genuine improvement in tyre policy. The key to achieving this is getting clear data on tyre condition and usage, so you’ll frequently see our Road Staff dipping treads, checking pressures and even weighing axles to achieve the perfect tyre set-up for customers. JS. On the back of two consecutively harsh winters, what advice can you offer hauliers wanting to avoid another winter stuck at the roadside? GH. The effects of climate change mean fleets are calling for greater mobility during the winter months. Considering that tyres are the only part of a vehicle in direct contact with the road’s surface, it’s the natural starting point. Th is year we are making the XDW Ice Grip available in Ireland for the fi rst time. Th is tyre is traditionally reserved for the Nordic markets and offers excellent traction and braking on low grip surfaces thanks to a deep tread pattern, patented sipes and a special rubber compound for very low temperatures. Alternatively, we are recommending f leets specify the high-traction XDN2 Grip drive axle tyre, which can be used year-round. Th is is currently the most popular new Michelin drive-axle fitment on the replacement market

and should help to keep fleets moving when the snow falls. JS. Tyre pressure monitoring seems to be gaining importance of late, what is Michelin’s take on ensuring tyre pressures are correct at all times? GH. Thousands of commercial vehicle operators across Europe fail to obtain the maximum performance from their fleets, in terms of fuel efficiency and tyre life, by not ensuring that their tyres are properly inflated. Keeping tyres correctly inflated is critical to maximising fuel efficiency and achieving the longest life from commercial vehicle tyres. We encourage fleets to work with their local tyre dealer to establish a programme of monthly pressure checks across the fleet.

C E LE B R ATI N G 25 YEAR S O F P E R FO R MAN C E

The New FH16 750hp

VOLVO’S MOST POWERFUL In conditions that demand absolutely outstanding driving performance and high average speeds with good fuel efficiency and extremely low emissions – the new Volvo FH16-750 with 3550 Nm of torque comes into its own. Consult your local Volvo Trucks Dealer to find out more and use your smart phone to scan the QR code to visit our website.

Volvo Trucks. Driving Progress

COVER

Volvo FH16.750 – new Heavy Weight Champion of the World Spec Check

ove over Scania R730, your Swedish counterpart in heavyduty road transport has reached another milestone in all-out

power. To celebrate the silver anniversary of the D16 engine, Volvo truck’s continuous evolution of the in-line, six-cylinder diesel engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler now produces 750 hp with a whopping 3,550 Newton metres of torque. Intended for very heavy and demanding transport assignments, this 16.1 litre unit meets the EU exhaust emission requirements according to Euro 5 and EEV – Enhanced Environmentallyfriendly Vehicle through SCR technology. Mated to a specially designed 12-speed I-shift automated transmission together with new rear axles, updated for the increased torque, it sets new standards for heavy haulage (from 60 to 250 tonne). Volvo FH16.750 is available in three cab forms – sleeper, Globetrotter and Globetrotter XL and features high levels of specification. Safety

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Make/Model: Code Name: Maximum Power: Max Revs: Max Torque: Cylinders: Bore: Stroke: Displacement: Compression: Exhaust Brake: Engine Brake: Economy Revs: Optimum Rev Range: Dry Weight:

Volvo FH16.750 D16G750 EU5SCR-M EEV 750 hp/551 kW @ 1550-1900 rpm 2,000 rpm 3,550 Nm @ 1050-1400 rpm 6 in-line 144 mm 165 mm 16.1 litres 16.8:1 230 kW @ 2200 rpm 425 kW @ 2200 rpm 1000-1400 rpm 1150-1300 rpm 1325 kg

enhancements include Lane Keeping Support, Lane Changing Support, Driver Alert Support, Adaptive Cruise Control, Electronics Stability Programme and Cornering Lights.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

COVER II

Isuzu Ireland’s new middleweight contender – the F-Series

remiered at this year’s National Ploughing Championships, the new Isuzu F-Series is currently making its way to Isuzu Ireland’s dealer network Nationwide. This middleweight range that covers from 11-18 tonnes is part of Isuzu’s global product line designed for use in all 163 markets in which the Japanese company operates. It will compliment Isuzu Ireland’s current offering the popular N-Series, which covers from 3.5 tonnes to 7.5 tonnes. Badged the Isuzu ‘Forward’, the F-Series Model F110.210 as exhibited in Athy, County Kildare by local dealer Monasterevin Motors, has 11 tonne GVW and powered by a 5.2 litre 210 hp Euro 5 4-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Excellent torque characteristics mean less gear changing and greater f uel efficiency, leading to greater productivity.

To meet this emission control, Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) with Isuzu’s diesel particulate diff user is used. A 6-speed Isuzu Easishift automatic transmission is also available. The Forward F110 offers compact and offers classleading payload and excellent maneuverability. Physically, this medium-weight truck is not much larger than the standard 7.5 tonner, but it can carry 3 tonnes more, giving a body/ payload potential of almost 8 tonnes on the short wheel base version. Th is makes it an ideal local distribution vehicle, suitable for boxes, curtainsiders, tippers, flat/dropsides, recovery, plant carrying, refrigerated, livestock, tanks, waste and recycling. Isuzu’s new ‘Hexapod’ cab design is stronger and more robust, meeting stringent crash test specifications. All cabs offer more space, increased comfort and generous storage. Additional features, such as low profi le door windows to remove the potentially dangerous pedestrian blind spot, increase safety. For further simplicity and convenience, many key parts and components are shared across the range, reducing dealer parts stockholding. For example just two doors, nearside and offside, will fit any cab in the new range – one size fits all!

Northgate Livery Award – Icing on the Cake for Broderick Brothers!

nd the winners of the Northgate Vehicle Hire Ireland Vehicle Branding Award is …… Broderick Brothers, the Walkinstown, Dublin SME from which the Broderick’s Bars and Cakes brand has emerged from - it’s still a family business now run by brothers, Bernard and Barry! Their businesses was chosen with the most eye-catching van liveries and have won €1,500 of workshop vouchers or a satellite navigation system of their choice to the same value. Northgate has been trading across Ireland for over a decade and is the market leading commercial vehicle hire company with a fleet of 1,300 vehicles. See page 31 in this edition for an exclusive interview with Lee Saunders, Regional Sales manager, Northgate Vehicle Hire Ireland.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

NEW FLEET 1

Scania is a matter of Pride for KW Haulage

Spratt International returns to Renault Trucks

ollowing their first Renault Trucks purchase this time last year, Spratt International has gone back to dealer Setanta Vehicle Importers and ordered another Renault Premium Long Distance tractor unit! Th is Premium 460.18 4x2 model features low-ride chassis to compliment the new Schmitz Cargobull Mega-Varios trailer also supplied by Setanta. Excellent fuel economy, comfort and excellent dealer support were the deciding factors for Spratt International Company Executives Greg and Colm Spratt when repeating the order.

he importance of reliable and safe delivery of goods is never more significant at the breakfast table. Just ask Kevin Walsh at KW Haulage, Ballinrobe, County Mayo who has put two new Scania trucks on the road. These new Euro 5 R400 XPi 4x2 tractor units will be used on the Irish Pride contract, delivering bread to the Ballinrobe baker’s agents nationwide. They come specified with Scania’s new aerodynamic sideskirts, chrome light bar, spot lights and factory fitted sound system. E r ic Tr ac y at Westward Scania, Strokestown, County Roscommon conducted the deal, or should that read took in the dough!

Pictured alongside the new truck is company founder Paddy Spratt on the eve of his 80th birthday.

eircom lines up new Fiat Ducato’s

hirty-four specially equipped new Fiat Ducato panel vans have been delivered to eircom, which will be operated by technical crews around the country.

the vehicle’s engine. The Italian-made platform extends to an impressive height of 12.5m, allowing technicians to work on eircom’s overhead cable network in comfort and safety, and can be operated either using controls in the platform or via a second set of controls inside the vehicle. Naturally, all SkyKing lift systems conform to the strictest EU safety standards.

The high-roof, long-wheelbase Fiat Ducatos have an increased four-tonne payload and are all powered by Fiat Powertrain Technology’s 3.0-litre, MultiJet, 160hp engine. Bodywork modifications include a roof opening for the SkyKing access platform and two smaller openings in the loadbay floor to accommodate the stabilizer legs. Both the platform and the stabilizers are powered by a hydraulic pump driven by

The new Fiat Ducatos replace eircom’s fleet of Iveco Dailys. eircom has also taken delivery of 39 new Fiat Doblo Cargos bringing the total number of Fiat Professional vehicles in eircom to over 550.

5 Mitsubishi Fusos for Meath County Council

eath County Council has recently taken delivery of 5 new Mitsubishi Fuso Canter 3C13 Crew Cab dropside tippers from Gilmores, Shercock Road, Kingscourt, County Cavan. In highlighting the eco-friendliness of the new Fuso range – the Euro 5 engine is fitted to EEV standard – Enhanced Environmentally-friendly Vehicle – which is the most stringent exhaust emission standard currently in operation.

Thompsons of Carlow produced the 10ft tipper bodies.

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.

12 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

NEW FLEET 11

HOT ON THE WHEELS OF SUCCESS Michael O'Riordan, STL Logistics and Denis Hoctor, MD STL Logisitcs.

imerick based STL Logistics are pleased to announce the arrival of their first batch of 2011 Volvo and Renault trucks to the fleet.

The three Volvo FH12.460 HP 6x2 Globetrotter tractor units come complete with I-shift gearbox and are fitted with Volvo Engine Retarder. The trucks also meet Euro 5 emissions regulations and standards.

“We are thrilled to be yet again the choice of STL – we have arranged first rate vehicles for a first rate company” STL’s Michael O’Riordan said, “We have teamed up once again with Volvo and

Munster flanker Niall Ronan, Michael O'Riordan, STL Logistics and Michael McCarthy, McCarthy Commercials.

McCarthy Commercials, our long serving vehicle partner, to provide us with first rate vehicles for the logistics business.” STL has a long association with McCarthy’s, one in fact that goes back right to the early days of the Company. Today Michael O’Riordan leads a committed staff at the Group Headquarters in Annacotty, Limerick. McCarthy Commercials Director Michael McCarthy said, “We are thrilled to be yet again the choice of STL – we have arranged first rate vehicles for a first rate company.”

“Improvement has always been a key word at STL - we continue to improve our facilities and our fleet at every opportunity”

“We’ve been a Volvo customer for many years, and the Volvo brand accounts for many of the vehicles in our fleet,” said Managing Director Denis Hoctor. Munster and Ireland flanker Niall Ronan was on hand to present the keys for the new Volvo additions to the STL Fleet. Meanwhile STL also took delivery of 3 Renault Premium Long Distance 6x2 tractor units and Limerick Golfer Cian McNamara and Munster and Ireland Hooker Damien Varley were also on hand to present the keys of the new vehicles. It was a particularly good day for Damien Varley, as while on site at STL he took the call from Ireland Coach Declan Kidney to advise him to get the next plane to New Zealand to join the Irish Squad, due to Gerry Flannery taking to the benches. The 3 Renault Premium Long Distance 6x2 tractor units will be working from the very impressive STL Headquarters in Annacotty.

STL Logistics adding to their Logistics Service Facility at Annacotty Business Park in Limerick. Pictured at the official handover are from left: Denis Hoctor, MD STL Logistics, Neil Francis, Renault Finance Manager and Rugby Analyst, Damien Varley, Munster & Ireland Hooker with Limerick Golfer Cian McNamara.

Improvement has always been a key word at STL - we continue to improve our facilities and our fleet at every opportunity. The latest additions of Volvo and Renault trucks have met with tremendous driver satisfaction.

www.stllogistics.ie Simple Solutions to Complex Problems FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

REVIEW 1

Temperature Controlled Storage & Distribution Exhibition and Frozen & Chilled Foods Show 2011 – Peterborough EXEL Exhibition Centre, 14/15 September

ll goods that require temperature control, be it storage or transportation were highlighted at the inaugural TCS&D and F&CF Show held in Peterborough last month. In all, around 80 exhibitors assembled at the EXEC Exhibition Centre to att ract stakeholders from near and far to come see the latest developments in this specialist industry. Apart from those exhibiting

products and services, live demonstrations from forklift manufacturers such as Toyota and Jungheinrich were arranged. In addition free Seminars were conducted to inform visitors even further on topics relating to trends in the cold supply chain. Richard Cogan, on behalf of the joint organising team said he was pleased with the initial turn-out and that more than likely the Show would become a bi-ennial event with

the venue likely to remain in Peterborough, as it is a suitable location for easy access from other parts of the country. Complimentary on-site parking and catering facilities were also part of the package as was free entry to the event. Fleet’s Jarlath Sweeney attended, and met a number of Irish representatives and companies exhibiting.

AISLE MASTER

BLUE TREE SYSTEMS

Aisle Master, the fully owned subsidiary of Monaghan based Combilift chose this event to exhibit its new cold store cabbed model to the public for the first time. Steve Surridge, Sales Manager claims that it is the first articulated in the World to have this specification. The cab is totally sealed and can work in temperatures below minus 400 C. All glazing feature heater elements to guarantee high visibility and the cab is heated for the driver. Aisle Master produces a wide range of AC electric and LPG powered articulated forklifts. Pictured are Liz Townsend, PR Consultant and Steve Surridge, Aisle Master.

Galway headquartered Fleet Management System designers and providers, Blue Tree Systems, concentrated on its truck and trailer temperature management technology at this Show. Its R:Com system can integrate directly into Thermo King and Carrier Transicold refrigeration units. Data can be collected and processed live together with historical temperature information retraced if required. Pictured are Charlie Cahill, M.D., Blue Tree alongside Keeto Peterserl, Marketing Executive. Back home, Blue Tree is currently working with a major fleet buyer providing live fuel economy data on its ongoing nationwide field trial.

BPW BPW is a leading supplier of axles and chassis for trailers and knows a thing or two about trailer stability. They offer a range of axles which in themselves improve towing stability, as well as a special stabiliser coupling, and an electronic stability control unit, which automatically senses sudden sideways movements and applies the trailer brakes. Pictured alongside the new BPW EcoLite alloy wheel are Peter Ray and Roger Thorp.

GRAY & ADAMS LTD A number of Gray & Adams’ builds were parked around the outdoor exhibition area on the vast site that is the Peterborough Showgrounds. The trailer and body builders with production facilities in England and Northern Ireland displayed its refrigerated bodywork in rigid and trailer forms. Of late G & A has fitted a number of in-house designed aerodynamic fuel saving devices. Staff were on hand to explain same and also about its moving and twin deck range of semi-trailers for both dry freight and temperature controlled applications. 14 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

CARRIER TRA NSICOLD Lynn Sweeney and Nigel Charlesworth represented t ra nspor t temperat u re control specialists Carrier Transicold.

HORMANN (UK) LTD As the leader in industrial door loading bay systems, Hormann teamed up with LSD Cold Stores to display a number of specific doors and design options for cold storage operations. Company Managing Director Alan Jenkins, sitting inside the specially designed bespoke cold storage unit built on site at the EXEC complex said that Hormann plans to expand in this area. Dimension Engineering, Dublin has been involved with Hormann UK for 12 years or so providing sales and service back-up to the German owned company. Big contracts secured in recent years included IKEA (Dublin & Belfast).

REVIEW 1 JUNGHEINRICH UK LTD

KRONE UK LTD

One just had to admire the on-going innovation at Jungheinrich, the leader in Europe when it comes to warehouse trucks and associated technology. At the end of the hall, reach trucks and new under pallet carriers were demonstrated. One interesting development was with the latest Reach Truck Series that features an automated pallet moving system, which allows for vertical product pick-up through its warehousing management system. Electronic transporters replace magnets and up to 65,000 pieces of information can be contained in this tiny item. Electrically powered the system automatically informs the driver where to go once the required date is logged in.

Gary Farnell demonstrated the detailed developments on the new Krone Coil Liner trailer. In conforming with new EU legislation (EN 12642-XL) and already in place in Germany, this is the benchmark model. Various solutions in relation to load security, especially for awkward items have been developed such as holes in the side panel frame to facilitate strapping; a movable wall/bulk head that can be slotted in anywhere or a lip for pallets can be installed to buff onto before the curtain is pulled over. “Better load security and better utilisation of the trailer loading are the main advantages here,” said Gary.

