Truck&Fleet ME March 2017

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BOSCH INTERVIEW: MEET YOUR NEXT GEN TRUCK

038 MARCH 2017

MIDDLE EAST

A POWER PLAYER ABB’S FAST CHARGE

GO BACK TO THE FUTURE IN OUR SPECIAL TECHNOLOGY ISSUE

04 CONTENTS

28

PUBLISHING DIrector RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5483 eDItorIAL DIrector VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5472 EDITORIAL

34

coNSULtANt eDItor GAVIN DAVIDS gavin.davids@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5480

invest or get left behind

eDItor StEpHEN wHItE stephen.white@cpimediagroup.com +44 7541 244 377

This month’s magazine has a special focus on how technology is changing the very nature of the

SUB eDItor AELRED DOYLE

business. In many ways, that’s what we do every

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issue (after all, why read to find out everything is the same as last month?) but, recently, I’ve had the nagging thought that we haven’t yet truly looked at the full breadth of what is on offer in the market.

TECHNOLOGY

To that end, we were fortunate to talk

08 / vision of the fUtUre

to Urs Waelchli of ABB at the recent World

t&FMe’s technology special kicks-off with a look at the Vision Van drone concept.

Future Energy Summit to get his opinion on

JUNIor GrAPHIc DeSIGNer pERCIVAL MANALAYSAY

the practicalities of charging electric vehicles,

MARKETING

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

was fascinating to not only hear how quickly

14 / ChArge As YoU shoP

the field is advancing but also how different

ABB’s Urs Waelchli talks about fast charging’s potential as an added value service.

commercial sectors can benefit by seeing charging

20 / being genUine MAN truck & Bus Middle east’s Franz Von redwitz argues that genuine parts can save money.

DESIGN Art DIrector SIMON COBON

specifically large fleet like trucks and buses. It

SAFETY

SALeS MANAGer BIpIN SONEJI bipin.soneji@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 433 2856

MArKetING MANAGer LISA JUStICE lisa.justice@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5498

as an added value service. Given the region’s

CIRCULATION & PRODUCTION

love of its malls and restaurants; being able to

DIStrIBUtIoN MANAGer SUNIL KUMAR sunil.kumar@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5476

recharge your car’s batteries while you recharge yours sounds like a match made in heaven.

We also spent time with Kıvanç Arman to look at how Bosch is using its partnerships with

ProDUctIoN MANAGer VIpIN V. VIJAY vipin.vijay@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5713

OEMs, as well as its own expertise, to deliver a

TELEMATIC TRENDS

22 / eYes on the roAd

huge range of concepts for the next generation of vehicles. One of those partners is Daimler

What to look out for in telematics and truck technology in 2017, including in-cab video.

and we also look at its Vision Van concept

OPERATOR INTERVIEW

report on telematics and trends in technology

25 / the neW WAve

that you realise that in many ways the future

Kıvanç Arman, robert Bosch Middle east, on how it is helping to transform the truck industry.

is already raring to go for those fleets able to

which uses drones for last mile deliveries.

WEB DEVELOPMENT MOHAMMAD AwAIS SADIQ SIDDIQUI PUBLISHED By

I think, however, running through our

invest in it. Fleets need to be coming up with strategy right now and putting resources

SPECIAL REPORT

28 / A QUestion of logistiCs A special look at the region’s ever-growing role as a major logistics hub.

in place. That is a strategy that should be

Registered at IMpZ pO Box 13700 Dubai, UAE tel: +971 4 440 9100 Fax: +971 4 447 2409 www.cpimediagroup.com

second nature to the industry, but those

FOUNDER

who fail to do so will be left behind.

DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015) PRINTED By pRINtwELL pRINtING pRESS LLC

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© Copyright 2017 CpI. All rights reserved

32 / WorKshoPs thAt WorK Fabian Schlott, MAN, on why authorised workshops save time and money.

STEPHEN WHITE editor

while the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 1

ONLINE

MOST POPULAR

fEATURED

READERS’ COMMENTS

MACHINERY

BALfOUR BEATTY

IronPlanet auctions world’s largest demolition excavator

ExIT NO REfLECTION ON MIDEAST MARkET

It was surprising, but not particularly alarming, to read about Balfour Beatty’s departure from the Middle East. As you CONSULTANT

reported (“Balfour

SSH designs world’s largest children’s hospital

Beatty to exit Mideast joint ventures”, February 22), the UK group is In pictures: Trump sons in Dubai for Damac golf course launch

selling its stakes in Dutco Balfour Beatty and BK Gulf. The contractor has been

PROPERTY

active in the region

Developer renames Trump golf community ‘Damac Hills’

for as long as I can remember – back to the 1970s. But the decision should be seen in light of the other moves made by Balfour Beatty, such as its pulling out from Indonesia

PROPERTY

and Australia, rather

Dubai property sales ‘increase by 30%’

than read as a signal about the Middle East market. Infrastructure projects in this region – especially the Gulf – are continuing apace, even during the depths

CONSTRUCTION

Expo 2020 Dubai to award contracts worth $3bn 2 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

of the oil-price crash.

Video: ‘flying car’ being tested in Dubai

Ali Malouf, via email

Apollo Tyres Middle East FZE T : + 971 488 41603 www.apollotyres.com

NETWORK

NETWORK 03 17 YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO THE MIDDLE EAST’S TRUcK AnD FLeeT oPeRAToR neTwoRK

on-A-Roll EmC sCoops mAjoR mERCEdEs-BEnz ACColAdE

PR events such as last month’s Iron Schöckl Activation, a manmade moving iron mountain at Abu Dhabi’s Marina Mall typify EMC’s award-winning approach to PR and marketing.

Abu Dhabi-based Mercedes-Benz dealer also wins two other awards at German brand’s annual dealer event for 2016 Abu Dhabi-based Emirates Motor Company (EMC) has been selected by Daimler-Benz Middle East as its General Distributor of the Year for 2016 and has also been recognised for the Best PR and Best Marketing Activation for the year.

The German automotive giant presented the awards to its Abu Dhabi dealer at the annual Mercedes-Benz Middle East awards in the UAE capital earlier last month.

The titles of Best PR and Best Marketing Activation for 2016 were awarded for the

“creative promotional work” it carried out at two of the biggest events on Abu Dhabi’s calendar last year, while the General Distributor title considers all aspects of sales, marketing and corporate social responsibility, said a joint press statement from the two entities.

EMC was awarded the activation trophy for its efforts at the Taste of Abu Dhabi food festival in November, while its PR campaign for January 2016’s global golf event, the HSBC Championship Abu Dhabi, also received the top prize.

Lennart Mueller-Teut, head of Marketing and Communications at Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East, said: “We would like to

congratulate EMC on their well-earned awards. Both their brand activation and their PR activation were creative, well executed, innovative and ultimately resulted in great coverage and measurable results which show fantastic reach to an audience of press and consumers.

“EMC is a valuable partner with great expertise in the region and we look forward to collaborating in the future on more great marketing.”

The annual awards are contested amongst Mercedes-Benz distributors in the wider region – Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, KSA, Oman, Pakistan and the UAE.

DUBAI’s RTA LIcensIng Agency sAys new LeAD To mAnDAToRy TRAInIng FoR ALL heAvy 4 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

NETWORK

ALLIson TRAnsmIssIon RAnge showcAseD AT IDeX 2017 Allison Transmission featured its product lines for military vehicles at February’s IDEX 2017, in Abu Dhabi. Allison transmissions are suitable for light-, medium- and heavyduty military wheeled and tracked vehicles, including tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, self-propelled howitzers, and tactical wheeled vehicles.

Tata Motors and KSA dealer Manahil International Company at the launch.

UD TRUCKS PREPARES TO ROLLOUT NEW RANgE iN MARCh

smART PRImA now In KsA

UD Trucks will begin the roll out of its new Croner, a mid-sized truck designed for emerging markets in Asia and Africa.

The truck will be built at Volvo’s Thailand assembly plant and will be sold throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America, Volvo CEO Martin Lundstedt told The Nikkei. He added that UD Trucks has been given greater autonomy to aid its international expansion.

“It is our aim for Croner to make every moment count, through maximising productivity and minimising downtime on every run our customers make,” said Nobuhiko Kishi, SVP, UD Trucks Brand and Product.

unveiled two new PRIMA heavy-duty trucks The Croner follows last year’s successful launch of the Quester in the Middle East.

Tata Motors has launched its World Smart Truck PRIMA range into Saudi Arabia.

India’s largest commercial vehicles producer – the PRIMA 4438.S (4x2) tractor head and the PRIMA 4038.K (6x4) Construction tipper at special event held in collaboration with its KSA dealer-partner, Manahil International Company, a unit of Mohamed Yousuf Naghi & Brothers group (MYNM).

The Tata PRIMA is based on an Italian cab design, with US and German engine and transmission technology, combined with Swedish precision robotic weld lines.

The Tata PRIMA 4438.S (4x2) is a 44t tractor head which is powered by a 380hp Cummins Engine, and has a 9-speed Eaton transmission.

50 ‘fIRST Of THEIR kIND’ fORD AMbULANcES fOR DcAS

A delivery of 50 specially designed and converted Ford Transit ambulances to the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS) has been hailed as the first of their kind anywhere in the world.

