Truck&Fleet ME October 2017

VEHICLES/ TECH / TranSporTaTIon/LogISTICS

O45/OCTOBER 2O17

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YOUR NEEDS, OUR SOLUTIONS. BAHARAIN - Y.K. ALMOAYYED AND SONS B.S.C. - Manama - almoayyed@almoayyed.com.bh IRAQ - MTT - MACHINE TECHNOLOGY TRADING CO. - Baghdad - commercial@mtt-iraq.com JORDAN - GLOBAL BRAND TRUCKS LIMITED - Amman - sales.admin@ivecojordan.com LEBANON - OMATRA - Beirut - lebanon@omatra.org OMAN IVECO - INTERNATIONALEQUIPMENT & CONTRACTING CO. - Muscat - prp@suhailbahwanautogroup.com OMAN ASTRA - AL FAIRUZ TRADING AND CONT. CO. LLC - Muscat - jobby@alfairuzoman.com KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA - ORIENT MARKETING & TRADING COMPANY LLC Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, Abha, Al Madinah Al Munawara, Jubail - iveco@alfuttaim.sa KUWAIT - KUWAIT AUTOMOTIVE IMPORTS CO.W.L.L (Al Shaya & Al Sagar) - mail@kaico.net U.A.E. - AL GHANDI AUTOMOTIVE GROUP - Dubai - samj@alghandi.com U.A.E. - UNITED ALSAQER HEAVY EQUIPMENT L.L.C. - Abu Dhabi - mohammad.himmo@alsaqergroup.com IVECO Middle East Representative Office: marco.torta@iveco.ae IVECO CAPITAL Middle East: waleed.alshatnawi@cnhind.com

contents

contents SPECIAL INTERVIEW

12 / NEW hORIzONS

How Isuzu is going to take its trucks to new markets.

also this issue …

NETWORK & LAuNChES

06 / gOINg gREEN

06

10

18

24

Air services company Dnata turns to a hybrid suite of Toyota, Lexus and Hino vehicles.

INTERVIEW

18 / uP ANd RuNNINg Gaurav Biswas on leaving AECOM to start the Uber-esque Trukker.

EVENT PREVIEW

24 / IT’S A BuS Busworld’s return in Europe heralds a new era of transport.

WORKShOP

30 / CONTINENTAL TARgET Tyre giant targets a billion dollar boost to its business through hybrids growth.

TYRES

33 / RAISINg ThE STANdARd How changes to standards could make our roads safer.

TRAILERS

33

36 / COMBATTINg COuNTERFEIT How to spot fake materials in trailers.

ShOW REVIEW

38 / hANdLINg IT Manufacturers round-up from Materials Handling ME 2017.

30 OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 01

WELCOME

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

MARKETING

RAZ ISLAM

MARKETING MANAGER

raz.islam@cpimediagroup.com

SHEENA SAPSFORD

+971 4 375 5483

sheena.sapsford@cpimediagroup.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

+971 4 375 5498

VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpimediagroup.com

SAFETY ON MY MIND The Abu Dhabi Municipality has been a highly proactive organisation when it comes to engaging with the local companies and contractors in recent years.

Whether it is on the issue of road safety or on health and safety on worksites, the ADM has chosen to take the welcome route of engagement with the private sector to protect its urban environment and those that live in it.

Last month saw the ADM host a workshop with the construction industry in the UAE capital to remind them of their responsibilities when it comes to ensuring the concrete from job sites or asphalt from road building do not spill over to highways. It also told the gathered contractors and consultants that it expects them to take the lead in developing their own strategies when it comes to site cleanliness and vehicle movements within and without areas of construction.

They also requested that companies ensure that loads never exceeded recommended limits. Although the event was held in an atmosphere of cooperation and progress, they reminded that fines can reach in excess of 100,000 dirhams for companies that fail to adhere to its laws and regulations.

Having spent time on many sites in the UAE capital over the years, I’ve always been surprised at the number of companies that willingly take risks when it comes to over loading and the movement of vehicles. I am a huge supporter of the ADM’s approach and choice to engage rather than admonish the materials transportation and construction sectors on these issues.

However, I hope that the message continues to be fed through to companies that are failing to follow the rules are not only endangering other road users or urban dwellers but also risks their own livelihoods.

Last month I led a roundtable in Dubai looking at road safety and efficiency. Gathered at the meeting were one of the broadest cross-sections of the industry from OEMs to fleet owners to technology providers and over-loading and reckless use of heavy vehicles was high on the agenda. Out of the meeting we agreed to look at developing a road map for all of us involved in the industry so we can become a safer and more efficient contributor to growth in the region. I remain optimistic that through engagement, standards in the industry will improve but, ultimately, it is time that we as an industry take the initiative rather than wait for someone to catch us out.

