Fleet World December 2023

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fleetworld.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2023

CRYSTAL CALLS What’s in store for 2024?

We ask fleet industry experts

– IN THIS ISSUE – NEW MODELS Renault Clio Volvo EX30

EV SURVEY Analysing the key findings from UK fleets in association with

17 APRIL 2024

GIGACASTING What is it and why it could be a game-changer in the industry

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CONTENTS_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:27 Page 1

Contents December 2023 fleetworld.co.uk

06

06 Fleet 15 David Watson, CEO, Ohme, answers our questions

10 At large Gigacasting under the spotlight

12 Incoming

12

Fourth-generation Škoda Superb

14 Insurance Beware of short-term gains

17

32

17 Future of fleet Industry insiders advise on the outlook for fleets in 2024

26 SWOT Four mid-size EV contenders

30 Industry insight Fleet’s reaction to ICE ban delay

32 Supplier stories Brannan Coady, CEO, YourParkingSpace

36

EV SURVEY THE RESULTS

34 Dear DfBB How to best manage risk

36 Driven Renault Clio / Volvo EX30

39 Our fleet The FW long-termer stories

in association with

43 Our EV survey says...

43

UK fleet operators provide their insight and feedback on fleet electrification

48 Fantasy fleet

04

Nissan’s Tokyo showstopper, the Hyper Force concept

06

04 Driven Ford Transit Custom

06 Supplier stories...

Ruper Gatty of CoolKit

08 LCV telematics & software 10 PROFILE > Access Hire

fleetworld.co.uk

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publisher Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

account director Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

editor Fleet World John Challen john@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

circulation manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

editor-at-large Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

head of production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

business editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

designers Victoria Arellano Dan Bennett

editor Van Fleet World John Kendall john.kendall@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

head of marketing Shona Hayes shona@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

DECEMBER 2023

CRYSTAL CALLS What’s in store for 2024?

We ask fleet industry experts

– IN THIS ISSUE – NEW MODELS Renault Clio Volvo EX30

EV SURVEY Analysing the key findings from UK fleets in association with

17 APRIL 2024

GIGACASTING What is it and why it could be a game-changer in the industry

published by Stag Publications Ltd, 18 Alban Park, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Herts, AL4 0JJ tel +44 (0)1727 739160 fax +44 (0)1727 739169 email fw@fleetworldgroup.co.uk web fleetworld.co.uk To subscribe to Fleet World visit: fleetworldsubscriptions.co.uk

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John Challen editor

Stay up to date at fleetworld.co.uk

Change as good as a rest?

Maybe it’s better…

“One change that I’m not fully onboard with is the elimination of physical buttons in a car”

I’ve been spending a lot of time recently listening to episodes of a podcast that deals with change. The chats cover people’s relationship with change, the biggest changes in their lives and what change they would still like to make. It’s made me realise that I’ve gone from not really liking change, to now accepting – even embracing – it when it comes my way.

Such is the nature of this job, we need to be ready for anything. In recent weeks, carmakers have had change forced upon them, thanks to the fallout from the 2030 ICE ban revision (yeah, I know everyone’s sick of talking and hearing about that – sorry!). However, it’s pretty clear that not a great deal is going to happen – not in the fleet world anyway. People – manufacturers, drivers, fleets – have already committed to the change and, if they haven’t, they’ve definitely thought about it. So kicking the combustion engine five years down the road is a bit of a non-story. (Not as much of a non-story as how dangerous EVs are after an ICE car caught fire in Luton, but I digress…)

The U-turn does, however, lead to small changes being required – albeit small ones. A recent BMW presentation stated that its range would be 80% EV by 2030. A few months ago, that figure would have obviously been 100%.

But that ’80%’ figure is calculated with a certain amount of wiggle room, due to the unknown and – dare I say – further changes that could happen.

The transition to EV is almost certainly the biggest change the automotive industry has ever seen. But that shift should be embraced because it represents opportunity and for people to learn new things. As part of the learning, there are some interesting topics raised within our ‘Future of fleet’ feature, which looks in detail at specific areas of the industry and advises on what changes might lie ahead in 2024.

A new year is always a good opportunity for a fresh start, so mine might just be to welcome change and learn new things. Try it, you never know where it might lead…

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One change that I’m not – and may not ever be – fully onboard with is the elimination of physical buttons in a car. To me, in many cases, it’s an example of my favourite phrase at the moment: a solution to a problem that never existed. The latest target of my frustration is the Volvo EX30, which seems to have gone full Tesla with an over-complication of almost every function, making them only available via the central screen. Want to move the mirrors? There’s a menu for that. Need to open the glovebox? Press the big shiny screen here. Here’s another phrase: ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’

Or maybe I’ve just ‘changed’ into a grumpy old man?

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FLEET15 David Watson CEO, Ohme What is your ambition in your current job role?

I would like Ohme to be the largest EV smart home charging platform in Europe. It might not be easy, but that’s the plan.

What job did you want to do when you were growing up?

A research scientist. I got a degree in chemistry and physics and had every intention of becoming a scientist, but then I got distracted by the City and finance. Ohme was a move back towards where I started!

What’s the proudest moment in your career?

When Ohme opened up a facility in my home country of Ireland.

After years of trying to explain it, my dad understood what I did. It was a small milestone, but a big sense of personal pride for us.

The best takeaway food?

Sushi. But, like a lot of people, a burger is a guilty pleasure.

Favourite James Bond?

I thought Sean Connery was amazing but, more recently, Daniel Craig. Casino Royale is one of my favourite films.

If money was no object, what’s the first thing you would buy?

If I’d been asked that question a few years ago, I would’ve said some land, but I’ve done that.

I’m not really driven by material things – I’d prefer to spend more time with my family.

Three-car dream garage?

Tesla Model X, Volkswagen ID. Buzz and a Rimac Nevera.

What are the biggest challenges facing fleets at the moment?

Access to charging for people with no off-street parking and getting the message through about cheaper ways to charge EVs in the UK. You’re on your dream holiday. Where are you?

I’ve been to some of the nicest places in the world, but nothing beats time with my family in Greece.

Night in or night out?

Night out. In the pub with my friends.

Your supermarket of choice?

Co-op.

What car do you currently drive?

Nissan Leaf and, occasionally, a Tesla Model X. Tea, coffee or other?

Coffee – Latte, specifically.

Books or magazines?

Books.

Who is your idol in life and work?

In life, it’s my mum and dad. In work, it’s my supervisor from university – and former chief scientific advisor to the Government – Sir David King.

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18/10/2023 15:15

COLUMN_Alex_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:24 Page 1

AT LARGE Alex Grant

A

As manufacturers chase cost out of increasingly technology rich new models, our editor-at-large wonders how ‘gigacasting’ might affect the repair process

lready scrambling to keep up with emerging regulations and technology, fleet decision-makers could be excused for not paying much attention to the workings of the modern car factory.

However, changes here can be disruptive – innovations on the production line promise safer, cheaper, more efficient vehicles, which is good – but the growing momentum behind ‘gigacasting’ might raise an eyebrow.

With a name like that, it’s no surprise to hear Tesla is spearheading this technology. Gigacasting (or ‘megacasting’) replaces structural sections, traditionally assembled from multiple pressed steel components, with a single piece of diecast aluminium alloy. The goal is cheaper, simpler production and it’s already in use.

The Model Y features a gigacast section – and that’s the UK’s fifth best-selling car, with a sizeable fleet uptake.

Tesla isn’t alone. Volvo claims megacasting will reduce the weight, extend the range and cut the cost and environmental impact of building its future EVs. Chinese brand Nio is already using it, Volkswagen Group and Toyota have hinted they will, while Reuters has reported that Hyundai and Ford are researching it too.

However, that enthusiasm isn’t universal. Consultancy firm Ducker recently issued a white paper questioning the claimed weight advantages and raising concerns about repairability. Replacing entire die-cast sections instead of individual parts could, it said, make vehicles more likely to become uneconomical to repair after a collision.

“There’s more to learn about repair costs, but gigacasting promises cheaper production while removing many of the rust-prone connections”

10 fleetworld.co.uk

This approach would continue an existing trend. Stricter crash tests and the resulting influx of technology and exotic materials are already inflating the cost of repairs. The Association of British Insurers says costs have increased by 33% this year alone, including a 12-21% rise in parts prices and more expensive bodyshop and labour rates. Scrapping more cars feels like a fair trade-off to improve safety, but making resourceheavy EVs more disposable to slash list prices is a difficult line to tread.

Those concerns have been relayed to Thatcham Research, which assesses vehicle safety, security and sustainability, sets insurance group ratings and helps manufacturers design ease of repair into new models. Darren Bright, principal engineer – automotive repair, says repairability is an important consideration. Expensive claims can mean pricier premiums and uncompetitive operating costs, so gigacasting is under the spotlight.

Research so far has focused on the rear structure of the Model Y, as UK right-hand drive models don’t have the gigacast frontend used in other markets. This single part includes the rear chassis legs, wheel wells and part of the boot floor, so it’s vulnerable in rear or side impacts, but it can be repaired. Tesla sells repair sections for atrisk areas, such as behind the bumper and inside the door jambs, and only advises a full replacement if the damage affects specific structural sections.

However, Bright adds, the repair process is novel and comparisons are difficult. The high-strength steels used to protect occupants (and HV components) in modern cars often can’t be welded as the heat affects their strength. If these are not designed with repairs in mind (such as including joins on chassis legs) then rebuilding large steel structure from individual parts can be laborious and prone to supply disruption. Both of those factors can increase the likelihood of repairs becoming uneconomical. Courtesy cars are expensive.

Bright says research is ongoing: “We want to look at what’s involved with fitting the whole gigacast section – and what severity of damage would require a replacement. A potential scenario is you hit the rear wheel, snap the suspension and the shock goes into some of the webbing. Potentially, then, you’re into a full replacement for minor damage – and that’s the sort of thing we’re looking to conclude in future.”

Time will tell. There’s more to learn about repair costs, but gigacasting promises cheaper production while removing many of the stress and rustprone connections that eventually cause steel-bodied vehicles to become unroadworthy. It’s something decision-makers should be watching closely.

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SPOTLIGHT_Skoda_Superb_FW_Dec23_v3.qxp 24/11/2023 13:13 Page 1

ŠKODA SUPERB What is it? Fourth generation of brilliant hatch/estate When is it available? Customer deliveries Q1 2024 Biggest changes? Upgraded interior, headlights and safety Fleet appeal? More miles in the PHEV version; more space inside

Internal upgrades Inside, drivers familiar with the spacious and well-specced interior will not be disappointed. Škoda has combined digital and haptic elements in its trio of ‘Smart Dials’, which allow quick access to a range of vehicle functions. There’s a central display of either 10 or 13 inches, as well as the Jumbo Box with 5.5 litres of storage. There are three different seat configurations, with lumber support and massage options available.

Powertrains aplenty The omission of an electric version of the Superb might be a disappointment to some, but a suitable replacement could be an upgraded PHEV version with 204hp power and a theoretical EV driving range of 62 miles (WLTP). Elsewhere, there are two diesels and two petrol engines, including a 204hp 1.5-litre unit that adopts mildhybrid technology.

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‘Simply Clever’ continues There are a total of 28 Simply Clever features available on the Superb, depending on trim level. Many of these innovations will be familiar – integrated ice scraper and umbrella in the door – but plenty more are new. For example, there are now rear seat mobile phone pockets and an electrically operated cover for the Estate’s vast load area.

A very safe Škoda A total of 10 airbags feature on the new Superb, alongside an upgraded set of safety features. These include – for the first time on the Czech flagship – turn assist, crossroad assist, emergency steering assist and exit warning. Other elements – such as the side and front assist features – have been upgraded, while there are now sensors to detect drowsiness or a lack of attention to the road ahead.

VERDICT The new Škoda Superb is a reminder that ICE cars can still be advanced, comfortable and completely fit for purpose. The company has produced more than 1.6 million hatch and estate versions of the car since 2001, which means a lot of happy drivers. Expect many more to follow with the new car.

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COLUMN_Insurance_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:25 Page 1

insurance

STICK OR TWIST? Will 2024 bring short-term gain or lead to long-term pain when it comes to fleet insurance? Ashbourne Insurance’s Peter Smits assesses the landscape

A

lthough we may be somewhere near approaching the peak of ‘hardening’ motor insurance premiums, industry experts are warning the insurance-buying public to brace themselves for further increases in 2024.

It’s easy to see why – 2022 saw an annual rise of 19%, while half-year results for 2023 confirmed an increase of 21%.

While those increases in 2024 may not hit the heady heights of the previous two years, the trend is still upward. I understand the desire for anyone to reduce their insurance costs, particularly during the current economic climate – but it’s important to take stock of the situation.

There is no doubting that the perfect storm of Brexit, a global pandemic and the war in Ukraine has impacted on the cost and availability of parts and labour.

That combination has resulted in not only a delay to returning any vehicle to being roadworthy, but also an impact on the premium paid.

Cheaper premiums can often prove too hard to resist – after all, one policy is just the same as any other and none of us ever plan to have any claims, right? The trouble is that a cheap premium will often result in a cheap service and/or onerous terms and conditions, not always immediately apparent.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not advocating that you overpay for your insurance – and yes you should quite rightly demand a competitive solution. But here are some hints and tips to guarantee you the best and most competitive package, year-on-year.

First and foremost, select a broker that is truly independent – one that is free to search the whole market. Make them agree to a thorough market analysis and place all your trust in a single point of contact.

Brokers should be your advocate, who ‘sell’ the risk to underwriters to get them to compete for your business and making for the most competitive premium.