DCAS showcased the emergency vehicles at last

month’s Arab Health event in Dubai and revealed that Ferno, a leading specialist in emergency prehospital patient handling equipment, spent more than three years developing their iNTraxx System (Integrated Vehicle Component System and iNLine Fastening System).

The interior of the ambulance which was converted by Horton Emergency Vehicles, is modular, and can be changed around in a matter of minutes, depending on the emergency situation. Vital tools, such as IV equipment, oxygen, monitors and supply bags, all hang along the side of the cabin with quick-release mounts on a track system for easy access.

The company says the vehicle is suitable for multiple applications like general cargo: container/refer van/car carriers; industrial: cement, steel and machinery transportation; as well as general construction roles such as in combination with tipper trailers.

Meanwhile, the Tata PRIMA 4038.K (available as 6x4) construction tipper is based on an 18m3 box tipper and is powered again by a 380hp Cummins Engine with a 9-speed Eaton transmission.

“We are delighted to launch our next – generation range of Tata PRIMA heavy-duty commercial vehicles here in the KSA today,” said Rudrarup Maitra, head – International Business, Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors.

Ravindra Pisharody, executive director, Commercial Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors, added that the launch was, “an important milestone in our

LAws BeIng consIDeReD mAy vehIcLes UsIng A TRAILeR

journey towards further enriching the value trucking proposition, in one of the largest construction and infrastructure hubs in the Middle East.”

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 5

NETWORK

CONSTRUCTiON TO FUEL CONFUSED iNDiAN MARKET

Sales were 7% down in 2016 for DICV, as demand fell in the second half of the year.

Growth powered by infrastructure developments and growing logistics requirements from the construction sector, will help India’s commercial

vehicles market to increase at a compound annual growth rate of 14% until 2021, according to a report from TechSci Research. The analysts also predicted that the light commercial vehicles segment will have the highest growth among all commercial vehicle segments in the next five years.

The commercial vehicles sector in India is currently anticipating the 1 April deadline for the introduction of a tougher emission standard, Bharat Stage-IV. The deadline means that all vehicles registered and sold after that date should be compliant.

With the move expected to see a surge in the price of trucks and buses as the cost of the new technology is passed onto customers, the majority of producers and dealers have requested a delay

in its introduction to enable ageing inventories to be sold on.

“There is confusion about the switch to BS-IV,” Rajiv Bajaj, managing director of Bajaj Auto told Bloomberg last month. “There is a group who think the deadline should relate to the manufacturing date. The industry wants to keep pumping (the cheaper) BS-III stock into the market.”

Following a fall in profit of 96% in Q4 2016, Tata Motors managing director Guenter Butschek told The Economic Times newspaper last month, that while the company is predicting a more settled outlook for 2017, continuing confusion over the introduction of the new emission laws means he does not, “have overtly positive expectations of 2017-18.”

AAc’S REcORD-bREAkER ZOE SpARkS AT EVRT

With a range of 400km, the Renault ZOE the longest driving range of any mass-market 100% electric vehicle.

Arabian Automobiles Company, the exclusive dealer for Renault in Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates, is celebrating its successful participation in the Emirates Electric Vehicle Road Trip (Emirates EVRT) – a four-day event that aimed to drive electric vehicle adoption and accelerate the transition towards a sustainable low-carbon future.

Salah Yamout, director of sales and marketing, said: “AAC is aligned with UAE Vision 2021. A key part of this support is expanding our range of electric vehicles, so that we can offer exceptional models like Renault ZOE with 400km autonomy NEDC – a new and exciting generation of EV th`at will spark fresh interest in clean mobility.”

ThE TELEMATiCS CONFERENCE MENA RETURNS TO DUbAi The Telematics Conference Middle East & Africa will run its third edition of the annual telematics focused conference and exhibition this month. The two-day event will take place on 8–9 March 2017 in Dubai, UAE. This year’s topic: Connecting (commercial) telematics and IoT. The event is anticipated to attract both global and regional telematics players to Dubai to network, exhibit, and share knowledge at the event which focuses on telematics for fleet management and commercial vehicles in the region will host 150+ delegates, among them: telematics solution providers, telematics device manufacturers, navigation and digital

6 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

Trials such as TRL’s GATEway in London are proving autonomous fleets are close to being a reality.

map developers, smart sensors and HW manufacturers, IoT experts, M2M providers, OEMs, market research specialists, logistics and transport companies, and startup companies starting business in the telematics field.

The conference highlights global trends and regional development in the telematics industry, with a special focus on the question of how are telematics solutions for fleet management and commercial vehicles connected with IoT. The event will include representatives from companies such as: ABI Research, Almajdouie Logistics, Etisalat, FMS Tech, Gurtam, Location Solutions – Middle East, and Sigfox.

Driving profitability

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Volvo I-shift Gearbox

NEW TECHNOLOGY

Make way for the Mothership Mercedes-Benz’ vision for the vision van which Made its ces deBut last Month

VisioN VaN speCiFiCatioNs: Power: 75kW electric drive system Range: 270km Drone Specifications: Payload: 2kg Range: 10km radius

S

trip away Daimler’s awkward notes for its Mercedes-Benz’ Vision Van and you’ll find an exciting preview of the delivery vehicle of the very near-future.

Here’s a taster for those who appreciate tin-eared prose about delivery vehicles: “The Vision Van evolved as part of the strategic future initiative adVANce. With adVANce, Mercedes-Benz Vans is developing from a mere van manufacturer into a supplier of holistic system solutions.”

“The company is underscoring this strategy with the Vision Van as a visible manifestation of its innovative strength. The Vision Van boasts an unprecedented level of

8 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

connectivity of information and technologies.

It is the first van worldwide to serve as an integrated concept for a completely digitally connected process chain from the goods distribution depot to the consignee.”

CES, the annual Las Vegas showcase for all things technological, is the sort of event that spins out hundreds of web pages and newspaper column inches containing the word “cool” and “connected”. Given the CES audience goes into the show looking to play with anything flashy and flying, Daimler may have been better off by going straight for the juggler and pronouncing the Vision Van as a “cool looking ride with a cool digital front end and cool drones at the back. Oh, did we mention it has drones?”

In all seriousness, the Vision Van is a significant step into the ring for grabbing the attention of last-mile delivery companies in smart urban environments by Mercedes-Benz Vans.

“With the Vision Van we are presenting the intelligent, clean and fully interconnected van of the future,” says Volker Mornhinweg, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “The Vision Van integrates many concrete concepts for future delivery operations in the urban environment.”

The Vision Van features a fully automated cargo space, integrated drones for autonomous air deliveries and a state-of-the-art joystick control. Powered by a 75kW electric drive system with a range of up to 270km, deliveries with the Vision Van are locally emission-

NEW TECHNOLOGY

“with the VisioN VaN we are preseNtiNg the iNtelligeNt, CleaN aNd Fully iNterCoNNeCted VaN oF the Future”

free. The electric drive system additionally guarantees that it will remain possible to operate the Vision Van in inner-city zones where the introduction of bans on vehicles with internal combustion engines is planned.

The virtually silent electric drive system facilitates late deliveries in residential areas for the purposes of same-day delivery.

Cloud-based Cargo The Vision Van combines several technological advances and is built to be a central, intelligent element in a fully connected delivery chain. That intelligence is based on algorithms that control order picking, the loading of packages, the fully automated cargo space management, route

planning for the vehicle and the delivery drones.

They also calculate ideal delivery routes for the package deliverer. Logisitic centres will be home to automatic order picking with consignments then loaded into special racking systems Driverless handling vehicles load the racks by way of an automated one-shot loading process. The intelligent cargo space management system automatically transfers packages for manual delivery to the deliverer at the unloading point by means of a package dispenser on board the vehicle.

At the same time, the system supplies two drones, each with a payload capacity of two kilogrammes, with consignments for autonomous delivery within a radius of 10 km.

“We are integrating the intelligence of a state-of-the-art logistics depot into a van,” Mornhinweg says. “We estimate that this vehicle would enable an increase in productivity of up to 50% in last-mile delivery services.”

The combination of a cloud-based control software and optimum hardware yields substantial time and efficiency benefits and raises the quality and flexibility of delivery services in the urban environment to a new level. The delivery time per package and the vehicle’s curbside time are markedly reduced, for example. The vehicle also opens up new options for same-day as well as time-definite parcel delivery. Convenience for the end customer is thus enhanced, and failed delivery

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 9

NEW TECHNOLOGY

attempts become an exception. One-shot loading, the automation technology in the cargo space and integration of the delivery drones all contribute to the described increases in efficiency. The technology also virtually rules out any false deliveries, claims the company.

It is hard to argue with MercedesBenz Vans that the concept provides a foretaste of future generations of vans, especially how it brings intelligence, efficiency and connectivity together.

The exterior of the van is also something to behold in the flesh. An extremely wide windscreen curves around to the sidewalls like a high-tech visor and a Black Panel radiator grille has an integrated LED matrix so the Vision Van can communicate with its surroundings and the progressively designed LED headlamps.

“The sharp contours of these elements contrast with the vehicle’s smooth surfaces, engaging in a fascinating dialogue between passion/emotion and technology/ functionality,” says Mercedes-Benz Vans.