MONTRACON LTD Parked strategically at the entrance to the Show was this impressive Montracon double deck trailer. Inside and elsewhere, examples of their work was also to be seen. In speaking with Paul Meade (who also mentioned of the 140 Reefer trailers recently sold to Culina), he said that although 96% of what they do is trailer orientated, bodies for rigid trucks are showing increased potential for the Northern Irish based firm. And as Montracon is part of the Ballyvesey Group (which includes a number of truck dealerships in the UK), a more direct relationship has been formed with truck manufacturers, which enhances their product offering.

PANELTEX LTD On stand D17 and outside, Paneltex took the opportunity to exhibit its diverse range of products and services. Basically, Paneltex can supply everything refrigerated from a small panel van to double-deck trailers. Branches located around the UK specialise in various areas such as body-building, specialist truck bodywork such as military, healthcare and Government sectors as well as food distribution and vehicle rental producers. Four different examples were displayed here including a 13.6m refrigerated double deck trailer using SOMI trailer technology, a VW Crafter van and two rigid bodies one on a Zeroed 6.2t electric Isuzu N Series (pictured).

SCA PACKAGING Looking for a wide range of bulk packaging solutions in the frozen food sector and supply chain? Seek out SCA Packaging Industrial Division. They produce heavy-duty corrugated board for the safe storage and transport of all things frozen such as fish, chips etc. Recycled materials are used in the process also. Although SCA would be a competitor of the Irish owned Smurfit Kappa Group, both companies have worked together in the past to meet customer requirements and demand.

SEARCH IMPEX LTD Long established friend of Fleet Transport is Jim Newsome of Search Impex Ltd. As you may know, Jim’s company prides itself in the supply of small production runs of customised scale models of all things transport. Jim’s attention to detail is second to none and over the years repeat custom is the norm as companies use the model trucks to promote their business in a unique and attractive way. Competitive prices and committed customer services are part and parcel of what Search Impex does every time. Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

MUNTERS Michelle Bell, Marketing Executive, Air Treatment and Chris Gardiner, Business Development Consultant, Air Treatment were on hand to explain about Munters products and services for humidity control systems.

SAF HOLLAND Axle Systems play a major part on a trailer and in recent years has seen major developments in design and innovation. SAF Holland is one of the leaders in this field and with other components associated with commercial vehicles.

SCHMITZ CARGOBULL By building a specially built Reefer trailer and Rigid Reefer body as demonstration vehicles, facilitated Schmitz Cargobull to come to events like this to show off their wares. Actually, these said vehicles will be making their way to County Mayo on the 8th October next for Shaw Commercials’ Open Day at its premises in Castlebar. Both units feature bolt-on construction to the chassis rails with the trailer specified with reversing sensors, while the side bars are bolted on for easy replacement. The rigid body is built to the same specifications as the trailer. David MacDonald, Head of Key Accounts UK & Ireland Schmitz Cargobull was on hand to explain all.

THERMO KING Of all the exhibitors present at the TC&D Show, most Reefer units were fitted with Thermo King refrigeration units. David O’Gorman, its UK based Sales Manager had a number of Irish representatives from Ireland to assist with dealing with interested parties. Recently, Thermo King has made great strides in securing a number of fleet sales in the U.K. Conquest sales have been achieved from some big name multiples, some of which are new to the brand while others have returned to the Galway manufactured product such as the SLK and new T-Series for trailers and rigid trucks. FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

FLEETING SHOTS

Fiat Professional’s Doblo Cargo – International Van of the Year 2011

o acknowledge the Fiat Doblo Cargo winning the International Van of the Year (IVOY) Award for 2011, Fiat Automobiles Ireland’s Managing Director, Adrian Walsh was presented with the replica trophy by Jarlath Sweeney, Editor, Fleet Van & Utility – the Irish representative on the IVOY Jury. They are pictured alongside the Work Up the latest development within the Fiat Doblo range. Th is

1-tonne GV W dropside features many unique innovations including a step fitted to the drop-down door and an integrated shelf within the middle of the chassis rails that is lockable. It will be powered by Fiat’s renowned 1.6 MultiJet (105 bhp) and 1.3 MultiJet 90 bhp engine. Prices and fi nal specification to be announced at the launch.

Iveco Eurocargo Hybrid debuts @ Low Carbon Vehicle Show

ollowing its introduction in the European marketplace this year, Iveco’s Hybrid Eurocargo made its UK debut at the Low Carbon Vehicle event Rockingham Motor Speedway. The 12 tonner joined a comprehensive line-up of low-carbon Ivecos available, encompassing electric-traction, hybrid, Natural Gas and ultra-clean EEV diesel-powered technologies.

cylinder tector EEV diesel engine with maximum rated power of 180 hp, working in combination with a 60 hp electric motor-generator. The engine and motor are driven through a six-speed automated gearbox and a lithium-ion battery pack with 1.9 kWh capacity. Martin Flach, Product Director at Iveco UK, said at the launch: “We have managed to engineer all of the hybrid technology into the Eurocargo with only a 250 kg payload deficit over a conventional diesel engined model. This is testament to Iveco’s unrivalled experience with alternative fuel technologies and our commitment to offering fleets the most practical real-world solutions to lowering carbon emissions.”

The Eurocargo (120E18/P), which is also available at 7.5 tonnes, uses a diesel-electric parallel hybrid driveline making it possible to carry out multi-drop distributions in towns and cities without sacrificing high-speed performance on motorways. It is powered by a 16-valve, four-

READING MATTERS

The British at Indianapolis

by Ian Wagstaff

throughout the book makes it all the more interesting.

s author Ian Wagstaff aptly puts it, “You get a better cup of tea there (at Indianapolis) than most places in the US,” which demonstrates the impact that the British continue to have at the World famous racetrack and annual motorsport spectacle. In fact, according to Ian, who won an award for his sister title – The British at Le Mans - the seeds could have been sown to construct an oval circuit in Indiana by self-made businessman Carl Fisher after hearing about the now defunct ‘oval’ track in Brooklands. The first 500 mile race was held at ‘The Brick Road’ (all be it in handicap form) back in 1911. Today, the ‘Indy 500’ held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway attracts over a quarter of a million people with British drivers still very much involved. But this 256 page hardback is not all about British born drivers that have competed and won down through the years, it comprehensively covers the many race car manufacturers, engineers, mechanics and race team owners.

Race cars built in Britain feature in Part Two. Further on in Chapter 20 (Part 4) the G-Force race engineering team taken over by Irish citizen and founder of Elan Corporation, Athlone, Don Panoz made its mark in the Indy 500 on becoming the last British built race car to compete there. While the majority of the British names connected with the Indy 500 were familiar to me as a single-seater race fan, the mention of any Irish connection sparked more attention. Derek Daly, former Williams F1 driver competed here and achieved his only finish (12th overall) in 1985. His son Conor gets a mention too and is certainly one to watch for the future. He is currently making a name for himself, racing successfully on both sides of the Atlantic – in GP3 and Indy lights.

Part One covers the first half-century from 19111960 with historical reporting backed up by crisp black and white photographs. In truth, the 316 colour and black and white pictures evenly spread

Another Irish name continues to have a significant role as the owner of Lola Cars International. Mayo native Martin Birrane bought the legendary British race design company on the advice of Keith

ISBN 978-1-845842-46-8 £50.00 UK Veloce Publishing – www.veloce.co.uk

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Wiggins, who once ran Pacific GP and went onto own an American race team that competed in the Indy 500. Former Jordan GP race engineer Gary Anderson gets a few lines through his foray with the Galles Team, while former Jordan driver Eddie Irvine competed on the Brick Yard twice when Formula 1 races were held there. Only a few lines of red brick remain from the original track that hosts the oldest race to have been continually run on the same circuit. Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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TEST

DAF CF65.300 4x2 Rigid

t is well over 5 years since we last had a test drive in the DAF CF distribution range. Not a lot has happened in that space of time from the Dutch truck manufacturer, except of course, the required upgrading of the engine emission controls. In the half decade that has passed, the need for higher horsepower has become more prevalent, even in this door-to-door type operation. Back in 2006, the CF65 driven around the West on our test route had 220hp, which was quite adequate. Today’s CF65 was fitted with a new power output of 300hp, derived from the 6.7 litre GR 220 Paccar engine that boasts 1100 Nm @ 1200-1900 rpm. Here-to-fore, the biggest power available from the GR was 280hp. So what the customer wants, the customer gets. Each DAF truck is built according to customer’s specifications and the CF Series offers a choice of cabs, chassis drivelines and axle configurations. This 18-tonner was specified to cater for urban distribution but at first glance the suitability of the chassis does not seem to fit well with the box body. In using the biggest body (25 ft) manufactured in-house at the DAF factory in Leyland UK, the wheelbase @ 5.70 m looks to be too long. In other words the gap between the front and rear axles is too far and does not allow for a longer overhang at the back end of the truck. This means less manoeuvrability and more discomfort for the driver in trying to turn in tight corners and weave in and out of traffic

18 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

with any ease. And another thing, there is a danger that the weight distribution would not be balanced properly as the front axle would be subject to overloading as the twin-wheels are not forward enough. It is so important to get the various elements fitting together like a glove in order to work in harmony. CF stands for Compact Forte and the wedge-shaped cab design has not only been used by DAF but also by its former (but not forgotten) sister brand Foden and is now being supplied to new collaboration partners Tatra from the Czech Republic. One of the advantages of this cab is that it’s just 2.30 metres wide at the front end. The CF’s compact external dimensions conceal a cab with a surprisingly spacious interior. It comes in various sizes – Day Cab, Sleeper, and a Space Cab (with extra length). CF65 is

TEST

the entry level to the series range, which includes the CF75 and CF85 and three engine sizes from parent PACCAR are available from the 6.7 litre, 9.2 litre and 12.9 litre six cylinder units with power options stretching from 220 hp to 510 hp. Specifically developed for distribution, the CF Series comes in a number of different axle configurations, manual or automatic gearbox plus a wide range of wheelbases and options. Open the driver’s door and a pleasant experience awaits. From the design and trim, the daily working environment is in a word … comfortable. Heating and ventilation systems in trucks are in the ‘hit and miss’ departments. In fairness to DAF, throughout its LF, CF and XF ranges, its demisting and air-flow systems are excellent, an important factor in a distribution truck, more than others. Think of all the times the doors are opened and closed during operations. In winter, heat loss is considerable, while instant demisting is required so that all-round visibility is guaranteed at all times. A fully adjustable steering wheel (with an optional airbag) and a well-designed clear dashboard with some controls on the steering wheel are fitted. Vision from the (heated) mirrors is excellent, minimising blind spots. Storage areas are plentiful with a wide shelf coming out from the centre console over the engine hump. Mentioning the engine, here we have a 300 hp version of the 6.7 litre PACCAR block, which is the range topper for the CF65. This Euro 5 SCR engine emission controlled unit has an open soot filter fitted, which allows it to comply with the standard for EEV – Enhanced Environmentallyfriendly Vehicles. These EEV engines produce 50% less particulate matter than the already clean DAF Euro 5 engines. With the EEV, DAF is also able to achieve emission values that until recently were only regarded possible with gas engines. Mated to the 300 hp 6 cylinder diesel is a

6-speed version of the ZF AS-Tronic automated transmission. Optional extras supplied with this CF65 Space Cab 18-tonne 4x2 rigid has air-suspension in the Space Cab, Alcoa wheels, rear air suspension, front camera system, night heater with timer, roof spoiler and side collars, Space Cab skylights, combi-lamps, wood effect dashboard, driver luxury seats and fridge. Taking the Space Cab and AS Tronic order into consideration these extras total well over £15,000. Add that to the price of the truck and the cost of the body construction and fitting at approximately another £15,000 (which does not include the side skirts) it all mounts up to an expensive piece of kit. Which brings us to the return on investment. Over the 240 kilometres covered on the day travelling around the West of Ireland’s roads of varying quality, an impressive 12.3 mpg/23.0 L/100km was returned. When you consider that this wagon was fully loaded (with almost 10 tonnes on board), it returned better than average. Average speed on our drives through the N60 to Ballina and back to the N17 in Claremorris to Tuam via Colloney, County Sligo was 36.6 mph/58.3 kp/h. While keeping to an 80 kp/h speed limit the pin on the rev counter danced around the 1700 rpm mark. At 85 kp/h going down hill at Ireland West Knock Airport it was at 1900 rpm. On the ascent Spec Check Make/Model: up that long pull saw the ZF Engine: box drop a gear to 5th, while Power: maintaining 70 kp/h at 1900 rpm. Torque: Nothing wrong with that. Transmission: One thing missed however in the overall spec of the vehicle was the absence of a hill start and, much needed when stopped at traffic lights etc.

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

GVW/Chassis: Suspension: Brakes: Wheels/Tyres: Tank Sizes: Body:

In general the CF85.300 rode extremely well over ever-undulating terrain. To say the 300 hp was too much was not a real concern, particularly when you see the fuel returns. It could be said though that the Space Cab was in some way a little too big for this type of operation. Not for Irish conditions anyway. More concerned however with the way it looked overall as the wheelbase specified does not match the size of the body fitted. More so when it comes to manoeuvrability, as we found a simple swing around in a big yard turned out to be a 3-point turn! This takes more time and effort, which drivers would not appreciate.

DAF (FA) CF65 Space Cab 6.7 litre GR 220 Euro 5 EEV SCR 220 kW/300 hp from 1900 rpm 1100 Nm @ 1200-1900 pm 6-speed AS-Tronic (ZF) 18 tonnes/Rigid 5.70m Front: Parabolic Rear: Air Dual circuit airbrakes/Discs front & rear/ABS 295/80 R22.5 Fuel (Diesel): 430 litres AdBlue: 70 litres Box Body: DAF built

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11 19

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SECTOR

How are you Handling things? • Is your company fit to take the Strain?

t can be hard to determine exactly when Health and Safety became such a significant part of the daily workload; it may also be difficult to remember exactly why it became so necessary. Back in the days when Health and Safety was a thing of the future we seemed to get along just fi ne - and if memory serves, there did not seem to be that many accidents. Although everyone can recount some horror story of what happened to a particular individual, it was often att ributed to just bad luck or stupidity on their part. If such incidents are now recalled it becomes clear that bad luck played litt le part in the accident, and that if the correct methods of work were employed the unfortunate event could have been prevented. The old adage that ‘accidents don’t happen they are caused’ still rings true. The 2010 statistics for ‘ fatal’ accidents reveal that the ‘Transport and Storage’ sector which employs an estimated 93,000 persons is placed third, with the Construction Industry second, and Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing topping the table with an astonishing 29 deaths. The report states - “The fatal accident rate for this sector is the third highest (after construction and agriculture) with an average rate of 5.45 per 100,000 employed.” (HSA)

Despite volumes of legislation the transport industry along with fi shing and agriculture has historically remained in the top five of this unfortunate league table since records began. While the incidents can be broken down into vaguely different areas, for the most part they

can all be classified as workplace accidents. A workplace accident is defi ned by the ‘Health and Safety Authority’ (HSA) as - “where a person is injured at a place of work and cannot perform their normal work for more than 3 consecutive days, not including the day of the accident”. The Authority’s statistics show that while improvements have been made, and the workplace has been made safer, there is still scope for improvement. In 2001 a total of 9,215 non-fatal injuries were reported to the HSA and by 2010 this figure had reduced to 7,284 – which remains a significant number. Regarding the statistics for 2010 the ‘Transport and Storage’ sector accounted for 1,028 of these reported incidents. Th is figure is extraordinarily high when compared to the industries previously mentioned - Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing account for 86 and the Mining and Quarrying sector accounts for 54.

administration office, the warehouse staff and drivers equally. The result is that at the end of the day, while all have been certified in Manual Handling, the activity was for many of litt le benefit. If a training programme is to be of value to its audience, the respective tasks and duties of that audience must be accounted for. It has also been suggested that the course title Manual Handling or Safe Lift ing itself can be misleading, as it tends to stress the importance of lifting as the most dangerous action. Where in fact the activity extends further than just lift ing something heavy and applies to other bodily movements such as twisting, and pushing and pulling as with a pallet truck. Th is highlights the need for a company to undertake an appropriate ‘Risk Assessment’ which should be carried out by a competent person.

