Future Trucking & Logistics Oct/Nov 2018 by Future Publishing

October/November 2018

Vol. 04. No. 10

GOODBYE KB, HELLO D-MAX ISUZU updates entire bakkie range

ELECTRIC AND AUTONOMOUS Transport solutions set to revolutionise the industry

UD Trucks leading cost of ownership for smart logistics

Made to go the extra mile. With Allison transmission you get even more drive-ability. Put us to the test. Talk to your UD Trucks Dealer to find out how they can go the extra mile for you. Go to udtrucks.co.za, to locate your nearest dealer. Call our 24-Hour Roadside Assistance 0800 008 800 (in breakdown situations)

Going the Extra Mile

Contents COVER STORY 12

Volvo Trucks presents autonomous electric vehicles Volvo Trucks is now presenting a new transport solution consisting of autonomous electric commercial vehicles that can contribute to more efficient, safer, and cleaner transportation

INDUSTRY 14

26 28

MAN Truck & Bus presents innovations at IAA Commercial vehicle manufacturer MAN Truck & Bus presented its innovations to the world under the motto Simplifying Business Beating costs with natural gas There are many reasons why Natural Gas is increasingly becoming the fuel choice for many commercial fleets Portland and FAW strengthen ties Portland is part of the Portland Group of companies, which primarily focuses on the construction industry, and owns a fleet of 27 FAW trucks. Strong demand for Hino Trucks with automatic transmission The fully automatic transmissions available as an option on Hino trucks in South Africa are proving very popular with customers Companies urged to prepare for AARTO Updated AARTO legislation will impact on the lives of all drivers and transport company owners and operators Volvo group invests in driver learnership programme Volvo Group Southern Africa invested R1.9 million in the advanced development and training of 20 unemployed commercial vehicle drivers The hidden costs of cheap tyres Beware as cheap tyres could cost you more in the long run New name, same dependability The Isuzu KB has been a household name in the commercial and leisure vehicle markets over the past 40 years, with a proud heritage built on an outstanding character of reliability, capability, durability and trust Why transport matters Reflecting on the value of transport to our way of life

UPDATES

he Automobil Association of South Africa recently tested another five cars that are sold in the South African market, in conjunction with Global NCAP, with some very surprising results. One of the vehicles tested was the locally manufactured Nissan NP300 or Hardbody, a stalwart of the light commercial vehicle market and a model that sold over 700 units last month. In a 64km/h offset frontal collision the cabin suffered significant deformation, so much so that it was awarded zero stars. The addition of airbags to this vehicle in recent years also offered no benefit due to the large amount of structural deformation. The NP300 is essentially a 15-year-old design and is still popular in South Africa due to its cost effectiveness and low running costs. But it seems as though Nissan is happy to keep selling this old, unsafe model, because there is nothing stopping them from doing so. There are no minimum vehicle safety standards in South Africa, and the South African homologation process does not include the crash testing of vehicles. To date Global, NCAP has only been able to put 10 South African cars through this costly process. Unfortunately for Nissan the spotlight has fallen on them due to their poor performance. However there are most probably many other affordable models that will test just as badly should they be subjected to this testing process. This is unacceptable in a country that sees 14 000 people die on our roads annually. Government needs to step in here by either enforcing stricter minimum specifications, or making labelling of vehicle safety performance mandatory so that consumers know what they are buying, much like the warnings found on cigarette packaging. Reuben van Niekerk Editor

Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd 247 Jan Smuts Avenue, Dunkeld West, Johannesburg P O Box 3355, Rivonia, 2128 011 803 2040

4 News 34 People Moving Up Publisher Richard Lendrum Editor Reuben van Niekerk reuben@thefuture.co.za Reporter Wynter Murdoch Production Mabel Ramafoko Sub-editor Peggy Lendrum Design & Layout Heinz Bawa heinz@thefuture.co.za

Not so Hard body

www.futuretrucking.co.za

Advertising Enver Lawangi enver@thefuture.co.za Cell: 083 300 6003 Greg Surgeon greg@thefuture.co.za Cell: 083 449 6137

ÂŠ Copyright. All copyright for material appearing in this magazine belongs to Future Trucking & Logistics. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. While precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of advice and information given to readers, neither the editor, proprietors, nor the publishers, can accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions, or any effect arising therefrom.

NEWS >>

Hino sets benchmark in comparative customer satisfaction survey H

importers of trucks to their customers in terms of the sales and after-sales experiences.

Hino achieved an overall score of 99.25%, with scores of 99.23% for sales, 99.36% for service and 99.17% for parts. These were the highest scores in all categories, taking Hino back to No. 1 in the overall, sales and parts rankings, while it retained top spot in the service rating. Importantly, Hino did not get any feedback from fleet owners who said they were ‘dissatisfied’.

“We are particularly proud that this achievement follows closely on the announcement of the results of the Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI), conducted annually by the national Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), where Hino was ranked No. 1 in the commercial vehicle category.”

ino South Africa has been a consistently strong performer in the quarterly Scott Byers Comparative Customer Satisfaction Monitor (CCSM), but in the third quarter of 2018 it has surpassed its previous best performance and set a new benchmark for the highest overall score in the combined category, which adds scores in sales, service, and parts.

Scott Byers has been conducting these independent, quarterly customer experience interviews with fleet operators continuously since 1986. The results are used as key indicators by the local transport industry in terms of the service provided by manufacturers and

Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

“It is gratifying to see the manner in which we have been able to move back into the top position in all categories of this fleet owner survey, while also setting a new benchmark in terms of our overall score,” commented Ernie Trautmann, the VicePresident of Hino South Africa.

Generally, the local truck makers and distributors are faring pretty well as the industry average in all cases is close to the 95% benchmark. In the most recent survey the industry averages were: 95.27% for sales, 92.97% for service, 93.85% for parts and 94.03% for the overall ratings.

Drivers dismissed for testing positive for Cannabis I

nnovative Staffing Solutions has dismissed 300 drivers after they tested positive for marijuana use. This follows the recent legalisation of cannabis consumption in South Africa for private use. Arnoux Maré, MD of Innovative Staffing Solutions, says the legalisation of cannabis consumption does not mean drivers who test positive are not in violation of their work code and conduct. “A trucker driving under the influence of cannabis can be likened to a non-coherent person barreling a 60-ton missile down the road at 80 to 100km/h. If he or she loses control of the vehicle, innocent people are likely to lose their lives and infrastructure could be seriously damaged,” he notes. Maré says the company cannot take the risk of incurring damage to people or personal and public property. “Our drivers are expected to act responsibly. After all, they are responsible for ensuring valuable vehicles and their cargo gets from one destination to the next, safely.” “Marijuana may be legal, but employers still have grounds for dismissing those who test positive for the use thereof. This is similar to the legislation around alcohol. It may be legal, but being drunk at work is a dismissible cause,” adds Maré.