There are LED displays on the front and rear and warnings appear when the delivery drones take off, when the vehicle stops or when the deliverer alights. The interior is

10 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

aBeing pared down to a maximum level of functionality the interior design comes in a highly futuristic guise. The designers have done without a steering wheel, pedals and centre console in favour of drive-by-wire control by means of a joystick, thereby creating new design options. This is a unique interior centring on intelligent communication between driver and vehicle. It has also been possible to move the driver’s seat further forward to enlarge the vehicle’s useful floor space.

The dashboard in the shape of a broadly sweeping arc is covered with a premium textile and extends across the entire front end. The entire surface of the arc is used to provide the driver with all the information he needs for his work. When the Vision Van is in stand-by mode, the arc appears as a continuous blue surface with a black colour gradient. When the vehicle is in operation, the arc lights up and shows a tachometer, route planning information and drone flight data, for example.

The vehicle also communicates with the driver via the cabin floor. A special effect LED indicators shine in the stainless steel floor, signalling to the driver whether pedestrians or cyclists are approaching.

At the rear wall of the driver’s cabin are the package dispenser and the driver’s info terminal providing all the relevant information on the delivery process. This terminal serves as a means of communication between the Vision Van’s autonomously functioning system environment and the driver, who is able to concentrate fully on the manual delivery task at hand. It also performs the role of a central control unit to interlink the intelligent vehicle, the automated systems and information relating to the delivery orders to be carried out.

At the same time, the interior concept also facilitates the driver’s work procedures. The omission of a steering wheel, pedals and centre console provides for freedom of movement in the driver’s cabin and ensures unimpeded entry into and exiting from the vehicle.

The electric drive system does away with the need for a drive line, making it possible to provide the driver’s cab with a level floor.

The on-board package dispenser spares the driver the time-consuming and strengthsapping task of searching for and resorting consignments in the cargo space. The driver is able to take receipt of packages at the dispenser in an ergonomically ideal position.

SCANIA ADVERTORIAL

the path to sustainable transport – energy efficiency Scania aimS to combine powertrain and whole vehicle optimiSation with driving performance in order to achieve Supreme fuel efficiency Continuous dialogue with customers helps to enhance efficiency even further. Our deep understanding of your operation enables us to optimise your vehicle, tailor driver management and introduce an extended maintenance program.

The result is lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. A three-party focus is needed in providing energy efficient products and solutions:

Powertrain performance.

An optimised powertrain means that the engine together with the gearbox and rear axle are matched to perform at their best – with respect both to fuel efficiency and expected workload.

together with the customer to ensure the vehicle is optimised for the transport need intended.

Fuel Consumption During Operation.

Scania’s technical fuel consumption levels have proven to be industry leading. However, consumption is also closely connected to driver behavior. Scania works with customers in coaching drivers, optimising driver support products and services to reduce fuel consumption and thereby CO2 emissions and cost. Optimised service and maintenance also contribute to lower fuel consumption over the vehicle’s ife cycle.

efficient solutions Vehicle optimization.

The vehicle specification must be tailored to the transport task. Scania’s pre-requisite is to work

12 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

Offering the most efficient technology for our product is core for Scania. Improved aerodynamics, combustion efficiency and using

positioning data to optimise fuel consumption are some of the technologies offering real opportunities for enhanced efficiency and extending product life cycles.

Scania offers all range of emission levels in the Gulf region (from Euro 3 to Euro 6), which meets the European exhaust emissions standard, that is mandatory from 2014 (Euro 6). Globally, Euro 6 has also been adopted by other selected countries.

In addition to diesel trucks, it also offers the market’s broadest range of vehicles for alternative fuels, including: gas, bioethanol, biodiesel and hydro-treated vegetable oil (HVO) for the Euro 6 level. All Scania’s diesel engines can also switch to HVO. Thereby, Scania has led the way in combining tough emission standards with low carbon solutions.

SCANIA ADVERTORIAL

continued focus on driving and optimisation We continue to maintain our focus on vehicle optimisation and driving performance to maximize fuel efficiency.

Logistics is usually highly complex and involves many parties. This prevents an optimised flow and lead to inefficiencies.

Higher fill rate and longer truck and trailer combinations can yield greater vehicle utilisation. We are devoting resources to further exploring smarter logistics planning, which will also increase energy efficiency.

In the coming decades, an increasing transport demand will come from emerging markets. This will increase the need for smarter logistics in Asia, Africa and Latin America, building demand for efficient and sustainable transport solutions.

Our deep understanding of your operation enables us to optimise your vehicle, tailor driver management and introduce an extended maintenance program.

The result is lower fuel consumption and co₂ emissions.

OUR CUSTOMERS ARE OUR gREATEST TESTAMENT:

“Working in a hot weather condition is a very tough activity and a challenging one, but with Scania truck this is a test of strength and sustainability, which never puts us down. Fuel efficient, the high technology that is built-in helps a lot in the day-to-day activity of our company. The efficiency that the trucks brought us is a big impact towards our operational cost and I would highly recommend this brand…”

“We use our fleet on daily basis from Ras Al Khaimah to ICAD Abu Dhabi with estimated travel of 800 kilometers per trip. We find excellent performance of the vehicle with zero downtime until now. Mileage is also considerably good…We find Scania trucks easy to operate, manageable in maintenance and fuel efficient which delivers excellent profit in our business.”

“We were looking for a truck that is reliable, fuel efficient, safe and optimised for our unique operations. Criteria for the truck was based on maximising our loads, shortening the trip intervals, and fuel efficiency…We know that we can rely on the dedicated service and the renowned quality of Scania. This means our uptime is at a maximum and our delivery costs are reduced.”

- Abu Nasser, Founder - Green Way Transportation & Contracting Company, Qatar

- Majid Ahmed Alanssari, General Manager Teba Cement Factory, Abu Dhabi, UAE

- Kamil A’Shalwani, Managing Director – Abu Zaki Trading LLC, Oman

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 13

INTERVIEW

The Middle East is showing a very strong desire for sustainable, green cities and advanced technology.

U

rs Waelchi, VP, Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure at ABB warned T&FME that the interview is going to take a lot longer that we’ve allowed for. Already five minutes over, he jokes, “I told you, you would want to have more time!”

Waelchi is at the World Future Energy to moderate a session on Smart Cities and to guide people through some of the ABB advances that will play a part in a more advanced and sustainable region. He patiently lets T&FME take his picture alongside a display of its fast

14 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

charger, one of its most promising products for fleet owners. As we sit down to talk about its potential in the Middle East, he addresses one of the major barriers to the adoption of electric vehicles in the region head on.

“I think here in the region one of the key drivers is missing and that is the cost of fuel,” he comments. “However, I feel this region has a very strong desire for sustainable, green cities and advanced technology.”

ABB has for several years been at the forefront of developing the infrastructure that enables electric vehicles (EVs) to take to the roads. As such, it is keen to see global progress

and understands the challenges that are being overcome in order to make the technology a viable alternative to traditional fuel.

He starts by explaining one of the most prosaic problems facing a company that wants to provide its charging solution to the global market – the lack of standard power generation and delivery to sockets on the car bodies of the early adopters of electric vehicles. “The car fast charging unit on the stand (at WFES) has three outlets to incorporate the three global power standards and this is one of the challenges that we are facing: even though it is a new industry we don’t have a universal standard.”

INTERVIEW

Charging up

Abb’s urs wAelchli explAins how retAil could leAd A fAst chArge revolution

Urs Waelchli was at the recent World Future Energy Summit to discuss ABB’s progress in fast charging.

The fast charger for cars can get drivers back on the road in under 15 minutes. While it isn’t as rapid as a fuel pump it is barely enough time to grab a medium-sized latte and a sandwich.

It is certainly a lot shorter than the full-course overnight charging that has put off many consumers in the past.

ABB is now also able to use real-life research and experience to plot out how the infrastructure works out in the field. Extensive trialling in Europe has also demonstrated that nationwide coverage of chargers is possible and straightforward; combatting fears – or range anxiety as Waelchi neatly puts it – that your

Nissan Leaf will run out of juice at the worst possible time.

“The earliest success we had was a project in Estonia. It was the first country that decided to build a country-wide network,” he explains. “We were a very active partner in a showcase of 150 chargers installed in the country. We were able to use the project to show that once you have a network the people start using it.”

He continues: “This morning I looked at a statistic they published and they have grown from 1,000 sessions per month in 2013 to 13,000 sessions. The Estonia project has been a real eye opener not just on the technology side but also

on the application side – it showed that we need to get networks. It means you don’t have this range anxiety anymore; you can drive around and know somewhere along your way there will be a charger.”

ABB continues to work with most of the car OEMs, many of whom have begun to unveil their own EV strategy in recent months.

“From the moment they are starting to develop a car, we usually find each other to help their R&D teams to explain what kinds of infrastructure the car might find in the future,” says Waelchli. “To develop such a car can take three to four years, so this dialogue is something

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 15

INTERVIEW

uAE tAkEs A lEAd Frank Duggan, president, Region Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) at ABB gives his view on the UAE taking the lead in sustainability “A land of endless possibilities is how the UAE likes being described and why not, as in a very short span the country has achieved global recognition for excellence in hospitality, logistics, airport management and now, clean energy, writes Frank Duggan, president, Asia, Middle East and Africa, ABB. “The leaders of this country have not stopped looking to the future. The world’s seventh largest reserves of oil and gas are situated in this country, and we all know these will continue to be important for decades to come. Even so, there are concrete plans for a future beyond oil.