+971 4 375 5472

CIRCULATION & PRODUCTION DISTRIBUTION MANAGER SUNIL KUMAR

EDITORIAL

sunil.kumar@cpimediagroup.com

EDITOR

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STEPHEN WHITE stephen.white@cpimediagroup.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER VIPIN V. VIJAY

+44 7541 244 377

vipin.vijay@cpimediagroup.com

CONSULTANT EDITOR

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

WEB DEVELOPMENT MOHAMMAD AWAIS

SUB EDITOR

JARRIS PEDROSO

AELRED DOYLE aelred.doyle@cpimediagroup.com

SADIQ SIDDIQUI FINANCE

ADVERTISING

ACCOUNTS

SALES MANAGER

NAHEED HOOD

BIPIN SONEJI bipin.soneji@cpimediagroup.com

naheed.hood@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5474

+971 4 433 2856

CREDIT CONTROL EXECUTIVE DESIGN

CAMERON CARDOZO

ART DIRECTOR

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SIMON COBON

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FOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015)

PHOTOGRAPHY MAKSYM PORIECHKIN

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Licensed by TECOM to registered company, CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC whose registered office is 207 – 209, Building 3, Dubai Studio City, Dubai, UAE. www.cpitrademedia.com The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however

STEPHEN WHITE EDITOR, TRUCK&FLEET ME STEPHEN.WHITE@CPIMEDIAGROUP.COM 02 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing.

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FEATURED

CONSTRUCTION

TIME FOR A REACTION

Kleindienst ‘to unveil Dubai megaproject worth $680m’

CONSTRUCTION

Six Construct wins contract for Masdar City project

In pictures: First floating homes on way to Dubai’s Marasi Business Bay

INTERVIEWS

Arcon: Building concrete relationships in the UAE

CONSTRUCTION

Majid Al Futtaim in talks over ‘flagship’ Dubai project

MACHINERY

Doosan to merge divisions for EMEA expansion 04 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

Video: JLL explores ‘what makes Dubai so ambitious’

I’m glad that this is finally being addressed (“Move to replace Dubai building facades after series of fires”, September 24).

After the Torch tower catching fire twice, one begins to think why they didn’t react the first time round? Fire-proof cladding is a good start, albeit a late one. Developers need to stop being cheap, and start valuing the lives of the people that live in these majestic buildings that make up the stunning skyline of Dubai.

If something as small as a cigarette butt can set off a fire large enough to engulf a skyscraper, someone cheaped out somewhere. Perhaps future property buyers should try lighting a match when they’re called for snagging.

Otherwise, quite literally, they’re letting their money go up in flames. Fun times for the insurers, who will now try and make the most of this opportunity to sell home insurance to property buyers.

I’d like to know what further steps will be taken by the government to curb these issues.

Name supplied, via email

NETWORK

TOYATA TO BUIlD DNATA GREEN FlEET / JAGUAR lAND ROVER FIRST IN UAE / INFINITI MARKET SHARE / MINI EV CONCEPT / RTA OPTS FOR HYBRIDS

network

Dnata opts for green fleet FlEET Emirates Group-owned air services company dnata has turned to Toyota’s hybrid suite of Toyota, lexus and Hino vehicles as it looks to build its own sustainable fleet of hybrid vehicles serving Dubai International Airport.

The new hybrid fleet includes lexus RX 450h, Toyota Prius, the new Hino 300 Series hybrid truck as well as electric towing trucks from Toyota Material Handling, all designed to meet the demanding requirements

of dnata while maintaining a low ecological footprint. The vehicles will be supplied by distributor Al-Futtaim Motors.

“We have been committed to environmental awareness for quite some time, having been involved in many conservation projects at home and abroad,” said Gary Chapman, president Emirates Group Services and dnata. “In our search for the best vehicles to cater to the services of the world’s busiest airport, Al-Futtaim Motors proved that they are able to

meet our requirements on several fronts, all while we work tirelessly to significantly decrease our emissions through greener transport solutions across the business.” “dnata has been in the UAE practically as long as Al-Futtaim Motors, and both companies share an innate desire to contribute more to the society by providing services that will help build a greener future for upcoming generations,” said Bertrand Thiebaut, senior managing director of Toyota distributor

Al-Futtaim Motors. “For more than seven years, lexus has paved the path for hybrid transport in the UAE, and we now offer the largest choice of luxury hybrid vehicles to consumers and businesses.

This collaboration is testament to our growing portfolio of strategic tie-ups across the UAE, as we continue to supply the best green products from across our brands to suit a wide range of needs. We look forward to seeing our hybrid vehicles deliver dnata’s green transport targets.”

VOlKSWAGEN WOES IN THE MIDDlE EAST REGION CONTINUE AS SAlES FAll BY 14.5% BETWEEN JANUARY AND AUGUST TO 19,000 VEHIClES

06 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

NETWORK

40% AND BEYOND FOR INFINITI Q30

Jaguar Land rover opens used faciLity RETAIl

Jaguar Land Rover has launched its first approved used-car facility in Dubai. The state-of-the-art showroom seeks to enhance and improve a customer’s experience when purchasing an approved pre-owned vehicle.