Volvo Trucks’ continual road safety initiative for children

he initiative, called Stop, Look, Wave is specifically aimed at helping children understand how to best behave around trucks, buses and cars, and to ultimately keep them safe on the roads. According to the South African Journal of Science, pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. An estimated 40% of road deaths in South Africa last year were pedestrian deaths, 16.3% of the pedestrians killed in vehicle accidents were young children (younger than 10 years), and 20.8% were children 14 years or younger. During October, which was National Transport month, we were reminded just how vital the transportation sector is to our economy and our growing nation. The high road death toll remains a challenge that needs to be addressed, with too many accidents involving commercial vehicles. Children remain the most vulnerable road users and need to be empowered through road safety education initiatives. “To this end, Volvo Trucks works on various road safety initiatives, as well as develops innovative safety features for their products with the goal of making roads safer for all road users,” says Marcus Hörberg, Vice-President, Volvo Group Southern Africa. “The campaign was launched in South Africa in 2015 and regained momentum in June this year, and has since reached more than 9300 children nationally. “The initiative was successfully reinvigorated with the help of staff from Volvo Truck centres and head office staff that went to local schools in their areas and did the training with the kids. Volvo also offers the training material as a download for free on their website, and would like to encourage parents and community leaders alike to help empower the nation’s children and save their lives,” says Valentia Hobbs, Marketing Director at Volvo Trucks Southern Africa. The training material was specially developed to facilitate dialogues with the children in a fun and interactive manner, through various song and dance activities.

Oct-Nov 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

NEWS >>

4 000th FAW rolls off Coega production line F

AW South Africa’s world-class Coega assembly plant recently celebrated another production milestone with the assembly of the 4 000th FAW in South Africa. With a presence in South Africa dating 24 years, FAW’s assembly plant has become the bedrock for further investments in the Eastern Cape. Inaugurated in July 2014, the plant was the first large-scale investment made by a China-based company in the region. In fact, it is still one of the largest foreign direct investments ever made in Coega. FAW’s R600-million plant currently provides employment for 120 people on a permanent basis, contributing positively to the overall unemployment rate in the province. Some 951 training hours have been completed year-to-date, with the training provided focusing on health and safety as well as skills development. Several health and safety practices are monitored and enforced at the site. In fact, since the plant’s opening in 2014, the facility has an enviable health and safety record. Each assembly station has been ergonomically designed for optimum employee work efficiency to ensure optimum employee wellbeing. No fewer than 89 innovations and improvements have been implemented at the plant in recent years, with the majority of these innovations and improvements proposed by the assembly staff. Furthermore, FAW SA has developed and incorporated numerous policies and procedures to ensure effective waste management at the plant.

Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

FAW SA prides itself on ensuring that the plant operates according to the environmental standards put into place by the Coega IDZ. The plant has increased production to include almost all FAW commercial vehicles sold in the sub-Saharan region today. It has produced 1 061 vehicles in the past 13 months alone (averaging 81 vehicles a month), which are either sold locally or exported into Southern Africa. FAW SA has a rigid quality control procedure that all vehicles must pass before these vehicles are given the green light. No less than seven quality checkpoints are in place to ensure that all vehicles that roll off the production line are of the highest build quality. To date, a total of 16 different models have been assembled at the plant in Coega, ranging from the ever popular 8.140 to the landmark vehicle, a 420hp FAW 33.420FT truck tractor, which is the newest model in the company’s extra-heavy commercial vehicle range, and is the successor to the popular FAW 28.380FT. Total FAW exports reached 159 units in 2016, which rose to 212 units in 2017, establishing FAW as the second-largest commercial vehicle exporter in South Africa. This is further testimony to the brand’s promise to build quality vehicles in South Africa for Africa. Customer demand for locally built FAW trucks, meanwhile, has increased exponentially in the last three years, primarily due to their assembly quality and speed to market. And the brand set a new total sales record in 2017, despite the tough economic environment.

Fuso announces price savings F

ollowing the successful launch of Fuso’s new brand claim of, ‘Simply Better Trucks’, underpinned by the Brand’s trio proposition of reliability and quality, value for money and best service support, Fuso have announced price savings. “We believe in giving our customers and the market, the best value for money, and that is our simple, but better trucks,” says Ziyad Gaba, Head: Fuso Trucks Southern Africa. Fuso is preparing to wow its customers by putting out massive savings on six of its models within the Fuso Range, as a showcase of not just what value customers can derive from the Fuso brand, but also showing the very finest innovation in the truck segment. From construction to hospitality, farming to mining, big business to small, Fuso is offering customers competitive finance packages on the following model variants: FUSO FE7-136 at only R5 988 pm • Offer calculated on a FE7-136 chassis cab. Retail price: R363 000. Sales price: R316 160. Term: 60 months. Interest rate: Prime + 1% (11%). Deposit: R47 424. Balloon 25%: R79 040. Total instalments/ Repayments: R441 920. FUSO FA9-137 at only R6000 pm • Offer calculated on a FUSO FA9-137 chassis cab. Retail price: R395 700. Sales price: R319 300. Term: 60 months. Interest rate: Prime + 1% (11%). Deposit: R47 895. Balloon 25%: R79 825. Total instalments/ Repayments: R443 425.

FUSO FJ16-230 LWB at only R10 823 pm • Offer calculated on a FUSO FJ16-230 LWB chassis cab. Retail price: R709 700. Sales price: R557 900. Term: 60 months. Interest rate: Prime + 1% (11%). Deposit: R83 685. Balloon 25%: R139 475. Total instalments/Repayments: R792 455. FUSO FJ26-280 at only R16 069 pm • Offer calculated on a FJ26-280 chassis cab. Retail price: R952 800. Sales price: R848 400. Term: 60 months. Interest rate: Prime + 1% (11%). Deposit: R127 260. Balloon 25%: R212 100. Total instalments/ Repayments: R1 106 216. Applicable to all offers stipulated above: • Trade-in assistance of up to 95% on current retail chassis/cab price is valid only on selected competitor models up to 15 ton, fitted with volume or dropside body. • Finance provided by FUSO Finance, a division of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services South Africa (Pty) Ltd, an Authorized Financial Services (Licence No.18 604) and Credit Provider (License No.NCRCP80). • Pricing excludes body • Subject to Stock availability • Offer valid while stocks last By far, we are offering our customers and the market highly competitive instalments within the segment, but we will not stop there. We are also offering our customers trade-in assistance of up to 95% of the current retail price on selected competitor models.

FUSO FK13-240 at only R10 556 pm • Offer calculated on a FK13-240 chassis cab. Retail price: R620 100. Sales price: R553 900. Term: 60 months. Interest rate: Prime + 1% (11%). Deposit: R83 085. Balloon 25%: R138 475. Total instalments/ Repayments: R775 435. FUSO FJ16-230 SWB at only R10 664 pm • Offer calculated on a FUSO FJ16-230 SWB chassis cab. Retail price: R698 600. Sales price: R563 000. Term: 60 months. Interest rate: Prime + 1% (11%). Deposit: R84 450. Balloon 25%: R140 750. Total instalments/Repayments: R784 190.

Oct-Nov 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

NEWS >>

The Dunlop brand celebrates 130 years M

ulti-award winning tyre brand Dunlop, manufactured by Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (SRSA), kicked off its 130-year birthday celebrations across South Africa in October this year. The Dunlop brand is known for its impressive history in the tyre industry, pioneering ground-breaking innovations and developing quality products that consumers know and continue to trust. Speaking on the brand’s successful history, Riaz Haffejee CEO of SRSA, manufacturers of the Dunlop brand said, “We acquired the Dunlop brand in 2013, and it has been a privilege to take a brand with such a rich heritage and continue its amazing journey. Dunlop’s legacy of quality and reliability is why it has stood the test of time. At SRSA we are committed to serving our customers with excellence and, as the custodian of the #SaferthanSafe initiative, quality and safe products remain our top priority.”

Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

John Boyd Dunlop laid the foundation for one of the world’s most iconic brands when he invented the first practical pneumatic tyre. Since then the brand has achieved many significant milestones, such as: •

• • • • •

Dunlop and Bentley winning their first victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Grand Prix of Endurance in 1924; Opening the first Dunlop factory in Durban, South Africa in 1935; Providing the aviation industry with the first antilock braking device, the “Maxaret; Developing aquajet tyres - the first ever aquaplaning-resistant tyre; Opening the first Dunlop steel-radial tyre factory in Ladysmith in 1973; Celebrating the launch, in 2018, of the Ladysmith truck and bus radial tyre factory, the culmination of R2-billion investment into upgrading the

entire plant into a world-class manufacturing facility. Customers and staff alike shared their enthusiasm regarding the impressive 130-year achievement. “Dunlop is the tyre brand that took my parents and grandparents places, helped them make memories, and is a big part of who we are as a family today. The Dunlop brand is a proudly South African household name to me,” said Kenneth Botha of Cuyler Service Centre. “The brand ‘Dunlop’ is more than a tyre brand. In most parts of Africa, especially in countries like Nigeria and Zambia, Dunlop has achieved an iconic status. Even after decades of existence, it is still amongst the most trusted brands in Africa. The ‘D’

NEW

of Dunlop is one of the most recognised symbols in the tyre industry, and we feel privileged to represent the brand in many countries in Africa,” said Govind Ram, DWA Tyre Group. Stephen Orr, Group Manager: Business Development at SRSA, has been employed at the company for over 10 years. He said, “Under SRSA, we have seen the Dunlop brand grow from strength to strength! This is due to the company’s commitment to customer service, quality and safety. I am proud to work for a brand that is so passionate about its products.” As a household name with an impressive track record of firsts, and a firm favourite with consumers, Dunlop was again voted the #1 Tyre Brand by consumers this year. This win comes as the sixth triumph since 2009 and is testimony that Dunlop continues to be the brand of choice.

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NEWS >>

Support for Automechanika Truck Competence continues to grow

his year’s 25th Automechanika Frankfurt trade fair for the automotive aftermarket, which took place in Germany from 11-15 September, had a great deal to offer for truck, van, bus, and trailer operators, as well as for service providers to this segment of the motor industry. More than 1 000 companies showcased products on stands displaying the orange Truck Competence logo, while this year’s event featured the first Truck Competence Symposium as well as discussion panels and training workshops for commercial vehicle professionals. The symposium, themed ‘Trends in Commercial Vehicle Service’, focused on electromobility and digitisation. It also featured presentations and discussion groups looking at the challenges faced by commercial vehicle service centres, particularly in Europe, where massive changes in hardware as well as operating systems are taking place rapidly. Connectivity between vehicles and service providers was also explored in depth.

10 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

In addition, training workshops for commercial vehicle professionals were organised all day on each of the five days of the show. Here the focus was on: “Dealing with sensor and camera-based driver assistance systems in everyday workshop life.” “Automechanika Frankfurt has responded to the growing importance of the commercial vehicle market for workshops and replacement parts dealers by continuing to grow and widen the scope of its support programme for this market segment,” explained Olaf Musshoff, Director of Automechanika. An increasing number of digital technologies and intelligent and networked systems are already being used in commercial vehicles, as well as in servicing these vehicles. It is a trend that was reflected in the products and innovations on display from Truck Competence exhibitors at the recent Automechanika in Frankfurt. Already there are smartphone and tablet apps for training and providing instructions for servicing and repairing commercial vehicles, as well as the online ordering of replacement and service parts.

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TECHNOLOGY >>

he long-term goal is to offer companies that need continuous transport services between fixed hubs a complement to today’s offerings. Growing world population and increasing urbanization is leading to significant challenges to solve environmental issues such as congestion, pollution and noise. Rising consumption, the fast growth of e-commerce, and the wide-spread shortage of drivers put higher demands on efficient transport solutions. “The full potential of the transport industry is yet to be seen. Everything suggests that the global need for transportation will continue to significantly increase in the coming decade. If we are to meet this demand in a sustainable and efficient way, we must find new solutions. In order to secure a smoothly functioning goods flow system we also need to exploit existing infrastructure better than currently. The transport system we are developing can be an important complement to today’s solutions and can help meet many of the challenges faced by society, transport companies and transport buyers,” says Claes Nilsson, President Volvo Trucks. Volvo Trucks’ future transport solution is intended to be used for regular and repetitive tasks characterised by relatively short distances, large volumes of goods, and high delivery precision. Transports between logistic hubs are typical examples, but additional use cases can also be applicable.

12 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

“Our system can be seen as an extension of the advanced logistics solutions that many industries already apply today. Since we use autonomous vehicles with no exhaust emissions and low noise, their operation can take place at any time of day or night. The solution utilises existing road infrastructure and load carriers, making it easier to recoup costs and allowing for integration with existing operations,” explains Mikael Karlsson, Vice-President Autonomous Solutions. The operation is handled by autonomous electric vehicles linked to a cloud service and a transport control centre. The vehicles are equipped with sophisticated systems for autonomous driving. They are designed to locate their current position to within centimetres, monitor in detail and analyse what is happening with other road users, and then respond with high accuracy. The transport control centre continuously monitors the progress of the transport and keeps an accurate watch of each vehicle’s position, the batteries’ charge, load content, service requirements and a number of other parameters. As with an industrial production process, speed and progress are tailored to avoid unnecessary waiting, and to increase delivery precision. In this way it will be possible to minimise waste in the form of buffer stocks, and increase availability. Vehicles that operate on the same route cooperate to create optimal flow. In the near future, Volvo Trucks’ transport solution will be further developed, together with selected customers in prioritized applications.

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TECHNOLOGY >>

MAN Truck & Bus presents innovations at IAA Commercial vehicle manufacturer MAN Truck & Bus presented its innovations to the world under the trade show motto “Simplifying Business”.

lectric mobility, digitalisation and autonomous driving were the main topics of discussion at the recent IAA in Hanover, and MAN aimed to provide simple solutions to these complex questions. “To do so, we create solutions tailored to the needs of our customers, and help them to make their businesses simpler, more profitable, more sustainable and future-proof,” says Joachim Drees, Chairman of the Executive Board at MAN Truck & Bus AG. MAN has therefore developed new vehicles and also introduced digital solutions to the specialist audience in Hanover. For example, these digital solutions help to optimise vehicle analysis and maintenance management. The future of goods and passenger transport in the city is electric At the IAA, MAN showcased the MAN eTGE, a battery-electric version of the new MAN van, in addition to a fully electric distribution truck, the MAN eTGM. MAN is one of the first manufacturers to present fully electric solutions for the entire field of city logistics between three and 26 tons.

14 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

Joachim Drees believes this is the most important application area for electrically driven commercial vehicles: “Urban areas are the best stage for e-trucks to demonstrate their strengths. They are emissions-free locally, and thus contribute to improving the air quality in cities. They are also very quiet, which means, in the future for example, delivering to supermarkets could be done at night – day-time traffic could be reduced. We believe that the future of goods and passenger transport in the city is electric.” The trade show highlight was the MAN CitE, an electrically driven city truck full of new ideas and creative solutions. The 15-tonne vehicle was uncompromisingly designed for inner city distribution transport. Because delivery drivers in urban areas can enter and exit their vehicles up to 30 times a day, the CitE has an unusually low entry height and especially wide doors, with the co-driver’s door opening at the press of a button. The cockpit is ergonomic perfection, affording the driver an excellent panoramic view due to a low seat position and large side windows.