“The UAE is investing in some of the world’s largest solar power plants and is at the forefront of innovation in technologies such as High-powered fast bus charging is now a strategic concern for many governments, particularly in Europe.

high-efficiency solar-powered desalination.

“Further, as the hosts of the International Renewable Energy Agency and World Future

that usually occurs quite early and we can accompany the OEM through the development cycle of the car.

“Whilst the car is on the test track and once the car goes through to the dealers we try to partner up with them by providing the infrastructure so they can concentrate on the car. This happens with any major America, European or Asian OEM.” He adds: “We are now deploying our basic car charging in many more regions and are in approximately 50 countries all over the world.

Many countries have just finished their trials and now we need to see if we can set-up a network with them.”

Waelchli drafts out the four-point levels of ABB’s vision of how charging will be introduced if it is going to enjoy full scale adoption. The car fast charging sits on a second tier below high powered charges for public transport at the bottom is the lower wattage possibilities of charging at home or at offices where vehicles are parked for several hours. He also describes a fourth scenario of inner-city and urban charging that can be done in 30 minutes at supermarkets and retail outlets.

“Charging can be seen as an additional service to what you are doing. Supermarkets can offer charging that may not be as fast as a refuel station but is faster than at home or the office.”

16 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

The end of 2016 saw the announcement

by Swedish retail chain Lidl that it is planning a major expansion of its charger programme.

Waelchli suggests the supermarket giant is not alone in seeing the possibilities of offering charging as a service.

“This type of charging in Europe is booming because it is a nice touch for supermarkets or restaurants to say they are green,” he says.

“Drivers of these types of vehicles are very connected on social media, so it works as great marketing promotion for these brands. I have retail chains that are defining their whole brand around being green. I see a lot of potential in the region as it is providing an additional to service to something a lot of people are already doing, such as shopping, eating at a restaurant or going to an amusement park.

“Working with retailers here is definitely a possibility – my doors are open. We are using the case of Lidl and many others in Europe to showcase a service that complements their channel offering. It is something that is ready to be picked up and with very little effort. You can provide a service and stimulate the behaviour you want to have from your customers.”

Turning his attention to the fleet market, he uses an example of taxi operators to explain why the technology is still limited by the initial cost

Energy Summit, they are promoting best practices in policy, technology, and financing of renewable energy around the world.

“Work is progressing swiftly at the Mohammed bin Rashid (MBR) Solar Park, which will be the largest single-site solar park in the world when it opens later this year. It’s expected to produce 5,000 megawatts of energy by 2030. The ABB substation at the solar park will be the first 400kV station in the UAE connected to integrate solar energy, facilitating reliable and efficient transmission of clean power.

“Dubai is also installing 100 electric vehicle charging stations across the city and building a new Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) headquarters, which promises to be an energy efficient prototype for smart buildings. Masdar, in Abu Dhabi is investing in high-profile, utility-scale renewable energy projects. These include Torresol Energy, a JV in Spain with SENER that operates 120MW of concentrated solar power plants, and the London Array, a 650MW wind farm in the Thames Estuary.

“ABB is pleased to share this vision to build a future that’s smart, clean and sustainable.”

The awards are a great platform to share knowledge and the achievements of the industry. We enjoy the opportunity to network and collaborate at the event, as it is very well organised with a great turn out from all players in Construction.

The Big Project ME awards highlights the best projects, people and innovations in the region.

KEZ TAYLOR

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ALEC

27 November 2017 19:00 - 23:00 Habtoor Grand Dubai Al Andalus Ballroom United Arab Emirates bigprojectmeawards.com

INTERVIEW

Electrically powered vehicles are becoming more common. Growth will accelerate in the years ahead

WE Will dEfinitEly sEE bAttEry tEchnology mEEting thE rEquirEmEnts thAt WE nEEd.” of ownership. “A lot of cities in Europe have CO2 and emission standards to fulfil although it is difficult to influence the private persons towards electric vehicles. But I’ve seen taxi fleets use it in marketing,” he explains.

“However this is an area that has some development to do on the car side. A taxi, for instance, is a very heavy duty application and we need the car OEMs to bring middle classed cars (such as sedans) with large batteries so they can operate a useful cycle time before they need to go to fast charge.”

18 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

Public transport operations have been willing participants in trials of new engine and fuel technology. but they require huge amounts power to recharge: “High powered bus charging is clearly the next. It is a very hot topic at the moment and I can’t think many places in Europe that does not have a plan to upgrade its bus infrastructure to electric infrastructure. This requires a substantial higher amount of power.

We are talking 150kW up to 600kW.” 2017 will see a series of trials and progress in electric public transport and he notes that the

Fuel stations can offer recharging at a fraction of the speed at home.

EV car industry has become increasingly keen to access the higher power technology it requires.

“When we started to do bus charging, we thought that 150kW to 600kW was a lot of power but in the meantime you’ve had car companies like Tesla with a 100kW battery that is charging at 125kW. They are now coming to us saying they want to charge at 300kW but it can be done. The technology is here. It is not a problem,” Waelchli affirms.

The last five years has seen technology make dramatic improvements to batteries. Costs have come down by 80%. At the same time the efficiency and overall performance of the battery has improved dramatically; boosting hopes they can cope with the high demand for aircon in the region.

“You’ve seen the Nissan Leaf is now getting the fourth/fifth battery upgrade in the same car body. They are able to build a battery with 25% more capacity in the same car body. We will definitely see battery technology meeting the requirements that we need. At the end of the day, if you’ve been driving for four or five hours then you should take a rest.”

The largest international trade exhibition for the automotive service industry in the wider Middle East

7 – 9 May 2017

Be part of the 15th edition to meet and trade with thousands of manufacturers, distributors and suppliers from across the world.

A visit is highly recommended. To be part of this edition, pre-register at www.automechanikaDubai.com/TF

MAN TRUCK & BUS - SAFETY

Protecting your investment

MAN Truck & Bus ME’s Franz VOn rEDWITz lOOks aT gEnuInE parTs 20 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

MAN TRUCK & BUS - SAFETY

t

he commercial vehicles and fleet sectors are not alone in their fight against combating counterfeit. It is a problem affecting many different industries around the globe, however, when a counterfeit part on a vehicle fails, it endangers everyone traveling on roads and highways. According to recent report by the International Anti-Counterfeiting Organisation, counterfeiters are increasingly concentrated on components like brake pads and suspension systems that are crucial to driver and other road-users’ safety. For fleet operators, there are also further risks to their businesses should they lose valuable uptime because parts are failing when they need them the most.

At a time of rising fuel prices and operational costs and margins are becoming tighter than ever before, there is extra pressure on fleet managers to not only control costs but also ensure they purchase at the best price. Unfortunately this means that fleets in the region are potentially a more attractive target for counterfeiters and grey marketeers than ever before.

“Each MAN vehicle is an intelligent investment which always benefits customers in the long term,” comments Franz von Redwitz, managing director, MAN Truck & Bus Middle East. “However, it is still possible to increase the value retention and efficiency of this investment once again. Thanks to the comprehensive MAN genuine parts and service, downtime can be significantly reduced and uptime will be increased. There’s no doubt nonOEM parts cost less compared to original parts.

However, these lower prices can usually only be

achieved by cutting corners in terms of quality and safety standards,” he explains. “Customers’ total cost of ownership can be controlled easier by utilising genuine parts.”

Von Redwitz tells T&FME that grey market manufacturers are able to undercut the price of authentic OEM components like MAN’s genuine parts by getting them duplicated by unregulated producers that are set-up in low-wage economies. Although counterfeit manufacturers have become more sophisticated over time they will never be able match the experience, knowledge and investment of the OEMs they are targeting. Von Redwitz says that the parts and components also lack a high level of scrutiny.

“In most cases, these producers will not have an in-depth understanding of the specifications and requirements in relation to the genuine parts,” he says. “It is therefore highly unlikely that parts will have been subjected to quality and endurance tests, constituting a safety risk for the vehicle and driver. All these mentioned checks and approvals are not done by aftermarket companies which try via reverse-engineering and use of lower-quality materials to approach customers.”

All MAN genuine parts are backed by an international spare parts warranty, due to the rigorous quality controls MAN genuine parts are monitored under, he explains: “It is not trial and error, OEMs know every part that every vehicle was constructed with. Genuine parts are designed specifically and manufactured precisely for specified vehicles, this ensures that the installation of these parts is simplified and provides confidence of a long service life. MAN provides the correct part first time with a quality customers can doubtless trust.”

“each man vehicle is an intelligent investment which always benefits the customer. however it is still possible to increase the value of this investment once again.”

Franz von redwitz says that using genuine parts can protect a fleet’s investment.

He explains that MAN always takes a ‘test first then adoption into the product range’ approach. The OEM works exclusively with carefully selected group of globally recognised suppliers, who manufacture their parts subject to MAN’s demanding specifications.

“Spare parts only get an MAN item number once they have undergone and successfully completed MAN endurance and laboratory tests,” he adds. “Only an MAN genuine part can guarantee the perfect fit, the best quality as well as maximum efficiency and service life. For this reason MAN service and parts-outlets work exclusively with MAN genuine parts.”