Manual Handling By far the largest single cause (31%) of workplace injury is as a result of ‘Manual Handling’, with injury to the back accounting for 21 percent of those injuries reported. Such high percentages give rise to the question, with so much time and effort afforded to training staff in Manual Handling techniques, why are there so many injuries? One reason suggested could be that the training is not task specific, in that many of the training programmes are too broad. A general purpose one-day course being delivered to a company’s staff cannot cater to the needs of the

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SECTOR important to note that a good risk assessment can point to areas where there is no ‘perceived’ risk, which may occur where the goods being handled are lightweight. While the mass or size of the goods poses no real hazard, the risk may arise due to constant repetitive movements or working to and from elevated levels. In addition, environmental factors such as the temperature a nd hu m id it y of the area, adequate ventilation, and the distances involved, plus any obstacles which have to be negotiated should be considered. Consideration should also be given to areas of work within the business not normally associated w ith strenuous activities for e x a mple t he administration office.

What’s the Risk? An appropriate Risk Assessment may highlight improvements in work practices, which can provide benefits to the company in addition to making the workplace safer. It is not uncommon for an assessment to bring new thinking to a potentially hazardous task, which is being ‘done that way because it has always been done that way’. It should highlight activities where if manual handling cannot be eliminated completely (engineered out), it could be reduced. It is also

Equally a R isk A ssessment may reveal that the current methods of work are the best available, and while mechanisation of a particular task would reduce a specific risk, the cost would be disproportionate to the time spent at that particular activity. For example where an unrestrained pallet fell over in the back of a truck and the products must be re-stacked by hand, for this infrequent activity it is unreasonable to employ mechanised methods of work where correct manual handling procedures would suffice.

Mechanical Handling One method commonly employed to eliminate the hazards of manual handling is to automate the system of work. Although the introduction of automated systems or mechanical handling devices can reduce or remove a hazard, the solutions themselves may create a new issue, in that any operator should receive appropriate approved training from a recognised body. Included in this group are manual and electric pallet trucks, tail-lifts and truck mounted cranes, and the training should cover not only the correct methods of operation, but would extend from a daily safety check to fault recognition, re-fuelling/re-charging procedures and safe working limitations. In addition regular testing and certification of the equipment must be carried out by a competent person, with a record of all inspections and maintenance kept. Tail-lift s are so common a device that they are often overlooked in terms of operator training, yet they are a regular feature of reportable accidents. Some of the incidents are caused by drivers simply overloading the platform or not securing a load whilst on the platform. Other injuries relate to the trapping of fi ngers and limbs when raising or lowering the lift. Although when operating tail lift equipment, one factor not always appreciated is the terrain the vehicle is working in. Handling pallets or roll cages on and off tail-lifts and moving them around pedestrian footpaths or the goods inward area at the back of some retail outlets is often far from desirable. Many delivery yards are unsafe due to potholes, inclines and restricted access. Unfortunately the consignee usually feels it is not their problem to deliver the goods, and only become concerned when the products enter their doors. Once a handling device becomes ‘self-propelled’, the regulations change to take account of this. Most people understand that larger machinery like Forklifts and Cranes are regulated, however not all are aware that smaller pieces of equipment including agricultural tractors are also regulated, and this is where problems can arise leaving employers exposed. The HSA’s guidelines state that, “Employers should not allow anyone to operate, even on an occasional basis lift trucks within the scope of the Code, who have not satisfactorily completed basic training as described in the Code”. Appropriate Training of Employees The training of operators is divided into three stages comprising of ‘Basic Training’, which covers the skills and knowledge needed to operate the equipment safely. Th is is followed by ‘Specific Job Training’ which takes the basic training into the workplace and should be tailored to meet the specific needs of that workplace - for example the use of special handling attachments for liquids in barrels. The fi nal stage requires that the trainee is observed at work under the supervision of an approved trainer. Once training has been successfully completed, written authorisation should be given to the trainee noting the type/s of equipment they were trained on. Despite strict regulations regarding the provision of training, there is no

22 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

SECTOR that training is up to date and meets the required standards. Most of these companies will provide assistance from their own in-house training team or can recommend a provider who will deliver what is needed. The training of employees should be considered and agreed when equipment is being purchased or up-graded, as this is often the less costly and most effective method. When collecting a new vehicle fitted with a tail-lift for example, task specific training can be delivered by the equipment supplier within a short period, which is preferable to removing a driver from a day’s duties to send him/her back to the supplier for training. It is also worth noting that companies can apply to FETAC to have their own in-house training programme certified within the ‘National Framework of Qualifications’. Th is allows a company to use the skills and abilities inherent in the company to provide training which is directly related to the company’s area of operation and is therefore more relevant. In addition to private training companies, industry representative bodies are now catering to their members’ needs. The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA), the Freight Transport Association (FTA) and the Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC) have developed programmes on a variety of disciplines.

legal requirement for a Certificate to be issued. However it is strongly recommended that this is done, and that employers keep adequate records of all training undertaken by respective employees. There is no specific requirement for operatives to undergo refresher training, though again some form of periodic re-assessment is recommended, as it could help to highlight a training need before it becomes a serious issue. In addition, if a piece of equipment is replaced or upgraded significantly, the employees must be appropriately trained to account for any change in operating methods. Appropriate Training Providers Much of the training undertaken in Ireland is done under duress; we do it because we are required to by some piece of legislation. We rarely appreciate the potential benefits and only see the costs. Training is for other people, and while we demand that the vehicle repair staff servicing trucks and buses are properly trained to the manufacturer’s standard, we don’t see the need to properly train employed staff to operate the same equipment. We assume that the nurse inserting a syringe into our arm in a hospital is not doing it for the fi rst time – and would be horrified if we found that that was the case. Yet there is a reasonable basis for scepticism with regard to paying for training, and much of this scepticism is based on previous experience. There are numerous cases of poor standards in the

area of workplace training, and frequently these poor standards can discourage companies from developing staff unless the training is required by regulation. However, there is a noticeable change on both sides of the classroom. Companies are beginning to see the benefits of developing staff, and they are also demanding higher standards from their training providers. Companies who demand high standards help to improve standards across the board. Th is helps to eliminate training providers who do not achieve the criteria set out by the certification bodies like the ‘Further Education and Training Awards Council’ (FETAC). FETAC also provides a forum through which complaints can be heard and action can be taken by removing non-conforming trainers from their register effectively rendering their certificates worthless. The system allows a company to verify the credentials of training providers to ensure that the training will meet the legal requirements, and that the monies invested in up-skilling staff will not be wasted. With regard to manual handling there is a surplus of approved training providers throughout the country who can fulfi l this need. Although for more specialised programmes, especially programmes related to the operation of machinery. It might be wise to consult the original manufacturer or main dealer and seek guidance from them, to ensure compliance and

To describe training in the transport industry as being wide ranging is at best an understatement. Transport differs from most other industries by the fact that in addition to its own regulations with regard to vehicles, driving hours, and weights and dimensions, it in some way touches every other form of work. A person employed as a driver must comply with the regulations governing road traffic, health and safety, and in-house company guidelines. If the driver is delivering products to the construction industry, then he/she must be at least familiar with or be trained in the regulations pertaining to that industry. If the same driver is delivering foodstuff s or pharmaceuticals the following day, they must also have some knowledge of the standards required in those sectors. Getting into the Programme Taking the fi rst step is usually the most difficult, but it is better to take the fi rst step when it can be taken without regulation bearing down, and while it’s easy to fi nd reasons to put it off; gett ing on with it, pays in the end. For operators unfamiliar in dealing with these regulations there is help available. It is often thought that the regulatory bodies such as the HSA are only interested in making life difficult for companies; however they are there to promote a safer workplace for all. For this reason they have produced a number of guides and templates to help operators comply with all aspects of the working environment. The guides help to assess where a company is and establish what steps need to be taken to comply with the relevant regulations. FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11 23

SECTOR a poor understanding of how the industry operates and what affect the regulations will have on companies and employment. Transport is a soft target and measures which appear to penalise the sector can gain favour with the general public, and once they are dressed up as a health and safety or environmental issue they are difficult to argue against.

By independently establishing what is needed to comply, will help to specifically target those areas, and then tailor training courses to meet the needs. Th is approach enables an operator to engage a suitable training provider and purchase only what is essential, and what will benefit. A look to the future It is very easy to pile regulations and demands on a soft target such as the transport sector, and for the industry to argue that certain regulations will not bring the desired benefits can be difficult. Often the persons creating the regulations have

Nevertheless we can all agree that correct, sensible and appropriate operating standards in the industry are a good thing. Everyone accepts that the ‘Accord Dangereuse Routier’ (ADR) regulations governing the transport of dangerous substances by road works well. The regulations are suitable for the products t ra nspor ted a nd t he compulsory training is appropriate to the nature of the work. Adherence to the ADR helps to protect the general public and all involved in the transport and handling of the substances - however this was not always the case. At one stage there was no training required to transport scheduled substances. Th is progressed to a point where drivers were simply required to attend an information session with no assessment criteria at the end. Currently drivers are compelled to attend approved training programmes and on completion of the course, demonstrate their understanding by means of a test paper. Furthermore for a driver to maintain their qualif ication they must undergo re-training every fi ve years. It is possible that this format will become the norm for other aspects of training in the transport sector over time. If so it could help to provide benefits to employers and bring creditability to the industry. The costs associated with ensuring staff are correctly trained can be a sore point for employers, especially if a recently up-skilled member sudden ly

decides to leave and is replaced with another person who has to be trained – it’s difficult to justify the investment and then see it walk out the door. We spoke to Deirdre Sinnott from the HSA with regard to encouraging companies be more proactive. Deirdre pointed to a document available on the HSA website, which details a series of ‘Case Studies’. While the document contains a great deal of information about a variety of incidents, what is very clear is the potential cost to a company of non compliance. These costs are not penalties imposed for serious breaches of regulations, but are the costs incurred by companies in respect of staff being unable to work, and loss of production and sales. In response to the high level of injuries previously mentioned, Deirdre says “that the haulage sector and transport businesses will come under greater scrutiny from the HSA throughout 2012”. It is not a campaign sett ing out to harm the industry and should not be seen as such – it’s aim is to improve the working environment for all. Those who currently conform to the regulations will have litt le to fear, and once the regulations are applied evenly across the board, it can only benefit those who are compliant. To further encourage employers the HSA provide information on all aspects of safety in the workplace on their website. A series titled ‘Taking Care of Business’ is a practical and easy to use guide to gett ing started. Deirdre highlighted a number of videos the HSA has produced which are available to download, and to a series of short animated fi lms published by the ‘European Agency for Safety and Health at Work’ (OSHA) which can be found at - napo.eu. Given the success of the last series of ‘Driving for Work’ seminars, she views “as a very positive sign that interest in forth coming series has already reached unexpected levels”. While the HSA was set up to ensure the standards of safety in the workplace the Authority is also a very useful tool for companies. Expert advice and information is readily available and companies should avail the resources to ensure they are on the right track. It is an organisation primarily funded through the taxes paid to central Government, so if you are paying for it, it might be time to start using it. It is often said that when businesses are struggling to keep afloat training staff becomes unaffordable and its usually the fi rst item to get cut. However in the modern work environment where health and safety is now paramount, the case studies show that the cost of non compliance can also be unaffordable.

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Who’s Who in European Logistics 2011 Benchmarking the operational and financial performance of Europe’s leading 3PLs

I • • • •

n its latest published research, Who’s Who in European Logistics 2011, Analytiqa analyses and profiles the operational and financial performance of leading contract logistics operators to identify:

Top ten 3PL revenues climb by 8% in 2010, but are just 2% higher than in 2007 Average profit margins are down by 0.4 percentage points since 2007 3PLs are targeting industry specific solutions to add value and boost profitability Revenues recover, but margins remain depressed

Analytiqa’s latest research, 'Who’s Who in European Logistics 2011,' reveals the struggle that logistics providers face to maintain profit margins in increasingly challenging and competitive markets.

In Tier One, the industry leaders average contract logistics revenue growth was 8.3% in 2010, up from a decline of 11.4% in 2009. Overall revenue growth in Tier Two reached 9.2%, the highest average growth rate in 2010, up from a 14.4% decline in 2009, a swing of some 23.6 percentage points. Tier Three companies reported average revenue growth of 7.5% in 2010. Revenue Growth in Contract Logistics by Company Size, 2010 Structure

Revenue Defi nition

Revenue Growth 2009-2010

Tier One

€4.00 bn and above

8.3%

Tier Two

€2.00 bn - €4.0 0 bn

9.2%

Tier Th ree

€0.25 bn - € 2.00 bn

7.5%

2011: a turnaround in profitability? Top Ten 3PLs report 8% rise in turnover In 2010, a year defined by a ‘moderate recovery’ of global economies, the largest 10 3PL providers that operate in Europe had combined contract logistics revenues of €45.4 billion, which represented an increase of some 7.7% over the revenues achieved in 2009 – but were just 2.3% higher than the industry leaders recorded in 2007. Top Ten Contract Logistics Revenue Performance, 2010 2010 Sub-total Top 10: Growth Top Ten:

Revenue €45,364.9 mn 7.7%

As the general economic outlook remained somewhat stagnant in the first half of 2011, after early promise and enthusiasm for a considered economic upturn died away, supply chain markets became increasingly challenging, though results set against the lows of prior year periods were largely positive. Uncertainty prevailed across many European economies in the first half of 2011, impacted by the continuing threat of economic ‘bail-outs’ on nationwide scales across the EU. This, in turn, impacted consumer buying patterns, resulting in challenging dynamics between manufacturers, retailers and their logistics service providers. These impacted both operationally and financially on 3PL performance. On average, revenues in contract logistics increased by 8.9% in the first half of 2011, year-on-year. This is marginally below the 9.9% average contract logistics revenue growth figure achieved by companies in the full year 2010.

Damco, Geodis and Gist top the industry growth charts Compiling the average industry growth rate in contract logistics revenues, analysed between 2007 and 2010, shows a significant swing in industry growth, from the highs of 2007 through to the lows of 2009, to something of a recovery in 2010. Damco, Geodis and Gist reported the highest growth in turnovers in 2010. Average Contract Logistics Revenue Growth, 2007-2010 Growth (%)

2010

2009

2008

2007

Average

9.9%

-13.4%

10.0%

29.0%

H1, 2011 Contract Logistics Year on-Year Performance Comparisons

3PL Average

Revenue Grow th Year-on-Year

EBIT Growth Year-on-Year

8.9%

19.2%

Revenue increases across the sector are largely attributable to an upturn in business activity amongst customers, though on a global scale, the European region lags behind growth seen on other continents and, in particular, Asia Pacific.

Ranking by Growth in Contract Logistics Revenue, 2009-2010

Average profits grew by over 19% in the first half of the year. Increased profitability of the 3PLs is down to a combination of two key factors. The first is the higher levels of activity as compared to 2010, but secondly, it is the continuing impact of proactive measures and restructuring initiatives put in place in recent months to improve levels of earnings in the contract logistics sector. 3PLs face a battle to maintain profit margins In 2010, average profit margins in contract logistics increased marginally, largely due to the strong turnaround performance of DHL Supply Chain. Looking at longer term trends, over the 2007-2010 period, the contract logistics sector has suffered a decrease in average profit margins achieved by the leading 3PLs, not least as a result of the fierce competitive pressures amongst these operators. Changes in Contract Logistics Margin Performance, 2007 - 2010

26 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Percentage Poi nt Change

Margin Change 2009-2010

Margin Change 2007-2010

Average

0.3

-0.4

SURVEY Cat, Gist and CEVA lead in pursuit of profits Whilst margins were unchanged in 2010, on average, amongst the Tier One logistics companies in Europe, Tier Two logistics companies saw a slight decline in their profitability. Tier Three companies reported growth in average profit margins in 2010.

road, sea and air freight activities. In addition to the detailed understanding of individual 3PL operations and performance across 25 company specific chapters, unique industry-wide analysis provides the following ranking indicators and benchmarks: Top Ten 3PL Ranking by Contract Logistics Revenue, 2006-2010

2010 sees growth in employee productivity

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

2010 saw 12 of the top 15 3PLs, ranked by revenue per employee, achieve higher levels of performance across this indicator. A number of factors will impact upon this performance indicator, not least the countries and industry sectors in which the companies serve, but four companies were able to report growth rates in excess of 10%.

Companies analysed include: Agility Logistics; Caterpillar Logistics; CEVA Logistics; Dachser ; Damco; DHL Supply Chain; DSV; FCC; Fiege; FM Logistic; GEFCO; Geodis; Gist; Kuehne + Nagel; Logwin; Norbert Dentressangle; Panalpina; Rhenus Logistics; DB Schenker; SDV; Stef-TFE; Unipart; UPS SCS; Wincanton; Yusen Logistics.