Platooning The truck platooning system developed by MAN is already undergoing practical testing. An electronic drawbar connects two or more trucks together here; the first truck determines the speed and direction, the truck behind automatically follows at a very short distance of only about 10-15 metres. The convoy saves up to ten per cent in fuel by using slipstreams. There is also a driver in the following vehicle so that, if required, they can intervene and override the system.

Additionally, the CitE employs a 360-degree camera system to provide the greatest possible level of safety and to eliminate dangerous blind spots. The CitE is purely electrically driven and has a range of 100 kilometres. Joachim Drees says: “The CitE is more than a vehicle concept; it’s our answer to the requirements of goods transport in the city.” A close-to-series prototype of the MAN Lion’s City E also made its debut at this year’s IAA. The electric bus is driven by a central motor on the driven axle, which allows space for an optimised seating area in the rear, providing the bus with up to four additional seats.

“Platooning significantly reduces CO2 emissions, and also ensures noticeably more safety on the motorway. It only takes five milliseconds for the electronic system of the following truck to react to the brake impulse of the vehicle in front – faster than any human can. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the number of serious rear-end collisions on the motorway,” says Drees. Since the end of June, an MAN platoon has been carrying out trips on the A9 motorway between Munich and Nuremberg as part of a pilot project. Together with DB Schenker, the commercial vehicle manufacturer is testing how this technology performs in real road traffic. The field trial is being monitored by the Fresenius University of Applied Sciences, which is investigating the effects on the drivers.

The batteries are crash-proof, located on the roof to save space, allow for a range of up to 270 kilometres and can be charged in just three hours.

The automatic emergency braking assistant provides increased safety, along with the camera monitor system which allows drivers to make turns more easily and is expected to prevent serious accidents due to blind spots.

The next step takes place in 2020, when a demo fleet of electric buses will be tested in different European cities in everyday use, before series production of the battery-electric version of the new MAN Lion’s City will finally begin. This comprehensive testing will ensure that the vehicles are highly reliable, as is needed for public transport.

The MAN aFAS system, which was shown at the TRATON stand at the trade show, has already proven its implementation-readiness. Because of repeated, serious rear-end collisions on motorways involving rolling safety vehicles, MAN has digitally linked two vehicles, so that the rear safety vehicle can be operated without a driver.

Oct-Nov 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

FUEL >>

Beating the costs with natural gas There are many reasons why Natural Gas is increasingly becoming the fuel choice for many commercial fleets. Top of the list are the economic advantages.

hen compared to petrol, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), natural gas is the most economic transport fuel alternative. As of 26 September 2018, it was R7.10c less per litre than 95 octane petrol in Johannesburg.

The chemical compositions of Natural Gas allow CNG vehicles to burn much cleaner than traditionally fuelled vehicles. In addition to the far cheaper per-unit cost of Natural Gas, it is one of the safest transport fuels available.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;South Africa has witnessed sustained increases in fuel prices for the past few months, which placed a strain on the consumers,â&#x20AC;? Minister of Energy, Jeff Radebe

It is much cleaner than petrol and diesel, with up to 27% less CO2, NOX, HC and PM emitted compared with other fossil fuels. This is not just of environmental importance; the cleaner fuel significantly lowers vehicle maintenance and running costs, with less contamination and residue build-up across engine components.

NGV Gas, the natural gas provider of commercial fleets and a division of CNG Holdings, is enabling the growth of gas-powered transport in South Africa through a rapidly expanding compressed natural gas distribution network of standalone and in-house fuelling stations in Gauteng, and soon in KwaZuluNatal, too. In recent years, technology has improved significantly to allow for an increase in Natural Gas vehicles, particularly for fuel-intensive vehicle fleets, such as public transport and commercial vehicles. Why Natural Gas Vehicles? Natural gas, being the cleanest burning alternative transportation fuel available today, offers an opportunity to meet the soon to be established carbon emission restraints of the Carbon Tax Bill. In addition, natural gas is very safe, because it is lighter than air - in the event of an accident it simply dissipates into the air, instead of forming a dangerously flammable pool on the ground like other liquid fuels. This also contributes to the prevention of ground pollution.

16 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

Since CNG is a cleaner burning fuel, it leaves little or no residue compared with other fuels. Thus, the damage to the pipes and tubes of the vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engine is greatly reduced. There is also less particulate matter that can contaminate the motor oil. This results in longer periods in between maintenance procedures such as tune-ups and oil changes. As a result, owners of CNG-powered vehicles enjoy bigger savings on maintenance costs. Natural gas vehicles could serve as a better economic alternative for large fleets of vehicles that drive many miles a day. Taxis, transit and school buses, airport shuttles, construction vehicles, garbage trucks, delivery vehicles, and public works vehicles can all be well suited to natural gas fuelling. Because these vehicles are centrally maintained and fuelled, it is economical and beneficial to convert to Natural Gas.

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January 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

INDUSTRY NEWS >>

Portland and FAW strengthen ties Based in Cape Town, Portland is part of the Portland Group of companies, which primarily focuses on the construction industry, and owns a fleet of 27 FAW trucks.

he company produces quality aggregates from the natural Malmesbury Hornfels deposits in its 65-hectare quarry in Durbanville, and also provides a range of concretes to large construction sites, shopping malls and office blocks, as well as to residential properties and low-cost housing projects. In 2008, it expanded its operations to include manufacturing, installation and transport of precast hollow core slabs, which it handles through its specialised Hollowcore division. Today the family business, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2018, owns a total of 27 FAW trucks. Each of these vehicles is supplied with a full maintenance contract, which FAW Cape Town takes care of. While the company was the first in the city to take delivery of a FAW 33.420FT recently, the first batch of FAW trucks it ever bought took place some eight years ago. It is now on its third buying cycle with FAW.

18 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

“There were two important factors for us: purchase price and quality of the backup provided,” explains Portland’s managing director, Nico Heyns. “Of these two factors, after-sales backup is the most important to me.” Apart from the quarry, Portland also run a number of FAW 28.380 FT 6x4 truck tractors with flat-deck trailers, up and down the Cape Peninsula, with payloads of up to 28 tons, and GCM of around 63 tons. Heyns initially bought six FAW 28.380FTs equipped with flat-deck trailers, as a trial to test FAW and its products first-hand. “I was left impressed after analysing the fuel consumption figures and calculating the parts and maintenance costs. FAW’s warranty promise and level of service back-up confirmed my decision - that’s why the entire fleet has been converted to the FAW brand exclusively,” Heyns explains.