MAN Truck & Bus is frequently scored as registering the lowest rates of faults in surveys of the German industry. It is an impressive record given the reputation the nation has for engineering excellence. Von Redwitz says that the company always maintain the highest levels of quality to ensure its customers are able to make the most of their investment into their trucks.

“We always offer your customers MAN genuine parts to ensure we fulfil our promise of quality and to maximise the service life of customer vehicles,” he comments. “The aim of MAN is to provide the absolute best in quality when it comes to genuine parts, as in all other parts of our business, so that customers’ vehicles are not only safe and efficient to drive, but will retain their value. Whoever decides on a truck or bus/coach from the MAN brand associates maximum expectations of quality, performance, safety and longevity with the decision.”

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 21

TELEMATICS: 2017 TRENDS

Fleets can use in-cab video to assist in accident investigations and claims while helping to train their drivers and assist with improved driver behaviour.

ActionAble intelligence

MiX TeleMaTics’ Brodie Von Berg Takes a look aT The Trends eMerging in TeleMaTics in 2017 22 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

TELEMATICS: 2017 TRENDS

T

elematics is slowly gaining traction in the Middle East and could be a game-changer for companies looking to lower their operational costs in a tough economic climate.

Brodie Von Berg, head of sales & marketing, Middle East & Australasia at MiX Telematics sees several issues that will take center stage this year in the telematics industry.

Among the central themes for fleets, von Berg argues that 2017 could be the year that sees integrated in-cab video go mainstream.

He explains that in-cab video when fully integrated with fleet management telematics systems can provide valuable insight when it comes to driver performance and safety.

“More fleets will be seeking an integrated full featured telematics solution supporting video, not only to assist in accident investigations and claims, but also to help train their drivers and assist with improved driver behaviour,” says von Berg.

For this to work well having the in-cab video integrated into the telematics system is key: “As video becomes more of the norm for fleets, it will be a must-have tool to protect drivers and the fleets during accident investigations and improve safety for everyone.”

Fleet managers and owners have always relied on data, even in the most simplified of forms, to keep their operations up and running.

Having moved from relying on a pen, paper and a good timepiece, fleet companies are increasingly aware that analysis can become a critical tool.

“Analytics are essential– it’s all about the data and how to understand it to make more informed, smarter decisions for the fleet,” comments von Brodie. “It’s 2017 and fleet managers now expect to find deeper, more actionable intelligence from all of the data created from their fleet management systems so they can improve efficiencies, lower costs and increase driver and vehicle safety.”

Pulling data easily from multiple sources, analysing the data for actionable takeaways and being able to create customisable reports, graphs and dashboards to share will become more in demand from fleet managers, he adds.

Von Brodie is keen to highlight the importance of looking beyond vehicles in terms of impact to operational costs.

He argues that 2017 will see non-motorised asset tracking becoming priority: “Tracking valuable assets like generators, storage tanks, pumps and light towers is going to become

more important to fleets in 2017,” he affirms.

“As fleets look to improve asset utilisation and reduce loss, they will turn to technology that can easily capture the whereabouts of these assets, including when they were last spotted.”

He suggests that plotting on maps and/or generating reports with the last-known location and date and time stamp of the tagged asset will help fleets improve their asset utilisation and save money: “This will move from a ‘nice have’ to a ‘must have’ for many fleets.”

One of the most common threads to come out of this year’s Truck Book published by T&FME was the growing emphasis on aftersales service from the region’s suppliers and distributors.

Von Berg views aftersales service as a necessity as it helps end-users to get the most out of their investment into a telematics system.

“Service becomes king,” he comments.

“The fact is as product features across equipment providers become commoditised, what’s really going to make the difference is the type of service that providers can offer to fleets. For instance, most fleets only utilise approximately 50% of their telematics system, when they can be getting so much more out of their investment.”

Telematics systems providers need to continue to show fleets how to get the most out of their systems – whether it’s for safety, fuel economy or compliance – ideally all three.

“The days of selling the system and walking away are over. For example. MiX Telematics offer Service for Life because we believe it’s important to offer service beyond implementation, but as part of a best practice to continue to show fleets how to get the most out of their system and extend ROI opportunities.”

How does in-cab video monitoring help fleets?

Driver coaching and training

Crash prevention and

Key benefit to fleets:

Video is useful not only for

reduction

Subrogation of insurance

accident investigation, but

When video is integrated with

claims

also in curbing unsafe driving

a fleet management solution,

Beyond improving driver

behaviors such as speeding,

fleets can significantly reduce

training, video helps

harsh acceleration, hard

the frequency and severity of

companies quickly determine

braking and corner handling.

crashes. Fleet management

if they are at fault or not

When managers integrate

solutions constantly monitor

in the case of a crash. This

in-cab video monitoring with

driving behaviours and coach

information is very useful

fleet management, they can

drivers in real-time when

when determining how to best

include video in driver safety

these unsafe events are

handle claims, settle quickly

scoring reports. This can help

triggered. This might be a set

to reduce settlement cost,

to educate drivers about safe

of beeps, verbal cues, and/

or fight the claim knowing

driving behaviour and support

or visual cues inside the cab.

the video will exonerate the

them in learning.

The coaching is intended to

company from fault.

prompt drivers to self-correct

Insurance companies already

Post-crash analysis

their behaviour.

understand the value of in-cab

Video adds an important

Most fleet management

video solutions, especially

element to post-crash

solutions also have driver-

those integrated with a

analysis, giving managers

scoring reports to rank drivers

fleet management solution.

unprecedented insight (and

based on the number and type

These companies understand

irrefutable evidence) into

of events triggered. Video

that fleets utilising these

what occurred in the cab and

can be attached to triggered

tools reduce their incident

around the vehicle at the time

events listed in these reports,

rates, and they appreciate

of an incident. Videos can be

making it easy for managers

the video evidence that

viewed alongside a timeline,

to sit and review driving habits

supports subrogate claims.

adding richer context for fleet

with specific drivers. Coaching

This often has the benefit

managers, many of whom

drivers and enforcing a

of resulting in the fleet and

have shared stories about the

company’s driving policies

the organisation receiving

importance of determining the

are key to the prevention and

reduced insurance rates when

true cause of an incident.

reduction of crashes.

they renew their policies.

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 23

Future TEChnoLogy technology FUTURE

The new wave Kıvanç arman, robert bosch mıddle east, on the company’s new generatıon of technology

T

he truck of the future will be a 40t smart device on wheels, says Kıvanç Arman, Automotive Aftermarket regional director for Middle East and Turkey, Robert Bosch Middle East.

According to Arman, smart connectivity and automation will enable trucks to navigate traffic on the freeway by themselves, mostly without driver intervention.

“This will give drivers time to take care of other tasks, such as planning routes, processing shipping documents, or simply taking a break.

Connected, electrified, and automated – that’s the future of trucks, and that’s what Bosch has encapsulated in VisionX.”

VisionX was unveiled to the global truck industry at last year’s IAA in Germany. The study demonstrates that in just a few years trucks will be fully connected and, in some cases, offer automated driving while running on highly efficient diesel or even electricity as the situation demands. The concept study also shows off platooning, a buzzword being used by the industry to describe trucks using communicating systems to slipstream behind each other.

“In a platoon, the truck is one of a number of trucks all following a lead vehicle to which they are electronically connected and linked.

With the convoy members accelerating, braking, and steering in sync, automated driving reaches a whole new level,” he explains. “The driver

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 25

Future technology

steers the truck until it receives data identifying a suitable convoy. The same applies when the truck leaves the platoon to exit the freeway; at that point, the driver resumes control to complete the journey in manual or partially automated mode.”

At the beginning of this year, a stand-alone, effective unit was created for the commercial and off-road vehicle field (CVO) by Bosch. This new unit oversees integrated system development and cooperation between all of its divisions.

“As a cross-divisional organisation, Bosch’s CVO can offer the customer big-picture solutions.

For instance, if the customer wants to increase their efficiency, we don’t just look at the injection system, but all applications are considered,” he comments. “That requires the support of multiple divisions, such as replacing a rear-view mirror with a camera system and display.”

One of its divisions leading its next generation programme is Bosch Mobility Solutions. He reveals to T&FME that the business sector continues to grow at a steady pace.

“The services that are being developed for the mobility of tomorrow complement existing solutions for vehicle electrification, automation, and connectivity,” he says. “A large part of Bosch’s growth comes from technology for commercial vehicles, and the business sector already generates a quarter of its sales with systems for light and heavy commercial vehicles. With the newly established CVO unit, efforts to develop solutions for trucks and off-highway applications are ongoing.”

Sales in this segment are expected to double in the next ten years, he adds, due to an increased focus on services and solutions, through which Bosch aims to boost the efficiency and security of the logistics ecosystem. In Europe and North

26 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

America, every new truck will be telematicscapable as soon as this year.

Bosch is also playing its part in preparing commercial vehicles for connectivity with its connectivity control unit. The company will more than double its unit sales of this piece of hardware in 2017.

“From the beginning of 2017, logistics companies and drivers in some markets have been able to use this booking platform to reserve secure truck parking bays along freeways. In the coming year, Bosch will also be launching TraQ, a solution that monitors goods using integrated micromechanical sensors and brings more transparency to the logistics chain.”