Top Ten Ranking by Contract Logistics Margins, 2010 Ranking

3PL

Caterpillar Logistics

Gist

CEVA Logistics

DSV

Stef-TFE

Norbert Dentressangle

Kuehne + Nagel

Fiege

DB Schenker

DHL Supply Chain

3PL Ranking by Group Revenue, 2006-2010 3PL Ranking by Logistics Revenue, 2006-2010 3PL Ranking by Contract Logistics Revenue, 2006-2010 3PL Ranking by Logistics Revenue Growth, 2007-2010 3PL Ranking by Contract Logistics Revenue Growth, 2007-2010 Average 3PL Contract Logistics Revenue Growth, 2007-2010 Revenue Growth in Contract Logistics by Company Size, 2009-2010 Trends in Profit Margin in European Contract Logistics, 2010 3PL Ranking by Contract Logistics Margins, 2007-2010 Changes in Contract Logistics Margin Performance, 2007-2010 3PL Ranking by Contract Logistics Revenue per Employees, 2009-2010 3PL Ranking by Logistics Revenue per Employees, 2009-2010 3PL Ranking by Contract Logistics Employees, 2009-2010 3PL Ranking by Logistics Employees, 2009-2010 3PL Ranking by Warehouse Space (m2), 2009-2010 3PL Ranking by Warehouse Space (Locations), 2009-2010

Ranking by Contract Logistics Revenue per Employees, 2009-2010

For more information visit: www.analytiqa.com/reports.

Company Logwin SDV Stef-TFE Caterpillar Logistics DSV Kuehne + Nagel Geodis Gist DHL Supply Chain DB Schenker Wincanton Norbert Dentressangle FCC Fiege FM Logistic

To discuss the issues raised in this article, or any of the products and services offered by Analytiqa please call us on 01 640 18 18 (Ireland) or Email: info@ analytiqa.com

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Growth 09-10 -2.7% 10.1% 4.8% 15.0% 5.9% -4.4% -29.3% 18.7% 7.8% 7.7% 7.6% 5.9% 23.2% 3.4% 9.4%

Mark O’Bornick, (pictured) Research Director, Analytiqa commented on the results;

About Analytiqa

nalytiqa is a leading business analysis company providing published reports and databases, custom research and consulting for multi-national clients across a number of industry sectors from Logistics and Distribution through to FMCG and Professional Services. As a business information provider, Analytiqa is positioned between the logistics providers and their customers to provide the supply chain sector with commercially relevant business intelligence. Analytiqa works closely with logistics providers to source new customers and to better help them understand their existing clients. Similarly, retailers and manufacturers use Analytiqa’s supply chain profiles, databases and research services to analyse the operational and service capabilities of service providers and to benchmark the services they receive against those of their own competitors.

“The European 3PL market remains challenging and competitive, both operationally and financially. Confident in revenue growth, the focus for 3PLs in 2011 has turned to industry specific solutions. These are being developed by logistics providers to create added value for customers, to assist 3PLs to maintain or even grow margins.”

Analytiqa works closely with its clients, building partner relationships based on trust and the delivery of high quality and commercially relevant research. Analytiqa’s services correspond to client’s demanding requirements, assisting with their business development and profitability objectives.

Research Content;

Conor Anderson Analytiqa Ireland 77 Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin 2. Tel: + 353 1 6401818 Fax: + 353 1 6401899 Mobile: + 353 87 7975683 Email: canderson@analytiqa.com www.analytiqa.com www.analytiqa-interactive.com

Compiled from both primary and secondary research conducted by Analytiqa analysts on an ongoing basis, this report provides exclusive, focused and detailed insight into the dynamics of this ever evolving sector and its key participants. Whilst elements of this report provide group level revenues and profits, this is largely in order to place contract logistics activities in context. The main focus of the report is the contract logistics market, namely the distribution, warehousing and value added service elements of the supply chain, excluding Text: Rob Van Dieten - rob@fleet.ie

To better understand how to maximise your return on business information visit: www.analytiqa-interactive.com or contact Irish representative;

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11 27

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More powerful, yet more economical Euro 5 Ford Transit

odel Year 2012 Ford Transit or ‘Stage 5’ as it’s termed, is probably the fi nal evolution of the current model before an all-new version arrives in over twelve months time. To you and me, Stage 5 really means Euro 5 as the ‘blue ovals’ van range meets the latest European engine emission regulations due for implementation next year. In developing a new generation 2.2 litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, Ford’s engineers looked at lowering running costs through better fuel economy and longer service intervals. To differentiate the Euro 5 from the past models, the 2012 Transits get a new silver grille and blue coloured numerals on the power badge. Power levels from the 2.2 litre TDCi (which replaces the existing 2.4 and 2.2 litre diesels) extend from 100 bhp to 155 bhp offering maximum torque from 310 to 385 Nm with a 6-speed gearbox now fitted across the board. Significant to this incarnation is the inclusion of Smart Regenerative Charging and Advanced Battery Management System, while the new ECOnetic option has been extended to two different volume types and now comes with AutoStart-Stop technology and more importantly a switchable Speed Limiter – an item we have called for in the past.

The 110 km/h Speed Limiter can be turned off using an ‘ECO off ’ switch on the dash.

Ford’s new Global 2.2. litre Duratorq TDCi, a product of the company’s world-wide ‘One Ford’ manufacturing philosophy, is manufactured in two centres – UK and Turkey and will power all Transit models – FWD, RWD or 140 bhp, while the 155 bhp unit is the most powerful RWD version. Increased horsepower and torque is achieved through an increase in pressure on the commonrail direct injection system, while Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) ensure its Euro 5 compliant.

ECOnetic – meanest Transit ever! With the launch of the 2012 Transit range, Ford is offering two new FWD Transit ECOnetic versions. The line-up includes a 100PS FT280 short wheelcase ECOnetic with low roof, which uses 8.5 per cent less fuel than the previous model. When fitted with Ford’s optional 100 km/h Speed Limiter, it achieves combined fuel economy of 6.55 l/100km, which can equate to a saving of 909 litres of fuel over 150,000 km, versus its predecessor. Average CO2 emissions are just 173 g/km or 178 g/km on vehicles without the optional 100 km/h Speed Limiter. For the first time, Ford is offering a long-wheelbase, medium roof 125PS FT350 ECOnetic, which marries outstanding average CO2 emissions of just 189 g/km and a combined cycle fuel economy of 7.16 l/100km, with exceptional load carrying capacity. Compared to the current 115PS long wheelbase, medium roof, it will use 1,875 litres less diesel over 150,000 km, based on homologated fuel economy figures. Both ECOnetic models run on Continental Vanco Ecotyres.

Ford Transit gets ECO Pack ECO Pack in the new Transit includes disengageable Auto-Start-Stop and 110 km/h (70 mph) Speed Limiter function, available with most powertrain combinations. A welcome addition bringing car technology into vans. Auto-Stop-Start automatically sets Transit apart from the crowd. It automatically shuts down the engine when at idle, the transmission and clutch is disengaged, for example at a stop light, and restarts the engine when the driver wants to move off, saving fuel while the vehicle is stationary. “Auto-Start-Stop really comes into its own in congested, urban driving conditions and works hand in glove with our twin battery SureStart system,” said Chris Pedlar, Systems Supervisor. “It activates when the vehicle slows to a stop and the driver selects neutral. The vehicle only needs to be stationary for approximately two seconds before there is a fuel saving benefit. The system is designed to operate in temperatures as low as 0 degrees C and it takes six-tenths of a second for the engine to restart when the clutch pedal is depressed.” As found on the test drives at the press launch in Germany, the two models appraised the 115 and 155 ECOnetic demonstrated the new found smoothness and quietness of the drivetrain. The new 6-speed box, taken from the Mondeo family, is as good as what’s known about the Transit's car brand sibling. Auto-Stop-Start worked efficiently in and around the Munich region.

“The original Transit ECOnetic delivered fuel and CO2 savings of approximately 11 per cent, and with our new Transit ECOnetic FT280 we’ve improved on that by a further 8.5 per cent,” added Christine Lund, Chief Programme Engineer, Ford Transit. “These aren’t small steps. They are significant.”

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

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11 29

LAUNCH PAD 11

8 generation Iveco Daily reaches ‘Super’ status

he evolution of the Daily continues. Iveco’s light commercial range that has the durability of a truck never dies. Just like a superhero! That happens to be the Fiat Industrial owned company’s marketing theme for the Daily as it enters its eighth generation. Its predecessor launched in 2009 if you remember, had a Popeye/Spinach theme. This time the tagline is, “This is a job for …” you guessed it – no marks for recognising the global ‘S’ shield symbol from the DC Comic’s character that made it big in the movies. Iveco’s marketing team has honed in on the ‘Super’ element in promoting the new Daily and also related the Superman logo as a global brand, just like the Daily is now. Currently Daily is produced in three Continents: Europe, Asia and South America and is sold in 160 countries worldwide. Through drivetrain integration initially, the next generation is said to become a truly one-modular design platform, and available in all markets. Unlike other competitors in the field that introduced Euro 5 engines of late, Iveco has gone and invested over €100m in redesigning the frontal area of the van and chassis/cab version as well as modifying the interior. As you see, the new grille is dominated by a broad horizontal silver bar with extra air inlets added to provide adequate cooling to the new more powerful engines. Day Time Running Lights (DRLs) and cornering fog lights have been added. Comfort and functionality have been improved for the driver with new seats (that are more adjustable) and a steering wheel that can be lowered or raised. Better cross-cab access is available as the gear lever is less intrusive. Storage space has increased and now includes a drawer under the dual passenger seat. The centre section of that seat flips down to allow for cup holding and a place to work on your laptop. On the dash a pullout table can be specified

as can a detachable writing pad that clips onto the steering wheel. Latest ESP – electric stability programme – the ninth phrase ensures control and handling are kept at precision levels, enhanced by adjustments to the rear suspension. Ever since the Daily came on the scene in 1978 its engines were one of its better elements. Iveco was first with turbo charging, direct injection and common-rail. While build quality has improved substantially over the years and two and a half million examples later, Iveco’s engines through parent company partner Fiat Powertrain Technologies has set new standards once more. New for the model year 2012 Daily is a range topping 205 hp twin-turbo version of the 3.0 litre commonrail diesel. That flagship unit suits the courier community but also the growing campervan/motorhome sector that seeks higher power. As with a selection from the 9-engine power options on offer, the AGile 6-speed automated shift co-developed with transmission specialists ZF is available.

been reduced also. Apart from increased payload through weight reduction measures, the revised telematics package Blue+Me in association with Microsoft provides fleet operators with up to the minute data on vehicle performance while out on the road. For those with an interest in Natural Gas as an alternative fuel, Iveco will again have a ‘Natural Power’ model propelled by Compressed Natural Gas. A 3.0 litre petrol engine (with 136 hp) enables the combustion to happen and facilitates a ‘take-me-home’ back-up system through the 15-litre additional petrol supply if required. An electric version is now available here. Over the course of a couple of days in Turin, 4 versions of the ‘Super’ Daily were driven. All were based at the newly opened Fiat Industrial Village, a vast showroom-type facility (that formerly housed an Iveco engine factory) that combines all of the Fiat Group’s big brands Iveco, Case New Holland (Agricultural & Construction) Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT) and Astra (on-and-off read heavy duty trucks). Urban and extra urban routes were taken but traffic congestion restricted our plan in the former so our time in the 35C21 (205 hp) and the 35C11 (106 hp) were restricted. However, on the hilly sections West of Turin, the 35C17 (170 hp) and 50C15 (146 hp), the Euro 5 drivetrain came into its own. Smooth, silent and powerful with excellent steering feel allied to slick gearshift control, brought it all together and made it happen. No need for a Superhero’s help here as the new Daily can do it all on its own! No amount of Cryptonite can stop this Superman Van!

The Superman blue

launch colour was no The 2.3 litre MultiJet II diesel has got a power accident injection too with horsepower bumped up to 146 and featuring Stop/Start technology and gearshift indicator. The 126 hp variant now boasts higher levels of torque at 320 Newton metres. Not only are the powerplants offering an average 10 per cent less in emissions and fuel consumption, up in ‘Super’ strong points of Iveco’s new Daily power by 29 per cent, the fuel tank has been made Super Versatile: Over 7,000 configurations, 3 versions, various larger (100 litres from 70). options Reductions in the total cost of ownership have Super Safe: ESP9, cornering fog lights, up to 4 airbags

Super Comfortable: Extra sound proofi ng, adjustable steering & seats – new dashboard & revamped instrument panel Super Ecological: Euro 5 or EEV emission standards, DPF – Diesel Particulate Filter fitted as standard, New 146 hp 2.3 litre MultiJet II, 6-speed box, Stop/Start, gearshift indicator, Natural Power (dual fuel) option Super Powerful:

30 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Robust and long lasting, RWD, 9 engines from 106-205 hp (470 Nm)

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

CONTRACT

Northgate Vehicle Hire – friendly, flexible van hire and more! comes back and actually buys back the vehicle that they have had over the years for themselves or an associate. Lee’s focus since his appointment with Northgate in Ireland, apart from looking after existing customers, is also to seek new business and sees an opportunity with Local Authorities and some semi-State companies that are changing their long held ‘buy for cash’ policy to that of contract hire. He does realise of course that competition is rife in this sector, be it from the vehicle brand distribution or through the various leasing companies. “What Northgate can offer,” said Lee, “is a new vehicle, excellent service and back-up, together with a competitve price which is comparable to contract hire rates.” Interest is trickling in on the availability of electric vehicles. Lee said that one major fleet customer that is in the field of IT is very keen to invest in this emission-free mobility technology. “Plug in charging facilities are being put in place which is a positive move and also some manufacturers are getting serious about specific product for the business user.” Members of staff at Northgate Vehicle Hire celebrate ten years in Dublin at it's Rosemount Business Park depot.

“I

t’s a tough climate out there,” stated Lee Saunders, Regional Sales Manager, Northgate Vehicle Hire in beginning a recent interview with Fleet Transport. “But our product and services here at Northgate are perfectly suited to today’s light commercial vehicle user,” he added. Lee continued the conversation by highlighting the flexibility and convenience of the Northgate package. “There is no time limit, short or long to any specific hire period,” he said. “In other words, customers can change or reduce their fleet size at any time without penalty. We can supply commercial vehicles from Car Derived Vans through to 3.5 tonne vans/light trucks and on to 7.5 tonne trucks if required. Northgate has also supplied Crew Cab utilities and Crew Mini-buses for certain customers. In addition, we provide full back-up nationwide plus on and off-site service and maintenance through our own technicians and also through our agreement with Advance Pit Stop branches across Ireland.” Northgate does not have any particular allegance to a particular manufacturer but Peugeot, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and Ford are the most popular choices made by customers. Vehicles are sourced primarily in Ireland but if not available at the time, they come over from the U.K. One vehicle that is a favourite with Irish operators is the Ford Focus Van, which is not available in England. Demand for that type of car van has reduced due to the increase in the VRT rate, plus the fact that the new Focus is only available in 5-door format and as yet not specificed as a Car Derived Van. Lee outlined the many financial benefits of the Norflex product from Northgate. “Initially, there

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

is no capital outlay, depreciation or residual value risk. Th is allows customers to free up their working capital and improve cash flow, which is what business is all about these days. He also mentioned that the vehicles can be fully kitted out to customers' specific needs – such as shelving/ racking systems, roof racks, tow-bars, beacons and of course livery. Driver training can be provided also. “Telematics uptake has become a growing requirement by customers in the last couple of years,” Lee said. “In fact, 70% of our clientel have some form of system fitted from tracking devices to driver performance recording systems. Th is increases efficiencies all-round from fuel economy savings to a reduction in wear and tear.” Health and Safety regulation is one area that is addressed by both parties, that is the vehicle supplier in Northgate and the customer. “Solutions to potential issues with the fitting of equipment and to their safe use are worked out in advance of their operation which cuts down on potential downtime and any potential hazards,” according to Lee. The majority of the contracts are charged weekly to customers and company policy dictates that vehicles are replaced every three years. These are sold on through its own sales facility. Often is the case that the driver

Lee concluded by detailing the Northgate story. “Northgate has been the market leader in the provision of light commercial rental and associated fleet solutions for 30 years now. Established in Darlington in 1981 by Alan Noble, Northgate’s fi rst venture into Europe came in 2001 when the Irish branch was opened.” The success of this operation led to the acquisition of two leading rental companies in Spain. Further purchases in the UK of Arriva and Fleet Technique in 2006 paved the way to create a broader service offering and infrastructure. “Our customer base is diverse, ranging from blue chip corporations, Local Authorities, right down to small and medium sized enterprises and owner operators,” he concluded.