Approaching multiple brokers at renewal could result in the same risk being presented to the same insurer from different sources. In our experience, this situation can result in some insurers refusing to quote, reducing the panel and, therefore, increasing the premium. Also be aware that underwriters want reassurances that any work they do could result in securing the business.

Don’t be too keen to jump-ship from insurer to insurer, continuity can help secure long-term savings. Just make sure your broker – while approaching a variety of insurance markets – always gives the holding insurer the chance to match any

better rate. Like multiple presentations, most insurers won’t quote or provide their best rate if they can see three different insurers on cover in the past three years.

Be demanding of your broker. With a large fleet, they should be providing you with a quarterly update on claims and incidents. This information will help you identify any patterns for vehicles or drivers that you can act upon immediately – rather than getting a nasty surprise a week or two before renewal.

It’s also worth thinking about paying for small claims and glass damage yourself, the frequency of claims rather than the value of claims is what can turn an underwriter off pricing any risk. It is often said that one large claim can be written off as an exception, however frequent low-value claims can dictate a lack of care and attention.

Finally, don’t be averse to engaging a broker. Insurers reserve their best rates for brokers who can demonstrate good knowledge and longevity with the client.

Fleet business can be labour-intensive and not many insurers would write this directly with the client. Ultimately, those with a long-term strategy who are prepared to work with a broker will see the benefit, not just in the levels of service but also the price you pay.

“Cheaper premiums can often prove too hard to resist – after all, one policy is just the same as any other and none of us ever plan to have any claims, right?”

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For more information call 02476 016391 or visit FCAFleetHub.co.uk Electric energy consumption Jeep® Avenger Full-Electric range (kWh/100km): 15,9 – 15,4; CO2 emission (g/km): 0. Type approval values determined on the basis of the WLTP combined cycle, updated as of March 2023. The values indicated are for comparative purposes. Only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. *Important: the actual electric energy consumption and range values may be strongly different and may vary depending upon the usage and external conditions. For further specific and detailed information please refer to Jeep® Official Website.

FEATURE_FutureFleet_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:33 Page 1

FUTURE OF FLEET in association with

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR 2024?

The 12 months of 2023 brought a whole host of challenges for fleets – and many will be hoping for an easier ride in 2024. Whether that will happen remains to be seen, but there’s optimism and enthusiasm abound. We’ve brought together figures from across the fleet industry to offer their thoughts on what to expect.

>> fleetworld.co.uk

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FEATURE_FutureFleet_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:34 Page 2

FUTURE OF FLEET

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

HOW TO PUT THE DRIVER IN THE DRIVING SEAT James Starling I business services director I The AA

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cross the fleet and automotive industry, customer experience, value and innovation that challenges the status quo is going to become even more important in 2024. We’ve seen customer demand for convenience rise since the pandemic and now, given the economic backdrop we all face, quality and value will become ever more critical.

But this demand for value isn’t just about cost. It’s about products and services that better meet customer needs and that deliver more. In 2024, service providers are going to have to delve much deeper into understanding their customers’ pain points and deliver tailored solutions that make a real, measurable difference to their business.

We’ll see fleet operators and drivers analysing the value they are getting from services and products in much finer detail – and I would urge businesses not to be afraid to ask providers to support

with this. Ask for the detail on KPIs and how these are being met, along with updates on the performance of a product or service, as well as plans for continuous improvement. We’ll see performance reviews taking place on a more regular basis to drive performance improvements and I think that can only be a positive thing for everyone involved.

“We’ll continue to see rapid transformation of our transport at a faster rate than at any time in our history”

DISRUPTING THE STATUS QUO To get better value from fleet processes, 2024 will see a much wider adoption of innovative end-to-end solutions that drive efficiency and disrupt siloed product models. These solutions will be focused on streamlining fleet management, increasing efficiency and improving costs in ways that can have an impact on both business performance and the bottom line.

We’ve seen the benefits of this joinedup approach with our end-to-end accident management service and this is set to grow next year. As is Drivetech Consult, our new bespoke fleet management service. It’s tailored to ease the burden on businesses that don’t have a dedicated fleet management resource, to help them reduce accidents, enhance driver safety and wellbeing and, ultimately, increase operational efficiency and save money too.

One of the shifts in the world of fleet vehicles is the growing emphasis on electrification, despite the Government moving the 2030 ICE ban date back to 2035. Going into 2024, we’ll continue to see rapid transformation of our transport at a faster rate than at any time in our history and still we are focused on the future and enabling smoother and safer journeys. As digital road networks are rolled out, smart energy grids and connected technologies will unlock opportunities for increasing the efficiency of future business journeys.

Access to data will enable safer, more efficient fleet operations. From planning journeys to predicting faults, personalisation to autonomous vehicles, subscriptions and MaaS, we’ll bring realworld understanding and technologies to help businesses seize the opportunities to transform journeys in a rapidly advancing transport landscape.

FEATURE_FutureFleet_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:35 Page 3

in association with

CONTRACT HIRE

PUT IN THE HARD YARDS Steve Beadle I head of 0Zone team I Grosvenor Group

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he mass adoption of electric vehicles within UK businesses will require expert guidance for fleet managers and decision-makers in 2024 so they can overcome the challenges of transition.

While a greater share of company fleets is now being made up of EVs, fleet managers will also encounter the ‘hard yards’ of the zero-emission transition. In the very early years, our experience was that electric vehicle uptake was typically led by drivers who were EV evangelists.

These were early adopters who were knowledgeable, keen to change and advocates of emission-free driving.

The second, larger phase of EV uptake at the Grosvenor Group has been down to the proactivity and expertise of our 0Zone team. The Grosvenor Group comprises Grosvenor Leasing, which has been providing contract hire solutions for over 40 years – and Interactive Fleet Management, which is our specialist fleet management team.

Since 2017, the 0Zone team has been working closely with both our contract hire and fleet management customers to

G UAR

develop appealing ULEV and EV choice lists and car policies as well as educating, supporting and advising drivers. This has been extremely successful, with over 90% of vehicles ordered now having plugin or self-charging capability.

SUPPORT SERVICES However, there is still resistance to moving to fully electric vehicles by some drivers and, where this is the case, companies will need even greater proactivity and support. This situation will involve heightened education and training on EVs, reassurance and advice regarding charging and range, raising awareness about the financial and tax

benefits of choosing an EV and more support around the suitability of electric vehicles to meet drivers’ job roles and personal lifestyles.

It will also be important to demonstrate that a complete support structure is in place for drivers of EVs, as resistance to change can often be due to a fear of the unknown.

Of course, we have to be pragmatic as there are still drivers who may not yet be well-suited to a fully electric car; perhaps due to where they live and work, the type of job they do and the miles they cover. In these scenarios, our 0Zone team will review their options carefully and may suggest a plug-in hybrid is better for them this time than a fully electric.

However, there are still large numbers of drivers who could very readily go fully electric with their next car. It is important to support these in reaching the right decision. After all, any petrol or diesel car added to a fleet now is likely to be there until 2026 or 2027, which slows down the green agenda for the business.

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FEATURE_FutureFleet_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:36 Page 4

FUTURE OF FLEET

CHARGING

PLUG THE GAP IN YOUR FLEET Lindsay Wallace I executive director, sales and innovations (Europe) I FOR:EV

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ave you electrified your fleet yet? If the answer is no, we think we know what’s stopping you. You might be capital-constrained. Your existing network may already be at capacity. Maybe you’re thinking the time and admin burden will be too much, as you’re already so busy with your core business activity. Whatever the problem, 2024 could be the time to rethink your EV strategy – and that’s where we come in.

At FOR:EV, we specialise in making the difficult, simple. Our ‘charging as a service’ model helps support your transition to an electrified fleet by taking care of everything for you.

We aim to be a one-stop-shop, full turnkey solution. We can look after the civils, planning, electrification, installation and maintenance of your charge points. If you need them, we can even supply you with electrified fleet cars, vans or trucks. Maybe you’ve already started the transition to elec-

tric, but need some support to progress your plans? We can help with that too.

When it comes to finance, we’re different from the rest.

You’ll pay nothing up front and then we’ll invoice you an agreed all-inclusive cost per kW every quarter, reducing your admin and helping you to budget easily.

One of our customers with a 150-vehicle fleet reduced the number of invoices it was dealing with from over 200 a year to just four – think of how much time that would give your team to focus on their core business!

A SERVICE DESIGNED FOR YOU We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Not only do we do all the hard work, we design our service around your business needs. Your dedicated account manager will get to know your fleet operation and your charging requirements.

You’ll also have access to local service support, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Many of our customers initially thought they were ‘too small’ for a service such as ours, but this isn’t the case.

We’re always open to a chat about your current needs and prospective plans.

Unlike other providers, we won’t tie you in to a long-term contract. Talk to us about our short-term, flexible and futureproofed agreements that allow you to add or remove vehicles, and increase or decrease your energy requirements.

We believe in making things as simple as possible – and that extends to the charging process itself. Our charge points use the latest technology to provide a user-friendly, reliable and stress-free charging experience.

BOOSTING YOUR GREEN CREDENTIALS The electricity we supply is 100% green. We will share data and insights with you about the amount of carbon emission offset your business will attain, which can help you demonstrate those all-important ESG credentials to your stakeholders.

One of our current fleet customers with 150 vehicles, each driving around 8,500 miles a year, reduced their annual CO2 emissions by 406,000 MT CO2e by transitioning to electric vehicles.

“2024 could be the time to rethink your EV strategy”

forev.co.uk

info@forev.co.uk

FEATURE_FutureFleet_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:37 Page 5

in association with

SALARY SACRIFICE

EVs FOR THE MANY, NOT THE FEW Paul Gilshan I CEO I Tusker

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ere at Tusker, we’ve seen a real shift in 2023 in the mass market adopting EVs. The fleet has grown to more than 35,000 vehicles – an increase of almost 10,000 in just a year.

With more than 80% of those vehicles pure EV, the adoption of electric cars is continuing to gather pace.

Manufacturers are now producing EVs at lower price points, so the market is opening up to more and more drivers as they now have a wider choice of more affordable vehicles. Especially those which we have in stock – which can sometimes be hundreds of makes and models; it’s helping more people get not only a new car, but a new EV, often for the first time.

Salary sacrifice continues to lead the way in delivering new EVs into the marketplace and the price points for lots of Tusker’s vehicles are now affordable for lower-rate taxpayers. As a result, the company is finding that more and more people are making the switch, with no impact being felt of the Government decision to push the deadline for new vehicles to only be EV back to 2025.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES WITHIN REACH FOR MORE DRIVERS Looking into the future, we expect the trend that we have seen throughout 2023 to continue into 2024. More cars are going to be available for those on lower salaries, from both new and existing

manufacturers, as well as electric ranges increasing to compete with traditional petrol or diesel cars to combat any remaining range anxiety.

EVs are definitely more of a massmarket product now, rather than something that only a few people were willing to trial, which we will also continue to see throughout 2024 and beyond.

For organisations that are looking carefully at their fleets, as sustainability continues to be a focus, the salary sacrifice scheme can help meet scope three emissions targets. Tusker’s scheme fully offsets emissions for vehicles and their charging, which is clearly a desirable scenario for all concerned. With a wealth of lifestyle protections in place for employees and employers, risks are mitigated by a company with more than 15 years’ experience and over 170 customer organisations on its books.

Tusker’s scheme continues to offer peace of mind for the driver, with insurance, servicing, maintenance, replacement tyres and breakdown cover all included.

>>

The leading Salary Sacrifice provider inclusive car benefit.

Providing tailored schemes for over 15 years

Over 1600 happy customers

Partnerships with Benefit Providers

Market leading risk protection included

emissions and EV charge of all cars

tuskercars.com 0333 400 1010

FEATURE_FutureFleet_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:38 Page 6

FUTURE OF FLEET

TRANSITION TO EV

DON’T LET COSTS GET IN THE WAY Mike Nakrani I CEO I VEV

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here’s a well-founded concern among fleet owners that the cost of electrification is high. It’s a fact that EVs are typically three times the cost of diesel vehicles. And then there’s the charging infrastructure, plus the cost of the power itself.

However, VEV regularly identifies cost savings in our clients’ electrification plans. For example, we find that, in multiple cases, fleets are actually overestimating their EV charging needs by as much as 20%.

We’ve recently been working with a retail business that’s aiming for full decarbonisation of nearly 4,000 delivery vehicles – and we were able to identify cost-saving strategies across 17 depots of circa £1m in capex in a project that included solar energy generation.

My strongest advice to avoid ‘over-speccing’ and overspend is that effective planning is the key. Planning a fleet’s electrification with real data and careful analysis can save costs across the EV transition. Robust analysis enables a tailored design for the new EV fleet and a transformation plan that is specific to each fleet’s operations. It is also a valuable opportunity to review and optimise fleet operations.

THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL The critical success factor is to plan around the specific fleet’s require-

ments, from vehicle types to routes, operational patterns and energy availability. All of these vary depending on operations and location.

The first step to a successful transformation must be to analyse a combination of existing fleet telematics and corresponding energy consumption data at depots. Analysing quality fleet data will guide decision-making on which vehicles

reduce, grid upgrades – one of the most expensive and time-consuming parts of the electrification transition. Charging fleets means a massive increase in power demand, with one supercharger requiring the same power supply as an entire block of flats. From modelling one customer’s charging behaviour, we were able to identify strategies to avoid a costly 2MVA grid upgrade.

are ready to transition first. It will also determine the energy requirement for your fleet, the size and shape of your required charging infrastructure and the optimum charge scheduling to keep your vehicles on the road when and where they need to be.

The next step is to understand your options around the best energy sources and costs. Determining the likely impact on your grid connection upgrade is vital for any successful EV transition.

Upfront analysis and optimising when to charge vehicles can help avoid, or

To stay competitive, operators must understand that electrification is more than buying new vehicles and chargers.