Arman argues that to exploit the full potential of any new technology, new alliances and lateral partnerships are needed: “The same applies to all our concepts, even though we have a strong research and development team, success comes when there is wide-spread adoption. On an industry-level, joint projects and shared ecosystems must be based on common standards and open platforms. This cooperation among companies, even those in different industries, is one of our strengths.

“Our development pipeline, especially in the areas of Connected Mobility as well as Connected Industry and Logistics – are being developed in close collaboration with both internal and external partners. At events such as IAA, we are keen to tap into all available possibilities, developing new products and solutions that help to improve people’s lives. So it is very possible that the concepts we display become commercial products in the near future.”

The industry is currently being presented a new vision of a more connected/digital future

for trucks and their drivers, but is it something it wants? Indeed, it would be tempting to view Bosch’s development of technology being one-way traffic but Arman tells T&FME that it tends to be shaped by evolving use requirements as well as changing market dynamics. He suggests that this dynamic will accelerate the advances of the future while informing updates to current truck platforms.

“Such a feedback-based model is even more profound in a smart environment in which data presents never-before value in shaping the user experience. Bosch is able to retrofit and install several of the concepts and products into commercial vehicles in the market. Modular and scalable developments reinforce Bosch’s role as a provider of efficient solutions for all commercial vehicle classes. Apart from the IoT solutions, Bosch also has a full range of innovative powertrain systems.”

Daimler and Bosch talked extensively on the subject of turning vehicles into hubs for data at IAA. The two companies worked together last year on a pilot project in Stuttgart that equipped Mercedes-Benz vehicles with sensors that would detect available curb spaces for other vehicles using the same highway. The collected data was sent from the Daimler Vehicle Backend system via a secure data link to the Bosch IoT Cloud for analysis when the ultrasonic sensors located available parking spots. Clearly, the two companies are beginning to explore how smart, community-based and IoT-enabled technology can benefit drivers.

“Bosch will be supplying the truck data centre for new Daimler trucks. As well as the hardware itself, Bosch also possesses its own IoT cloud, which the company uses to implement smart services such as Secure Truck Parking,” he says.

Many countries in the GCC have committed to turning their cities into smarter and more advanced areas. Arman believes technology like Bosch’s can help your customers and end-users to make a profound contribution to this progress.

“Bosch can boost transport efficiency with logistics services as well as with commercial vehicle technology. The solutions are already taking on more and more functions and making the driver’s work considerably easier. With a range of assistance systems based on precise sensor technology, Bosch is increasing the safety of active and passive road users, in particular as regards the challenges of parking and manoeuvering.”

“As the industry moves towards highly and fully automated driving, he adds, Bosch is providing competent and comprehensive support, “for

Future technology

commercial vehicles too with innovative solutions for heavy-duty trucks that simultaneously increase both efficiency and comfort.”

Truck road safety is becoming of greater importance in the region as governments push to lower accidents rates and fleets become more conscious of operational costs. Bosch is currently studying real-world cases where automated driving can offer the greatest benefits: “Depending on how it is configured, platooning is

The fuTure of digiTal displays and The driver ui

likely to take five to 10 years to reach maturity, this could also make the roads much safer. Researchers estimate that, of all accidents caused by trucks involving physical injury, 90% could be avoided by using these systems. Road accidents are part and parcel of human-controlled driving but when one happens involving a robot-driven car, the impact to public perception can be a serious problem.

Speaking on the topic of potential in the region he notes that, “today a considerable volume

of freight moves within the GCC by truck. More than a million trucks are in operation across the region and this number increases by 5-9% each year. A lot of urban centres experience increased pollution, road accidents and traffic congestion due to the high volume of trucks on the roads.

Driver-free trucks will soon become an economic imperative for motor carriers, changing the economics of shipping according to a recent study by management consultancy Strategy&.”

Connectivity control unit: Bosch’s

cruise control and a predictive

parking assistance systems that

connectivity control unit (CCU)

emergency braking system.

support the driver in accident-

communicates via a wireless module

Rear mid-range radar sensor:

free parking and maneuvering.

Large displays and touchscreens

equipped with its own SIM card

The rear-mounted version of the

Servotwin: The electro-hydraulic

are helping connectivity and

and can determine the vehicle’s

mid-range radar sensor (MRR rear)

steering system offers speed-

infotainment functions more

position using GPS if desired.

enables drivers of light commercial

dependent steering support with

easy to use, these are often

The CCU sends vehicle operating

vehicles to monitor their blind spots.

active response and consumes less

easily programmable displays

data to a cloud server, unlocking

Vehicles are equipped with two

fuel than purely hydraulic steering.

and show the information

a variety of potential services.

sensors, one hidden at each end

Servotwin reliably compensates

relevant at any particular time.

Connected horizon: Bosch’s

of the rear bumper. This system

for potholes and provides the

In dangerous situations, the

electronic horizon has been

detects any vehicles in the truck’s

driver with a good grip on the

displays give priority to warnings

available for several years, and

blind spot and warns the driver.

pavement. Thanks to its electronic

and highlight them visually.

will sson allow the engine and

Stereo video camera: Bosch’s

interface, the steering system

neoSense: A touchscreen gives

transmission management to

compact SVC stereo-video camera

is simultaneously the basis for

users haptic feedback as they

take construction areas, traffic

is a single-sensor solution for

driver assistance functions such

operate the display. The buttons

jams, or even icy patches into

many driver assistance systems

as a lane-keeping assistant or

on the touchscreen feel like real

ac-count. Automatically adjusting

in light commercial vehicles. It

cross-wind compensation. The

buttons, so drivers can often

the vehicle’s speed in advance can

registers the vehicle’s surroundings

steering system has many fields of

operate them without looking.

further reduce fuel consumption,

and empty spaces in front of

application, including in Mercedes-

Simple operation, intuitive menu

thereby increasing efficiency.

the vehicle completely in three

Benz’s self-driving Actros.

navigation, and hence less

Secure truck parking: The app-

dimensions, providing a 3D view

Rear-axle steering: eRAS, the electric

distraction are benefits to be had

based solution facilitates the online

that extends for more than 50m.

Rear Axle Steering system, lets

from all the kinds of smartphone

reservation of secure truck parking

Near-range camera systems: With its

vehicles with three or more axles

integration that Bosch offers, too.

spaces at rest areas along the

near-range camera systems, Bosch

use the leading and trailing axles to

Digital exterior mirror: At the IAA,

freeway plus cashless payment.

helps drivers of LCVs enjoy accident-

steer. This makes the turning radius

Bosch presented a camera-based

MPC multi-purpose camera: The

free parking and maneuvering.

smaller and reduces wear on the

solution that completely replaces

MPC 2.5 is a multi-purpose camera

Based on CMOS technology, the

tires. Based on the steering angle of

the two side-view mirrors. Called

that was developed especially

reversing camera helps drivers

the front axle, transmitted by CAN

the Mirror Cam System, the video

with the requirements of heavy

when reversing by providing them

bus, the steering system determines

sensors can be integrated into the

commercial vehicles in mind.

with a faithful representation

the optimum steering angle for the

driver’s cab, which is also where

Its integrated image processing

of the immediate vicinity.

rear axle. After driving around a

the monitors that display the video

system identifies, classifies, and

Ultrasonic sensors: It is often

bend, it straightens out the wheels.

images are located. This digital

locates objects in the vehicle’s

very difficult to see around light

Electronic control unit for airbag:

technology makes it possible to

surroundings with a high degree

commercial vehicles, but Bosch

The unit reads signals sent by

have a situation-specific display.

of precision and reliability.

ultrasonic sensors can track a

the acceleration sensors to deter-

So when the truck is driving on

Front mid-range radar sensors:

vehicle’s surroundings to a distance

mine the force of a collision and

the highway, the driver can see

For light commercial vehicles,

of up to four meters. In this way,

promptly activates the passive

further behind the vehicle, while in

Bosch offers the front mid-

they can spot possible obstacles and

security systems, such as seat-

cities the angle of view is made as

range radar sensor (MRR front).

determine the constantly changing

belt pretensioners and airbags.

large as possible to provide greater

With the MRR front, Bosch can

distance to these obstacles as

It constantly analyses movement

safety. Enhanced contrast improves

implement driver assistance

the vehicle maneuvers. This

and recognises critical situations,

visibility during night driving.

functions such as ACC adaptive

sensor information feeds into the

such as when a truck rolls over.

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 27

SpECiaL REpoRT

The UAE has enjoyed a status of being a major trade and logistics hub for decades.

At the centre of things Saudi arabia leadS region’S charge aS global and tranSportation hub, SayS al MaSah capital 28 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

Special report

“the transportation and logistics industry is highly fragmented and offers opportunity for consolidation and market dominance”

World Exports by D

3% 5%

3% 3%

Asia Europe 36%

14%

North America Middle East South & Central America CIS

36%

Africa

t

he region has emerged as a major global and regional transportation and logistics hub with Saudi Arabia leading the market in size, according to research by Al Masah Capital.

The global Logistics market is expected to reach $15.5 trillion in revenue by 2024 while investments in industrial and retail projects lead to a spur in the domestic logistics industry.

Reflecting upon the surge in global trade that was witnessed in the last two decades, innovations in logistics and changes in policies across countries around the world; Al Masah Capital, the region’s leading name in investments and market analysis, today released its review report on global Transportation & Logistics sector.