Lee Saunders, Regional Sales Manager, Northgate Vehicle Hire. FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11 31

LONG TERM TEST

Fiat Doblo 1.6L MultiJet Eleganza affected. Storage space inside is better than most and we like the handy shelf above the windscreen for storing stuff out of sight. Of course, to ensure that all this space is easily accessible, the Doblo comes with twin sliding rear doors, while the large, wide tailgate with a low loading sill makes getting things in and out of the boot as easy as possible. Assisting in the fuel economy stakes is the fitting of Start & Stop technology as standard, together with the gearshift indicator on the dash. On average we are pulling in over 50 mpg on the combined running around that we do. The factory figures is 54.3 mpg (5.2 L/100 kms). Prices for the Doblo start at €19,795 for the 1.6 MultiJet Dynamic 5-seater and stretches to €22,315 for the 1.6 MultiJet Eleganza 90 Dualogic (Auto) 7-seater. There is also a high roof version for mobility specification requirements. Prices for the panel van type begin at €11,695 (ex VAT).

hether its for work or leisure, the Fiat Doblo is one spacious machine. Its so practical, versatile and good value for money that it is fair to say the Fiat Doblo in either passenger or commercial form is one of the most under-rated vehicles in today’s marketplace. After over a year in the hands of all at Fleet Transport, our ‘white knight’ Doblo went in for a medical and was given a clean bill of health for another spell of trunking here, there and everywhere. Before it reached 20,000 kms, it was time for its first service. Local dealer O’Brien’s Garage (one of the longest established agents for the Fiat brand, dating back to 1961) carried out the maintenance procedure. For them it was a run-of-the-mill operation. The 5-litre (Synetic) oil tank was drained and replenished together with the replacing of the oil, fuel and air filters. Coolant was topped up and brakes (including hand brake), tyres, lights and fluid levels checked. Then after re-setting the service interval reminder on the dash display, a thorough road test was undertaken to ensure everything was in good working order. Total cost €250 + VAT which is okay for a thorough annual check like this. It is the only time it has been in the garage since new. Low running costs, space and comfort are the Doblo’s fortes. As it boasts the longest wheelbase in the segment it doesn’t just mean more room for passengers but more space for their luggage too, with a roomy 790-litre boot that can be expanded to a class leading 3200 litres. It’s massive! The 105 bhp 1.6 litre 16 valve MultiJet turbodiesel engine combines fuel economy with low exhaust emissions (138 g/km) but if there is a compromise to be made with this objective it is with the lack of umph up through the gearbox, especially in the lower gears. But once up to 5th or 6th, it performs as good as any other 1.6 litre diesel. Doblo in passenger form is all about family and its interior design reflects this. Five seats come as 32 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

standard but a third row can be specified to bring the occupant number up to seven. The two back rows fold and tumble to open up vast loading space in seconds. They can even be removed if more space is needed. Furniture and fittings are of good quality and up to the riggers of use and misuse! On the safety front, ESP – Electronic Stability Programme is standard and include a Hill Holder function – which is just as invaluable. What the driver gets also is a superb seating position complimented with excellent all-round visibility. Demisting and air-circulation is also as good as any, considering that it is of a high roof square box design. Cruise control, parking sensors, plus the Blue & Me hands-free system are appreciated by all who have the pleasure of driving same.

As this is likely to be the final report before the Doblo ends its long-term test trial with us, there will be tears in the office as it departs the ‘Fleet’ family. All here enjoyed its time with us. Thanks Fiat and Doblo for transporting us around safely and with great comfort.

Also specified on this car is the Blue & Me Tom Tom System. This touch screen unit (which is removable from the top of the dash) acts as a hub for a mobile phone, navigation system and information about the car. It can point to the nearest fuel station while the EcoDrive module created in association with Microsoft can provide real-time fuel consumption information and advise on how to get the best economy out of the Doblo. All this data can be downloaded onto a USB stick for further analysis on the performance of the Doblo. Under the floor lies a sophisticated bi-link independent rear suspension, developed by Fiat engineers especially for this car. Light yet compact, there is minimal intrusion into the luggage area. This suspension is fitted with an anti-roll bar for a comfortable and forgiving ride. And while the overall length of the Doblo is 137 mm longer than its predecessor, manoeuvrability is not Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

FUEL PRICE UPDATE / LOGISTICS

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 38). Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Albania

ALL

173.00

186.00

171.00

Lithuania

LTL

4.71

4.78

4.32

Andorra

EUR

1.219

1.279

1.119

Luxemburg

EUR

1.318

1.356

1.180

Austria

EUR

1.394

1.539

1.344

Macedonia

MKD

80.00

81.50

68.00

Belarus

EUR

0.673

0.660

Moldova

MDL

16.49

16.89

15.69

Belgium

EUR

1.645

1.681

1.463

Montenegro

EUR

1.340

1.360

1.280

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.35

2.45

2.40

Netherlands

EUR

1.737

1.799

1.399

Bulgaria

BGL

2.44

2.60

2.44

Norway

NOK

14.32

14.63

13.33

Croatia

HRK

9.88

10.24

9.25

Poland

PLN

5.12

5.35

5.09

Czech Republic

CZK

34.30

35.40

33.50

Portugal

EUR

1.618

1.733

1.412

Denmark

DKK

12.58

12.92

11.40

Romania

RON

5.44

5.95

5.41

Estonia

EEK

1.284

1.324

1.279

Russia

RUB

29.09

30.14

26.70

Finland

EUR

1.575

1.624

1.365

Serbia

RSD

135.40

France

EUR

1.552

1.581

1.368

Slovakia

EUR

1.454

1.336

Georgia

GEL

2.25

2.30

2.35

Slovenia

EUR

1.287

1.300

1.238

Germany

EUR

1.574

1.661

1.450

Spain

EUR

1.330

1.450

1.250

Greece

EUR

1.657

1.753

1.451

Sweden

SEK

14.38

14.78

14.54

Hungary

HUF

391.00

379.00

Switzerland

CHF

1.710

1.770

1.815

Ireland

EUR

1.519

1.429

Turkey

TRY

4.32

4.45

3.74

Italy

EUR

1.603

1.746

1.475

Ukraine

UAH

10.45

11.60

9.65

Kosovo

EUR

1.25

1.28

1.23

GBP

1.355

1.430

1.394

Latvia

LVL

0.907

0.937

0.876

USA

USD

1.013

Shannon Airport/Lynxs Cargo Agreement Welcomed

inister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar has welcomed the signing of a Heads of Agreement between Dublin Airport Authority and the Lynxs Cargo Group, which proposes building a new cargo facility at Shannon Airport. The Minister said he fully supports the project which has significant economic potential for the Shannon region and for Ireland. The Heads of Agreement signed by the DAA Airport and Lynxs Cargo, a global airport cargo facility company, proposes the construction of new cargo warehouse facilities at Shannon Airport. The two parties have been in negotiation on this project since 2009. On the development Minister Varadkar said: “I am very happy that Ray Brimble, CEO of the Lynxs Group, is in Ireland to sign this

Heads of Agreement with Shannon Airport Authority. I hope it will lead to a dynamic business partnership to develop and expand the air cargo business through Shannon. Th is would benefit the airport, the entire mid-west region and the national economy.”

J L SERVICES

“I see great scope for the development of the air cargo business in Shannon. The Airport has a significant industrial hinterland, with a large volume of high-value products transported by air. But a very significant proportion of air cargo, around 80%, is currently taken out of Ireland by road and flown onwards from airports outside the country. Th is is something I would particularly like to see addressed by Shannon Airport. The signing of this Heads of Agreement confi rms the continued commitment of both parties to further develop the valuable air cargo market. Shannon’s lengthy runway means it can take very heavy cargo-bearing aircraft , unlike many other airports, giving it a unique capacity to exploit air cargo,” he added.

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

We offer assistance with: • Employment documentation • Health and Safety documentation • Dismissal and redundancy procedures • Transport administration and documentation t: 094 9038087 m: 0861 510938 e-mail: jlservices@eircom.net Address: Parkmore, 16 Watersville, Castlebar, Co Mayo. FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

TECHNICAL

Truck ABS/EBS IV

he ABS solenoid valve (Fig. 1) is the last component Ailbe Burke described in this series relating to the ABS system. The valve itself has three Ports, Port 1 inlet, Port 2 outlet and Port 3 exhaust. There is also an electrical connection on the valve, which connects the ABS ECU to the valve.

Other faults associated with ABS systems are not electrical so they don’t show up in the diagnostic methods described above but are a result of poor mechanical or pneumatic conditions. Some of the faults that might affect the ABS are contamination of the air system with oil from the compressor. Th is has the effect of swelling the rubber seals in the solenoid valves, which could for example allow the brake to be applied normally, but when releasing the solenoid would stick and the air pressure wouldn’t be able to escape as quick as it should causing brake drag. Another fault could be too much moisture in the air system this would cause corrosion in the valves again causing the solenoid to stick or react slowly.

The purpose of the solenoid control valve is to supply, cut off or hold the pressure in the brake cylinders during a braking depending on the state of braking of the road wheel it’s connected to. The control of the solenoid valve is done in milliseconds as it receives its commands in voltage from the ABS ECU. The ECU in turn receives signals from the road wheel sensor, which indicates whether the wheel is rolling or not. The valve works in the following way, as the brake is being applied and the road wheel is rolling the valve remains inactive as the ABS ECU is still receiving a signal from the ABS wheel sensor. Or in other words air pressure is free to flow in through Port 1 and out Port 2 on to the brake cylinder without interruption. As the road wheel locks up or begins to skid the ABS sensor is no longer transmitt ing a signal to the ABS ECU. The ECU will then activate the solenoid valve which will interrupt or block the supply of air entering the valve through Port 1 and open the exhaust Port 3 to allow some air pressure between the air brake cylinder and the solenoid valve escape back through Port 2 and out Port 3 which by this action releases the brake and allows the road wheel to turn again. Depending on the position of the foot brake valve the ABS system can also hold a certain amount of air pressure in the brake cylinder by keeping Port 1 blocked of the solenoid valve and also closing Port 3 this will trap the remaining air pressure between the brake cylinder and the solenoid which has the effect of holding the brake on but also allowing the wheel to rotate with reduced friction from the brake pads or shoes. As the ABS road wheel sensor is now generating a signal again the solenoid switches off allowing air pressure to flow through Port 1 again and out

through Port 2 to the brake cylinder to apply the brake again. Th is process repeats itself with increasing frequency per minute every time the wheel locks up. Once the speed of the vehicle falls below approximately 10 kph the wheels will lock up completely as the braking system needs to be able to completely stop the vehicle. Th is will depend on the force being applied to the foot brake by the driver and the speed of rotation of the wheel. On earlier type ABS systems diagnosis of faults was quite difficult as you would be depending on the blink codes or flashing of the ABS warning light to cross reference against a list of faults. Th is list of faults would only point you to a general area rather than give you a specific fault. For example if you were directed to an ABS solenoid fault it would tell you which solenoid the fault was at but that’s as far as you got. The next process would be to connect a breakout box to the ABS system and check the resistance of the ABS solenoid circuit and the solenoid itself. You would then have to energise the solenoid to check operation. Other checks would be continuity of wiring to the solenoid and open circuit or short-circuiting of the wiring.

On more modern ABS systems the use of improved communication and diagnostic systems along with improved closed loop valves that not only act on commands from the ECU but sends information back to the ECU whether the commands were executed successfully or not. In next months issue all will be explained about EBS Electronic Braking Systems.

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

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Text: Ailbe Burke

The Road Transport Specialists www.scitrans.ie

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TIMES PAST

Vehicle Rally Reminiscences Once the idea was tried out the desire to hold bigger and better steam rallies took hold and Stradbally has been one of the leading events in the calender every year since 1967. As the years passed the range of exhibits expanded. Early additions were agricultural tractors, which now have an enormous following and are the main exhibits at many shows throughout Ireland. Another early class, although not transport-related, covered steam and gas powered stationary engines. Machinery driven by steam engines also appeared and steam threshing displays became a regular feature at rallies.

CIE Leyland Titan R506 among other vehicles, Bangor, 27 April 1974.

hile reminiscing in Times Past earlier this year about events that occurred between twentyfive and sixty years ago one type of event that escaped my memory was rallies. These can take various forms; one of the simplest being gatherings of vehicles in one particular place where they appear as static exhibits. The enjoyment of such events is usually enhanced by an opening or closing parade and is often backed up with special displays or activities. Another type of rally consists of a procession over a well publicised route along which people can see the exhibits running under road conditions. There are lots of other types of events and in recent years hardly a weekend goes by without an att raction of some sort in some part of the country. Looking at the events that now take place regularly throughout this island, it is hard to believe that fi ft y years ago there was a very different cultural att itude to transport heritage; “Why are you hanging on to that scrap?” and “Who wants to keep relics of imperialism?” were two of the taunts people of my generation suffered. Without ever admitt ing that they were wrong, some of these jokers somehow changed their attitudes as people began to support preservation and everything that went with it. And it was in those circumstances that I had the pleasure of attending my fi rst ever rally.

During the early 1960s, an informally organised group of preservationists from different transport backgrounds who co-operated on some projects, saw reports of the rally movement gaining increasing support in the United Kingdom. “Why not here?” was asked more often and so on St. Stephen’s Day 1966 I found myself travelling to Stradbally in County Laois for what was arguably Ireland’s fi rst steam rally. It was a modest but cheerful gathering held in the centre of the town and one of my proudest black and white negatives shows a Ransomes Simms and Jeff ries traction engine in action on that day. Here I must acknowledge that Stradbally was not by any means the fi rst rally held in Ireland. For many years owners of veteran, vintage and classsic cars had held annual events to cater for particular marques or to commemorate special dates. These events have always been well organised and it has been my privilege to have attended several of them. But for anybody interested in heavier vehicles, there was always a yearning for some regular show catering for their interests. In this connection, it should be remembered that at that time, there was growing concern at the export of steam engines. Interest in commercial vehicles and buses was embryonic and some wonderful old vehicles were scrapped in that era.

Clearing a path for 1921 Transport Museum Leyland fire engine IK 4246 at Stradbally, August 1967. 36 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

As the rally culture gained more support, new events entered the calendar: places like Upton, Mosney and Moynalty became better known and the range of participating vehicles expanded. What were initially conceived as events catering for one particular type of vehicle soon expanded their scope and today there is a wonderful range of venues and events offering something for every interest. A most important annual event fi rst organised forty years ago is the Irish Transport Trust’s Bus Rally. Originally known as the Bangor Rally in its early years, it started in Belfast or Ballymena and involved an enjoyable road run that fi nished in Bangor. It has changed over the years and now terminates in the car park at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum at Cultra. For several years the Transport Museum participated in this event and former CIE 1953 Leyland Titan R506 was the fi rst bus from the Republic to attend Bangor or any other rally on 27 April 1974. Bangor went from strength to strength over the years, often att racting cross-Channel vehicles and it came to cover commercial vehicles as interest in this sector blossomed. In 1986, the year the Transport Museum opened in Howth, the fi rst Dublin Bay Rally began its run of several years, the first beginning at Howth Castle and ending in Bray. The starting and finishing points varied from time to time and the most satisfactory locations were in my opinion those that started in Phoenix Park and finished at either the Dublin Fire Brigade Training Centre

Ford Model T Charabanc PI 2843 at Stradbally August 2011.

TIMES PAST

Model of Foden Steam Wagon, Stradbally August 2011

Seamus Kelly’s Ford IC 2210, Stradbally 1983.

in Marino or the Dublin Bus Phibsboro garage. Great numbers of vehicles from all over Ireland took part and created much goodwill on several fronts as well as gaining much-needed support for vehicle preservation. Starting in October 1990 an annual Fire Engine Rally took place for some years in Kilbeggan adjacent to the historic distillery, which had been splendidly restored featuring both a water wheel and a fi ne stationary steam engine. Th is rally, which brought together wonderful annual collections of fi re engines, also expanded to include other types of vehicle and its sad demise was due to expense and workload it imposed on the organisers. Th is immediately prompts the thought that local Chambers of Commerce and

Ransome Simms & Jeff ries traction engine at first Stradbally Rally, 26 December 1966.