While most of its ready-mix vehicles do not drive long distances, the terrain in the company’s quarry is steep, with long inclines and, therefore, highly demanding on the vehicles that operate in it. In addition, ready-mix concrete cannot be left to harden inside vehicle drums. Concrete is, in fact, a delicate product to both handle and transport, and complete vehicle breakdowns are completely out of the question. This is partly why Portland has adopted a strict truck renewal policy which sees it trade in its trucks every three years for brand-new vehicles. This ensures that maximum uptime is achieved. Truck maintenance is set at 300-hour intervals, with the FAW trucks working 12 hours per day, five days a week. Apart from the full maintenance contracts, FAW Cape Town provides the company with an onsite technician, whose job it is to sort out minor electrical issues and the like, as they occur. Portland has become well known in the province for its impeccable fleet of mixer trucks, which are always clean and in pristine condition. Apart from creating an impressive corporate identity, its strict maintenance procedure means that the demand for used Portland trucks is extremely good in the Western Cape, because they are so well looked after. Heyns explains that he first heard about the FAW brand after reading up about the company. Back

in 2014, Portland and other key FAW customers travelled to China to visit the FAW drum and engine factories for themselves. This visit drastically changed Heyns’s opinion of Chinese trucks and the quality of Chinese products in general. “FAW are also prepared to listen to us in order to solve our problems. We have given them input on the trucks and they have responded to this feedback positively,” he says. A Chinese FAW delegation was later sent to South Africa to view Heyns’s vehicles and make technical changes as per his unique requirements. “They were able to change the wheelbase to ensure that no overloading is taking place, as per South African legislation. This is critical for us because our trucks cannot leave the quarry in an illegal or unroadworthy condition.” Over the years Nico and the Heyns family have enjoyed a cordial relationship with Vernon Rudman, dealer principal at FAW Cape Town. Rudman visits the company frequently and has celebrated several milestones with the Heyns family. “FAW Cape Town and Vernon are always available and willing to help us. As customers, we appreciate that we can speak to senior management if needs be. Usually this is not necessary, as FAW Cape Town is perfectly capable of handling any concerns we may have. Overall, we have an excellent working relationship with each other,” Heyns confirms.

Oct-Nov 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

INDUSTRY NEWS >>

Strong demand for Hino Trucks with automatic transmission The fully automatic transmissions available as an option on Hino trucks in South Africa are proving very popular with customers.

aunched first in the 300 range, in 2015, it is now available on most models in the new, Hino 500 Wide Cab range of trucks of 16-tons and above. More than 60% of 300 models sold this year are fitted with automatics and dealer orders for 500 Wide Cab models are running at 80% in favour of the automatic option. “We are delighted with the uptake on our models with automatic transmission, with customers enjoying benefits in terms of lower fuel consumption, no clutch replacement and subsequent downtime, as well as having a driver that is less stressed, which results in less vehicle damage and fewer accidents,” explained Ernie Trautmann, vice-president of Hino South Africa. Hino SA is performing well this year in a fairly static truck and bus market, with its market share up in all categories of the local truck market after nine months. Hino’s share of the MCV market stood at 30.5% at the end of September, and 24.2% year-to-date. Hino’s share of the HCV market was 29.2%% and 21.1% year-to-date, while Hino’s total market at the end of September 2018 was 15.9% and 12.7% year-to-date. Hino SA expects its local truck sales to grow by 22.3% in 2018, going from 3 681 units (including Toyota Dyna) in 2017 to 4 500 units this year, despite a predicted flat overall market for the SA truck and bus industry.

20 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

The Toyota Dyna, which is now marketed as an LCV, and, as such, no longer requires a Code 10 licence, is driving the increase in sales this year since this model was moved out of the MCV in 2017. Dyna sales jumped by 36% from 2016 (499 units) to 2017 (681 units) and in the first nine months of 2018 Dyna sales of 834 units already far exceed the 2017 total. Dyna now accounts for about 18% of cab-over sales in the LCV segment. The Dyna has particular appeal for small businesses where it can replace a one-ton pick-up and deliver better productivity with its larger load space. Dynas can be ordered from Toyota dealers as a van or with the standard dropside model, while Hino dealers usually provide custom bodies to suit specific customer needs. Dropsides still make up about 80% of Dyna sales. The Hino sales and manufacturing teams are benefiting from a build-toorder production planning concept which prioritises the build on the assembly line to shorten lead times and so better supply customer needs. “The local truck market hasn’t grown much in the past four years, and we don’t see the situation changing this year, but we are confident Hino will remain a major player,” concluded Trautmann.

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INDUSTRY NEWS >>

Companies urged to prepare for AARTO Updated AARTO legislation will impact on the lives of all drivers and transport company owners and operators.

n keeping with the 2018 theme, “Together we move South Africa Forward”, author of the Road Traffic & Road Transport Legislation Service and Manuals published by LexisNexis, Alta Swanepoel explains the major Alta Swanepoel difference between AARTO and the current system: “AARTO is an Administrative Adjudication process which to an extent decriminalises certain traffic offences. The current system results in the issuing of a fine in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 for committing a criminal offence in terms of the National Road Traffic Act of 1996 (as amended).” Approved by the National Assembly in September 2017 and now with the National Council of Provinces for approval, the Amendment Bill heralds significant changes. Piloted in Tshwane and also implemented in Johannesburg, the AARTO Act has been in force since 2008. Once the AARTO

22 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov2018

Amendment Bill is approved, the AARTO Act will be applied nationally. “It is important for companies to familiarise themselves with AARTO now so that they can train their drivers and put systems in place to manage their risk,” says Swanepoel. The Amendment Bill will also introduce a far more effective system for the delivery of documents. Where documents previously had to be delivered by registered mail through the post office, in terms of the amendment, authorities will now also be able to serve documents via e-mail and to send reminders via WhatsApp and SMS. These notices will be considered as having been delivered, eliminating the potential for offenders to avoid receiving notices via registered mail, delivered through the postal system. “The AARTO process starts with an infringement notice advising the road user of the penalty, discounts and payment deadline. This is then followed up with a courtesy letter to pay. Failure to make payment at this point will result in an enforcement order being issued and the imposition of a NaTIS block on obtaining driving and vehicle licences, in addition to an administrative fee. AARTO originally included a warrant of execution of property – a process, where offenders’ property could be seized and sold to cover the penalties and fees.

In terms of AARTO, it is the duty of operators of transport services to know who is driving their vehicles at all times, so that individual offenders can be dealt with. Drivers will have zero demerit points when the provisions on demerit points are promulgated, even if they have existing cases that have not been finalised.

However, this process has not been used at all and has been removed in the amendment,” says Swanepoel. A controversial change to the Bill is that the option for offenders to elect to appear in court to challenge the prosecution has been removed. Abuse of this option by infringers in Tshwane and Johannesburg resulted in a backlog in the court system. Swanepoel says that Parliament therefore took the decision to eliminate this option. “In terms of the proposed amendment, an offender may make representation to the Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA). If this is unsuccessful, the next step is to appeal to a Special Appeals Tribunal,” she says.

Depending on the severity of the offence, 1-6 points are allocated for offences. If an Infringer has more than 12 points, it will result in the disqualification of the driving licence, and three suspensions result in its cancellation. Operators are responsible for the roadworthiness of their vehicles and will earn demerit points, which could result in their vehicles’ licence discs being suspended. Current legislation is contained in the LexisNexis Road Traffic and Road Transport Legislation Service, as well as in the Road Traffic Legislation Manuals. These publications are available in online and print format and are updated immediately upon promulgation of any new or amending legislation.

The Bill proposed that if the appeal failed, the offender could only take the case to the High Court. Following concerns raised in wellattended public hearings, in light of the pending introduction of demerit points and the possibility that licences could be suspended and cancelled, the National Council of Provinces is now reviewing this aspect. One of the options discussed is that offenders will be able to take their cases to the Magistrates’ Court.