The facility was opened in partnership with Al Tayer Motors, Jaguar Land Rover’s exclusive retailer in the UAE, and is its biggest standalone, used-car showroom in the United Arab Emirates. The eco-friendly structure is fitted with a 660KW solar rooftop generating system that provides power to the entire facility and can potentially give back to the grid system.

“This exciting facility is the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa, and demonstrates Al Tayer Motors and Jaguar Land Rover’s commitment to driving a premium pre-owned customer experience for our vehicles,” said Lee Ashlin, regional pre-owned manager, Jaguar Land Rover MENA. “This announcement serves as a benchmark, not only for this region, but for our business globally. It demonstrates and supports our ambition to provide customers with the best possible experience when purchasing Jaguar or Land Rover products and services, whether that is a new car or one of our APPROVED Pre-Owned vehicles,” he added.

In line with Jaguar Land Rover’s beautiful product design, the showroom has been built to its new global retail design architecture, which debuted last year. The concept offers a dual brand retail environment that reflects the modern, striking design of the premium Jaguar Land Rover vehicles that it is home to. All in an effort to ensure that the experience of purchasing an Approved Pre Owned vehicle is one that the customer will love for life.

Jaguar Land Rover’s latest vehicles are displayed in the showroom, as the brand looks to capitalise on the growing used-car market in the UAE. Added comfort and detail has been applied to the APPROVED Pre-Owned showroom, in order to create a complete new-car buying experience, in this stand alone facility.

“This approach demonstrates our commitment and loyalty to every single one of our customers,” Ashlin said.

VEHIClES Arabian Automobiles Company, the exclusive dealer for INFINITI in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, has released its January to June 2017 results revealing that the INFINITI Q30 has secured a 40% market share in the C-hatch segment within the space of just six months, and also showing that INFINITI was the fastest-growing brand in the C-Hatch segment over the same period. The Q30 was introduced to the INFINITI line-up in August 2016, when it was completely new to the market and

the premium compact segment.

The INFINITI Q30 is available with 1.6L or 2.0L Turbo variants, with the 2.0L Turbo engine delivering a thrilling 208hp and 350Nm torque. When equipped with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the highest-performing engine in the range is capable of powering the INFINITI Q30 from 0 to 100 kp/h in 7.3 seconds. The Q30 takes INFINITI’s distinctive shapes combines an elevated stance with an overall height that is comparable with models in the traditional compact segment.

THE EV FUTURE OF MINI UNVEIlED VEHIClES MINI unveiled its vision for electric mobility at last month’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The MINI Electric Concept is the first purely electrically powered MINI to be manufactured in large-scale production and will go on the road in 2019 – precisely 60 years after the classic Mini was first launched.

The MINI Electric Concept draws its energy from a lithium-ion battery, ensuring maximum range and typical MINI agility combined with emission-

free mobility. Based on the MINI 3 door, it will be manufactured at the MINI plant in Oxford. Its drivetrain will be produced at the Dingolfing and Landshut sites – the competence centres for e-mobility within the BMW Group production network.The world premiere of the MINI Electric Concept comes just a few months after the launch of the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 (combined fuel consumption: 2.3 – 2.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions from fuel: 52 – 49 g/km).

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 07

NETWORK

BENTlEY EMIRATES SPONSORS lA PERlE

RETAIl

As part of an exclusive sponsorship deal, Bentley Emirates is to become the official car partner of La Perle, one of the most innovative theatrical shows in the world, with an aim to cross promote the two brands.

La Perle, the GCC region’s first permanent show,

combines world-class talent with the most technicallyadvanced theatre production opened at the end of August.

Produced by cultural creative company, Dragone and brought to Dubai by Al Habtoor Group, La Perle is a unique show that is inspired by and created for Dubai, with a cast of 65 international artists performing live at Al Habtoor City.

Envisioned by the creative mind that reinvented modern performing arts, Franco Dragone, La Perle expresses a uniquely spellbinding showmanship, a craft perfected through his production of such enduring hits as Le Rêve (Las Vegas) and The House of Dancing Water (Macau).

“We are very excited about this partnership. I personally believe La Perle is one of Dubai’s best kept secrets. We see this as a great platform for our brand to engage with old and new customers,” commented Trevor Weller, general manager at Bentley Emirates. “Al Habtoor Group have added yet another landmark to Dubai and we believe this is another great addition to the future of this city.”

HUGE HYBRID PURCHASE FOR RTA FlEET Dubai’s RTA has signed off on a deal to procure 554 environmentally-friendly hybrid vehicles. The move is part of a masterplan to curb pollution created

by Dubai’s taxi fleet.

Hybrid vehicles feature a combustion engine and electric motors, and presently make up 11% of the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC)’s fleet. The DTC says it aims to increase

the proportion of hybrid vehicles in its fleet to 17% by the end of this year.