Stradbally Line-up August 2005

similar organisations do not seem to appreciate the spin-off benefits that a rally can bring to local economies. Arguably the most successful of all rallies is the mega event that has taken place for several years past at Lusk in Fingal (North County Dublin). Th is was originally intended to be an event for commercial vehicles – lorry men - but rapidly grew at a phenomenal rate. So great was the burden placed on the organisers that it has now become necessary to make it a biennial affair; there was no rally this year but regular participants are already looking forward to next July’s event. So extensive was the 2010 Lusk gathering that it was almost impossible to see everything that was on show.

There are many venues around the Country that, to my regret, I have never managed to attend but looking back to St. Stephen’s Day 1966, I am very glad that I have been able to visit some memorable events catering for every imaginable type of vehicle. The downsides are the expense of bringing thirsty vehicles to the events and the huge workload placed on the organisers. Finally – the Authorities still seem to be blissfully unaware of what these rallies can do for tourism.

The National TransportMuseum, Heritage Depot, Howth Demense, Howth. Opening Times: Sept - May: Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays, 2.00 - 5.00pm

The Transport Museum’s 1937 Leyland R1 leading the line up, Phoenix Park, 20 June 1987. Text: Michael Corcoran - enquiries@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11 37

WAREHOUSING

U K WA – parent organization of IFWLA - recently announced the appointment of John Maguire as its new Chairman. In this article, John (whose parents hail from Cavan and Leitrim) outlines some of the challenges facing the Association and the logistics industry.

“M

y appointment as Chairman of the United Kingdom Warehousing Association (UKWA) and its Irish affi liate, the All-Ireland Warehousing Association (AIWA) represents something of a departure from the traditional profile of a UKWA Chairman, in so far as I am the first representative from a company whose core-business is not third party logistics to take up the position. My company – Flexi Narrow Aisle Ltd – is a supplier to the 3PL sector and, in many ways, my appointment reflects the fact that the Association’s ranks have swollen significantly in recent years thanks to an influx of a host of materials handling equipment and service providers. Of course, the overwhelming majority of UKWA and AIWA members remain third party warehousing and logistics services companies, but the increasing number of suppliers – as well as own account warehouse operators who are drawn to the Association is helping to ensure that UKWA achieves its stated aim of becoming representative of the whole supply chain community.

Challenges While there may be signs that industry is emerging from the recession, the logistics sector faces challenges on many fronts. For example, given that it currently employs some 8 percent of the UK workforce, the logistics industry’s contribution to Britain’s economy continues to appear to go largely unnoticed in Westminster and the strategic importance of the sector to the whole economy remains seriously undervalued. Th is is something the industry must address. 38 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Also, with an ageing workforce and a perception among those currently in education that logistics does not offer an attractive career path, the sector may well fi nd itself facing a skills shortage in the near future. It is therefore vitally important that we begin to att ract young people and bring a greater diversity of skills into the sector. I believe most employers understand the importance of developing the skills of their workforce, but generally, supply chain companies have been slow to invest, and as a result the Sector Skills Council for our industry – Skills for Logistics – faces a funding challenge. One of UKWA and AIWA’s key objectives over the coming years will be to encourage members to engage with Skills for Logistics, to develop logistics related apprenticeship schemes that will att ract Government funding.

Evolving The logistics industry is evolving rapidly and it is important that third party logistics service providers spot emerging trends and develop their service offerings accordingly, if they are to make the most of the exciting opportunities ahead. The overwhelming majority of UKWA and AIWA members have already done so. Indeed, I wonder if the word ‘warehousing’ in the Association’s title is perhaps a litt le restrictive. While the storage of goods remains fundamental to our members, 3PLs undertake such a broad range of value-added services and are now such an integral part of their customers’ supply chains that somehow, ‘warehousing’ does not seem to do them, or the industry, justice.

Traffic congestion too continues to be a cause for concern and, as a result, the thorny issue of road charging looks set to be one of the key transport debates over the coming years. UKWA and AIWA will ensure that its members’ views are heard. Text: Lloyd Arkill

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LEGAL

Employer’s responsibility for drink driving

he legislation dealing with the offence of driving with excess blood alcohol is contained in a number of Acts. The most important of these are the Road Traffic Act 1961, the Road Traffic Act 1964 and the Road Traffic Act 2011. Section 49 of the Road Traffic Act 1964 creates four offences and these are:•

•

Driving or attempting to drive in a public place under the influence of an intoxicant to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the vehicle; An offence of driving or attempting to drive a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place while there is present in your body a quantity of alcohol such that, within three hours after so driving or attempting to drive, the concentration of alcohol in your blood exceeds a concentration of 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood. (Section 49(2)); An offence of driving or attempting to drive a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place while there is present in your body a quantity of alcohol such that, within three hours after so driving or attempting to drive, the concentration of alcohol in your body exceeds a concentration of 107 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of urine. (Section 49(3)); An offence of driving or attempting to drive a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place while there is present in your body a quantity of alcohol such that, within three hours after so driving or attempting to drive, the concentration of alcohol in your breath exceeds a concentration of 35 microgrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath. (Section 49(4)).

The 2011 Act made substantial changes to this part of the legislation. A ‘Random Breath Test’ is still illegal unless it is carried out at a mandatory alcohol checkpoint. In the event of an accident, however, the Gardai are required to test any drivers who were involved in the accident. As a result of this obligation to test drivers the Gardai may require a driver to blow into the test equipment, go to an appropriate Garda Station, and to leave the vehicle at the roadside. The Gardai are still not allowed to

stop a car and require the driver to take a test unless they have formed the opinion that some driving offence has been committed. Conviction for an alcohol offence will always result in disqualification and the period can vary between 1 and 6 years, with a fi nancial penalty of up to €5,000. The Road Traffic Act 2010 has introduced far-reaching changes to the current law. These changes came into effect in September 2011. It may well be thought that the problem of drink driving is confi ned to the individual driver, but this is not necessarily the case. Those who employ drivers have a legal obligation to take reasonable steps to ensure that those who drive their vehicles are not driving with an excess blood alcohol level. In the event of an accident, where an employed driver is found to have an excess blood alcohol level, the circumstances of the employment are likely to be investigated to determine whether or not the employer had in place any systems designed to prevent drink driving, and to ensure that a driver who is disqualified is not, in fact, driving a company vehicle.

In the fi rst instance, even in a small company, it might be expected that notices warning about the dangers of driving after the consumption of alcohol are displayed. In a large company it would not be unreasonable to expect that the company has a written policy with copies sent to each employee. The employer should be able to show that both managers and employees are encouraged to report anyone who appears to be about to drive with excess alcohol. The signs of alcohol consumption are well known; a strong smell of drink, slurred speech and an unsteady gait all of which are universally recognised. It is important to understand the importance of a policy of this sort. In the event that a driver is involved in a fatal accident, and on investigation it becomes clear that the driver’s drinking habits were well known, it is highly likely that the employer will be prosecuted. It is quite clear that there is increasing pressure on transport operators to improve their professional standards and a driver’s involvement in an accident is an open invitation to the enforcement authorities to look at every aspect of a company’s business.

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Text: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie

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COMMENT

Appreciating Best Practice

or the third year running I was one of those fortunate few to be given the opportunity by Fleet Transport to sit on one of the interview panels for both the Irish Haulier of the Year and its Bus & Coach Awards. The interviews with the companies shortlisted for this year’s Awards took place at the Johnstown House Hotel near Enfield and stretched over a two day period. Th is gave us the opportunity of being able to talk at some length with the people who have brought these fi rms to the top of the Irish transport business. While the winners of the various categories will be announced at The Gala Dinner on 3 October, it rapidly became clear in carrying out the interviews that each of the companies short-listed were well in contention and, more important than any award, was clearly well on top in the war against recession and is looking towards the future with a cautious optimism.

From where I'm sitting - Howard Knott from business that just did not fit in with their business model, perhaps, gett ing that model clear was the big achievement of the last year. Another interesting trend was the clear surge of professionalism into companies in the ‘Own Account’ sector. No longer was transport just another part of the cost of doing business, it is now being made subject to the same rigours as the professional haulage sector and the results in terms of efficiency and cost reduction were considerable. By the end of two days the judges met to share views on the process and overall impressions of the Truck and Bus Transport industries. As in previous years, everyone was prett y tired, but, this year, I felt that we all left Enfield feeling quite up-beat. We were privileged to have been there.

As I said, this was my third year and this history brought something interesting to the discussions. I got the impression in 2009 that the short listed Truck and Bus Operators were coping OK with the downturn but were hopeful that the politicians and others were right and that things would return to something like normal prett y soon. Yes, there was pressure to cut costs and to work smarter, but there were also some reminders of the ‘Green’ and dare I say ‘tree-hugging’ mentality that people would like to do their bit to save the planet. 2010 was somewhat different, the real extent of the depression had sunk in. Companies were to the pins of their collars in trying to fi nd ways through it all and were concerned at what might be coming at them next. I could not help feeling, at the time, that these were the best companies in the business and they were clearly having a hard time. Heaven help the many others out there. Th is year was quite different again; the recession was still biting hard but the companies that we spoke with were on top of it. Each could see a way forward and, in every case, that way was being driven by them. Nobody was waiting for somebody else to do something to help their business along; each one was taking control of its own destiny. To be fair, one coach company operator did mention that his business had leapt forward once the new regulations concerning Tourist Visas for Asian citizens came into effect in mid-July. From then on tourists from Asia, who had secured Visas to visit the United Kingdom, could travel to Ireland on those permits. Within days of the new rules coming into force a steady flow of such visitors arrived and the coaches, hotels and other tourism interests noticed a quickening of pace. As an aside, I came across a headline that really caught my attention in an otherwise rather ‘dry’ United Nations publication. It read, “Emerging economies fuel recovery as growth remains weak in rich countries.” I guess that the surge in tourists from China, India and elsewhere in the region is exact evidence of this being the case. I suspect that, in the medium to longer term, the real bonus of the new Visa system is that it will enable prospective buyers of Irish made goods and services to come to Ireland without a whole lot of red tape, resulting in exports to the region, which are already growing strongly, further increasing, and digging us out of recession. Coming back to the interviews, I strongly got the impression that not one of those companies that we spoke with thought that its business mix in 2012 would be the same as it had been in 2010. Most were adding new services; all were fi nding ways to work smarter, driving costs down and focussing clearly on the customer. Yes, ‘green’ issues, the reduction of carbon footprint did get a mention, but this was not something sentimental, it was a combination of giving the customer what he needed and being clever on costs. Nearly everyone we spoke to had introduced systems for fuel and other consumable costs control and knew exactly which vehicle types and makes were needed to carry out the work in the most effective way. Drastic reductions in truck and bus idling time were being achieved and electric, compressed natural gas or hybrid vehicles were either under trial or had been ordered to cope with ‘last mile’ deliveries. Also good to hear were the very many cases in which the companies had walked away 42 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

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

O’Reilly Commercials, Ballinalack. Tel: 044 93 71360 Newtown Trucks, Newtowncunningham. Tel: 074 91 56666 Athenry Truck Centre Ltd., Galway. Tel: 091 849 375

Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

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Business Development

ecause of economic recession transport fi rms in Ireland at present concentrate on daily and weekly goals, such as cash flow management and the maximisation of turnover. They fail to look at the underlying strategic problems and issues in the business so that in the medium to long term the business can operate at a level that generates adequate return for the capital and effort expended on the business and that the short term fi re-fighting exercise of cash flow management and customer retention is managed in a way that allows the business owner a leadtime to react to business changes. Well-managed businesses realise that if all you are doing is fi re-fighting to fi x current fi nancial problems and you are relying on external market forces to bring your business out of a fi nancial problem you are taking a risk that may not pay off in the long term. We all realise that the cost of diesel, the over-supply of service (meaning cost increases cannot be passed on) and the lack of short-term fi nance are the three key issues at present facing the Irish road haulage industry today. Over a period of time there will be less vehicles and less hauliers and rates will ref lect an equilibrium whereby only profitable and cash liquid transport fi rms will be able to fi nance equipment .In the short term haulage businesses have cut costs and decreased capacity to match the volume decrease, but in the short to medium term a large percentage of costs are fi xed and this underlying lack of profit has put pressure on cash flow. To address this short to medium term issue on how the business is fi nanced, hauliers have extended credit from suppliers and renegotiated with their banks and fi nance houses. Progressive transport fi rms are looking ahead to see what business opportunities will be derived from the current economic recession. It now appears that Irish agriculture will be an industry that funding and support from Government will be a priority, now that the property boom is long gone, the country’s brightest and best will look at agriculture as a developing industry, there will be opportunities in transport and logistics related to the transport of inputs to agriculture, the movement of goods to processing plants and to the fi nal market destination. Having attended this year's Ploughing Championship its amazing to see an industry that is Irish owned, has expertise, knowledge, youth and support and work together for the good of all involved. Progressive transport operators attended to see what new business opportunities lie ahead both from a bulk transportation, groupage and new distribution and storage opportunities. Our ability to host the largest European agricultural show demonstrates the logistical capabilities of Irish transport companies as all Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

competitors equipment, all stands and all new plant on display has to be transported to and from a rural 700 acre site in a relatively short time scale. Having an efficient and progressive transport infrastructure will be a key element in the renewal of an Irish Sugar industry, if it is to happen the new plant will be centrally located in the main growing region and an efficient road haulage sector will be key to its economic viability. It will also demonstrate the requirement for new innovative methods of operation such as the use of road-trains on designated routes allowing the economic growing areas to be spread to all regions.

attention to new niche business opportunities to absorb the warehouse, yard, workshop and administrative assets of the business. When a customer downsizes there may be an opportunity to take over all the logistical requirements of that business. Some businesses may realise that own-account transport is no longer the best option in a contracting market and look to third party hauliers to take up the transport and administration of all haulage. Previously businesses held their own transport capability because it afforded them greater flexibility, better service levels. Cost was not the main deciding issue, now cost is the driving force and transport fi rms can offer the flexibility and service that is required.

Many transport operators in the last twelve months, having reorganised their business to best cope with volume reduction, have turned their

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SHIPPING & FREIGHT

Team Sanya departs Dublin for start of Volvo Ocean Race 2011/12 Photo: David Branigan

Chairman of Let’s do it Global, Enda O’Coinneen and the President, John Killeen along with Marine Minister Simon Coveney TD, officially launched TEAM SANYA - the Chinese-Irish Team in the Volvo Ocean Race 2011/2012 on the MV Cill Airne (Beside National Convention Centre) North Wall Quay, Dublin 1. Led by double VOR winner Mike Sanderson, Team Sanya, departed Dublin Port for the Race Start in Alicante, Spain next month. The Round-the-World Yacht Race will conclude in Galway with Global Village 2012, 28 June - 8 July 2012, featuring Innovation, Food, Green and Marine promoting Ireland Around the World.

Meanwhile, Let’s Do it Global, the Galway based nonprofit foundation with a focus on youth, the environment and the Maritime and as owners of the Green Dragon were proud to showcase its Volvo Open 70 at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show and that the yacht was selected for display. As the centrepiece for Volvo Car Corporation’s presence at the Motor Show, the Green Dragon was open to public display, offering all visitors a rare opportunity to witness 'Life at the Extreme' and the Volvo Ocean Race. Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney

Dublin Ferry Terminals leads ICG group business increase

he Irish Continental Group reports in its review of the first half of 2011 operations that there was a strong growth in the number of containers lifted at their Lo-Lo terminals in Dublin and Belfast. Th roughput volumes up by 14.5% to 94,200 lifts. These figures reflect the strong export growth in the Irish economy over the period while the broad customer base at the terminals is also evident from the fact that the group’s Eucon and Feederlink container services reported a slight decrease in business mainly due to the discontinuance of some North Sea business. Combined profits of these divisions

were over 40% up on the 2010 figure. Ro-Ro freight volumes were also strong, with volumes up by 12% over the same period in 2010, reaching 97,000 units. The Company says that this

increase is in excess of the market due to reduced capacity on the Irish Sea Central Corridor with the closedown of the DFDS, Dublin / Liverpool service. The strong passenger growth of 2010, mainly arising from the Icelandic volcanic ash episode was not continued into the 2011 first half and the Company’s overall sea passenger carryings were down by 3.6% to 670,000, though still better than the general market decline in 2011. With the withdrawal by Stena of its fast ferry service from Dun Laoghaire for the winter months, the Irish Ferries’ 'Dublin Swift' is now the only fast ferry on the Central Corridor.