It is also about using multiple sources of data and clever analytics to make informed decisions on feasibility, performance, resilience and cost effectiveness. The trick is to take full advantage of the opportunity by truly optimising your new EV fleet. The transition is like a puzzle of priorities, costs and consequences, where each decision leads to the next and must be considered strategically.

The future fleet is Electric Helping you deliver on your fleet electrification ambitions with our end-to-end solution.

Email ask@vev.com for your Fleet Electrification Readiness Report.

vev.com

FEATURE_FutureFleet_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:40 Page 7

in association with

SUBSCRIPTIONS

DEVIATION FROM THE STATUS QUO Duncan Chumley I CEO I Mycardirect

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s we stand on the precipice of a new year, the UK automotive industry finds itself at an inflection point. How fleets respond to the technological transformations of 2024 will lay the groundwork for success and failure in the years to come. The winds of change are blowing through the sector, driven by technological advances, regulatory shifts and a collective commitment to sustainability.

One of the defining trends that will continue to shape the industry in 2024 is the accelerating adoption of electric vehicles. While the Government has softened the target to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 to 2035, fleets are gearing up for a substantial overhaul.

The transition to EVs is not merely a regulatory necessity, but a strategic move toward a cleaner and more sustainable future. Fleets that embrace this shift early on will not only contribute to the decarbonisation agenda, but also stand to benefit from reduced operational costs and increased efficiency.

In tandem with the electrification wave, autonomy is set to make strides in 2024.

The pursuit of self-driving technology has the potential to revolutionise the very fabric of fleet management. Recently, fully autonomous taxis have passed another legal hurdle in the USA, demonstrating Level 5 autonomy in an urban environment. As the technology matures, fleets must grapple with the intricacies of integrating autonomous vehicles into their operations. To ensure a seamless transition into the new era of mobility and the redefined role of the driver, inventive solutions will be paramount. As outlined in the King’s Speech, we should welcome the Government’s commitment to update and provide clear regulation on how autonomous vehicles will be integrated into our everyday lives.

The way fleets use new connectivity will be another linchpin in the automotive narrative of 2024. The proliferation of IoT (Internet of Things) devices in vehicles opens up a trove of data that can be harnessed for predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring and optimised route planning. Fleets that leverage the power of connectivity will be better positioned to streamline

Cars and vans available for 1 to 48 months; with the ability to swap vehicles or hand back at any time.

www.mycardirect.com

operations, minimise downtime and enhance the overall efficiency of their fleets. The intersection of connectivity and data analytics will be a key battleground where innovative fleet management solutions will emerge.

Amid these transformative changes, the advent of car and van subscription services as a modern alternative, providing businesses with unparalleled flexibility. Mycardirect, the leading provider of vehicle subscription, stands at the forefront, offering companies a hassle-free, all-inclusive solution. This innovative approach allows businesses to adapt swiftly to changing mobility needs without the burden of ownership.

By seamlessly integrating subscription services into their fleets, companies can enjoy the benefits of the latest electric and autonomous vehicles – and connectivity features – without increasing the overall operational complexity. Furthermore, vehicle subscription provides businesses the opportunity to experiment with and experience the latest in vehicle technology, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability.

FEATURE_FutureFleet_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:53 Page 8

FUTURE OF FLEET in association with

THOUGHT L E A D E R S Fleet experts have their say on what trends the industry can expect to see in 2024

Angela Montacute, CEO of Digital Innk

Tom Middleditch, head of electric mobility, Europcar

“The adoption of AI must quicken, or else the fleet industry will fall behind. Within the next 12 months, management teams ought to be planning how to integrate AI into business procedures. AI may disrupt the fleet business by facilitating increased efficiencies and transparency among drivers, fleet operators and the supply chain. As a result, it will result in more flexible business models and hasten the adoption of Mobility as a Service.”

“Probably one of the biggest challenges for 2024 will be how the fleet sector can support long-term net zero goals.

The sector has already done a pretty amazing job of helping the UK on its transition; next year the pressure is sure to ramp up to increase access to low- and zero-emission vehicles even further. Operationally there’s still a big job to be done to win drivers’ hearts and minds when it comes to EVs, especially those using commercial vehicles.”

Matthew Lumsden, CEO, Connected Energy

Scott Hamilton-Cooper, chief commercial officer, Ax

“Fleets will require more EV charging infrastructure. Some fleets are already running into challenges around grid capacity to power these chargers and this problem will only increase in 2024. Not only due to demand for more fast chargers, but also higher-powered charge points for large vans and trucks. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) will help fleets avoid costly grid connection upgrades while also enabling them to get the most out of on-site solar.”

“The UK incident management landscape is undergoing a transformation that promises to enhance safety and streamline the post-accident process. One of the most exciting developments is the integration of advanced technologies and data insights. The use of cutting-edge platforms that automate accident reporting and assessment will be more widely utilised, expediting the claims process and ensuring quicker support for those involved.”

Matthew Boswell, MD, Leasys UK

Paul McCorkell, director, business rental UK & Ireland, Enterprise

“The fleet landscape is poised for big changes in 2024, including embracing innovation and sustainability and, of course, the rapid adoption of EVs. As we navigate this historic transformation, both businesses and individuals must rely on a mobility provider that can serve as both supplier and consultant. The switch to EVs can be eased by embracing the continental model of contract hire as full-service leasing, something that we expect to rise in popularity.”

“Employee mobility is evolving into a broader solution that encompasses greater choice and flexibility. Moving ahead, companies need a granular understanding of how, where and why employees are travelling. This needs to accommodate changing work habits driven by hybrid working or by younger employees wanting greener and more varied and flexible mobility options. Employees should feel empowered to shape mobility policies to meet their needs.”

24 fleetworld.co.uk

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SWOT

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Simon Harris > SH Head of valuations, UK Vehicle Data

Jason King > JK Head of OEM insight and data supply AutoTrader

Martin Ward > MW Manufacturer relationship specialist

Jon Wheeler > JW Head of vehicle valuation services, CDL Vehicle Information Services

Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of four electric mid-size executives are analysed by Fleet World’s fab four BMW i4 • HYUNDAI IONIQ 6 • POLESTAR 2 • TESLA MODEL 3

smaller battery version to achieve a lower price point could be off-putting for some.

JK The 299 miles, despite being more than adequate for most, now looks a little below par among its peers.

MW Options seem a bit pricey, while rear space is not the best.

JW Comes at a relatively higher cost compared to rivals, especially when adding optional extras. Rear passenger space confined.

BMW i4

STRENGTHS SH A more accessible i4 from the brand with exceptional fleet know-how and driver appeal.

JK Does everything a BMW should, but happens to be a BEV. Great dynamics, high-quality interior and familiar exterior design.

MW A quality car throughout, with clever engineering. It really

is a great driver’s car.

JW One of the most engaging EVs available today, offering a compelling driving experience, impressive onboard technology and exceptional build quality.

WEAKNESSES SH Range sacrificed with this

gles most with image alongside established premium brands BMW and Polestar.

JK The streamliner design is different and efficient, but it won’t be for everyone. Sloping rear limits headroom and flexibility.

MW Disappointing rear legroom, plus its bold looks might not be to everyone’s taste.

JW Sleek design results in limited rear headroom and a small boot versus some competitors. Looks might not appeal to everyone’s palate.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

STRENGTHS SH Futuristic fastback looks certainly make the Ioniq 6 stand out from the crowd, and is spacious and very well equipped.

JK Continues to build on Hyundai’s strong EV reputation with a high specification, long-range model with decent performance.

MW High-quality interior and a

26 fleetworld.co.uk

OPPORTUNITIES SH A substantially lower price than the i4 40 could bring this BMW within reach for some.

JK The BMW brand gives confidence and familiarity to drivers looking to switch to an EV. MW As it’s recognised as a good-looking Gran Coupe, it will appeal to those who want an i4 and also an EV.

brilliant-looking car. Just two trims to choose from makes life easy – and helps RVs. JW Extensive on-board tech, coupled with fast charging, from 10 to 80% in 18 minutes.

WEAKNESSES SH Perhaps the one that strug-

OPPORTUNITIES SH The 800V charging capability sees the Hyundai’s charging times undercut the competition – where ultra-rapid chargers exist.

JK Alternative to the obvious segment choices, it represents great value to new customers.

MW Style sells, and the design

JW Offers competitive SMR costs and strong residual values, making it appealing for fleet managers and company car drivers alike.

THREATS SH More alternatives than ever in this sector could see BMW fight harder for sales. SUVs are more desirable for many.

JK This version might give the i4 a price point below £50,000, but it still looks a little expensive in this company.

MW A bit expensive to buy compared to its closest rivals. In some people’s eyes, it might not be different enough.

JW The i4 is currently experiencing relatively extended lead times, while certain rival vehicles are more readily accessible.

appeal alone will certainly get potential customers interested.

JW An excellent option for those who cover big distances.

Competitive insurance costs, minimal SMR expenses.

THREATS SH Hyundai believes saloons could lure drivers away from SUVs as aerodynamics offer better driving range. Not convinced.

JK The sister model Ioniq 5 has the same underpinnings and technology, but being a hatch would be a better option for most.

MW The biggest threat comes from its little brother, which seems to offer more – for less.

JW The sleeker, arguably more practical Ioniq 5 is a tough offering to ignore while perusing the Hyundai dealership.

SWOT_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 13:21 Page 2

“One of the most engaging EVs available today, offering a compelling driving experience, impressive onboard technology and exceptional build quality”

more desirable with the addition of one or more option packs.

JK Ride is still too hard for some and interior may be seen as a little basic (although the Google OS is very good). Limited colour choice.

MW A firm ride, bordering on uncomfortable, is not exactly suited to many UK roads.

JW Falls short of the i4 in dynamics and engaging driving experience – and doesn’t reach the technological leadership of the Tesla.

Polestar 2

STRENGTHS SH More power and greater range are among the many improvements in the revised model now available.

JK The upgraded MY24 car’s rearwheel drive means improved driving dynamics and a promised range of over 400 miles.

MW Stylish, oozes quality and

boasts a great range. Inside, a lot of easy-to-use technology.

JW Stands out with remarkable range, top-tier safety features and superb construction. A practical choice for business applications.

WEAKNESSES SH Like the BMW, it would be

OPPORTUNITIES SH New RWD configuration of single-motor versions could make the Polestar more appealing to driving enthusiasts.

JK The brand is still unknown by many, but Volvo heritage and support network gives Polestar lots of automotive credibility.

MW One of the hottest EV brands currently on the market.

eroded trust and used EV values are struggling to recover. So many functions in submenus is bad.

JK Ongoing volatility in pricing is a concern. Doubts around build quality and customer service are reasons for rejection.

MW A bit of a hard, firm ride. No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which drivers have got used to.

JW Limited availability of Superchargers can be an issue and there are certain areas where the material quality raises questions.

Tesla Model 3

STRENGTHS SH Ubiquitous saloon has resulted in major EV adoption thanks to performance and range – a real benchmark in the sector.

JK The brand has a strong following, the tech is excellent and range and performance outstanding. Supercharger network is a big draw for many.

MW Full of technology and great real-world range. Tesla seems to be the car to beat.

JW Performance, long range and technology combine to provide a futuristic driving experience.

WEAKNESSES SH Chaotic pricing strategy

OPPORTUNITIES SH New version is available early next year, but there is an inventory of the current model, shortening lead times.

JK Model 3 appears to be the benchmark BEV in many areas, even if it is still unusually polarising.

MW The default EV option.

Looks good value and an

A good car to be seen and looks good from a distance.

JW Delivers affordability and practicality from a relatively unknown brand. New models will help raise brand awareness.

THREATS SH Emergence of new Polestar EVs could steal sales from the Polestar 2, as well as other new entrants to the market.

JK Despite impressive range and performance, prices from competitor brands may look a more attractive package.

MW As more and more stylish EVs in this sector come along, Polestar needs to keep looking over its shoulder.

JW Being a relative newcomer – and with limited models – Polestar could get lost in the crowd.

impressive – probably the best – charging network.

JW Given the outgoing car didn’t struggle to gain traction in the market, big things are expected from the new version.

THREATS SH Despite the most loyal owner fanbase in automotive, unpredictable future pricing strategy could discourage fleet drivers.

JK Ever-reducing prices don’t fill funders with confidence. Further compounded by many very similar models entering the used market.

MW It has an understated styling – not the best-looking EV. Some might say it’s a bit boring.