“This step has been taken in implementation of the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, for adopting power-efficient solutions with a positive bearing on humans and development projects of all sorts. The directives call for nurturing a safe, clean, attractive and

sustainable environment capable of enhancing the image and profile of Dubai. The step illustrates RTA’s commitment to the master plan calling for curbing carbon emissions from the taxi sector by 2%, as required by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and the Green Economy initiative,” said Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA.

coffee remains driver drink of choice RESEARCH

A study conducted in the UAE has shown that almost three times as many drivers drink coffee to help them stay alert behind the wheel than use energy drinks. The research, conducted

by YouGov and commissioned by Continental as part of its Vison Zero safety initiative, reveals how drivers turn to different types of caffeine drinks to help them maintain concentration, but warns of the dangers of relying on certain types of drinks to enhance levels of alertness.

Of those questioned, just 16% turn to energy drinks for an energy boost, as opposed to 46% who choose coffee to help them stay alert. While the most popular drink overall was tea, far fewer – 39% – drink tea to benefit from any extra ‘kick’ it gives them. Just 13% of respondents choose carbonated beverages to boost their levels of alertness, with this figure rising to 17% and 24% for drinkers of hot chocolate and Karak Chai respectively.

Recent government data shows that 725 people lost their lives on the country’s roads in 2016. With the RTA recently highlighting the impact of poor concentration on road safety, Continental’s survey raises questions about how a driver’s choice of drink actually helps enhance their driving ability.

Commenting on the findings, Jose Luis de la Fuente, managing director of Continental Middle East, said: “There are many different elements that can play a role in road accidents, and the human factor is just one of these.”

READ ON TO FIND OUT ABOUT ISUZU MOTORS INTERNATIONAl’S GROWTH SPURT, TRUKKER’S PROMISE FOR FlEET OWNERS, BUSWORlD, AND MORE

08 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

NETWORK

lIEBHERR TO MOUNT 200 EMC ACTROS TRUCKS

emirates transport testing mirai HYBRIDS

Al-Futtaim Motors has introduced the zeroemission hydrogen-running Toyota Mirai to Sharjah Municipality and Emirates Transport, as part of its Government outreach programme - aiming at building awareness about the benefits fuel cell technology and the positive environmental potentials of a hydrogen-based society. The four-door Toyota Mirai is the world’s first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle that generates electricity through an onboard Fuel Cell stack.

“This marks yet another successful achievement in our efforts to raise awareness about poor air quality and our practical solutions to curb the issue,” said Bertrand Thiebaut, senior managing director of Al-Futtaim Motors.

FlEET Emirates Motor Company (EMC) Daimler Commercial Vehicles and Liebherr have announced a deal which will see the two companies supply 200 units of Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks with mixers to firms across the UAE. The partnership is targeting infrastructure projects and contractors and will comprise a supply of 200 Actros 8x4 with 12 CBM Liebherr Mixers, out of which 100 units will be supplied to one of the largest ready-mix companies in the UAE. The vehicles will come with as a ‘Connected Trucks’ concept with Daimler’s Fleetboard telematics system installed.

According to the partnering companies the combination of: “Mercedes chassis and

Liebherr mixer bodies are a perfect technically coordinated fit and form reliable and highquality truck mixer units.”

EMC is the authorised Mercedes-Benz distributor in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and a flagship company of ALFAHIM. It will supply Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles with a five-year extended warranty.

A comprehensive repair and maintenance contract for five years will be included

with full support all over the UAE. Additionally, EMC will provide drivers’ training courses for enhanced safety on the road and economical driving techniques.

“We are excited about our partnership with Liebherr as we continue to support Abu Dhabi and the UAE reach their visions,” commented Bilal AlRibi, general manager of EMC Daimler CV. “Our aim is to provide the best vehicles and technology.”

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2016/04/19 10:19

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 09

LAUNCHES

JAgUAR BRINgS THE SUCCESSFUL F-TYPE IN PRICE RANgE OF mASSES / IRON mAN-INSPIRED KONA FROm HYUNDAI HAS wORLD PREmIERE

launches OFF THE mARK

0-100 KM/h in 5.7 sEConds

Jaguar lowers entry level for F-Type

mATES PERFORmANCE wITH AFFORDABILITY, SAYS JAgUAR Jaguar is broadening the appeal of the new F-Type with the introduction of the state-of-the-art four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine. The award-winning F-TYPE family now spans from the entrylevel four-cylinder model to Jaguar’s 200mph all-weather supercar – the F-Type SVR. “The pairing of Jaguar’s all-aluminium twoseat sports car with the advanced 300PS 2.0-litre turbocharged powerplant delivers Jaguar sports car DNA with enhanced agility and improved efficiency and affordability. This is a true F-Type, with its own unique

10 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

character,” says the company.

The new model retains the performance expected from the F-Type, and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in only 5.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of 250 km/h.

The turbocharged engine’s high maximum torque of 400Nm, generated from just 1,500rpm, together with the eight-speed Quickshift transmission, delivers exceptional response throughout the rev range.