Oct-Nov 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

TRAINING >>

Volvo group invests in driver learnership programme Volvo Group Southern Africa invested R1.9 million in the advanced development and training of 20 unemployed commercial vehicle drivers. 12-month learnership in June 2019, will graduate with a National Certificate in Professional Driving from the Commercial Transport Academy (CTA) in Bredell. The qualification, which is approved by the Transport Education Training Authority, is based on both theoretical and practical modules.

n 2017, Volvo Group decided to donate funds on behalf of its employees to various markets around the world to assist in resolving the different challenges faced in local markets and to drive prosperity in these communities. Sixteen projects were selected by a committee of employee representatives from AB Volvo Board, members of the Executive Board and Martin Lundstedt, President and CEO of the Volvo Group. The newly established Volvo Group Driver Learnership programme in South Africa is the direct result of this initiative. Locally, this programme is supported by Volvo Group brands, Volvo Trucks and UD Trucks, with product-specific training provided by the brands’ highly-skilled driver trainers. “We are very proud to be able to make a tangible contribution to the development of local transport industry. With an acute need for qualified and skilled drivers, we believe this programme will start to address this industry wide problem in a very practical, yet impactful way,” said Marcus Hörberg, vicepresident of Volvo Group Southern Africa. “Transport is key to economic growth in this region, and if we are able to upskill and empower commercial vehicle drivers, it will help drive development, prosperity and growth.” The first intake of drivers started their learnership in July 2018, and after they have completed the

24 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

“Learnerships are not new. However it is in the alignment of new knowledge learnt and its application in the workplace that differentiates this programme,” said Nicci Scott, founder of CTA. “We purposefully select unit standards that speak to stakeholder management, be it the customer, the employer or the driver’s role in acting responsibly, with safety as the key focus. Additionally, we ensure that via our strategic partnership with Trucklogix, our learners spend a minimum of 400 hours driving over four seasons and across nine provinces.” Hörberg said that the aim of the programme is to enhance the capacity of professional drivers, and to ultimately enable them to contribute to their future employers’ fleet productivity, safety, profitability and efficiency. One of the learners is 39-year old Thabo Ratshoene, who has experience as a truck operator in the mining and construction industry. “I am very grateful to be part of this learnership programme, and even though I am an experienced truck driver, I believe this qualification will enable me to advance my career and open new opportunities for me. One day, I would like to be a driver trainer myself, and all the knowledge and experience gained through this course will enable me to perhaps one day fulfil my dream,” said Ratshoene. Hörberg said this driver learnership programme is a long-term programme for the company. “Once the first group has graduated, we will be looking to specifically enrol and develop more women drivers – a demographic group we believe has great potential to positively impact on the industry, and society at large, as truck and bus operators,” said Hörberg.

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TYRES >>

The hidden costs of cheap tyres When it seems as though there’s always more money left at the end of the month, it’s worth taking a longer-term perspective, particularly when it comes to buying items as essential to safety as tyres. Cheap ones will cost you more in the long term.

n the transport industry, managing operational costs closely is the difference between success and failure. With large volumes and big fleets, a matter of a few rands directly affects returns and, ultimately, profits. And tyres are the one area where a slightly higher capital spend on quality products is likely to deliver a greater return in terms of lower operational costs over the full lifetime of the tyre. Vernon Slack, Bridgestone SA Small Medium & Large Fleet Executive, points out that compromising on tyre quality is a massive long-term risk. “It isn’t just a question of the longer life you can expect from premium brands. It is also a question of the performance of that tyre over its lifespan. Quality tyres will deliver better grip, they will handle repeated loads and the stresses of the road better, they will retread better, and they do contribute to a safer fleet.”

Bridgestone; Vernon Slack

26 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

He agrees, however, that like many other industries, transport is under multiple pressures, but warns against the temptation to look for cost-cutting shortcuts. “Operators are facing major budget pressures, but it’s crucial to bear in mind that invoice price is just one component of tyre cost. Instead, consider total cost of ownership, which should also factor in the supplier’s value-add services and support network which helps keep your vehicles on the road.”

Slack acknowledges the creeping diesel price, high tolls, escalating driver wages and increasing cost of capital as factors with which transport operators must contend. There’s also no shortage of competition, which means securing business can depend on competitive costs; he says operators should advise their customers of their choice of quality products which underpin greater reliability and dependability. “There are other factors too, such as deteriorating road conditions. When you’re using quality tyres with quality backing, your vehicles enjoy an advantage on these roads as they are less likely to suffer punctures or damage which will affect deliveries, and also in the longer term, better retread ability,” he notes. Good support doesn’t just mean the availability of help on the road. It also means the availability of financial assistance to smooth cash flow that makes potentially difficult capital expenditure decisions easier. “Cash flow is a challenge for all businesses, and we do our best to help our customers address challenges of this nature,” Slack says. No price on safety There’s no shortage of examples of poorly maintained or equipped heavy vehicles being involved in catastrophic accidents which come with massive human cost and property damage. Slack says responsible transport operators are acutely aware of this reality. “Cost cutting on equipment which is essential to the safe operation of a vehicle is never advisable. There is always a higher price to pay later. If you’re lucky, it could be tyres which wear out prematurely. If you aren’t, it could be vehicles which have left the road, leaving a load undelivered – and potentially far more serious consequences.” When it comes to tyres, quality also means manufacturers are doing more than just churning out rubber. There are also investments in research and development, some of it into the materials that go into a tyre. Some of it goes into investigating better ways of tracking performance in the field and delivering support when and where it is required. “At Bridgestone we are seeing the rewards of such investments, and are today enjoying the number one international brand ranking, an accolade we share with our customers,” says Slack. “Quality also includes a reliable network of service providers working off an audited service menu, using the latest technology tools to make sure tyre trouble doesn’t stop those wheels turning,” he says. For example, tyre-pressure monitoring technology is being used to alert drivers and control room staff about tyres that might need attention. This raises the possibility of proactive maintenance, sorting out a tyre before it bursts or shreds. Experimental Internet

of Things (IoT) applications for the tyre industry are being examined: the IoT will allow tyres to report a range of data straight into your control room. Combined with the data from multiple transporters, and analysed by powerful software, Slack says this could soon deliver the capability to predict tyre failure before it happens, schedule maintenance intelligently and provide in-depth financial management of tyre lifecycles. “More accurate data from analytics will allow for quicker and more precise business decisions to drive costs down and improve efficiency all round,” he notes. Slack argues that quality is the foundation of a sustainable, responsible and prosperous transport operation. “When your tread offers better grip and lasts longer, and when your tyre casing is tougher to handle road conditions and retreads better, the cost of the product over the full lifecycle is competitive. But what price would you put on safety?” But quality has an overhead which should be applied regardless of the tyres selected. He explains: “Even the best tyres need regular maintenance. That means checking pressures regularly as an integral part of overall vehicle maintenance. Tyres are part of a system; suspension components affect wear and performance, and so should be appropriately maintained.”