In terms of volume, the global transportation and logistics industry is expected to reach 92.1 billion ton by 2024. The report also mentioned that the global Third Party Logistics (3PL) market is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 5% by 2020. Factors such as the rapid globalisation, increasing trade volume, and the revival of the global economy are some of the major contributing factors to the growth of the 3PL market. The growth of integrators will increase demand for contract logistics services and will significantly contribute to the growth of the industry.

“The logistics service provider industry in the MENA region is highly fragmented, with many small players offering point solutions, such as freight forwarding, warehousing, and transportation services,” Al Masa also notes. “Few providers have nationwide capabilities, and even fewer have the people, assets, and IT sophistication to serve clients across the entire region.

“Thus, the 3PL market in MENA is still in the early development phase, and it is gradually following the same evolutionary curve as the markets in Europe and North America, thus witnessing significant consolidation. This is giving rise to integrated service providers with the scale and resources to offer end-to-end logistics services across MENA. Currently outsourcing accounts for approximately 12% in the region, compared with 25-30% in Western Europe.”

The majority of manufacturers and retailers in the region have managed their warehousing and transportation operations in-house. However, now with increased competition and cost pressures, companies are focusing on their core activities and outsourcing logistics.

Furthermore, the harsh climate (dry desert) prevalent across the region necessitates extra

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 29

Special report

effort and equipment in handling logistics for several industries including food, pharma, FMCG and chemicals among others, thus necessitating outsourcing of logistics.

Highlighting transportation and logistics role play in international trade, the report revealed that; robust trade, economic growth, and liberalization policies followed by many countries worldwide have resulted in increased trade volumes, thus ensuing increase in transportation, handling and warehousing needs, which has led to a demand for integrated logistics solutions.

Increased globalization in manufacturing and other technological advancements has made companies focus more on core activities, and thus logistics activities have been outsourced as a costeffective solution.

According to its research, the transportation and logistics industry in MENA generated approximately $73 billion in revenue in 2015 (representing 3.4% of the GDP), while the GCC T&L industry accounted for $47 billion (representing 3.3% of the GDP). The share is very low when compared to other regions across the world.

“However, transportation and logistics is emerging as one of the key drivers of economic activity in the region especially in GCC, whereby it now constitutes a major industry sector, rather than being just a support activity to other industries. Oil & Gas, infrastructure, trading and retail industry segments are the leading contributors to the GCC logistics sector,” says the report.

Among the GCC nations, Saudi Arabia’s logistics market contributes the largest, accounting for approximately 40% of the total market size in the region. Booz & Company had estimated the size of the industry at around $18 billion in 2008,

o

The UAE is a highly appealing business environment for producers and manufacturers alike, as well as to logistics service providers.

¬2.3% of GDP of the GCC countries (or 4.3% of GDP excluding the oil & gas sector), since then it has grown at a CAGR of 14.6%.

Putting the spotlight on MENA’s strategic location, Al Masah reviewed Dubai’s favourable position for international transportation and logistics. Dubai possesses well established and modern facilities including free trade zones and a local marine terminal operation considered one of the largest in the world. Most companies find that the region offers a range of benefits for their regional and international operations. The rising exports and imports drove the supply chain and logistics market and the Middle East, led by

ndustry (2015)

GCC Rest of MENA, USD 26.4 bn

60%

KSA USD 73.1 bn

GCC, USD 46.7 bn

UAE

50%

Freight Forwarding

30 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

15%

20% 15% 0%

Source: Solidiance, Al Masah Capital Research

25% 10% 5% 30% 5%

60% 50%

5% 100%

Warehousing Others

the UAE, to become one of the most important hubs in the changing global trade lanes: “Thus, overall, as MENA countries pursue political transformation and economic diversification, transportation and logistics investment is the cornerstone to its future growth.”

Revealing interesting facts about the MENA region, the report cited that MENA has trade relations with almost every country/ region across the globe. The region exports hydrocarbons and hydrocarbon-related products that are in great demand, and meets a large part of its food requirement through imports. Data from the WTO suggests that MENA engages in maximum merchandise trade with Asia (55% of all exports and imports), followed by Europe (31%), and North America (8%).

Merchandise trade in the MENA region has been growing rapidly. Over the last decade, merchandise trade as a percentage of GDP expanded from 77% in 2005 to 81% in 2014, increasing at a CAGR of 6% to $1.5 trillion in 2015 from $807 billion in 2005. At 95%, this ratio was higher for the GCC, up from 86% in the same period. In 2005, Saudi Arabia dominated trade with 30% share followed by UAE (25%), which got reversed in 2015 with UAE dominating with 33% share followed by Saudi Arabia (25%).

MENA countries also lead in Sea and Air Trade routes with the UAE and Saudi Arabia ranking among ‘Top 10 Air Freight Lanes’ globally.

Special report

evolution of the mena t&l industry

Trade routes with the UAE and Saudi Arabia rank among the ‘Top 10 Air Freight Lanes’ globally.

“The global economy has grown manifold over the last 30 years which led to an

Although the region has a diversified network of air, sea and road transport, the bulk of economic activity is skewed toward maritime transport.

The region has total of 134 Sea ports handling a total of 48.3 million TEUs of container traffic.

Of these, the GCC has nearly 41 ports (35 major ports) which together handle 68% of MENA container port traffic. Besides sea transport, the region has 114 international and domestic airports of which 43 airports are located within GCC. The report notes: “The transportation and logistics industry is highly fragmented and offers opportunity for consolidation and market dominance. The domestic services segment (inland transportation and warehousing) is dominated by local players, while the international services segment (freight forwarding and international transportation by air/ocean) is dominated by multinational players. The Solidiance whitepaper shows that transportation is the largest segment in GCC, followed by warehousing, freight forwarding and others.”

The Middle East has also acted as a refuelling point for air freight carriers and shipping lines moving between Europe and Asia for many years which led to the creation of hub and spoke operations in the region.

The GCC has further built on modern warehouses and transportation infrastructure, developed free zones, adopted ‘open skies’ policies, simplified customs procedures and has

strengthened its anti-corruption measures in order to boost its non-oil economy. Most notably, an increasing number of manufacturers are establishing their distribution facilities at hubs such as the Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai, from where they have been efficiently supplying a growing consumer market across the region.

Within the region, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are the most attractive targets for logistics investments and easiest markets to operate.

Other MENA countries, particularly those in the GCC, such as Qatar, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain, along with Morocco, Jordan are also emerging as potential investment destinations.

“34 free trade zones, non-existent corporation tax and the offer of full ownership, coupled with unlimited repatriation of profits, makes the UAE a highly appealing business environment for producers and manufacturers alike, as well as to logistics service providers,” found the report.

“The growth of transportation and logistics in MENA is being driven by government initiatives toward economic diversification from energy-based industries to expansion into other commercial sectors such as trade, export, import and tourism. This renewed focus on commercial sectors is paving the way for investments in transport infrastructure, including seaports, airports and major rail initiatives across the region.”

increase in the movement of raw materials and finished products. The rising exports and imports drove the supply chain and logistics market and the Middle East, led by the UAE, became one of the most important hubs in the ensuing changing global trading lanes.

Further, over the last 30 years, the region itself has grown from a rural landscape to a cityscape, with a large middle class population and increased spending on critical infrastructure, which led to increase in the transport of goods into and around the region, thus driving the domestic logistic market. Global manufacturers started setting up their regional headquarters and distribution facilities around the region, attracted by the improving transportation links, modern facilities and skilled workforce.

All this led to the setup of companies specializing in logistics, transportation, freight handling, warehousing, packaging and supply chain management in the region to meet demands. Additionally, in the recent years, governments across the region have set up Free Zones with in-built logistics infrastructure, providing incentives for using the air and seaports as stopovers for the transportation of goods globally, reducing the time to customers and making it more cost effective.”

MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 31

MAN TRUCK & BUS - SAFETY

FLEET RISK Fabian Schlott

F

WHY autHorised WorksHops HeLp avoid costLY FaiLures

abian Schlott, resident engineer at MAN Truck & Bus ME says that a vehicle’s condition has a vital role in ensuring safe and reliable transport operations. After all, as he says: “An unsafe vehicle can’t be operated safely even by the best trained driver.”

He tells fleets to use authorised workshops to ensure that the different safety features of a truck or bus are working correctly: “Only then are they able to support the driver in critical situations,” he says. MAN trucks are equipped with several safety features, such as the EBS (Electronic Brake System), which includes ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and the ASR (Anti Spin Regulation). In addition further electronic safety systems such as the lane guard system, emergency brake assistant are also available.”

These support a safe driver in normal operations and specifically assist when they are presented with a critical situation. Ignoring indicated faults might harm the vehicle, the driver or other road participants, he adds.

“In case of a malfunction on any of the safety systems the driver will be informed with a message appearing in the dashboard, in such cases the nearest authorised workshop should be contacted to advise any further action the driver should take,” Schlott continues. “The trained staff of the authorised workshop can advise the driver over the telephone if the vehicle is still safe to operate.

“Safety features include several different sensors to monitor the current vehicle status and driving condition. In case of irregularities the control unit will evaluate the next necessary steps and will support the driver in its actions.