Not only is the 300PS Ingenium engine the most powerful four-cylinder unit ever offered in a production Jaguar, it also generates the

highest specific power output of any engine in the F-Type range: 150PS per litre. It also makes this the most efficient F-Type in the range, with a 16% improvement in fuel economy over the 340PS V6, together with CO2 emissions of just 163g/km on the European combined cycle.

“Introducing our advanced four-cylinder engine to F-Type has created a vehicle with its own distinct character.

Performance from an engine of this size is remarkable impressive and is balanced with improved fuel efficiency and affordability, making the F-Type experience more

accessible than ever before,” said Ian Hoban, vehicle line director, Jaguar F-Type.

A host of advanced technologies enable the Ingenium engine to deliver this blend of high performance and low fuel consumption. Neatly integrated into the cylinder head is a state-of-the-art electrohydraulic valvetrain featuring patented control algorithms developed inhouse. This technology enables fully variable control of intake valve lift for optimum power, torque and efficiency throughout the engine’s operating range.

LAUNCHES

Iron Man coup

SUPER HERO-INSPIRED HYUNDAI HAS wORLD PREmIERE

FEISTY SIBLINg Erol Mustafa, chief product engineer, Jaguar sports Cars describes it as a feisty younger brother of the V6 and V8 models.

wEIgHT LOSS The ingenium engine contributes to an overall vehicle weight reduction of 52kg – most of which is over the front axle – and this is key to the four-cylinder F-TYPE’s enhanced agility.

The exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder head casting.

Coolant flowing through ducts in the manifold reduces warm-up times and therefore reduces fuel consumption and emissions.

The manifold is carefully matched to a twin-scroll turbocharger.

The design prevents exhaust gas pulsation interference, ensuring that the turbine wheel responds far more quickly: boost pressure is delivered near-

instantaneously, making turbo lag almost nonexistent, providing the responsiveness so familiar to the F-TYPE driving experience.

To ensure the best possible launch performance and transient response while still enabling the engine to develop its high peak power output, the turbocharger features ceramic ball bearings.

These deliver the lowest possible bearing friction, especially from cold starts.

At the world premiere of the all-new Kona compact SUV, Hyundai Motor unveiled a special edition that shares the name of Marvel’s heroic and powerful character – Iron Man. With greater width (+40mm), the Kona Iron Man Special Edition presents a confident stance, while special LEDs are applied to the headlights, which sit beneath a matt gray hood, embellished with red and gold accents.

The Kona Iron Man Special Edition’s dynamic exterior is further complemented by a 19-inch directional wheel badged with an Iron Man Mask in the center, as well as off-road tires 716mm in outside diameter. The special edition will go on display at Hyundai Motor’s Motorstudio in Seoul, Korea, for a month following its global reveal.

“With the Kona, we have created a stylish and highly functional compact SUV, perfectly suited to the needs of customers who pursue challenging, action-filled lifestyles,” said Euisun Chung, vice-chairman of Hyundai Motor Company. “We aim to set new standards for the compact SUV segment, with appealing design, cutting-edge connectivity and class-leading safety features.”

High-contrast design elements give the impression of a masculine protective ‘armor’, while futuristic LED lamps create a high-tech look. Aggressive body styling

emphasises the car’s well-proportioned, dynamic silhouette. Its low and wide stance, long wheelbase and short overhangs ensure sporty, nimble handling, in addition to delivering superior driving stability at high speed. It is also the first SUV to adopt Hyundai’s new signature design feature, the Cascading Grille, featuring a sporty mesh pattern, flanked by exceptional wing-type fenders that dominate the front design.

Active safety features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which uses the car’s front-facing camera and radar to detect imminent collision and avoid impact or minimise damage by braking autonomously. Three further systems also utilize the front-view camera to boost safety and convenience: Lane Keeping Assist (LKA); High Beam Assist (HBA); and Driver Attention Warning (DAW).

The Kona boasts a suite of sophisticated technologies, paired with user-friendly functionality to ensure driver and passengers can stay informed and entertained. In a first for the segment, the Kona features smartphone wireless charging (available as an option).

SPECIFICATIONS Engine

2.0l

Engine model MPi Atkinsoncycle engine Power

149Ps

LIgHTER wEIgHT 51.8% high sTREngTh sTEEL

F-TYPE COUPé AND CONVERTIBLE OPTIONS 300Ps, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder; Quickshift RWd 340Ps, 3.0-litre V6; Quickshift RWd/ manual RWd 380Ps, 3.0-litre V6; Quickshift; RWd/AWd, manual RWd

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 11

INTERVIEW

PREPaREd fOR ThE lONg-haul Isuzu Motors International (IIF) is at the centre of an ambitious growth strategy stretching from Africa to the Middle East and Central Asia.