Weastflows European project focus on transport innovation for Irish exports

he EU co-funded 'Weastflows' project has been launched and Irish interests involved include, the Midwest Regional Authority, The Irish Exporters Association, Rosslare Europort and the National Transport Authority. The general aim of the project is the development of improved freight transport logistics systems in the context of North West Europe transnational transport corridors and regional distribution systems. The development of ICT technologies to serve freight distribution is seen as a key element in the project. Inland Distribution Centres are a rapidly developing element in the multimodal freight transport mix as was clearly demonstrated by a recent visit by project members to the Inland Terminal Veghel,

PORT PORTALS

Cobelfret has announced the extension of its weekly Radicatel to Dublin ECS Container service to include a call to the Port of Cork. The vessel M.V. Arx will call to Cork each Saturday en route to Dublin where export containers can be transferred to the Line’s Rotterdam and Zeebrugge services as required. 46 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

container routed via Dublin and Rotterdam. The barge trip from there to Veghel takes 10 hours.

located some 130 km south east of Rotterdam and connected with both Rotterdam and Antwerp by daily container barge services. Close by the terminal are major European Distribution Centres for Companies including Mars and APC. The latter Company feeds product from its plant in Galway by Mel Shipping Ireland Ltd. A joint venture between Trinity Shipping and Dutch based Mel shipping, is launching a weekly container service linking Dublin with Huelva in south east Spain. Alan Bell of the new company expects that the service will carry substantial volumes of meat and other cargoes requiring temperature controlled equipment to Spain and fruit on the return trip to Ireland.

Speaking to “Fleet”, Terminal Business Manager, Michel van Dijk, told of his ambitions to have a local rail spur extended to link into the Terminal and to secure Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status for the Terminal to facilitate cargo being brought there before being customs cleared into Europe, and also for export cargo to clear the Customs and Security hurdles at the Terminal rather than risk being delayed at the Port. The Weastflows project will develop a sub-project to examine the potential for road/rail inland distribution centres on the island of Ireland. The National Maritime Institute of Ireland has announced the re-opening of their museum at Dun Laoghaire following major refurbishment and development, on 16 October. The Institute has also launched a new website, www.mariner.ie

Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

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TYRES

GOODYEAR DUNLOP’S SUPER SAVA MORE TYRE REGS HEADING YOUR WAY Within the forthcoming EU ‘General Safety of Motor Vehicles 661/2009’ regulation which sees the mandatory fitment of a variety of safety kit on trucks including advanced emergency braking, lane departure warning and electronic stability control within a rolling program of introduction up to 2015, there’s also provision for commercial vehicle tyres including: A maximum level for rolling resistance (8 kg/ ton Stage 1) And a maximum limit for noise (73 dB(A) The implementation date is November 2012 for all new tyre approvals, and from 2016 for all replacement tyres.

rish HGV and PSV operators looking for a hard-wearing medium-priced truck, bus or trailer tyre will be interested in the latest ‘SAVA’ range from the Goodyear Dunlop stable - the name says it all. You can pay a lot of money for a premium tyre that comes with the very latest casing technology and ultimate performance to match. But for many truck and bus operators nowadays facing ever-tighter margins (and who isn’t nowadays?) what you actually need is a no-frills rubber ring that gets the job done, at a competitive price, but with decent mileage to boot. So the new range of SAVA 22.5-inch steer, drive and trailer tyres from Goodyear Dunlop could well be what Irish road hauliers and bus/coach operators are looking for - without having to make major compromises either. Fleet Transport readers probably will recall an article on the Slovenian-based tyre maker SAVA (pronounced SAH-VA after a local river). It’s wellknown as a respected brand within mainland Europe and, more importantly, has been a whollyowned subsidiary of the Goodyear Dunlop Group since 2004 following a previous jointventure with Goodyear way back in 1997. Moreover, at the recent press launch Goodyear Dunlop senior managers were keen to stress the fact that SAVA plants work to exactly the same

ISO quality standards and processes found at equivalent plants in the UK and the US. Today SAVA produces an impressive 2,150 light truck tyres (up to 17.5-inch) a day at its Kranj factory in Slovenia and more recently it has added 22.5inch steer, drive and trailer tyres described as the “optimised solution for cost-conscious fleets” to its product portfolio. The new tyres will be supplied from SAVA’s plant in Poland and sold in Ireland through the Goodyear Dunlop dealer network. So who will be buying them? According to Goodyear Dunlop the new SAVA 22.5 range is aimed fairly-and-squarely at regional/local operators with a mixture of not only urban distribution but also inter-city longer-haul work. “There’s a growing demand for a mid-range value truck tyre that performs well in terms of mileage and durability,” it says, adding, “typically the SAVA range will be aimed at similar products from the likes of Hankook and Yokohama. It’s USP is that it’s a European-produced tyre, from the Goodyear Dunlop stable and with the same Goodyear Dunlop quality control, it comes into its own in local and regional fleets with a lot of stop-start delivery work.” In particular, Goodyear Dunlop reckons the SAVA range will appeal to those type of fleets and the rental/hire sector where durability and performance have to be balanced against cost.

The EU ‘tyre labelling regulations 1222/2009’ will also require that operators must be provided with a standardised ‘label’ or fact-sheet with specific product information on any tyre they purchase including: fuel efficiency (as determined by a common rolling resistance scale); wet grip performance; and noise. The implementation date is from November 2012 for tyres produced from July 2012. It must be available to the customer before they purchase a tyre, at the point of sale. Fuel efficiency is likely to be displayed using a similar kind of a colourgraduated (green to red) scale as currently used on white goods. The information will not, however, be on the tyre itself. SAVA’s Avant 4 (steer) Orjak 4 (drive) and Cargo C3 plus (385 wide-single trailer) tyres offer significant initial purchase savings compared to Goodyear’s own premium equivalents. And the bottom-line? If the Goodyear product has a price index of 100% the SAVA would be 80%, so it’s basically up-to-20% cheaper on a like-for-like basis. However, although Goodyear-branded products will continue to offer the very latest ‘bespoke’ casing technology and performance with the lowest rolling-resistance (and hence superior fuel economy), Goodyear Dunlop’s Director of Truck Tyre Technology Henk Van

48 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

TYRES

Tuyl reports that in trials with a Slovenian artic fleet operator, the latest SAVA 22.5 tyres have shown impressive durability with steer axles lasting up to 190,000km and drive axles predicted to last up to 280,000km. The new SAVA tyres can be re-grooved and retreaded and are said to have very uniform wear rates too.

SAVA’s 22.5 range is suitable for truck or bus applications - the new Avant 4 steer and Orjak 4 drive tyres are available in 295/80R22.5, 315/70R22.5 and 315/80R22.5.

NEW RUBBER RINGS FROM CONTI AND MICHELIN Continental has launched two new 17.5-inch size LSR1+ and LDR1+ light truck steer and drive-axle tyres. Developed to cope with the demands of city operations, including resistance to curbing, they feature good low-rolling resistance so they’re equally at home on long-distance and regional distribution work where a combination of urban and motorway work is required. Using an all-new compound, Conti says the LSR1+ and LDR1+’s rolling resistance has been reduced by up to 10% but without compromising handling and durability. It also claims fuel savings of between 3-4% and superior mileage. Both tyres feature Conti’s ‘AirKeep’ technology, to prevent creeping air loss, while the steel cord bead and triangular belt layer maintain rigidity for lower-rolling resistance. They can be re-grooved and retreaded. Meanwhile, Michelin says its latest 315/80 and 70 profi le R22.5 X MultiWay 3D steer and driveaxle heavy truck tyres, aimed primarily at ‘regional’ hauliers whose vehicles typically spend 60% on local roads and 40% dual-carriageways and motorways, will ‘tick the box’ for those operators looking for a single truck-tyre range, that can deliver necessary fleet efficiency gains in many applications. Based on Michelin’s own tests against existing products the X MultiWay 3D is said to deliver an increase in total mileage performance of up to 15% on steer axle fitment, and 30% on drive axles. Rolling resistance is also cut by as much as 25%, while Michelin adds: “Extensive testing has also revealed a 19% improvement in traction when two-thirds worn, plus a ‘re-treadability’ rate exceeding 91%.”

Text: Brian Weatherley

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

BUS & COACH

Northgate introduces new bus fleet services

n an effort to support public sector transport within local communities, Northgate Vehicle Hire, market leaders in flexible vehicle hire and fleet solutions, has introduced a brand new range of wheelchair accessible buses to its fleet, to help operators avoid the spiraling maintenance and service costs of long-term leases.

derivatives, automatic transmissions and completely flexible seating layouts and wheelchair fi xtures. Nick Cash, Head of Northgate Public Sector, commented: “As market leaders in fleet solutions, we are very aware of our responsibility to the communities we operate in and we hope that the introduction of the wheelchair accessible vehicles will directly benefit the local communities throughout the UK and Ireland.”

With public sector organisations currently being scrutinised on their allocation of funding, one large area of concern is the cost-effective provision of community transport. Northgate Public Sector works with the Country’s public bodies and Councils to offer an alternative to long-term leases. Northgate’s extensive fleet network provides local communities with a top of the range service.

The new fleet of wheelchair accessible buses offers a cost-effective and service efficient means of assisting some of the most disadvantaged sections of the community. The fleet itself is brand new and boasts fuelefficient Euro 5 engines, 3.8tonne or 5tonne

He continued: “The wheelchair accessible buses are state-of-the-art vehicles and we’re genuinely excited about the potential they might have for improving the day-to-day lives of those who really need it. In difficult economic times, we certainly think our fleet can offer the service that the community deserves.

First 12m Electric bus to premiere at BusWorld

hinese company BYD is poised to launch a range of full electric and hybrid passenger vehicles in Europe, with the premiere of its eBUS12 full sized single deck electric bus at BusWorld in Kortrijk, Belgium on 21st October. The eBUS-12 is believed to be the fi rst full size full electric bus in the world. BYD (standing for ‘Build Your Dreams’) is a major corporation employing more than 200,000 people. The company began life as a producer of lithium batteries (BYD products power many of the world’s top selling mobile phones and devices) before entering the automotive arena in 2006. The eBUS-12 is its first bus model

and is due to enter trial service in several European cities, including London, Copenhagen, Frankfurt and Amsterdam, in the coming months. As part of its ‘Green City Solution’ programme, BYD has been focusing on the research and development of electric vehicles of all types, including passenger cars and buses. Currently it has two pure electric vehicle models: the e6 car and the eBUS-12. Both have been in the public transport service in China, with pilot trials in several other countries including the Netherlands, Spain, the US and Hong Kong.

Wright Group marks 150 vehicle milestone with SBS Transit

allymena’s Wright Group has reached a significant landmark in its multi-million pound export order to SBS Transit of Singapore, having now supplied 150 vehicles. With many of the initial batch of vehicles already having entered service in Singapore and with a further order for another 300 Wrightbus kits already confi rmed, SBS Transit aim to have 450 Wrightbus bodied Double Deck buses in service during 2012.

assembled at the C.D.G.E. facility by Wrightbus trained technicians. Specifically designed to meet the individual requirements of the Singapore climate and high passenger levels, the 12m air-conditioned triaxle buses are built on the Volvo Bus B9TL chassis and feature the distinctive and stylish Wrightbus body.

Supplied and packaged in completely knocked down (CKD) kits from Ballymena, the boxes are shipped to Singapore where the vehicles are

Placing 450 new Double Deck vehicles into service by 2012 will reduce the average age of the company’s f leet, whilst also providing more environmentally friendly vehicles featuring enhanced Euro V emission standard engines.

50 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

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REVIEW 11

UPBEAT MOOD AT PLOUGH Donaghey Motorhomes Ireland’s leading supplier of recreational vehicles is Donaghey Motorhomes of Letterkenny, Damien McElchar and company ownerMichael Donaghey were on hand to answer visitor enquiries.

Isuzu Truck BMW

Cargotec

here’s a positive vibe around farming at the moment, something that was tangible at this year’s Ploughing Championship held at Cardenton, near Athy for the third successive year. With approximately 200,00 visitors over the three days and over 1,100 exhibitors on hand, this was once again the largest event of its kind in Ireland. The motor industry was well represented at the Show, with more manufacturer's importers / distributors taking stand space compared to previous years, continuing the resurgence that began last year. Fleet Transport caught up with what was on display at Ploughing 2011.

BMW BMW was represented at the Ploughing by main dealers N. Conlon & Sons of Kildare and Limerick. Pictured alongside the latest 5-series is Brian Cullen, Sales Executive of N. Conlon & Sons, Kildare.

Cargotec Citroen

For Moffett Engineering now read Cargotec, the Dundalk engineering company having recently undergone a rebranding. Moffett will remain however as a product name on their world famous truck-mounted forklift s and other specialist equipment. Representing the company were Shane Finnegan, Michael O’Reilly, John Bailey and Steven Russell.

An Irish premiere at the Isuzu stand where the new F-Series medium sized truck was unveiled. Paul Cahill from Isuzu Ireland, Aidan Reinhardt and Liam Fitzpatrick of local dealers Monasterevin Motors were present to show off the new vehicle.

Jeep Exciting times for Jeep with the arrival of the latest generation Compass and Wrangler models. On stand were Brian Higgins, Stephen Kearney and Conor Twomey from Jeep Ireland

KIA The Rio took pride of place on the KIA stand, the all-new car due to go on sale here before the end of the year. Brendan Nicholson and Eimear O’Connor from KIA Ireland were busy keeping the public updated.

Land Rover Ploughing Championship perennials Land Rover had the full line-up of models on show, but all eyes on a busy stand were on the new Range Rover Evoque, the compact SUV having just been launched in Ireland.

Citroën

Donaghey Motorhomes

The latest DS3 and DS4 models were huge attractions on the Citroën stand. Anthony O’Leary of Byrne Car Sales Wexford, and Trevor Burns of Pratts Citroën Carlow were among the staff working at the Show.

Volkswagen

Isuzu

Jeep

KIA

52 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

REVIEW 11

ING CHAMPIONSHIP 2011 Opel The high performance Insignia OPC was garnering a lot of attention on the Opel stand. Opel Ireland representatives Ray Finlay, Emma Naylor and Emma O’Carroll were on hand to answer visitor queries.

Peugeot Rugby pundit, radio presenter and Peugeot Brand Ambassador George Hook kept visitors entertained on the Peugeot stand where the forthcoming 3008 Hybrid4, the world’s fi rst diesel hybrid, was one of the main att ractions. Pictured with George are Mark Hayes and Emma Toner of Peugeot Ireland.

Skoda The Czech manufacturer was showcasing its range of four-wheel drive vehicles at the Ploughing via an especially built off-road driving course. The range includes the Octavia Scout 4x4, Superb 4x4 in saloon and Combi versions, and Yeti 4x4. Raymond Leddy from Skoda Ireland and Colin O’Brien from Skoda Main Dealers Finbarr Galvin’s of Bandon, Co. Cork were among the busy team on the stand.

Subaru Main dealer Active Cars of Carlow had the full Subaru line-up on display. The Japanese brand has a loyal following among the rural community with its range of symmetrical allwheel drive models. Michael Kirby of Subaru Ireland and David Pratt of Active Cars were on stand with a Legacy in the foreground and Forester behind.

Toyota

Suzuki As well as the new SX4 iAWD model, Suzuki also had the Grand Vitara on display, which is now back on sale in Ireland. On stand were Michael McBarron, Sales Manager for Suzuki Ireland, Aishling Farrell from Railway Garage Suzuki in Castlecomer, Ciara Tomkins of James Tomkins Suzuki in Gorey, and Mary Farrell of Railway Garage Suzuki.

Toyota Two new models on show at the Toyota stand, the Auris Hybrid and the latest generation Yaris. Representing Toyota Ireland were Ray Maloney, Alan Melbourne, Terry O’Reilly and Ronan Greene.

Suzuki

Volkswagen Once again Volkswagen had an impressive stand at the exhibition, with the new Touareg among the models proving popular with the public, while a fleet of Amaroks provided ‘Official Courtesy Vehicle’ duties for the National Ploughing Association. Anna Dawson and Niall Walsh were busy looking after the passenger side of the stand….

Vo l k s w a g e n Vehicles

Subaru

Com mercials

….. while over on the Commercial section Barry Murray and John Kearney were showcasing the new Crafter, this one with a Luton style box body by Tony Gray Bodybuilders.