JW Nearly every major automaker now produces EVs now. Rival OEM options often offer a more captivating driving experience.

fleetworld.co.uk

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1st SH 2nd JK 2nd MW 1st JW 1st

2nd SH 1st JK 3rd MW 2nd JW 3rd

3rd SH 3rd JK 4th MW 3rd JW 4th

3rd SH 4th JK 1st MW 4th JW 2nd

28 fleetworld.co.uk

Simon Harris > SH Head of valuations, UK Vehicle Data

Jason King > JK Head of OEM insight and data supply AutoTrader

Martin Ward > MW Manufacturer relationship specialist

Jon Wheeler > JW Head of vehicle valuation services, CDL Vehicle Information Services

THE VERDICT BMW i4 eDrive35 70.2kWh M Sport P11D: £51,440 CO2: 0g/km RV: £27,069 (52.62%) BiK: 2% SMR: £2,047 Fuel costs: £4,188 Insurance: £5,469 Finance: £6,944 NI: £568 VED: £0 Cost per month: £1,250

Standard equipment: DAB, Bluetooth, USB Satellite navigation Traffic message channel Lane departure warning Alarm Alcantara upholstery Options: Memory seats: £2,050 Keyless entry: £1,040 Heated steering wheel: £240

Polestar 2 82kWh Long Range P11D: £48,895 CO2: 0g/km RV: £24,034 (49.15%) BiK: 2% SMR: £2,662 Fuel costs: £3,458 Insurance: £5,823 Finance: £6,601 NI: £540 VED: £0 Cost per month: £1,260

Standard equipment: DAB, Bluetooth, USB Wireless phone charging Cruise control Traffic sign recognition Heated door mirrors Parking heater Options: Branded stereo system: £4,000 Adaptive cruise control: £2,000 Autonomous emergency braking: £2,000

Hyundai Ioniq 6 77.4kWh Ultimate P11D: £50,485 CO2: 0g/km RV: £21,615 (42.81%) BiK: 2% SMR: £1,999 Fuel costs: £3,707 Insurance: £5,346 Finance: £6,815 NI: £557 VED: £0 Cost per month: £1,353

Standard equipment: Bluetooth, USB Satellite navigation Adaptive cruise control Electric sunroof Electric-powered steering Hill start assist Options: Metallic paint: £665 Matt paint: £885 Virtual door mirrors: £995

Tesla Model 3 Dual Motor Long Range P11D: £50,935 CO2: 0g/km RV: £23,084 (45.32%) BiK: 2% SMR: £2,692 Fuel costs: £3,424 Insurance: £6,897 Finance: £6,876 NI: £562 VED: £0 Cost per month: £1,381

Standard equipment: Bluetooth, USB Satellite navigation DVD player Lane departure warning Garage door opener Traction control Options: Metallic paint: £1,100 Towbar: £1,090 Semi-autonomous steering: £3,400

ESSENTIAL FLEET MANAGER_NARA Advert_UK PR.pdf

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industry insight Paul Hollick chair, Association of Fleet Professionals

BUSINESS AS USUAL Don’t expect any changes to the speed of electrification adoption because of the 2035 delay

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t’s unsurprising that Rishi Sunak’s announcement that moved the electric car production deadline to 2035 was met with a high degree of consternation and annoyance across the fleet sector.

Large numbers of car fleets have been working diligently towards 2030, expending huge amounts of time and money in order to make electric cars work for them and their drivers. That planning involved working to a schedule that has been largely undertaken in direct response to government policy. As anyone who works within fleet knows, electrification has been the dominant subject in our sector. In fact, to such an extent in recent times that it has sometimes felt like the only matter that anyone was discussing – to the point where there has been little air left in the room for anything else. So, moving the goalposts has not gone down well on the whole.

However, now the dust has settled, there seems to be a consensus across the AFP that the Government’s change will actually have little effect on the rate of electrification. There are both practical and ethical reasons for this view.

From the demand side, the main push for adoption of electric company cars has been a highly favourable Benefit-in-Kind environment – and there is little indication that this will change. Indeed, it is arguable that the new deadline could mean that lower rates could persist for longer. Drivers will continue to choose EVs because they bring the lowest tax bills by far.

“Many businesses have an ethical belief in making their activities zero emissions and company cars form a large part of those commitments”

30 fleetworld.co.uk

Then there is the fact that manufacturer schedules for electrification are highly unlikely to change. We now know that the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate will stay in place, meaning car supply will change over to electric at the same speed as in the run-up to 2030.

Also, production plans for most major manufacturers for the rest of the decade are already set in stone and are very much heading in the direction of EVs, thanks to the 2035 deadlines that already exist in many European countries. Conversely, these schedules mean supply of petrol and diesel vehicles will start to dry up and there are quite likely to be accompanying price rises and supply issues as they become something of a niche.

Beyond these measures, it is important to remember that many businesses and organisations have an ethical belief in making their activities zero emission and company cars form a large part of those commitments. Most have set individual targets but the majority that I have seen are ahead of 2030 and, again, these are

unlikely to change in response to the Government’s announcement.

Finally, there’s the fact that fleets have found car electrification relatively straightforward in most respects – and that EVs have proven, over the last few years, to be an excellent company transport choice in the same way as their petrol and diesel forebears. Yes, there are issues to overcome – from availability of on-street charging to unpredictable RVs – but these should be resolved in time as the car parc moves towards electrification and we expect the situation to improve well ahead of 2030.

Of course, there is an elephant in the room that I’ve largely ignored in this piece so far – electric vans. Here, the 2035 deadline delay makes much more sense. The experience of AFP members so far is largely that neither the charging infrastructure nor the vehicles themselves are quite ready for mass adoption and having some extra time is likely to ease the process on both fronts.

Help your team skip the gridlock.

The last thing your teams need is to be stuck in nose-to-tail traffic, or circling the block trying to find a parking space.

With our fleet bookings you can: G Collaborate all expenses into one monthly invoice G Have all your drivers reserve a space with no payment at the time of booking G Choose from both commercial spaces and private driveways G Have a personal account manager to help you G Receive multi-book discounts on parking To find out more, scan this QR code to head to the YourParkingSpace website, or contact joe.schofield@yourparkingspace.co.uk

IVIEW_Supplier_YourParkingSpace_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 13:01 Page 1

supplier stories YourParkingSpace

Parking rethink required Fleets could boost efficiency and cut costs by analysing their parking procedures, says Brannan Coady, CEO at YourParkingSpace

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n era where efficiency and cost savings are paramount for businesses, the traditional approach to parking is facing scrutiny. Fleet managers are increasingly recognising the true impact of parking-related issues on their operations, leading them to explore various innovations to alleviate these challenges.

However, what is required by most businesses is a simple change in their parking habits to become more proactive and less reactive when it comes to parking.

For too long, parking has been an afterthought, something that everyone deals with when they arrive at their destination. Pre-booking parking used to be something that was done only when going to the airport. But, with the rise of various parking platforms, the ability to pre-book parking has become more accessible in many locations across the country, especially in busy cities.

Hidden costs for fleets It’s a scenario familiar to many: a valuable driver, equipped with a delivery or service vehicle, circles city streets, endlessly searching for that elusive parking spot.

Minutes turn into wasted hours throughout the week, fuel is consumed needlessly, and operational efficiency dwindles.

Recent survey data shows that these parking challenges are costing fleets more than just time; they’re costing money.

32 fleetworld.co.uk

A UK study by VW Commercial Vehicles (reported in Fleet World), revealed that van drivers alone had been hit by more than £1.7m in fines in the previous three years for incorrectly parking or using stopping bays, probably because they couldn’t find anywhere to park.

However, recent research from YourParkingSpace has discovered that drivers can save on average 47% for each pre-booked parking session and completely remove the risk of receiving a parking fine for not having a valid ticket.

Pre-booking parking guarantees a spot is available when the fleet user reaches their destination. With around a third of motorists delayed by up to 30 minutes due to not being able to find a parking space, the time and resources wasted have repercussions far beyond the initial frustration, with the potential to erode profitability and hinder operational success.

“The time delays and resources wasted when parking have repercussions far beyond the initial frustration”

Smart parking solutions As the company has grown within the parking world, we have realised fleet managers’ needs for increasing parking efficiency as a demonstration of how they’re reviewing rising costs across all areas.

We can assist fleet managers in blockbooking spaces on a subscription-based service, ensuring they have a guaranteed space when they need it, at the lowest price. This new ‘turn-up and pull-in’ approach helps reduce fuel consumption, minimises late arrivals and optimises daily routes.

Looking ahead, plans to expand our self-service platform to allow fleet managers to add and remove vehicles as needed are already underway.

Embracing the electric future As the automotive industry continues to transition towards EVs, fleet managers also need to start planning how their fleet will get around. YourParkingSpace is rolling out more charging points, but is also working on the deployment of a ‘Park and Charge’ functionality within our app, with a view to launching in Q1 2024. This new feature will allow fleet users to reserve a charging point, further maximising time efficiencies due to the driver knowing their EV will be able to be charged at its destination.

Furthermore, with the Government’s recent announcement of the National Parking Platform, on-street parking and charging could also become a reality in the not-too-distant future, opening the door to further parking options for fleet managers.

DfBB_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:29 Page 1

a fleet-related question or something on your Dear DfBB... Got mind? Let the team at Driving for Better Business know and it will (hopefully) make all your worries go away!

Dear DfBB, Our company has expanded recently and we now have 20 vans and cars to handle deliveries. We’ve never had any issues before, but I’ve taken over managing the vehicles and don’t know where to start. Can you offer some fleet management advice?

DfBB says: You’ve come to the right place and, if you’ve had no incidents, it could be a good sign that your company and vehicle fleet are already well-run. Driving for work is often seen as a consequence of a job rather than a safety-critical aspect. But it is one of the highest-risk activities that most employees will ever undertake. Failure to manage that risk doesn’t just put drivers and other road users at risk. It can also put directors and senior managers, reputations – even the business itself – at risk, so it’s always wise to seek an unbiased assessment.

As a first step, try a basic fleet confidence footprint tool, to help you look at six basic areas regarding driver safety.

Firstly, ensure all your drivers are safe and roadworthy today; have an appropriate and valid driving licence; were fit to drive when they started work today and are competent to drive their vehicles. Then, make sure that any loads are being carried within legal limits and are safely secured.

Be as honest as possible with your answers: your vehicles may all have current MOT certificates, but are you and your drivers carrying out daily checks?

When did you last check driving licences?

If you score high, great – keep it up and aim to get even better.

If you score lower than expected, test out a gap analysis to see where you could make changes – and check the mandatory requirements of managing driver safety.

If you are not 100% confident in any of these areas, there could be some simple steps you could take to improve your policies and procedures. This is confidential to you and is aimed at helping you decide what action to take.

Your scores will improve in no time.

Got a fleet-related issue and want some advice? Email support@drivingforbetterbusiness.com

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY EV CONTRACT HIRE, LEASING & FINANCE

TELEMATICS & TRACKING Webfleet Solutions Tel: 0208 822 3605 www.webfleet.com

Geotab Tel: 0800 0885482 www.geotab.com/uk

EV FLEET SOFTWARE Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Europcar Mobility Group UK

Tel: 0371 384 0140 www.europcar.co.uk/business

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com/electric-vehicles

FUEL MANAGEMENT

SOGO Tel: 01908 101100 www.sogomobility.co.uk

Lex Autolease GKL Electric Leasing Tel: 01844 852252 www.evcarleasing.co.uk

Promote your company here and online for just £500/year.

www.lexautolease.co.uk Tel: 0344 824 0115

Tel: 0345 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

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Tel: 0330 042 0903

Tel: 01753 851 561

Tel: 0800 328 0370

www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk

www.wvl.co.uk

www.venson.com

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SOLUTIONS Paua Tel: +44 788 330 4542 www.pauatech.com

BP Fleet Solutions

Mobilize Power Solutions UK Tel: 07973 874344 power-solutions.mobilize.co.uk

Pink Salary Exchange Tel: 0116 2488 148 www.pinksalaryexchange.co.uk

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Fleet Operations Ltd Tel: 0844 567 8000 www.fleetoperations.co.uk

Keytracker Ltd Tel: 0121 559 9000 www.keytracker.com

LEVC Tel: 0333 136 2696 www.levc.com

Herd Group Tel: 01372 747333 www.herdgroup.co.uk

Drivetech (UK) Ltd Tel: 01256 610907 www.drivetech.co.uk

Allstar Chargepass® - power your mixed fleet with an all-in-one solution Allstar are experts at keeping businesses on the move. And as the switch to electric vehicles grows, Allstar Chargepass gives your business and drivers the unrivalled answer to provide simple payment solutions for charging on-the-road and at home alongside fuel.

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Keep drivers on-theroad: Thanks to 92% of our network offering fast, rapid or ultra-rapid charging speeds, drivers’ downtime is reduced meaning they can spend more time on the job at hand.

Happy employees: Our award-winning† technology means we work directly with your drivers’ energy supplier, so they don’t have any difficult expense claims or receipts to submit.

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Make managing multiple invoices from different suppliers a thing of the past. With Allstar Chargepass all your on-the-road and at home electric vehicle charging sessions are conveniently located alongside any fuel transactions into a single, easy to manage paperless HMRC-compliant invoice.

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It’s time to embrace the simplicity and advantages of Allstar Chargepass for powering your mixed fleet. Speak to a member of our experienced team today, and find out how we can help make your EV transition as seamless as possible.

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09/11/2023 13:49

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ON TEST

Volvo EX30 Compared to the forthcoming EX90, the EX30 is small, but is it perfectly formed, ponders John Challen

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here was ‘outrage’ (in the UK at least), when Volvo announced it was no longer going to offer estates here in the UK. The business case stacked up, but that didn’t seem to cut the mustard with some.

The arrival of the EX30 aims to justify the move, because it’s not only a step change in size, but also a departure inside.

It’s fair to say the interior is ‘minimalistic’. There’s only one central screen, which controls pretty much everything on the car including wing mirrors, navigation, climate, volume, seats and glovebox. Steering wheel buttons are included but it’s definitely a case of ‘one screen fits all’. The omission of a driver display does not, however, mean the inclusion of a head-up display (packaging constraints wouldn’t allow it, according to Volvo), so the driver’s eyes are drawn away from the road ahead when looking for any kind of information, such as speed or directions.

Volvo made a big play at the launch about the EX30 being small but, at 4.2m long and 1.94m wide, it’s not exactly tiny.

There’s not much room in the rear – or the boot – but up front the car’s more spacious. It’s certainly priced like a small car – the range starts at £33,795 – competitive given Volvo is targeting drivers of cars such as Audi’s Q2.

There are currently three electric powertrains being offered: two singlemotor versions (one with an extended range) and a twin-motor option. The latter comes with a whopping 428hp and 543Nm of torque, which is arguably too much power for this class of vehicle – it reaches 62mph from a standstill in just 3.6 seconds!