12 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

INTERVIEW

Taking isuzu Forward

T&FME travels to the heart of Isuzu’s Japanese operation to speak to the man leading its international resurgence

F

ast and nimble. Two words that perfectly sum up Isuzu’s N-Series Reward and F-Series Forward ranges of light and medium duty trucks which have been cutting their teeth in the Middle East for a number of years. T&FME is not in Japan to test those movers however. The purpose of the visit is to lift the hood on the famous manufacturer’s home of production and development in Japan and find out why the company is stripping down its approach to the Middle East and Africa by the launch of Isuzu Motors International FZE (IIF) in Dubai. This is a company wanting to get deeper into the market but still be able to react faster and, yes, more nimbly than ever before.

When T&FME catches up with vicepresident Waleed Noubani on a warm, early autumn Tokyo morning he’s just grabbed a quick breakfast. This is a man on the move and he is chomping at the bit to take the company with him: “I come from an economics background and I’m always

thinking out of the box on how to make things happen more efficiently by creating new processes to make it more financially feasibile,” he says putting aside his coffee.

That background in economics led him into a career in the retail business of passenger cars (starting in 1992) – and he thrived.

His natural affinity for the Middle East and an innate understanding of the automotive industry guided him to the region and, among other companies, Ford where he helped rebrand the operation in the UAE (after the manufacturer replaced its local dealers).

Before leaving three years later for Saudi Arabia to pursue an interest in real estate, he had turned around a 300 units per year business to over 3,000 vehicles sold per year.

A passion for the industry remained and he returned to the automotive sector after a friend introduced him to Isuzu in the Kingdom.

He recalls how the company summed up the challenge it was facing in the Middle East: “I met the guy in charge of hiring and he said, ‘we need a lot of help as we to focus on the market in

We’ve taken the strategic decision to introduce CNG. In the UAE, for instance, the infrastructure is there and will develop sooner rather than later in the whole region”

Saudi due to its potential. We need someone with your experience, who understands the Arab mentality’…and, I said, you know what, I’ve got nothing to lose, let me give it a shot.”

Now into his fifth year at Isuzu, a shift to the Dubai office to lead the company’s sales, marketing and aftersales effort across the region has opened the door to a new and exciting opportunity as vice-president and head of IIF, a combined Middle East and Africa Isuzu entity. He says that the move was intended to stifle grey imports from Africa into the Middle East but has subsequently developed into an agile and expanding business in its own right: “Internally in Isuzu, the Middle East and Africa were under two different departments. I recommended to the top management of Isuzu that we merged them. In my opinion, we were too slow. I said, look what is happening in Syria and Yemen; in this area you have to make decisions quickly.”

He credits the Isuzu board for first completing its own internal fusion of the two regions in Japan and then giving the green

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 13

INTERVIEW

light to turn Noubani’s Middle East operation into a fully-fledged subsidiary, assigned as the distributor for not only the Middle East and Africa but also central and South East Asia. He adds the name Isuzu Motors International (IIF), rather than Isuzu Motors Middle East, reflects its ambition to use Dubai as an export hub across a multitude of continents (the company is also absorbing Isuzu’s sub-Saharan subsidiary) and it is offering faster access to parts, aftersales and training to dealers and their customers.

“We changed the company name officially two months ago,” he explains. “We are growing as an entity in Dubai, where others are cutting staff. We’re proud we’re hiring.

Our volumes shot up dramatically in record time with the addition of these territories.”

Noubani tells T&FME that IIF is additionally enjoying a period of improving its market share in the region. Personally, he is also eager to maintain its momentum in the market and is pushing to see how it can make gains and open up new territories. He jokes that his counterparts in Japan are often taken aback by a style that is very different to Japanese business culture, where it can take time to make a decision: “They say, chill out, you’re too quick! But if I have an issue in one of my countries I can’t wait. Sometimes, I have to

We are growing as an entity in Dubai, where others are cutting staff. We’re proud we’re hiring. Our volumes shot up dramatically in record time with the addition of these territories”

ThE EagER ECONOMIsT Waleed Noubani is leading a volume and share increase in the Middle East and Africa.

ThE lauNCh Of Isuzu MOTORs INTERNaTIONal Isuzu Motors Limited, the Tokya headquartered manufacturer officially launched Isuzu Motors International FZE (IIF) in Dubai back in April this year. The new company, as a wide-range regional distributor, is intended to further enhance Isuzu’s strong presence and broaden its business activities in the region.

IIF originally started its business in the region as Isuzu Motors Middle East FZE (IMME) in 2010 by supporting the market with aftersales services. The new company is offering new vehicle sales functions in addition to what IMME had; in order to provide Isuzu’s clients with full service support from new vehicle sales to aftersales services. “IIF is committed to providing their truck customers with dedication to take their current transportation services up to the next level,” says the company.

IIF has started serving ten countries in the Middle East with future expansion planned for Africa, Central and Southern West Asia region, where IIF sees a large market potential for commercial vehicles which is hoped will lead to positive growth by increasing Isuzu’s sales and market share in these regions. IIF says it will “undertake actions to support customers’ operation to minimise downtime.”

Countries covered in the Middle East include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, Lebanon, Yemen and Syria.

make a decision on a phone and immediately.”