The vehicles maintenance plan which is specified by the manufacturer includes different checks, including the parts related to the safety functions of the vehicle. The fault messages stored in the vehicle’s memory are read out and evaluated and required measures are taken.”

He tells T&FME that it is important that the diagnosis in the case of a malfunction is

32 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

Fabian Schlott says that only authorised workshops can ensure that safety features of a truck or bus are working correctly.

carried out properly and the fault codes which are indicated in the vehicles dashboard and the diagnosis computer are understood correctly as a wrong diagnosis can lead to a wrong repair and can influence the vehicles road worthiness.

“Furthermore, the repairs which are not in line with the manufacturer’s standards might void the vehicles entire warranty,” he adds. “Our authorised workshops fulfill a certain standard which is set and monitored by the manufacturer. They are equipped with the necessary diagnosis and testing equipment which is needed to make the correct diagnosis and be able to repair the required items.

“For some repairs special tools are needed which are used in our partner workshops and by trained technicians and electricians. They have to undergo certain training to be allowed to work on the individual systems available on the vehicles.

Training needs to be maintained at a certain level and the workshop staff are always trained on the newest updates.”

Another tool which is only available to MAN authorised workshops is factory support via an online platform. A team of experts based in the Middle East are also able to visit workshops at short notice to support the diagnosis.

“It does look easy to exchange certain parts, but we ensure that the parts exchanged are the correct parts for the specific vehicle. The

exchange of control units can especially cause problems, as they are personalised to the vehicle and need to be programmed when changing and to ensure correct operation. Often control units are purchased second-hand on the local market and fitted to vehicles. This might temporarily rectify the fault but in the long-term, it can create problems and will be more costly, as every unit is programmed with different parameters and cannot be just swapped from one vehicle to another.

We come across many failures which have been created by the wrong diagnosis and improper repairs by non-authorised workshops. This might create an unsafe condition of the vehicle, and in addition it increases the downtime.”

He says that MAN workshops are not allowed to carry out any temporary repairs, if those repairs might affect the road worthiness of the vehicle.

“This is not about making more money and selling additional repairs, this is to keep the driver and the people around him safe. Crucially, only MAN genuine spare parts are fitted in our workshops, these ensure a high quality standard (a 12-month warranty is given on most of the parts). Our parts catalogue is always up to date to ensure that the latest available parts are used. MAN vehicles and parts are permanently undergoing further technical development, and a part might be superseded by a newer one.”

When it comes to brake pads, MAN ensures that they fulfill a certain standard and will last longer than other pads available. During brake repairs in the workshop, the brake function is tested with a brake roller tester before releasing the vehicle back on the open road to ensure a proper and safe operation of the brake system.

“With the brake tester we are able to see any irregularities and are able to test and match a tractor head trailer combination; this ensures a correct brake force distribution to the entire combination. When the brake force distribution of the train combination isn’t correct, this can lead to locking up the wheels and make the vehicle more difficult to control especially in critical situations.”

Maintenance, tyres and Parts

mAInTenAnce, TYRes & PARTs

SPONSORED BY

www.csn-me.com

NEW 14,000sqm ToyoTa faciliTy makEs WavEs for al-fuTTaim iN ThE uaE capiTal

The Wave features the “Toyota Design Studio for customers to build their dream Toyota using physical and digital design tools and a world-class Toyota Service Center,” says Al-Futtaim.

Toyota’s exclusive distributor in the UAE Al-Futtaim has officially opened the doors to the most advanced and largest facility for the famous Japanese automaker in the UAE – The Wave. The audacious looking five-level, 14,000sqm building is

23%

Amazon says that its expanding car parts operation will sell on average 23% cheaper than car part retail chains.

TRUCK&FLEET MEFEBRUARY MARCH 2017 3434TRUCK&FLEET ME 2017

a 3S facility intended to house “worldclass” sales, service and spare parts.

The Wave boasts more than 80 new and used models on display, while the service area includes 64 simultaneous working bays that can accommodate up to 250 cars per day.

“Each step of the customer journey has been designed to include many forms of physical and digital interactions, answering visitors’ interests and needs during their journey at the facility,” said Al-Futtaim.

The space’s interior was designed by UK-based Greenspace, a design consultancy firm was selected for their history of working with Toyota Motor Europe.

“Coming on the heels of the opening of our latest facility in Madinat Zayed, The Wave, reiterates our commitment to Abu Dhabi and aligns with our promise of being closer to our customers wherever they are,” said Saud Abbasi, managing director of Toyota at AlFuttaim Motors. “The Wave is a representation of our dedication to customer service excellence. We have designed the facility to put the customer first, and to offer all our guests interactive and engaging experiences.”

KässbohRER TippEd FoR ThE Top in GERMany A random poll of 500 transport specialist have voted German semi-trailer producer, Kässbohrer, as having the highest increase in image in 2017 across eight different categories.

The award was presented

to the company in Munich

by Gerhard Grünig of VerkehrsRundschau magazine in February.

Kässbohrer products are used in more than 55 countries and its vehicles are produced at four different locations.

MainTEnanCE, TyREs Maintenance, tyres and paRTs Parts

AusTRAlIA To TARgeT fAke PARTs TRAde fRom mIddle eAsT

500,000 fake car parts allegedly being prepared to be shipped to Australia were discovered In a raid in Al Ain in January.

The Australian Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FACI) has won the backing of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection after it launched a website to help investigators detect and seize counterfeit car parts from the Middle East and China.

The FCAI told local media that it calculates the international trade of counterfeit autoparts could be worth as much as $11 billion per

year. Raids committed in the UAE that seized fake Australian car parts in recent months have made national news in the country.

Australian consumers who believe they have been sold or had their car fitted with a counterfeit part can forward their information to the OEM to spot whether there has been a breaches of its intellectual property rights.

The OEM can then choose to place a formal notification to the department of immigration and border protection, which could lead the property being seized.

“The component testing the FCAI has undertaken has shown that the manufacturing processes counterfeiters are using are capable of creating parts that look up to the job, but in circumstances where they need to perform and protect vehicle occupants they are not fit for purpose and, in many cases, are downright dangerous,” FCAI CEO Tony Weber told local media.

QuIck TIPs Your guide on how to spot fake parts in an instance by Chevrolet...

1. Thickness of the package – Ask your mechanic if you can see the part and the package it came in. You will want to inspect the packaging for thickness.

If it is flimsy, it’s most likely a fake.

2. Spelling –Make sure the brand name and logo are spelled correctly.

Fake parts’ packaging often will use graphics or a name that is similar to the original but slightly different than the real manufacturer.

3. Compare the old and new part – If there is any difference, you will want to take the part to a dealership and have them check it out.

4. Price – Too good to be true? If the price is too low and there is no big promotion going on, then you might at risk. There will always be some price variance among real manufacturers, but a large difference should raise a red flag.

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CM

MY

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CMY

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MARCH 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 35

PARTING SHOT

You can now insure your TeslA AXA lAunches ‘first of its kind’ electric vehicle insurAnce cover in the Gulf

A

XA Insurance Gulf has launched what it describes as the first of its kind insurance solution for electric vehicles and customers covered under the Tesla Club Scheme in the UAE and the Gulf region.

The announcement came during the first Emirates Electric Vehicle Road Trip (EVRT), a four-day event – and part of the Global Electric Vehicle Road Trip that covers the GCC, Europe, China and India – whereby AXA Gulf is participating as the official insurance sponsor and is providing commercial coverage for the Tesla Model X and Tesla Model S as they journey over 700km unveiling charging stations in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Abu Dhabi with eight other electric vehicles.

“The aim of Emirates EVRT is to drive the adoption of electric vehicles in the region and accelerate the transition towards a sustainable low-carbon future,” said John O’Brien, country

36 TRUCK&FLEET ME MARCH 2017

manager of AXA Gulf in the UAE. “The UAE is very advanced when it comes to insurance penetration, especially with motor insurance being mandatory in this part of the world, and we, at AXA Gulf, are proud to support and facilitate electric vehicle owners by providing the first insurance solution of its kind in the region and further propel the green mobility movement of the country from conception to adoption.”

Dubai is the first city in the region to express its desire to achieve green mobility, having set targets to reduce carbon emissions by 16% by 2021. The aim is to have a target of 20% eco friendly vehicles in place of all new cars purchased between 2016 and 2030.

Furthermore, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) also recently announced that it installed 100 electric chargers across the emirate in key locations such as Dubai Airports, Dubai Municipality, RTA, shopping malls, petrol stations, hotels and various parking areas in an attempt to promote the use of electric cars.

“Electric vehicles are still emerging in the Middle East and we believe in all the benefits that they bring with regards to our environment,” added Mr. O’Brien. “We have a commitment towards all the communities we operate in and one of our key pillars in our global strategy is to support sustainability, which is also part of the UAE 2021 vision.”

The new insurance plan will include: own damage cover, third party bodily injuries, third party property damage which is increased to AED3.5 million, natural perils cover, Oman extension cover with all comprehensive policies, free roadside assistance and more with each policy.

In addition to investing in green energies and CSR, AXA focuses on anticipating and preventing, and finally on protecting its customers. It says that through new technologies and innovative insurance solutions that are adapted to the emerging renewable energy risks will be key to securing investments in sustainable and green energy for the future.

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