Skoda

Volkswagen Commercials Vehicles

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

Opel

Peugeot FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

OPERATORS DESK

Ploughing Ahead

uring the week of the Ploughing Championships in Athy, County Kildare the good news story about the improving fortunes of the agricultural sector was the main headline. Minister for Agriculture, Marine & Food, Simon Coveney T.D., gave interview after interview promising his continued support and that of the Government's to farmers and food and drink manufacturers. In the past his predecessor did not always get anything like the same respect he is enjoying and particularly the warm reception he received at the Ploughing Championship. Minster Coveney was very quick to give the previous Government praise for some of the initiatives and policies that were put in place and are now starting to bear fruit. Farming, not unlike road haulage is often described by those involved is a way of life. Maybe not so much now as in the past, but for sure neither sectors are in the nine to five category. I am reminded of past Irish Road Haulage Association Council Meetings and the comments of people involved in both farming and road haulage. Invariably they would say that while working in transport is difficult, farming was a lot worse. I don’t think there is much point in doing a forensic examination of the change process that has taken place, the important thing is that with the right policies and political will, any sector can be nurtured and become a source of revenue to the economy and a business that people will aspire to get involved in.

Of course, there is a fundamental difference between agriculture and transport. Agriculture is manufacturing based and creates wealth. Transport on the other hand is a service industry and while it may not be a source of wealth, its activities create wealth. Are road hauliers and the wider transport industry not entitled to the same incubation that farmers and the agriculture sector in general have received? One point that should not be ignored are the comments made by Minister Coveney recently. He believes it is possible that agriculture and food related products could double in sales inside ten years. Surely if only half of this output is achieved there will be a strong demand for a transport sector that is strong and agile and able to deliver Irish products to the supermarket shelves of the World. All through the Celtic Tiger years, Irish hauliers brought the benefits in and out of every corner of the Country. In hindsight many operators say it was a period of madness during which little or no money was made. In some cases people made financial commitments they are now not able to meet. Putting that aside it is the broader industry we need to focus on. It is a great sign of hope that the new President of the IRHA and his Management team are in discussions with Transport Minister Leo Varakir T.D. If the Minister can be convinced to put the same effort into building a strong vibrant road haulage industry and put the same effort into the job as his colleague in agriculture did, then we could be on our way. Unfortunately there have been many false downs before and some great pronunciations by Ministers and genuine intentions have come to nothing.

Fortunately for Minister Varakir he has a blueprint, in fact he has three of them. In the past twelve years three substantial Reports were commissioned by Government on the road haulage industry. All three had very specific recommendations to help improve the sector. Unfortunately progress has been limited and the focus seems to have drifted away. It is a big challenge that now faces IRHA President Eoin Gavin and his Management Team. Clearly they are up for it and I hope the Minister is too, simply put the request to Minister Varakir, “Please do for the transport industry something similar to what Minister Coveney has done for the agriculture sector.” Often people wonder what the best way you should proceed to replicate someone’s success – it is simple, you copy it. Minister Coveney said that he felt confident that agriculture would continue to grow and he would ensure that there would be continued growth. “I chair the Task Force for the sector and when we see any slippage within a part of industry we focus in on it and it gets our full attention to ensure we get it back to performing to its full potential,” explained the Minister. With all this improvement and extra wealth around, it will be curious to see what response hauliers will get when they look for some of the spoils of success in the form of better rates for transport. Will the Co-ops and other food manufacturers similar to the hard working emigrants in the past, pass on some of their new-found good fortune to their less well off siblings in the haulage business? Now there is a question that will be answered soon. I await with bated breath!!

Overgrown hedges impacting road safety of Irish roads

he Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has warned that an increasing number of national and regional routes are hazardous due to overgrown hedges and overhanging trees. These hazards are having a serious impact on road safety and are a danger for all motorists and pedestrians. Restrictions on hedge trimming has resulted in many Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) being damaged as a result of hitting low hanging branches on roadsides. The IRHA has called on both landowners and Local Authorities to maintain the hedges in order to help prevent serious incidents. It is an offence under Irish legislation (Roads Act 1993, Section 70) to cut hedges from March to August and, therefore, many hedges are now overgrown and need to be trimmed. There is

Commenting on the potential hazards, Eoin Gavin, President of the IRHA, said: “Overhanging branches are a serious hazard for HGVs and other large road vehicles. As branches and hedges impinge on the road space, especially when wet, motorists need to move closer to the centre of the road which creates a road safety issue.

an obligation on Local Authorities to maintain verges and hedges up to one metre, after which it becomes the responsibility of the landowner. The window of opportunity for trimming hedges is quite short and hedges that are not maintained before the end of October tend to be left neglected until the following year.

Landowners need to take responsibility for maintaining their hedges or else a serious accident may result and large vehicles will continue to be damaged. Local Authorities have the authorisation to remove any road hazards such as overhanging branches and subsequently recover the costs from the landowner. Both Local Authorities and landowners need to act now.”

54 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Text: Jonathan Lawton - jonathan@fleet.ie

FEATURE 1

Fleet companies save as eflow customers

e are in difficult times. The cost of doing business in Ireland is high. Irish businesses are continually challenged to remain competitive by cutt ing costs and becoming more efficient.

Mr Simon McBeth, Director of Communications and Customer Relations at eFlow

eFlow has recognised this and established a dedicated fleet management service, to assist Irish fl eet companies to make savings and improve efficiency. Simon McBeth, Director of Communications and Customer Relations tells us why. “eFlow works with over 25,000 fleet customers. Our fleet customers are small, medium and large businesses who work in a broad range of industry sectors and include road freight operators, sales representatives and car rental companies, to name but a few. Some of our customers use every toll in the country on a daily or weekly basis. We recognised that these customers needed a ‘one-stop’ shop for toll management. One person to manage many vehicles, under one tolling account.

vehicles under one fleet account, the larger the discount offering. Th is is our way of helping Irish businesses to reduce costs, stay competitive, and, ultimately, protect jobs in our economy.”

Conclusion

EXAMPLE: An average-sized fleet company with 21 vehicles on the road, making a minimum of 5 passages a week.

“Our strategy is customer centred. We aim to make your journey easier as an eFlow customer. With that in mind, we encourage fleet managers to contact us and speak with a member of our fleet management team.

Th is is what we did. "We established a fleet management service to assist businesses to better manage toll payment but also, and more importantly, to cut costs and improve convenience. And it works.

Under eFlow’s pricing structure, this fleet company could make savings of €5,510 annually.

Our fleet customers include Kerry Foods; Tesco; Chubb; Avis and KPMG,” said Simon.

‘You fi rst’

Simon continued to explain about eFlow Fleet Management

“Our slogan is ‘You fi rst’. We incorporate this in everything we do.

“eFlow works with Irish business who have fleets of all sizes. We register each vehicle with a tag which can be used on all toll roads in Ireland.

Not only in the exemplary customer service we offer, but in the added benefits available to you – our customer.

Using our tag means motorists do not have to worry about paying the toll with coins. Equally, our tag allows motorists to use the express lane at all toll booths, so you save time too.

One such benefit is the eFlow Reward Card.

The eFlow tag is efficient, affordable and hasslefree. In addition, we provide economies of scale for our customers – the greater the number of

provision of an SMS payment service and a smart phone app, which we expect to roll out in 2012.”

eFlow has teamed up with some of Ireland’s best-known brands including MaldronHotels, AXA assistance and the Carlton Hotel Group, to bring our customers exclusive discounts and offers, which can be claimed with the new, eFlow Reward Card."

You can call the eFlow Fleet Management team on 1890 50 50 80. Finally, eFlow looks forward to meeting you at the upcoming Fleet Transport Awards and wishes the Fleet Transport team all the best for another successful event.” eFlow is the offi cial sponsor of the Customer Service Award category at the Fleet Transport Awards 2012.

Reward Card

Further service improvements "As a company we are constantly seeking to improve our product offering to our customers, because we recognise that as technology advances, we have to continue to evolve with it. eflow Card

For example, we are currently working on enhancing our customer services through the FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

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ISUZU N-Series TRUCKING LIFE JUST GOT EASIER

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ISUZU Ireland A MEMBER OF THE HARRIS GROUP

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FEATURE 11

New Mercedes-Benz Axors bring more returns for Reynolds Logistics

eynolds Logistics, the award winning Distribution Company for bulk fuels, lubricants and hazardous goods in Ireland, the UK and Europe, is looking to maximize operational efficiencies with the addition of six Mercedes-Benz Axor tractor units to its fleet. The 2440 models with Daytime S-Cabs, and fitted with small centre axles, were chosen specifically to reduce unladen weight in order to increase payloads. Reynolds Logistics has had a long relationship with Mercedes-Benz, primarily using Actros models, but this is the first time that the company has chosen to use Axors with the daytime cab specification. “We needed to try to bring the weight down,” explains Andrew Reynolds, CEO of Reynolds Logistics of the decision to go with the Axor. “As well as the small centre axles, the trucks have alloy wheels, aluminium air tanks and fi xed fifth wheels. There is nothing overly special on them but we went through the specification in a lot of detail to get as light as we could.” The tractor units weigh in at 7.56 tonnes.

That weight saving translates to real-time reductions in the amount of vehicle journeys. For instance, matched up to Magyar tanker trailers introduced a year ago especially for the Dublin Airport run where Reynolds Logistics carry out thirty deliveries of fuel daily, the Axors allow an additional one thousand litres to be carried - or 30,000 litres of fuel daily. By anyone’s measurement, that’s a saving of consequence. Despite the company’s long standing relationship with Mercedes-Benz and its Irish distributor Motor Distributors Limited, Andrew is keen to stress that choosing the German brand is not a foregone conclusion. “Every eighteen months or so, we take a serious look at what is out there, particularly when it comes to ordering bigger batches of trucks.” Overall though, he says that when it comes to the overall package including residual values, reliability, fuel consumption and maintenance, as well as getting the right specifications, and ancillary packages such as driver and technican training, the company has found Mercedes-Benz to consistently meet their requirements. All Reynolds Logistics trucks are fitted with the Mercedes-Benz FleetBoard fuel saving calculator system. “It does tracking as well, but the biggest thing for us is for driver behaviour and the driver

training side. We put a lot of effort into making sure our drivers are fully involved in the process. Over the years our fuel consumption figures have shown a definite improvement as a result of using the soft ware.” Twice times winner of the Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year Awards in 2008 and 2010, Reynolds Logistics is now looking forward to the European Transport Company of the Year Awards in November, where it will be one of two Irish representatives (along with the 2011 Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year, Johnston Logistics). After coming a close runner-up in the inaugural European Awards in 2009, Andrew is hopeful that Reynolds Logistics will again be a contender to win the prestigious title. “After the last time we looked at where we fell down on the awards, so it will be good to go back having experience of it”. He points to the company having achieved ISO14001 certification for environmental standards eighteen months ago as something where they had perhaps fallen down previously against European competitors. “We are also starting to put some work into measuring and tracking our CO2 emissions. So for example, getting the extra one thousand litres of fuel into the trucks will lead to 'X' number of less loads per year, which means less fuel burnt. We are looking at that whole sustainability side, and it’s an area that the bigger multinational corporate people are starting to get interested in.”

Fergus Conheady, Sales Manager, Mercedes-Benz Commercials, presenting the keys to Andrew Reynolds, CEO Reynolds Logistics

Putting that in perspective, Andrew says that the vehicle that has been the mainstay of their fleet – the Actros fitted with standard wheels – weighs in at just over 8 tonnes. “We brought in the Actros with a small centre axle two years ago, that weigh in at 7.86 tonnes. It means that with the Axors we are

saving nearly half a tonne compared to the original Actros models, which is quite significant.”

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11 57

SOAPBOX

Sarkozy is your only man!

he dream of every Irish Haulier (me at least) would be for our Transport Minister to stand up and speak for the industry. To have our Taoiseach not only do so, but pour praise on the industry would mean I was either dreaming or gone to Hauliers Heaven. Below are the President of France’s comments on the French Road Haulage Industry as reported in International Freighting Weekly magazine.

President Sarkozy ascribes to the French industry mirror ours. The numbers of licenced road haulage companies, those employed in the business as well as truck fleet numbers are dropping by the month, whilst non-national companies with much lower cost bases are becoming dominant in Ireland. Then you have home grown Phoenix Companies walking from their debts on a Friday and commencing business on Monday with a new licence? Why is this happening?

French President Nicolas Sarkozy has called on his Government to present proposals to arrest the decline of the country’s road transport sector.

In addition we have the scourge of Green Diesel. Diesel is simply seen as a cash cow for the Department of Finance for fuel and carbon taxes, while the total failure to deal with illegal washing of Green Diesel gives those who are prepared to use it as a huge financial advantage. The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has argued for years against the current system, a system that sees massive financial rewards going into the pockets of criminals. Customs and Excise, apart from the extensive costs and resources they devote, are actually in risk of their lives to judge by some reports trying to eradicate it when surely the war against drugs where they have seen such success would be a greater societal benefit? The washing of Green diesel brings appalling environmental degradation and subsequent clean up costs borne by the taxpayer with fuel contaminated soil being exported to Germany for remediation. Its use undermines the legitimate haulier driving them to more desperate measures to stay in business and drives honest people into the arms of criminals. This is a system of fuel taxation that was designed a hundred years ago and is not fit for purpose. The Department of Finance must know how much Green Diesel is being washed and yet a rebated system to those entitled to it would eradicate all of the foregoing overnight, WHY do they oppose it?

“French haulage firms employ close to 400,000 people but now only account for 17% of International traffic flows in Europe. We can’t let the sector disappear,” he said. During a visit to one transport firm that week, Sarkozy paid hommage to “a courageous profession which offers real trades and trains young people”. He thanked road transport firms for their “commitment to sustainable development and road safety” and also underlined what he described as the irreplaceable nature and flexibility of road haulage, “the only one capable of being close to customers”. Sarkozy, whose term of office ends next Spring, outlined an agenda for Government and sector representatives. “This will include discussions on the competitiveness of firms, working hours, cabotage, the impact of an HGV tax and the addition of a sixth axle within the framework of raising the maximum weight of vehicles. Decisions are expected to be made on these issues in January,” he stressed. The head of France’s biggest road haulage federation, Christophe Pic, met with President Sarkozy during his visit and said he had alerted France’s leader to the difficulties facing his members. “Our biggest problem is the competitiveness of our firms and of French jobs in a European market,” Mr. Pic said in the publication. In Ireland as in France, ours is an industry under total siege and we need someone to stand up for it, not because it is the right thing to do, rather because it will bring value to Ireland. The issues

In Ireland our system of road taxing vehicles is also a hundred years old. In a system where trucks get treated in the same manner as private cars there is currently a debate on increasing road tax and making the fee an annual one. Ireland is the only country in Europe, which operates a system that sees the most environmentally friendly trucks pay more road tax than a comparable truck that is ten or more years old. In the UK, you will pay £880 per annum road tax compared to a similar truck costing €3000 here. There, this can be suspended on a monthly basis whereas Ireland charges by the quarter with no refund. So how does a haulier getting work every second week or month survive, he/she will take his chances? Currently hauliers are being prosecuted in ever increasing numbers, not

for having no road tax, but for not paying enough. Surely the powers that be can read the evidence of diminishing returns, I can. Meanwhile the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is designing even more legislation for us which it copies from Britain, while the manner of the way it is dealing with illegal vehicles is questionable, such as the use of agricultural tractors for haulage up and down our motorway system other than to suggest giving them haulage licences. To the RSA, we are a source of bureaucratic employment, it seeks to design the perfect theoretical system, while being incapable of dealing with the reality on the ground other than increase its load on the compliant. I am not blowing my own trumpet but that of an entire industry when I say that we are a breed of self reliant, extraordinarily hard working, nonclock watching entrepreneurs - true self starters but many of us have past breaking point. Mr. Sarkozy knows the value of an indigenous road haulage sector to France, to an island country such as our own, totally dependent on road transport, I am sure he would see it as even more important. From what Minister Varadkar has said to my French associates I get some hope, however action speaks far louder than words and the noises for the forthcoming Budget give me great concern for my business. For me increases in fuel duties, carbon taxes and road taxes simply widen the chasm between legal and illegal profitability. I won’t engage in the latter but regrettably many will. Will Minister Varadkar agree that the arguments advanced above are in Ireland's interest rather than against it? Will he value his industry as President Sarkozy has done, only time will tell?

58 FLEETTRANSPORT | OCT 11

Text: Jerry Kiersey - jerry@fleet.ie

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