We’d favour the single-motor option – with its 272hp and 343Nm, especially the extended-range car, which offers an additional 82 miles of driving range (298 miles) over the base model. The 0-62mph sprint in that model takes 5.3 seconds, so

“EX30 may be small but, at 4.2m long and 1.94m wide, it’s not exactly tiny” it’s not exactly slow. The standard singlemotor version is equipped with a 51kWh battery, while the other two variants are fitted with a larger 69kWh unit. Economy-wise, Volvo is quoting 3.7mi/kWh for the single-motor versions and 3.6mi/kWh in the twin.

There are just two trim levels: Plus, which is available with all powertrains, and Ultra, which applies to only the single-motor extended-range version

and the twin motor. Plus drivers get that single 12.3-inch touchscreen (including Google functions), a Harman Kardon audio system, dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors and heated front seats and steering wheel.

Move up to the Ultra and there’s more driver assistance technologies such as a 360° camera and park assist. Elsewhere, the higher grade adds a fixed panoramic sunroof, bigger wheels and poweradjustable front seats.

Performance is good and the new small(ish) Volvo’s ride is good. It feels light, agile and refined, almost whisper quiet at higher speeds. It’s comfortable too, with a well-laid-out cabin, plenty of storage areas, wireless charging areas and a lot of sustainable materials onboard. However, the insistence of going ‘full Tesla’ and running pretty much everything through a single screen is arguably a step too far.

IN BRIEF WHAT IS IT? Swedish premium B-SUV HOW MUCH? From £33,795 RANGE? 214-298 miles CHARGE 10-80%? 26 minutes (134kW) Key fleet model Single – extended range Driving range; performance; comfort Single display screen; rear space 7-word summary Disappointing display setup, but plenty of performance Also consider Audi Q2 / Jeep Avenger / Smart#1

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ROAD_Renault_Clio_FW_Dec23_rhp.qxp 24/11/2023 13:11 Page 1

ON TEST

Renault Clio E-Tech hybrid More than three decades on, the Clio is back with upgrades inside and out. John Challen gets behind the wheel

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n an automotive landscape that is increasingly dominated by SUVs, it’s refreshing to see small cars still holding their own. The likes of the Ford Fiesta might have gone, but with the Clio, Renault certainly believes it has a vehicle in demand.

Heading inside the Clio, there’s a mix of technology and sustainability to be admired. The former includes elements such as wireless smartphone connectivity and a multimedia screen up to 9.3-inch, complemented by either a 7-inch or 10inch dashboard display. There’s also – for the first time in a Clio – heated seats and steering wheel, as well as automatic air conditioning. Finally, Clio’s Multi-Sense technology can adjust the ambient lighting to suit the driver’s mood. In terms of sustainability, there’s no leather in the interior; surfaces instead using TEP, a grained coated fabric made of biosourced and polyester fibres.

Externally, there’s been a moderate makeover – including a new lighting setup – but the big difference is under the bonnet. Here, drivers have the choice of two powertrains: a 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine with 90hp and 160Nm of torque or a full hybrid setup with 145hp and 144Nm. We sampled the latter, powered

by a willing 1.6-litre 95hp engine, a 1.2kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors, which help to achieve a claimed best fuel economy return of 67.3mpg (WLTP). Emissions are quoted as 96g/km. Renault says that, when driving in cities, the electric motor will be deployed up to 80% of the time. The result is a reduction in fuel consumption by up to 40%, compared with a conventional petrol-engined equivalent Clio.

“Inside the Clio, there’s a mix of technology and sustainability to be admired” All models in the three-grade lineup (more on that later) feature the likes of lane keep assist, hill start assist, traffic sign recognition and cruise control with speed limiter. Meanwhile, depending on the trim level, drivers can add in blind spot warning, auto high/low beam technology and adaptive cruise control.

Due to the high level of standard equipment on each of the grades, there are no packs for drivers to add on. The range starts with Evolution, running on 16-inch

wheels and featuring the likes of full LED lights, cruise control and rear parking sensors. Step up to the Techno model and there are 17-inch alloys, more interior storage, wireless connectivity and front sensors and a rear camera. Topping off the range is the Esprit Alpine with bespoke 17-inch wheels, heated steering wheel, the larger touchscreen display and adaptive cruise control.

Part of the appeal about the Clio is its functional and sensible design when it comes to the layout of the controls. Physical buttons help, but it’s not a fussy appearance. The seats are also some of the most comfortable and supportive we’ve encountered, too! On the road, progress is smooth and the hybrid system works very effectively, which is likely to please those working in urban environments. The rear seat area isn’t the most spacious but, on the whole, there’s a lot to like with the latest French offering.

IN BRIEF WHAT IS IT? Hybrid hatchback HOW MUCH? £21,295 (£17,795 petrol) ECONOMY? 67.3mpg EMISSIONS? 96g/km Key fleet model E-Tech Techno Seat comfort; interior layout; performance Rear seat space; ride quality 7-word summary Over 30 years on, Clio’s still strong Also consider Hyundai i20 / Škoda Fabia / Toyota Yaris

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ADVTL_Europcar_FW_Dec23.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2023 12:12 Page 1

FLEETS SHOULD NOT TAKE THEIR FOOT OFF THE EV PEDAL

he recent change in the deadline for the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles shouldn’t dampen fleet ambitions to cut their own carbon. It’s crucial that focus remains on reducing emissions so that the UK can still hit the net zero target by 2050.

Do we want to cut emissions just to tick a box and comply with government regulations, or to make a difference to our environment and air quality? Are we moving towards electric fleets out of necessity or because it’s the right thing to do for future generations?

Sales of electric and hybrid vehicles have been steadily increasing in recent years, as the market readied itself for the 2030 deadline. The key now is to ensure that enthusiasm doesn’t wain.

Transport accounts for a significant proportion of global CO2 emissions, so changes made by fleets can have a real impact on global emissions.

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Taking a ‘discovery’ approach The big issue is that the entry cost for EVs is still comparatively high.

Combined with continued supply chain challenges, this is making it hard for many businesses to switch to an entirely electric or even hybrid fleet.

There’s also a need to win over the hearts and minds of drivers.

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Rental addresses these issues, enabling businesses to take a ‘discovery’ approach without making an immediate long-term commitment. And Europcar is committed to helping employers find the right zero and low emissions vehicles for their specific needs.

For some that will mean battery electric; for others it could be a mixture of electric, hybrid and younger, more efficient, petrol and diesel vehicles.

And, with a growing choice of electric cars of almost every size, shape and spec, Europcar is providing a real-world experience to enable businesses to discover how EVs can support their mobility strategies and give drivers the opportunity to ‘try before they switch’.

A more gradual transition period also provides opportunity and time to adjust motorists’ attitudes to EVs, as well as changing habits and behaviour. Flexible vehicle usage – from daily to weekly, monthly and longer, available to be delivered to any UK postcode from over 100 locations across the UK helps motorists and businesses experience EV

in real-world conditions. For many organisations now in a transition period learning how EV works for their operations, Europcar’s electric vehicle rental solutions help them understand the impact of low and zero emissions mobility in a practical, accessible and cost-efficient way.

The Europcar digital EV Guide, including access to the Zapmap charger map, makes the transition to electric as stress-free as possible. And with support of electric vehicle ambassadors at handover, Europcar’s goal is to help drivers rapidly gain confidence in zero emissions.

The long-term goal is to offer a mobility solution that means vehicle ownership could be replaced by zero emission vehicle usership. It’s a winwin for the environment.

The Europcar EV Guide is available at

electric.europcar.co.uk

To find out more about zero and low emission solutions from Europcar visit

www.europcar.co.uk/business/electric

LTT_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 15:30 Page 2

ON FLEET VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTE FIRST REPORT

THE NUMBERS P11D £40,455 (12%) BiK* 12% I £81 (20%) /£162 (40%) ECONOMY 234.5mpg CO2 EMISSIONS 27g/km EV RANGE 40 miles

he Golf GTE remains something of a ‘sleeper’ in the current Volkswagen range, oft over-looked by sporty drivers wanting the full-fat GTI or ecoconscious drivers opting for the fully electric ID.3.

So, is it a comprised offering, or simply the best of both words?

After just a couple of days of ownership, I’m tending towards

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the latter. I appreciate the GTI-look styling cues inside and out, while the combined 245hp from the petrol and electric motors offer more than enough performance for everyday driving. I also like the fact that I can run in pure EV mode for about 30-odd miles in mainly urban areas.

It’s a win-win for me and I’m looking forward to seeing just how

close we can get to that mythical claimed 235mpg figure…

Our car comes with a few optional extras included, pushing the price up from £40,510 on-theroad to just over £43k – upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels are a £670 investment worth making purely on an aesthetic level, while the Winter Pack would be an essential tick on my options list. I’m

also quite partial to the Moonstone Grey paint at £420 – a flat light grey which works well with the blue exterior styling accents.

Our car is also fitted with a rearview camera at £330, and the yet-to-be-tested Dynamic Chassis Control, which offers three suspensions settings, for £875.

First impressions of the Golf are good – it’s simply the perfect allround car, coping with town driving and longer trips with ease.

While the industry transitions from ICE to EV, this Golf remains the perfect stepping stone and, in GTE guise, should continue to tempt user-choosers.

Julian Kirk

VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC R-Line 1.5 TSI 150 DSG DE-FLEET REPORT

THE NUMBERS P11D £34,265 BiK* 33% I £188 (20%) /£376 (40%) ECONOMY 46.3mpg CO2 EMISSIONS 138g/km ON FLEET 44.8mpg

ith one VW arriving, another departs. Having served us very well, our T-Roc has now made its way back to Milton Keynes and will doubtless be appearing on a forecourt soon as a used car. It should prove to be a good buy for its new owner.

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The T-Roc had a busy last few weeks with me, including a trip to Gatwick Airport for a Renault launch, another to Stratford-onAvon and a final long haul trip to Blackburn to visit CoolKit, ending the day with a changeover. The result of that

left me with our long-term Audi e-tron GT, so it’s an electric future for me for the coming months.

There was much to like about the T-Roc. It was a comfortable mode of transport for four adults and the car’s dimensions meant that it was as happy around town

as on long-distance work.

Although the boot doesn’t appear that big on first glance, there was useful additional space beneath the boot floor because the car was not equipped with a spare wheel.

I have been a long-term fan of Volkswagen’s DSG automated gearbox for its quick and smooth changes, but I am leaning more towards the Stellantis view that it offers little advantage over a modern multi-speed automatic.

Just the same, the T-Roc will be missed for its all-round practicality, brisk performance, tidy handling and good fuel consumption.

John Kendall

fleetworld.co.uk

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ON FLEET JAGUAR I-PACE R-Dynamic HSE Black EV400 FIRST REPORT

THE NUMBERS P11D £77,440 BiK* 2% I £26 (20%) /£52 (40%) RANGE 292 miles ON FLEET RANGE 249 miles EFFICIENCY 2.3mpkWh

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head of its forthcoming reinvention as an all-electric brand, Jaguar has given its I-Pace a refresh, five years after the car first burst onto the scene. It’s testament to the design, engineering and marketing departments at Jaguar that the big battery electric vehicle doesn’t feel its age – probably something to do with the fact that it seemed almost ahead of its time when it was launched.

Back then, the choice of electric vehicles was minuscule, compared with the many models on the market now. But it still holds its own as a very wellappointed, comfortable and useable electric vehicle.

Upgrades for the MY24 version bring a refresh of the exterior – including a new front ‘grille’ – and a WLTP driving range of up to 292 miles. Inside, the infotainment

system is slick and the mobile connectivity is seamless – I seem to have defaulted to using Android Auto and Google Maps, in place of the car’s sat nav.

That’s no slight on the in-built system, though – more an illustration of a) how well the smartphone connectivity works and b) how long it’s taken me to make the best use of the tech! Another great feature is the inclusion of an

‘old’ USB charging port, as well as the useless-to-me (because I don’t have the right cables) USB-C one.

Wireless charging is great, but it’s not the fastest.

The Jaguar and I have done a fair few long journeys since it arrived, but a full recharge isn’t troubling the WLTP figure – the best yet has been 249 miles. But that figure has risen since the big Jag arrived, so I’m not too concerned just yet! There is a lot to get into regarding features, functions and options, which I will be sure to cover the next few months. Right now, it’s time to prepare for another airport run!

John Challen

BMW iX1 xDrive30 xLine THE NUMBERS P11D £53,240 BiK* 2% I £18 (20%) /£36 (40%) RANGE 270 miles ON FLEET RANGE 253 miles EFFICIENCY 3.3mpkWh

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’m now about 1,000 extra miles into BMW iX1 custodianship, with 5,000 miles on the odometer. It’s also that time of year when the weather is on the turn and the first buttons pressed in the cabin, employing muscle memory, are the heated seat and heated steering wheel.

I don’t know whether this is a function of EVs striving for greater battery efficiency in all aspects but,

40 fleetworld.co.uk

for me, the warmest setting ‘3’ on the heated seats (standard, and extremely comfortable) and heated steering wheel (£175) is somewhat lukewarm. The colder weather also means that claimed range of 270 miles might take some achieving, even if quite a few of the miles I travel are urban EVfriendly ones.

I have definitely noticed a drop off in range, both driving when

very cold, and also with the cabin heaters doing their thing. Around 230 miles is probably realistic in this kind of usage, while the aforementioned accurate range predictor adds a little confidence to those longer journeys.

The iX1 is simplicity itself to charge and the app, which links your smartphone to your car, is excellent, providing detailed remote updates on battery level

progress and many other functions too. I haven’t tried out the cabin pre-warming yet, principally because it hasn’t been quite chilly enough, and I don’t have a set timing routine, but it will be interesting to see how it enhances an already very positive experience.