Founding Isuzu Motors International neatly solves several problems; not least enabling Isuzu to better serve its distribution channels with faster parts and aftersales support. It also means it now has a team in place that fully understands the market. Noubani says that, while Japanese companies have traditionally failed to grasp the subtle cultural differences between countries and regions in the Middle East, it is a common problem for most importers.

“A lot of international companies don’t know how to do business in the Middle East.

If you look at history, people here were trading with China, Africa, and India, and back in the Ottoman Empire there were no borders.

People from Morocco used to come to Saudi Arabia and send their goods, and vice versa,” he remarks. “People from the Middle East and Africa are traders by nature. You have to go out of the box and not do the ‘multinational, systematic approach’ when you deal with people locally. You have to be direct and honest with them. A few of these multinational companies like to play games. The best policy is to be direct, have a one-on-one conversation and spell out what you want. At the end of the day, you are going to need to build a relationship. You really need to take your suit off, put your jeans on and go to the market.”

In terms of what Isuzu Motors International will talk about when it meets with dealers and fleet owners, he describes a key difference he has learned from passengers cars: “When you buy a sports car or even a sedan, it’s an emotional decision. With commercial vehicles it is always a logical decision.”

During the trip to Japan, T&FME was given access to Isuzu’s light vehicle plant in Fujisawa. Set below the towering Mount Fuji, it is from here that the company supplies its customers globally; including preparing kits for local assembly such as the company’s operation in Saudi Arabia. Producing more than 23,000 units per year, the lines at Fujisawa are dominated by an army of robots (as you might expect in Japan) but much of this work is to prepare the chassis, powerlines and cabs. The plant still employs hundreds of shift workers to build up the trucks and it has one of the most

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INTERVIEW

thorough inspection set-ups T&FME has ever seen. Isuzu is particularly keen to promote itself as producing one of the most robust trucks in the market and the inspections are there to ensure quality. Noubani gives an example of how durable Isuzu trucks can be: “We found out that in our largest market in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, which has one of the harshest climates, that we had customers that have had trucks running for 20 years. Last year, we went with our dealer to give a trophy to two guys: one had driven his vehicle (an Isuzu NPR) for 2 million km and the other 1 million km.”

The older vehicles that are still in operation may be testimony to Isuzu’s durability but it is new sales that are driving Noubani and his team on. He adds that the company works hard to identify the right vehicle for the right customer.

T&FME learned that Isuzu has more than 1,300 configurations for its trucks and can offer a huge selection bodybuilder options via its partners.

In addition to its existing range of light and medium N-Series Reward and F-Series Forward trucks, and the D-Max pick-ups, Noubani reveals that the company is preparing to launch its CNG-powered range into the region in the near-future. Isuzu will be the first manufacturer in Japan to introduce this new line-up in the region and its low carbon emission technology for trucks; adding the Middle East to the other ten markets it already serves.

Arguing that hybrid battery technology will not be realistic for fully electrical commercial vehicles until the end of the next decade, Noubani says that IIF sees more immediate potential for CNG in the region: “We have the technology to bring in hybrids, but we’ve taken the strategic decision to introduce CNG. In the UAE, for instance, the infrastructure is there, and will develop sooner rather than later in the whole region.”

WET CONdITION haNdlINg The visit to Wacom was an opportunity to try the Eco Drive Programme but also witness testing on Isuzu’s ABS systems.

In addition to technology, the unique Eco Drive training programme, which helps drivers to learn how to make the most of their vehicles and lower fleet fuel consumption, is being rolled out in the Middle East. T&FME journeyed to the Isuzu-owned Wacom testing ground in the heart of Japan’s north island of Hokkaido to take to the track and experience it for ourselves.

Driving a 25t GVW heavy duty Giga truck on a circuit featuring fast straights, banked corners and stop-start zones to recreate urban driving, the instructors demonstrated how to use to optimal gear shifting and careful braking to avoid quick wear of clutch, brakes, engine overrunning. With screens displaying their performance in terms of speed, braking, use of the gears and fuel consumption, drivers were given a score out of 100 after an initial test run. Armed with a clearer picture of what their weaknesses were from the instructors and an in-depth analysis on their performance, they climbed back on board for a second turn on the course. Back in the paddock, they all saw a pleasing improvement to their driving. Isuzu estimates that fleets could save thousands of dollars per year by adopting the principles of the Eco Drive programme through fuel savings. The reduction of wear

People from the Middle East and Africa are traders by nature.

You have to go out of the box and not do the ‘multinational, systematic approach’ when you deal with people locally”

on the trucks will also lead to inevitable improvements to uptime. Following a successful launch of the programme at the Yas Island circuit earlier this year, Noubani can see it being a key component of its offering in the region, particularly when fleets feel the benefit of lower operational costs.

With the trip drawing to a close, he reveals that IIF is seeing its net worth rise within the Isuzu Corporation as its share of company turnover continues to increase from its current figure of (around) 20% of total global sales. He talks of the pride of being able to host the chairman of Isuzu Motors in the key market of Saudi Arabia (he also lists the UAE, Oman, Egypt, Ethiopia and Algeria among its other main territories) and clearly recognition is growing from both inside and outside the company that IIF is going places.