Oct-Nov 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

NEW MODELS >>

New name, same dependability The Isuzu KB has been a household name in the commercial and leisure vehicle markets over the past 40 years, with a proud heritage built on an outstanding character of reliability, capability, durability and trust.

ow, the much-loved Isuzu bakkie range is creating an exciting new chapter as its name changes from KB to D-MAX, bringing it in line with global markets while retaining the proven qualities that have underlined its success – matched to an extensive range, enhanced styling and fantastic new features. “The Isuzu Motors South Africa operation is now fully integrated within the broader Isuzu Motors organisation and, as such, we are aligning our brand and product portfolio with the company’s global product strategy and naming conventions. The adoption of the D-MAX name is a natural next step for us as we launch the enhanced and expanded range for the South African market,” says Craig Uren, Executive Officer – Sales, Service and Marketing.

design and durability. ‘Max’ signifies Isuzu’s maximum approach to design, size, comfort, technology, performance, safety, durability and line-up. These qualities are reflected in the latest Isuzu D-MAX range, which boasts an expanded line-up of 30 models for South Africa and 13 models for export markets, all of which are assembled at the Struandale Assembly Plant in Port Elizabeth for the South African market, as well as for export to sub-Saharan Africa where the D-MAX name has been in use since 2013.

“Although the name has changed, the same trusted qualities that made the Isuzu bakkie a South African favourite over four decades continue with the wider and even better D-MAX range,” Uren adds.

Exclusive and upmarket LX range Visually, the biggest styling changes for the refreshed Isuzu D-MAX make their debut on the range-topping 3.0-Litre LX models, available in single, extended and double cab body styles. Central to the new look is a muscular new chromed radiator grille that dominates the front facia, along with new tapered chromed accents extending across the full length of the sleeker L-shaped headlight clusters.

The D-MAX name originated in Thailand, with the ‘D’ originally referring to the 2000 model year Isuzu bakkie which boasted the flush ‘Dragon Eyes’ headlamp design. It also represents Isuzu’s proud legacy in the production of diesel engines, the use of industrydefining direct injection, as well as ground-breaking

In combination with the new projector-type BiLED headlamps and LED daytime running lights introduced on the extended and double cab models, there are restyled foglamp bezels framed by chromed vertical accents that give the LX a distinctive and aggressive character.

28 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

Climb into the cabin, and the more upmarket look and feel of the LX models becomes immediately apparent, courtesy of the new soft-touch panels for the instrument cluster binnacle. The utility box lid is now embellished with the ‘Isuzu D-MAX logo’, and this is complemented by a new, more attractive high-quality grain for the dashboard and door trims, along with a piano-black finish on the air vent grilles and window switches. In contrast, the door handles, locking knob, and air vent knobs are picked out in chrome. The occupants also benefit from the fitment of the latest-generation infotainment system, incorporating an eight-inch full colour touchscreen that replaces the 6.5-inch version used in the previous model. The fully featured system incorporates the display for the rear-view camera, and facilitates Bluetooth hands-free cellphone use and audio streaming. Isuzu customers are also now able to select as an option, the all-new premium Alpine infotainment system that first debuted on the Isuzu mu-X sport utility vehicle (SUV). All-new six-speed transmissions One of the most significant new features of the 2018 Isuzu D-MAX range is the introduction of an all-new six-speed gearbox on the high-spec 3.0-Litre LX derivatives, replacing the five-speed versions used on the outgoing models. The six-speed manual benefits from optimised gear ratios and an improved shift action, and makes the most of the strong torque delivery and superb fuel economy of Isuzu’s dependable 3.0-litre four-cylinder intercooled turbo-diesel engine, which produces 130 kW of power and 380 Nm of torque. For fans of smooth-shifting automatics, the D-MAX offers the same six-speed transmission that recently debuted in the Isuzu mu-X SUV. This sophisticated gearbox delivers the ideal combination between refinement and responsive performance. The six-speed automatic incorporates a sequential sport mode that enables the driver to select a specific gear manually, which is helpful when towing, as the engine speed can be maintained in the ideal torque range for maximum pulling power. This mode is also ideally suited to off-road driving, allowing the driver to engage the appropriate gear ratio for the specific terrain. Combined with Hill Descent Control (HDC), manually selecting the lowest

gear on downhills ensures optimal control of the vehicle as it maintains the vehicle at the set speed on steep descents. Enhanced driving safety On the safety front, the ABS brakes on all D-MAX LX models are now equipped with Isuzu’s Brake Override System (BOS) for the first time. The system restricts accelerator input if the brake pedal is applied simultaneously, thereby reducing stopping distances in an emergency. The standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control has also been bolstered with the addition of Trailer Sway Control (TSC) that detects and minimises the effect of a trailer or caravan beginning to sway from side to side. The Hi-Rider and LE models can be equipped with an optional towbar package rated to tow a braked trailer up to a maximum load of 2.1 tons, while the standard heavy-duty unit on the 3.0-litre 4x4 LX derivatives comes standard and is capable of hauling 3.5 tons. As before, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) are included to assist the driver in all types of driving situations. These active safety features are available as a standard feature from the Fleetside Safety to the LX trim. Isuzu Workhorse - Single Cab The Isuzu D-MAX offers customers looking for a solid and dependable Single Cab workhorse plenty

Oct-Nov 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

NEW MODELS >>

of choice, courtesy of multiple trim levels: Base, Fleetside, Fleetside Safety, Hi-Rider, LE and rangetopping LX.

safety features: ABS-assisted brakes complement EBD, Brake Assist System, ESC with Traction Control and Hill Descent Control.

The Base model grade kicks off the line-up, and nowhere is its inherent diligence more evident than in what’s under the bonnet. The tough-as-nails 2.5-litre turbo-diesel powerplant is a model of elegant simplicity and efficiency, with 58kW of power and 176Nm of torque available from 1 800 rpm. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed gearbox, and customers can specify a locking differential as an option.

While capacity remains at 2 499 cc, the high-output common rail turbo-diesel engine is intercooled and boasts four valves per cylinder to produce a wellrounded 100kW of power, aided by a hefty torque output of 320Nm available across the ideal rev range from 1 800 to 2 800rpm.

The engine’s eager output reaches the road via 215/70 rubber on 16-inch steel wheels. Underslung leaf springs keep it on the level, even when laden with its maximum payload. Designed with effortless delivery in mind, it is exceptionally manoeuvrable with a turning circle of just 12.2 metres, and shares the range-wide fuel tank capacity of 80 litres. The Base model comes standard with a transponder immobiliser and is wired to accept an alarm system. The Fleetside has the identical mechanical specification, but benefits from a raised suspension, a tough sump guard and a 600mm wading depth, up 200 mm compared to the base model. A diff lock is optional, but air-conditioning is standard fitment for enhanced driver and passenger comfort. As with the base model, side impact protection beams are fitted along with height-adjustable belts and a centre lap belt for when the canvas-trimmed bench seat plays host to a third occupant. The third member of the Single Cab brigade is the Fleetside Safety. It adds dual airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners along with the full armada of active