It is true, however, that any app is only as good as potentially sketchy network coverage, meaning occasional latency in delivering up-to-the-minute info. This is perhaps less of an issue if drivers have access to a home charger, rather than relying on the public network like I have to, and won’t be unique to the impressive iX1.

Luke Wikner

*2023/24 Tax year – Benefit-in-Kind tax cost per month for 20% taxpayer / 40% taxpayer

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for more reports visit

fleetworld.co.uk

MAZDA CX60 Homura PHEV t probably isn’t unfair to say that, as car companies and new models go, Mazda hasn’t exactly been at the forefront of electrification. The MX30 isn’t without appeal, but even the most hardened EV fan would admit it has a limited audience – even with the latest rotary-engined, rangeextender version.

And then there’s this new CX60. It takes a brave company to launch a diesel into the market at the moment but, alongside this plug-in hybrid version, there’s no question that the CX60 has some appeal. That’s particularly the case with this PHEV’s 2.5-tonne towing capacity.

With a 2.5-litre petrol engine allied to a 17.8kWh battery, the Mazda boasts 33g/km emissions and a frustrating 39-mile EV range – giving it a 12% BiK rating.

Just one more mile of EV range would have seen that figure drop to 8%, the next bracket down.

Combined, that gives it an output of 327PS which is enough

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FIRST REPORT

THE NUMBERS P11D £40,115 BiK* 8% I £53 (20%) /£106 (40%) ECONOMY 188.3mpg CO2 EMISSIONS 33g/km EV RANGE 39 miles

to drive it from zero to 60mph in a very swift 5.8 seconds. That’s hardly slothful for what is a 2.1tonne SUV and certainly it’s not a light car – or a small one.

Size issues aside, I’m in the mid-range Homura-trim CX60 in Rhodium White (a £750 option)

with 20-inch black metallic alloy wheels. I’ll be honest, I’m not usually a big fan of white cars but, like editor Challen and his fashion ‘sense’, I’m all for challenging conventions. Despite that, however, I have to say that I like the combination with the

black alloy wheels. With autumn here and winter approaching though, I do reserve the right to have this statement thrown back in my face at a later date.

Our CX60 has the convenience pack, driver assistance pack and the panoramic sunroof, which bump this test car’s price up to £52,020, which is no small change, despite the fact that it’s a big car. The CX60 has already had a baptism of fire to Wales and back in a day which saw the average economy nose-dive and is just recovering with some more local journeys.

Watch this space.

Nat Barnes

ŠKODA SCALA 1.0 TSI 110PS 6-speed DE-FLEET REPORT

THE NUMBERS P11D £22,030 BiK* 29% I £106 (20%) /£212 (40%) ECONOMY 53.4mpg CO2 EMISSIONS 120g/km ON FLEET 43.3mpg

s our Škoda Scala departs after a six-month stay, I think it’s somewhat fitting that it’s proved an essential part of everyday life right to the end. Duties including a last-minute tip trip have been made easy thanks to the capabilities of the Scala’s boot. Cabin space has remained a particular

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plus point too – not many cars in this price point and segment would have oodles of headroom left above lanky teenagers.

Our 110hp 1.0 TSI has continued to provide a balanced blend of performance and economy. While my predominantly urban mileage means I’ve been getting combined

figures in the 40s, it’s easy on more mixed journeys to get economy into the 50s, or higher if it’s mainly motorway usage. Longer stints behind the wheel have repeatedly shown that the driving experience is comfortable and relaxed while visibility is excellent.

I think the thing that’s flabber-

gasted me the most is just how pristine the Scala is on leaving us.

This is a car that’s taken all elements of family life over the last six months, and yet its hardwearing interior cleaned up well and looked as good as the day it was delivered (well, almost).

Of course, its reliability, economy, practicality and hardwearing capabilities are key attributes for many a fleet car too and I’m only surprised that I’ve not seen more around, leading me to conclude that it’s a hidden gem, overlooked in the chase for crossovers and SUVs but well worth considering.

Natalie Middleton

fleetworld.co.uk

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in association with

EV SURVEY sponsored by

LEADING THE CHARGE Fleet electrification has become a core strategy as organisations take steps to reduce their environmental impact. The Fleet World EV SURVEY, in collaboration with E.ON and sponsored by Mazda, Ogilvie Fleet and Webfleet, asked decision-makers about their experiences and how their plans are taking shape – here are 10 key points from the results. >>

fleetworld.co.uk

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sponsored by

EV SURVEY

in association with

>> Does your organisation have a Net Zero strategy?

1 Larger businesses are leading on Net Zero

80

70

Although the Government has pushed back on some of its Net Zero carbon policies, businesses are not changing course. Almost three-quarters of respondents (73.2%) said they already have a decarbonisation strategy in place or under development.

60

Yes

50

No

40

It's under development

30

However, the results highlight a divide between the large (over 250 employees) and small (1-50 employee) business.

Small businesses were almost four times more likely to have no electric vehicles on fleet (48.1%) than large ones (12.8%) and less than half as likely to have a Net Zero strategy.

20

10

0

Small business

Medium business

Large business

2 Electrifying cars is easier than vans Vehicle manufacturers will face the first Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate in 2024, and adjusted each year, requiring a progressively higher share of new registrations to be electric. Next year, the targets are 22% for cars and 10% for vans, with large fines for non-compliance.

Among the fleets who responded to our survey: 100% of car-only fleets have electric vehicles, but…

12.5% of van-only fleets include them.

Fleets operate the newest vehicles on the road, so they will be at the forefront of that transition. For cars, latest BVRLA data shows 48% of new business contract hire car deliveries, 59% of finance lease and 91% of salary sacrifice volume is already electric. Vans have stagnated – year-to-date, only 5.5% of registrations are battery-powered, according to the SMMT.

3 Carbon reduction is the key motivator Most fleets said they were aware of the need to reduce CO2 emissions.

This was the most common motivating factor, at 79.7% of all responses – significantly higher than fuel costs (49.2%) and corporate image (43.8%) in second and third place.

98% of mixed (car and van) include electric cars, however…

51% of them have electric vans.

What were your main motivations for deploying EVs? Reducing our CO2 emissions

Corporate/brand image

Reducing our fuel costs

Reducing our impact on local air quality Small Business

Reducing servicing, maintenance and repair costs

Medium Business Large Business

Reducing our tax costs

Demand from drivers

Again, demands differ among the smallest organisations, who are more likely to be focused on reducing their tax and fuel costs than larger businesses.

44 fleetworld.co.uk

We operate within a clean air zone

Our competitors are doing it

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20

40

60

80

100

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4 Cars and vans are charged differently

Where are your vehicles charged?

Cars

100

Vans 80

One of the big operational differences with electric vehicles is that they can be ‘refuelled’ almost anywhere with a power supply. Our survey highlighted the importance of home charging for fleets with electric cars, backed up by access to public chargepoints.

60

40

By comparison, the majority of fleets operating vans have installed workplace chargers to support them.

Only half have made these available to other drivers.

20

0

Employees’ homes

Workplace (employee-only use)

Workplace (available to employees and visitors)

Public chargepoints

AND IN THE FUTURE... Asked about catering for future charging needs, almost two-thirds (61.7%) of respondents said they expect drivers will charge away from the workplace – such as at home, or using public networks.

Although half (47.7%) reimburse drivers for home charging at the HMRC-approved advisory electric rate (AER), almost a quarter (22.7%) set their own per-mile rate, while one in six (15.9%) have an automated solution for this.

How important are the following workplace charging criteria?

100

5 Fleet manager expertise is crucial Most respondents (92.1%) said they have procured their own chargepoints, and fleet managers are often responsible for this – regardless of the business size. Charging speed is a priority when selecting workplace chargepoints, but the majority of fleets said they wanted to take advantage of vehicle downtime as an opportunity to top up.

80

60

40

20

0

Convenient charging where vehicles stop

Reducing what we spend on charging

Keeping our infrastructure costs down

Controlling our Getting vehicles carbon back on the road footprint quickly

6 Fleets are seeking specialist support Deploying electric (and PHEV) vehicles introduces some new responsibilities for fleet operators, most of whom wouldn’t have had on-site fuel stations. Only half of respondents (50.9%) said they have enough workplace chargepoints, while 40.5% said the installation process is a challenge.

Who would you expect to work with when procuring chargepoints for your fleet?

80

70

Home

60

Workplace

50

Organisations that have installed their own chargepoints are more likely to be seeking support from specialists (such as energy companies and chargepoint suppliers) than their leasing company or vehicle manufacturers.

40

Most fleets (82.1%) with chargepoints are paying for them up-front, instead of through a loan or lease. Financial support is still available, including a 100% first-year allowance (available until 2025) for chargepoints, Benefit-in-Kind exemptions for installing home charging equipment and grant funding for workplace units.

10

30

20

0

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>> fleetworld.co.uk

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SURVEY_Scope_EON_FWG_Dec23.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2023 13:20 Page 4

>>

What charging data are you recording?

Where vehicles Where vehicles charged areare charged

7 Fleets recognise that data is important

The cost of energyfor for The cost of energy workplace chargepoints workplace chargepoints

Electric vehicle adoption relies on proven results, and almost threequarters of fleets (71.2%) said they are recording data about how vehicles are charged. This was even higher among organisations with a net zero target (79.1%) or those with vans (82.3%).

Cost of charging was the most common information collected by fleets (80.5% of respondents), compared to just over half (54.9%) that are tracking the carbon footprint of plugging in.

Fleets operating vans were also more likely to be using charging data to identify opportunities to deploy more EVs or chargepoints than the overall average.

emissions COCO emissions 2 2 for the energyused used for the energy

HowHow long vehicles long vehicles spend charging spend charging

Revenuefrom from Revenue workplace chargepoints workplace chargepoints

Small Business Medium Business Large Business

much energy HowHow much energy vehicles using vehicles areareusing

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

8 Public chargepoints are still problematic Reflecting on their experiences with electric vehicles, fleets tended to report that they had cut costs and reduced their carbon footprint by making the switch. Unfortunately, there were trends among the negative points reported too – especially the ease and availability of public charging.

Overall, people agreed that they had cut costs/CO2 but charging problems are an issue. Asked to reflect, lack of public chargepoints and their ease of use are perceived to be big issues. This highlights a need for seamless solutions – such as contactless payments, or roaming apps – which enable drivers to quickly plug in and pay.

Based on your experience with electric vehicles, how much do you agree with the following?

We have cut our CO2 emissions 6%

2.6%

We have reduced our operating costs

Public chargepoints are easy to use

There are enough public chargepoints

10.3% 19.8% 29.3% 26.7% 62.9%

50%

59.5% 19% 19%

91.4%

Agree

46 fleetworld.co.uk

Neutral

Disagree

80

SURVEY_Scope_EON_FWG_Dec23.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2023 13:19 Page 5

Already use

9 Fleets understand the bigger picture Electric vehicles are not a ‘silver bullet’ for decarbonisation, and our survey showed organisations are making wider changes to their energy system too. Impressively, around 40% of respondents told us they are already using smart tariffs (which incentivise the least carbon-intensive energy sources) or renewable energy instead.

On-site storage is also high on the wishlist, including for small businesses.

Most fleets see the electric vehicle transition as inevitable, with 81.0% expecting to add more cars and vans in the coming years and 36.5% going as far as laying groundwork for additional chargepoints to cater for them.

Not considering

Are you considering/already using any of the following?

Renewable generation (e.g. solar panels)

Smart energy tariffs

Load management

Energy storage

Vehicle to grid

0

10 Vehicle cost is still important

Considering

20

40

60

80

100

Which of the following are most influencing your EV strategy?

Lease/purchase costs

Vehicle choice

Access to public charging

Stricter CO2 targets

More real-world data about EVs

Across the board, affordability was rated as the most influential factor behind fleets’ electrification strategies – list prices and interest rates have both increased during the last two years. However, fleets who don’t expect their share to grow were more likely to be influenced by unclear real-world data, charging costs and availability of public chargepoints than those expected to deploy additional vehicles.

The cost of charging

Access to workplace charging

Fleets planning more EVs

Access to home charging

Fleets not planning more EVs

The cost of workplace chargepoints

Increased remote working

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

THANK YOU TO ALL THE FLEETS THAT TOOK PART IN OUR SURVEY sponsored by

in association with

EV SURVEY fleetworld.co.uk

47

FANTASY_Nissan_HyperForce_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:32 Page 1

FANTASY FLEET

Nissan Hyper Force

Price: TBC (possibly) Battery power: 1,341hp

MOBILITY OUTSIDE THE BOX

T

he Japan Mobility Show (née motor show) is never short of eye-catching surprises and slightly leftfield – to put it mildly – transportation propositions.

There’s always a wide spectrum from ‘they’ll never get THAT into production’ to ‘ooh, is that the new [insert motoring icon from yesteryear here]?’ and the 2023 edition of the event didn’t disappoint.

This year, Nissan had five different concepts on show, and we couldn’t let it pass without mentioning at least one of them. To be honest, this column could’ve featured any of the futuristic fantasies because they are all extreme in design and almost certainly subject to a huge overhaul, should any of them make it into production.

On that latter point, there is plenty of method in the madness, so dismiss the concepts at your peril. Don’t believe me?

Here’s the take from Nissan president and CEO Makoto Uchida on the quintet: “All five concept cars showcased today are symbols of the future and embody our founding spirit of ‘daring to do what others don’t’. We have advanced our EV innovations, moving beyond mobility to create a more sustainable world. The EVs symbolise our future of creating a cleaner, safer – and

words John Challen

more inclusive world for everybody without compromising on passions and dreams. Through the power of innovation, Nissan is creating a future where everyone can enjoy the excitement of mobility.”

Sound convincing?

To be a true Fantasy Fleet contender, there was only one real candidate from the infamous five: the Nissan Hyper Force.

Naturally, it's an all-electric powertrain – with a whopping 1,341hp and featuring solid state batteries. There’s also Nissan’s eForce all-wheel-drive technology to help make it, as Nissan describes, ‘a gamechanging hyper EV’.

Specific technical details are sparse beyond the above, save for the fact that drivers can use ‘racing’ or ‘grand touring’ modes, the inclusion of ‘hyper LIDAR’ and carbon fibre four-point racing seats. But Nissan made a big noise about Hyper Force’s connection with the gaming community. Indeed, the whole concept was a collaboration with Polyphony Digital Inc, a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment – the guys responsible for Gran Turismo. There’s also an online game in Fortnite (Electrify the World) for ‘customers of all ages’ to enjoy.

Driving modes: two Expected comparisons with the GT-R: millions Patents pending: one Available: We’ll get back to you…

Likelihood of making it onto the fleet? 0.5/10

Yours truly is too old for all that sort of thing, but what I can say is that Hyper Force looks pretty impressive. What elements of the car make it to a road-going Nissan in the future remains to be seen. Until then, let the idea of this fantasy becoming a reality stay as a dream until you see – or hear – otherwise!

“Naturally, it's an all-electric powertrain – with a whopping 1,341hp and featuring solid state batteries”

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SUPPLIER DIRECTORY CONTRACT HIRE, LEASING & FINANCE

VEHICLE RENTAL

GKL Leasing Chesterfield: 01246 572181 Princes Risborough: 01844 852000 www.gkluk.com

0845 2172 608 daysfleet.com WVL Leasing Tel: 01753 851 561 www.wvl.co.uk

Zenith Tel: 0344 848 9327 www.zenith.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Holman enquiries@holman.co.uk www.holman.co.uk

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 0330 094 7803 www.venson.com

RISK MANAGEMENT

TMC

OEConnection Ltd Tel: +44 844 247 3577 www.oeconnection.com

Fleetondemand Tel: 0330 123 1089 www.fleetondemand.com

themilesconsultancy.com/risk

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Tel: 0141 567 0561 www.arnoldclarkrental.com

Drivetech (UK) Ltd Tel: 01256 610907 www.drivetech.co.uk

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

SALARY SACRIFICE

Chevin Fleet Solutions Tel: +44 (0)1773 821992 www.chevinfleet.com

Europcar Mobility Group UK Tel: 0871 384 0140 www.europcar.co.uk/business

Lex Autolease Tel: 0344 824 0115 www.lexautolease.co.uk

FLEET MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

Tel: 01270 525 218

Pink Salary Exchange Tel: 0116 2488 148 www.pinksalaryexchange.co.uk

Taranto Systems Tel: +44 (0)151 832 0623 www.tarantosystems.com

NORTHGATE

Tel: 0330 042 0903 www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk

ACCIDENT MANAGEMENT

TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS

For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Driiveme Tel: 020 4579 3271 www.driiveme.co.uk/pro

Selsia Tel: 0333 444 5500 www.selsia-vac.co.uk

Promote your company here and online for just £500/year.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

FLEET INSURANCE

FUEL, FUEL CARDS, FLEET SOLUTIONS

Bluedrop Services Ltd

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0345 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

Tel: 01706 658 587 www.bluedropservices.co.uk

euroShell Card Tel: 0800 915 6021 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

FLEET MANAGEMENT Total Motion Vehicle Management Tel: 0116 248 8160 www.totalmotion.co.uk

Fleet Operations Ltd Tel: 0844 567 8000 www.fleetoperations.co.uk

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Webfleet Solutions Tel: 0208 822 3605

Geotab Tel: 0800 0885482 www.geotab.com/uk

Astrata B.V. Tel: +31 402348484 www.astrata.eu

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May 202 1 • flee tworld.co .uk

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FRONT COVER_Transit_VFW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 12:58 Page 1

vanfleetworld.co.uk

DECEMBER 2023

WORTH THE WAIT

Ford’s all-new Transit Custom is here... and it’s brilliant!

INSIDE LCV telematics CoolKit’s big rebuild

SUBSCRIBE! Scan here to receive every single issue...

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100,000 miles

LCV RANGE: INTERSTAR VAN 35 L3H2 135HP; COMBINED MPG 30.4 AND C02 243 G/KM. PRIMASTAR VAN 30 L2H1 110HP; COMBINED MPG 39.8 AND C02 186 G/KM. TOWNSTAR EV; ELECTRIC RANGE UP TO 183 MILES. TOWNSTAR VAN L1H1 130HP ACENTA; COMBINED MPG 41.5 AND C02 155 G/KM. WLTP figures shown are for comparability purposes. Actual real world driving results may vary depending on factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted after registration, weather conditions, driving styles and vehicle load. *Vehicle warranty of 5 years/100,000 miles (whichever comes sooner). For full terms and conditions please visit www.nissan.co.uk/owners/nissan-ownership/nissan-car-warranties.html or speak to your local Nissan van centre. Roadside assistance T&C’s apply, please visit www.nissan.co.uk/ownership/nissan-services/nissan-carassistance/roadside-assistance.html for more information.

JOHN_VFW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 13:02 Page 1

John Kendall VFW editor

New vans coming out of our ears!

“Transit Custom outsells the UK’s best-selling cars, an achievement that I still marvel at”

A new van is something of a rarity, not least because sales are generally lower than for cars, so it takes longer for vans to reach the magic profitability point before the whole process of development, manufacture, launch and sales is fully paid for, generally meaning model cycles of 10 years or more. At the moment though, it feels a bit different. We seem to have new vans coming out of our ears.

Ford has launched the new Transit Custom. This van is something of an anomaly in that it is the best-selling vehicle in the UK as well as the best-selling van. It outsells the UK’s best-selling cars, an achievement that I still marvel at.

Even though I have suggested before that Britain is a nation of frustrated van drivers, the Transit Custom does generally seem to make the point that we are.

Then we have a completely revamped range of vans from Stellantis, simultaneously reworking its entire range from Citroën, Fiat, Peugeot and Vauxhall, while Toyota, whose vans are based on the Stellantis range, has just announced the Proace Max, based on the largest model, filling a gap in its LCV range. As I write this, I am in Barcelona where Iveco is unveiling the latest revisions to the Daily, EuroCargo and its heavy truck range. No, nothing much happens in the world of vans…

That said, LCV operation is becoming less and less about the simple matter of selling and using vans. It may seem obvious to those operating van fleets, but the industry appears to be waking up to the fact that fleet managers need information. Where are my vans? When are they due for service? How are they being driven? Do my drivers need refresher courses? When do I need to dispose of my fleet and renew?

Connected vehicles can answer most of these questions and after years of leaving that side of the business to others, every van launch/relaunch I have mentioned so far includes discussion about connected vehicles and their benefits. It could yet be the biggest change in the industry that I can remember.

Stay up to date at vanfleetworld.co.uk

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ROAD_FordTransitCustom_VFW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 13:10 Page 1

ON TEST

Ford Transit Custom It’s the one we’ve all been waiting for – John Kendall gets behind the wheel of the popular Ford

H

ow do you replace the UK’s best-selling van – in fact, the UK’s best-selling vehicle? The answer is, carefully. The Ford Transit Custom has held the ‘top vehicle’ crown for several years in the UK now, outselling the most popular car – quite an achievement in itself. Ford has wisely kept the appearance of its replacement similar to its predecessor, ensuring that it remains instantly recognisable.

The manufacturer set out to produce a range that included all-electric drive and multi-fuel capability, with better productivity and efficiency. In line with the development of the Ford Pro business, Transit Custom is also integrated with the Ford Pro platform and fully connected right from the factory.

The range will be comprehensive, with a panel van, double-cab in van, kombi and kombi van as well as the Tourneo people mover. There will be two lengths and two roof heights, available with both body lengths.

As Ford suggests, there will be a choice of power options, including diesel, PHEV and battery electric. The diesel comes first, with deliveries due now. PHEV models will appear in spring 2024 and BEVs following next summer. Diesel models will be available with a range of

power options starting with 110hp, then 136hp, 150hp and a range-topping 170hp.

Options will include a new eight-speed automatic transmission.

The outgoing Transit Custom was one of the first vans to be offered in PHEV form and this powertrain has been completely revised for the new model. Out goes the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, replaced with a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine.

Ford claims a combined power output of 232hp for the engine/motor combination with an electric driving range of up to 35 miles. PHEV models will benefit from Ford’s Pro-Power Onboard system with 2.3kW of available power for tools and other equipment.

This spec matches the Pro-Power Onboard offering for the E-Transit Custom BEV models, which are powered by a similar drivetrain to the E-Transit.

A 64kWh usable capacity battery has been deployed, giving a range of up to 209 miles. It will also offer a towing capacity of up to 2.3 tonnes.

We will go into more detail when we test the new vans, but the new Multicab is worth a mention. It offers a four-seat crew cab, with the second-row seats arranged to leave one side with the full length of the load floor, a neat layout.

We were able to briefly sample the 150hp diesel variant with a six-speed manual gearbox and a Tourneo Custom with eight-speed automatic. The dashboard design draws heavily on the alldigital instrumentation of the E-Transit with much attention to detail. It looks smart, modern and business-like. Cross cab access has been improved in the new Transit Custom with an electric handbrake, while automatics feature a column- mounted gear selector, leaving an uncluttered cab.

The diesel engine is well suppressed and performs well. The eight-speed automatic would be a great choice for stop/start driving. The diesel offers good performance and the van handles well.

Ford’s weight reduction programme and improved aerodynamics ought to keep fuel consumption in check too.

IN BRIEF WHAT IS IT? Medium van HOW MUCH? From £34,189 (ex-VAT) MAX PAYLOAD? 1,258kg (L1H1) ECONOMY? 25.5-41.5mpg (WLTP) DRIVE? 2.0-litre diesel, developing 110hp-170hp with 310-390Nm torque

VERDICT Ford has done a comprehensive job with the new Transit Custom, with plenty of appeal to fleets and drivers.

There is a mountain of innovation in all aspects and Ford should have little difficulty in winning customers over.

04 vanfleetworld.co.uk

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IVIEW_Supplier_CoolKit_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 13:00 Page 1

supplier stories CoolKit

THE BIG REBUILD What’s the worst that can happen to a small, successful supplier to the fleet sector?

It’s a question that most of us would prefer to avoid, but one that CoolKit CEO, Rupert Gatty, found himself needing to answer in July. By John Kendall

C

oolKit has just celebrated its 18th birthday. That would be cause for celebration for any 18-year-old, but for the company, it was marked in a way that won’t be forgotten in a hurry.

Before reliving that event, here’s some context. The company began with four people back in 2005. Founder Rupert Gatty had a straightforward business plan back then. “As the name suggests, it was my plan just to sell vehicle insulating kits to other third parties to fit them together, but as it turned out, most people said, ‘Look, just build it for us, will you?’ So that is what CoolKit did, designing and making its insulating kits itself.”

As CoolKit became established, business with larger fleet funders followed and Coolkit now works with most of the major vehicle leasing companies. Temperaturecontrolled conversions are not the only products that the company makes. “A growing part of our product mix is for freestanding, rigid box bodywork of the insulated type,” says Gatty. “They are in food service, particularly in the wholesaling of fruit and vegetables and they get a hard life but are still in one piece. I’m delighted that we seem to have established the right mix of materials and methods that have produced something that is incredibly light

06 vanfleetworld.co.uk

but also with industry-leading longevity.”

The company also imports and distributes a range of Italian-built portable commercial refrigerators, which can form part of its conversions. They have proved popular with businesses involved in healthcare distribution and others in food and water sampling, where separation may be required or there is a need for ambient and chilled compartments.

As the company expanded, it established itself on two adjacent sites at Burnley in Lancashire. Then, on 6 July this year, disaster struck.

It was a Friday at about 3.30pm when Gatty received a call alerting him to a fire.

“I was in our adjacent unit at the time,” he explains. “Everybody was in the place and so you’ve got to find your wits. It was everybody out! Has the fire brigade been called? Do we know what's burning?”

The fire brigade was onsite for 36 hours, so it was a substantial fire. A building of nearly 50,000ft2 was destroyed, driven by the burning of combustibles such as insulations, plastics, sealants and vehicles.

“It was a shocking time for us all. We spent a while reeling, trying to realise how big an event it was,” recalls the CEO. “We pulled ourselves together and worked out that if we could get the vote

of confidence necessary from our customers to carry on as their converter, despite having no facilities, that was a real drive for us to find somewhere.”

This cloud has had a silver lining. Gatty and MD Danny Miller set about finding new premises. They needed a site that could accommodate 250 vans at any one time, with the space to work around them.

As luck would have it, a four-acre site in Blackburn was available with around 70,000ft2 of buildings. The previous tenants had become insolvent earlier in the year and the site owner was keen to find a replacement quickly. What’s more, the site had been a bonded warehouse, meaning it had a range of security measures in place.

“The biggest silver lining of them all is that the premises, being as large they are, will accommodate substantial growth in capacity and output for us,” says Gatty.

I visited the site two and a half weeks after CoolKit moved in, some three months after the fire. The building was a hive of activity. There were few cues to indicate that the company had only just arrived. There are new staff and a big focus on how temperature-controlled vans will need to develop as we move into the electric age. There’s a long way to go, but CoolKit is rising from the ashes.

ADVERTS_AccessHire_FORS_half_FW_Dec23.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2023 12:21 Page 1

THE UKs LEADING PROVIDER OF VAN MOUNTED MEWPs & SPECIALIST VEHICLES FOR HIRE AND LEASE

0345 365 5091

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MTS Cleansing Services believes FORS training is fundamental to fleet efficiency Liquid waste management company, MTS Cleansing Services, believes FORS, the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme, has been fundamental to a marked improvement in its fleet productivity.