30 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

Although the D-MAX range incorporates the familiar one-tonne bakkie variants, it can also be specified in Chassis Cab guise in Base, Fleetside and Fleetside Safety specification levels. The Chassis Cab models allow tailor-made bolt-on solutions to be fitted, such as refrigerated units or load compartments specially developed to suit customer requirements. The Chassis Cab can also be ordered with a factory-fitted flat load deck, or in Dropside guise for outstanding loadlugging versatility. Among the standard Isuzu D-MAX Single Cab models, the 250 Hi-Rider alludes to a more serious dualpurpose role and introduces a 4x4 drivetrain with low range and a standard differential lock. While the 100 kW/320 Nm engine does duty again, there’s more to pamper the occupants, including illuminated entry, powered exterior mirrors, remote central locking, power windows, keyless entry, a two-speaker radio with CD player, USB, and Bluetooth for phone and audio pairing. Unlike the lower-spec models that use a bench seat, the Hi-Rider has two separate cloth-covered seats, with the driver’s being height adjustable. Offering outstanding capability, features and value for money, the D-MAX LE 4x2 model ratchets up comfort,

convenience and security levels with additional equipment including front fog lamps, an ultrasonic alarm, speed-sensitive door locking, sliding rear window and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. The four-speaker audio system revolves around an eightinch touchscreen system. A brace of bakkies in sumptuous LX trim complete the single cab offerings. Along with more comfort comes much more performance – in the shape of Isuzu’s flagship 3.0-litre diesel engine. Turbocharged and intercooled and with a 16-valve head, its headline numbers of 130kW at 3 600rpm and 380 Nm from 1 800 to 2 800rpm stands users in good stead in a wide range of driving conditions. One of the major mechanical updates for the 2018 model year is the introduction of a six-speed manual gearbox to better utilise the power and torque and give drivers a wider selection of ratios. The LX models are available in a choice of two- or four-wheel drive configurations, and can be readily identified by the chrome rear bumper, chrome radiator grille, along with chrome to highlight exterior mirrors, door handles and foglamp surrounds. Cabin accoutrements at this level include chrome detailing, a new grain for the dashboard and door cappings, along with soft-touch padding on the instrument binnacle, glovebox lid and armrests. Park Distance Control (PDC) sensors are provided, along with Cruise Control and USB charging ports for the built-in eight-inch touchscreen audio system. Versatile Extended Cab The Isuzu D-MAX Extended Cab models provide superb functionality and versatility, with the rear doors opening backwards to reveal a pillarless opening for increased storage options, with LX models receiving a storage box as a standard feature. Hi-Rider and LX are the two trim grades offered with the Extended Cab. The D-MAX 250 Hi-Rider 4x2 is perfectly positioned in a sweet spot for those buyers wanting a practical, safe and comfortable solution at an affordable price. Drivetrain essentials are the 100 kW/320 Nm highoutput turbo-diesel, mated to a five-speed manual and driving the rear wheels, with a differential lock available as an option. Add in the raised suspension and 245/70 R16 tyres, and it will easily dispatch conditions that users may encounter, whether it be a visit to a construction site or weekend recreation. Like all Extended Cab models, it has high-riding suspension for confident driving and a commanding view. Ground clearance of 225 mm underpins its dual role functionality and there’s a front skid plate and a sump guard too.

Safety equipment is expansive: as well as anti-lock brakes (and the added benefits of EBD and BAS) there’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. Next in the Extended Cab offering is a pair of 4x2 LX models, powered by the venerable 3.0-litre powerplant, with a choice of the new six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. With its 130kW output and maximum torque of 380Nm available from 1 800 to 2 800rpm. Both have a differential lock and ride on 255/60R 18 tyres mounted on 18-inch alloy wheels, giving the maximum footprint. Ground clearance is 220 mm and the underbody protection matches that of the Hi-Rider derivative. A new safety features for the 2018 model year is Brake Override System (BOS) and Trailer Sway Control (TSC), fitted as standard on the 3.0 LX models. The flagship Extended Cab is a 4x4 LX version in a six-speed manual configuration and this is a noholds-barred all-terrain bakkie. A bash plate for the transfer case, which boasts a 2.482 reduction ratio, provide clues to its go-anywhere capabilities. Like all LX models in the Single and Extended Cab lineup, there’s a leather-trimmed steering wheel with multifunction controls for audio and cruise control, sliding rear window (a fixed window with defogger can be specified), six-speaker audio system with 8-inch touchscreen, one-touch up/down for the driver’s window, and variable/intermittent wiper control. The LX models boast the bright and highly effective Bi-LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, as well as LED rear combination tail lamps. Oct-Nov 2018 / Future Trucking & Logistics

INSURANCE >>

Why transport matters: The economy depends on it The recent Transport Month was an excellent time to reflect on the value of transport to our way of life says Morné Stoltz, Head of MiWay Business Insurance

t is essential to the economy and society: without transport, things would quite literally grind to a halt. So, while it is easy to bemoan the sight of yet another 18-wheeler on the freeway, bear in mind the crucial role that vehicle – and all others like it – play. As the Department of Transport’s theme for Transport Month 2018 states, “Together, we move South Africa forward”.

Moving the country forward depends on a strong and unrelenting focus on safety. There are many facets to road safety, including the suitability and roadworthiness of vehicles along with appropriate loading; the health, fitness and training of drivers, and the availability of insurance solutions to provide a level of protection for goods and vehicles in transit. Together, these factors contribute to transport that supports a healthy economy. Overloading Let us consider why overloading should be avoided. While it may be tempting to get as much as possible on to every vehicle, overloading increases the likelihood of an accident, while also causing excessive damage to vehicle and the road. In fact, overloaded vehicles are responsible for R400-million’s worth of unnecessary road damage per annum[i]. Overloading will damage a vehicle, particularly in the long run; it is therefore linked to roadworthiness. All vehicles should be maintained to a minimum standard, with essential safety equipment like brakes, indicators, steering components and tyres, regularly checked and kept in good operating condition. Unroadworthy vehicles are, quite simply, hazardous – not only to other road users, but also to their occupants. It is the responsibility of every driver and every transport operator, to keep their vehicles in good repair. Driver training Once failures in equipment are ruled out as the cause for safety compromises, the next major contributing factor to accidents is the human one. People make mistakes; the Automobile Association notes that the single biggest cause of road accidents is human error. This underscores the necessity for appropriate training for every driver. Not just truck drivers, although their contribution to transport is obviously substantial, but

32 Future Trucking & Logistics / Oct-Nov 2018

all drivers – an unsafe driver on a scooter can just as easily cause a major accident as a truck driver can. Health & safety Good driving also depends on good health. It is for this reason that the conditions to obtain a Professional Driver’s Permit, necessary for all commercial drivers, requires a certificate of medical fitness from a doctor. Additional qualifications are required for specific vehicles, too – as you can imagine, you cannot simply hop into the cab of an oversized truck and drive off. Personnel and goods in transit Keeping goods moving so that South Africa itself keeps moving forward can be a risky business, particularly given the realities of crime. It is not only hijacking that operators must be alert to, either. While the loss of a whole load and the vehicle can be a catastrophe, there is also petty crime to contend with. Increasing incidents of people simply “having a go” as a vehicle moves up a steep hill or stops at a traffic light means measures are necessary to secure cargoes from thieves who might just seize the moment (and some goods) when they see a chance. Risk mitigation It is on that note that the value of insurance for the transport industry becomes clear. Keeping complex supply chains moving always depends on the actions of many thousands of operators and hundreds of thousands of individuals. When something goes wrong, whether an accident, a crime or a breakdown of any sort, it is essential that there is recourse available; a single truck and trailer, for example, can cost well over a million rand and a single load could easily run to multi-millions. Losses through theft, crashes or other causes could quickly put transport operators out of business; insurance mitigates the many risks faced daily on the roads. Furthermore, someone who thinks in terms of risk and how to mitigate it, which an insured party is likely to do, means being aware of the risks faced and doing whatever is possible to manage them. Let us acknowledge the role played by trucks and other vehicles of all kinds. Like blood corpuscles circulating in a healthy body, their movement is central to the wellbeing of South Africa as a whole.

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