MTS Cleansing Services began its current FORS journey in June 2019, undertaking an initial FORS Bronze audit for 42 vans and trucks at its principal location in Rochester. The organisation rapidly progressed through the different levels of the scheme, achieving FORS Gold accreditation in April this year. Having fully embraced the scheme, the MTS Cleansing Services team recall that even though FORS Silver status was required to meet HS2 contract requirements, the progression to Silver then Gold has subsequently opened revenue streams elsewhere for the company.

The company’s Head of Fleet & Compliance, Richard Fletcher, is a qualified FORS Practitioner after completing the requisite fleet management training modules. MTS Cleansing Services also employs Academy Manager, Charlotte Taylor, who is responsible for training and was instrumental in introducing FORS into the business model. Today, MTS drivers are regularly provided with FORS Toolbox Talks,

fors-online.org.uk

toolkits and other guidance, which has led to drivers having fully embraced best practice.

“After becoming FORS Bronze accredited,” said Charlotte Taylor, “we realised FORS was able to provide a consistent and reliable audit service. This ensured all our vehicles running out of Rochester, and our fleet operations generally, were legally compliant, safe and efficient. This provided the impetus to go on the FORS journey to achieve even higher levels of best practice. Then,” she said, “our HS2 work presented us with a contractual requirement to attain FORS Silver, and this has certainly led to new business wins elsewhere.

08448 09 09 44

@fors_online

“Very soon after, and though there was no specific business requirement, we set our sights on FORS Gold – to hit the highest quality levels of fleet management – and this is where the FORS training has become fundamental to fleet efficiency, especially helping drivers become even safer and even more productive. We’ve been FORS Gold for a few months now and we’re very well motivated to maintain our highperformance levels going forward.

Furthermore,” she added, “the DVSA, when performing spot checks on our vehicles, appear very satisfied with our FORS Gold accreditation, and we’ve experienced no issues as a result.”

TELEMATICS_VFW_Dec23_noLightfoot.qxp 24/11/2023 14:57 Page 1

LCV essentials

ON THE RIGHT TRACK How can the latest onboard fleet monitoring technology help businesses improve efficiency and cut costs? Matt MacConnell finds out.

W

ith company margins squeezed by the rising inflation over the past couple of years, things are no longer as simple as a job getting done on time. Fleet managers are now looking to contain costs and find affordable solutions to assist in monitoring their large or small fleets. Over recent years, advances in telematics have enabled fleet managers to drill down into van-related information such as speed, driver efficiency and costs saved. This not only allows fleets to save cash, but also allows managers to concentrate on driver training and other vital areas.

Edinburgh-based software company, Podfather, says that the adoption of telematics and similar systems has never been easier for LCV operators. “It is increasingly important for a delivery business to look beyond telematics, as it needs fleet management tools that address its specific KPIs,” explains Jane Geary, Podfather marketing director.

“There has never been more choice, meaning a van operator can pick and choose the features and functionality that are tailored to their requirements.

While some companies do want all the sophistication that a full telematics system can provide, others have different objectives. They might want routing and scheduling capability to reduce pence-per-mile delivery costs, but only want the track and trace functionality of telematics, for example.”

For electric van fleets, Podfather allows users to identify fleet EVs and enter van-specific range information to ensure that route planning is as accurate as possible. “Analysis of our customer base shows that only around 10% are using Podfather’s EV capabilities,” says

08 vanfleetworld.co.uk

Geary. “They are mainly focused on food deliveries, so multi-drop operations in urban areas where an EV’s range is more than sufficient. It’s no different to platforms for diesel vans in that operators don’t want to pay for functionality that they don’t need. Some fleets will use, and benefit, from more complex systems, but many more will not want to pay for what they perceive as bells and whistles.”

Many fleet managers may be pondering over the change to EV, which can lead to further questions. Various factors such as load, battery size, temperature and driver awareness can affect a van’s range. According to Webfleet, the latest figures reveal a 16% year-on-year rise in electric van registrations, driven mostly by their burgeoning capabilities. In recent months, a big innovation example

Route optimisation follows an array of dedicated software tools to help make running an electric LCV fleet more efficient

would be the emergence of route optimisation, which is designed to help maximise van fleet productivity and minimise downtime.

“Route optimisation follows an array of dedicated software tools to help make running an electric LCV fleet more efficient, including energy consumption reports that detail energy usage in kWh, per vehicle, per day, and charger connection insight reports,” says Beverley Wise, Webfleet regional director.

They all ensure charging takes place at the times of day when tariffs are most favourable and just before vehicles are needed for operation. Elsewhere, amidst considerable economic volatility and new and emerging business models, telematic solutions are addressing van fleet demands for operational flexibility.”

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APP’S THE WAY TO DO IT Webfleet’s Work app was launched in direct response to this need – and it has enabled van drivers to access the Webfleet platform with an Android device. This means swift onboarding and no hardware installation, minimising downtime and allowing focus on further work. Fleets can set up short-term contracts and, when personnel change, existing subscriptions can be reused either for new vehicles or drivers. Wise adds: “Today, more than ever, necessity has become the mother of invention when it comes to fleet management technology. Practical solutions are being developed apace to help van operators meet the challenges of what is one of the most transformative transport environments the sector has ever seen.”

With electric vans gaining prominence, some fleet managers may query how added technology affects the van’s range.

According to Targa Telematics, telematics systems do not drain EV batteries — instead, they enhance longevity and efficiency. In fact, OEM equipment data plays a crucial role in the LCV market.

For vehicles devoid of in-built sensors, Targa Telematics bridges the connectivity gap by incorporating its own devices and has developed increasingly innovative solutions by working with large vehicle manufacturers, which means that its telematics can be used with an array of vehicle makes and models. This allows fleet managers to review OEM vehicle data easily, for example warning lights, odometer readings and service countdowns, meaning less downtime.

HIGH-VALUE LOADS For fleets that transport high-value goods, such as electronics, pharmaceutical shipments and more, there are various van tracking systems available.

“Asset trackers need to be as small and inconspicuous as possible, with some now designed to be disguised as part of the cargo or load and easily concealed from prying eyes,” says Vernon Bonser, UK sales director, Queclink. “However, any solution still needs to be robust and dependable, so devices should be ruggedised and waterproof to handle changing conditions. Battery manage-

ment is paramount, so the ability to intelligently manage reporting intervals depending on device status will not only maintain but extend battery life. Leading manufacturers are offering options such as rechargeable and re-usable devices that lend themselves to a wider range of use cases, making asset tracking more efficient and affordable.”

Depending on the fleet’s needs, various options such as ‘remote-and-hardware' trigger options are a must, allowing fleet managers to set alerts based on location, tamper and more. More premium products offer direct connectivity to sensors,

“Practical solutions are being developed apace to help van operators meet the challenges of what is one of the most transformative transport environments the sector has ever seen”

which allows light, heat and moisture to be monitored. Fleet telematics company Tracker says that companies need data for in-transit shipments to improve operations, reduce risk and resolve issues. For cold chain logistics, telematics can help maintain temperatures, which are vital, as fluctuations can cause spoilage or degradation of goods.

“For high-value loads, it is now possible to monitor any route deviation or if doors have been opened outside permitted areas, so fleets can be instantly alerted to a potential security risk,” comments Inseego managing director Steve Thomas. “Fleets can also take advantage of remote panic alarms, which are connected wirelessly to the telematics system. They typical have a range of 30-40 metres, which allows the driver to raise an alarm whether they are inside or outside the vehicle.”

According to SureCam, besides driver training, tracker systems and other telematics hardware or software, video telematics are just as important. Sam Footer, the company’s partnership director, says: “One major development for van fleets is the combination of video telematics with lone worker technology to provide drivers with a quick and easy way to request assistance. Organisations are increasingly focusing on employee safety as part of mitigating fleet risk, so video-enabled driver protection is an effective way of safeguarding them both in and outside the vehicle. This offers high levels of peace of mind to the people who drive for a living, and their employers, by taking lone worker safety to the next level and adding an extra layer of protection to what is currently available using traditional vehicle tracking or a video telematics solution.”

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PROFILE_AccessHire_FW_Dec23.qxp 24/11/2023 13:09 Page 1

SPECIAL PROFILE

Access Hire

EASY ACCESS As a specialist, with a customer-centric focus and an eye on the increasing desire for even more ecofriendly options, Access Hire strives to make the availability and accessibility to modern van-mounted platforms and other specialist vehicles as straightforward as possible, with a range of products and services that encompass everything into a fully managed and maintained service.

W

ith a 50,000ft2 Head Office facility in Wakefield and four depots strategically located across the country, Access Hire is the UK’s market-leading specialist provider of van-mounted platforms and other specialist vehicles with over 1,600 modern vehicles in the fleet. Part of the Kelling Group, which also incorporates sister-company, Welfare Hire, everything the group does has an innovative, eco-friendly approach with a focus on added value and what works best for customers. “We are pioneers in the industry, but we are customer-centric,” says sales director, Martin Whitehead.

“We partner with our customers to align us with their goals and targets.”

Customer service is a cornerstone of the company’s operations and they set out to not only ease the headaches of fleet management but take some of the risk off the customer as well. With customers ranging from Tier 1 contractors to smaller clients across telecoms, power, street lighting and council sectors as well as welfare vans for rail, highways, utilities and more, Access Hire endeavours to build long-term relationships with customers, with some going for 15 years and more. The company’s offerings encompass everything into a fully managed and maintained service, providing customers with peace of mind that all maintenance of the specialist vehicles and compliance with regards to LOLER regulation is looked after.

“Everything is managed by us as the experts, as a one-stop-shop which is inclusive of fleet management, 24/7

10 SPECIAL PROFILE

operational support, servicing, MOTs, PMIs, breakdown and recovery and courtesy vehicles which all helps to minimise downtime,” explains Whitehead. “One of our main USPs is the customer-centric approach that we have in everything we do, building long-lasting partnerships with all of our customers, integrating into their business to plan for any vehicle requirements.”

As the world moves towards electric vehicles and customers look to ways of improving their own sustainability practices, Access Hire launched the UK’s first range of fully-electric van-mounted MEWPs as part of Access Zero.

“Historically the technology has not been there, and we haven’t had a viable solution for moving to EV MEWPs, but now we have an electric Renault Master and an electric Ford Transit with allelectric booms that are really great solutions for those environmentally-focused companies looking to reduce their carbon emissions,” says Whitehead.

“We have always had the youngest Euro 6 compliant vehicles, and now we have full-electric which will suit the needs of some of our customers involved in, for example, inner city council work in ULEZ areas. They also complement the eco focus we have in Welfare Hire as they have cutting edge, innovative welfare units that incorporate smart energy systems, rainwater harvesting, solar energy and much more!”

New technology and further advancements in other eco options is the way Whitehead sees the company’s products and services developing in the next few

years, with better electric ranges due to improved battery technology and even potentially others such as hydrogen coming into play.

“We will continue to invest to have the youngest, most innovative fleet and provide the full maintenance wrapper.

We are also looking at other products that may fit well with our current offering of specialist vehicles as our customers are always asking us for other products (such as our splicing/utility van) as they trust us to manage and maintain them as we do with their MEWPs,” added Whitehead.

“As a specialist with over 15 years of expertise, we are able to advise any customer on the best and most ecofriendly asset for their specific requirements. This may be the most efficient diesel vehicle for, e.g. Fibre rollout where distances covered are significant, or fullelectric for LED light replacement in a city.

We offer the best-in-class assets and service to meet the specific requirements of our customers. There is much more to come in the future in terms of innovation and new products, so watch this space!” accesshirenationwide.com

VFW SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Dec23.qxp_VFW SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Aug'07 24/11/2023 13:23 Page 1

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY CONTRACT HIRE, LEASING & FINANCE

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GKL Leasing Chesterfield: 01246 572181 Princes Risborough: 01844 852000 www.gkluk.com

Geotab Tel: 0800 0885482 www.geotab.com/uk

Drivetech (UK) Ltd Tel: 01256 610907 www.drivetech.co.uk

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

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0845 2172 608 daysfleet.com

Alphabet (GB) Limited Tel: 0370 50 50 100 www.alphabet.co.uk

PHVC Minibus & Fleet Suppliers Tel: 01489 580333 www.phvc.co.uk

Zenith Tel: 0344 848 9327 www.zenith.co.uk

WVL Leasing Tel: 01753 851 561 www.wvl.co.uk

ABAX Tel: (+44) 1733 907 583 www.abax.com

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TEMPERATURECONTROLLED VANS

Selsia Tel: 0333 444 5500 www.selsia-vac.co.uk

FridgeXpress (UK) Ltd Tel: 0800 612 8902 www.fridgexpress.com

VEHICLE RENTAL

Fleetondemand Tel: 0330 123 1089 www.fleetondemand.com Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Tel: 0141 567 0561 www.arnoldclarkrental.com

Europcar Mobility Group UK Tel: 0871 384 0140 www.europcar.co.uk/business

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Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

FUEL MANAGEMENT Lex Autolease Tel: 0344 824 0115 www.lexautolease.co.uk

euroShell Card Tel: 0800 915 6021 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 0330 094 7803 www.venson.com

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0345 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Promote your company here and online for just £400/year.

EV FLEET WORLD Tel: 01727 739160 www.evfleetworld.co.uk

FLEET MANAGEMENT Fleet Operations Ltd Tel: 0844 567 8000 www.fleetoperations.co.uk

Promote your company here and online for just £400/year.

Total Motion Vehicle Management Tel: 0116 248 8160 www.totalmotion.co.uk

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For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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