“One of the questions a lot of executives ask is, ‘how can we grow when the economy is not growing?’ I had this question in a meeting here in Japan. I was told was the economy is not doing well and the reports say we’re not going to see growth until 2020. But I think we can still grow and the only way to do that is to eat market share. That’s my goal.

“I have a plan of action and a team that can execute it. Yes, the market is slow now however we will do much better than everyone else.

The whole operation is putting the customer first. We want to be close to the customer and whatever it takes I’m not going to lose any opportunity. No matter what. We want to stay close to the market and our dealer network.

Whether it’s a company that uses five of our trucks or one that uses 50 from us, we are going to treat them the same. In my mind, a customer that buys five trucks is growing as a business.

I want us to build long term partnerships – and so far, I can see that it’s working.”

aBOuT Isuzu’s ECO dRIVE PROgRaMME According to Isuzu, the main effects on fuel consumption include both objective reasons such as model condition (manufacturing year, specifications, engine, etc,) and subjective reasons such as driving skills such as ways of controlling clutch, gear and the accelerator.

Isuzu Eco Drive Seminar is aimed at pointing out the differences on fuel

consumption between daily driving habits and eco drive skills in the same truck, loading and distance. The Eco Drive require drivers to apply 4 key points: 1. Changing speed quickly 2. Constant use of high gears 3. Driving at a stable speed 4. Proper usage of the engine brake.

The statistics record by Isuzu shows that if the

16 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

drivers apply driving skills as exactly as trained, one company which has 10 trucks can save hundreds of thousands of dollars per year. Isuzu researchers also claim to have proof that CO2 emission to the air will be considerably cut down thanks to the decrease of fuel consumption; therefore, it will reduce the environment pollution.

aN INTERNaTIONal ECO PROgR aMME Eco Drive has been roll ed out internationally with fleets from many countri es benefitting.

INTERVIEW

A fresh stArt-up

Gaurav Biswas on opening up Trukker to B2B transporters 18 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

INTERVIEW

ThE dIsRupTERs The Trukker team are offering a new way for transportation companies to keep their trucks on the road and their business ticking over.

G

aurav Biswas used to be a high flyer when he was at construction giant AECOM but he left his jet-setting lifestyle to become the co-founder of one of the UAE’s most exciting start-up companies, Trukker.

He tells T&FME how he used to spend his Eid break before he had to pump his own money into making his company a success.

“Every year we would stay in Europe for two weeks at least. It was a very good kind of lifestyle,” Biswas recalls fondly. “Now, when I go travelling with Trukker, I go for the cheapest possible flight. With AECOM, if I was travelling more than five hours I was supposed to be travelling business class.”

It was on one of his long-haul trips out to the sun-kissed shores of Los Angeles with AECOM that the first seeds were planted for the idea behind Trukker, a UAE-based online site and app that enables users to book trucks for deliveries. He recalls: “I was taking monthly trips to LA and, in the early days, there wasn’t Uber in the UAE but there was in the US. I was using the app for when I got to the airport, and it was much cheaper and easier...”

It took a dinner with some old friends for Trukker to emerge as the fully-fledged concept that would take his life in an entirely new direction.

“One of them was supposed to get three trucks the next day for a consignment.

During dinner, he gets a call from the

transporter at around 9.30pm saying, you can have one truck at 8am in the morning but the other two I will call to confirm.

And he was like: what do you mean, I’ve already confirmed I need three trucks.

He was very frustrated at the time. I just cracked a joke and said, hey man, you should have something like Uber for trucks.”

Like many inspired entrepreneurs before him, the ‘Uber for trucks’ concept stuck with Biswas and refused to be buried under his paper pile on his desk. Weeks later, he contacted one of his oldest and most techsavvy friends Pradeep Mallavarapu for advice.

“Pradeep – he’s the cofounder and the CTO (he’s the main technological brain behind Trukker) – go back since we were eight years old. We went to the same school, were in the same class, went to summer camp together; so he was the natural first guy to call. I asked how much is it to do an Uber kind of an app?

And the answer was not that difficult... within a month we had started Trukker.”

Biswas defines Trukker as an aggregator of trucks that is able to draw on a reserve of 140-plus vehicles owned and operated by a carefully controlled list of transporters.

The available fleet ranges from 1-tonne pickups to 40ft trailers and can cover the UAE and beyond, “at the beginning of the year, we started serving Jebel Ali port and moving loads across the Saudi border from the UAE as well as to Oman.”

This is a company on the move in

the way it is done today is very fragmented. there are a lot of inefficiencies built into the system.

We figured out that new technology will come into the sector and thought how can we use technology to improve this system? that’s how the idea for trukkin started”

more ways than one. October will mark its first anniversary of operation and when we talk in August, he tells T&FME that the business continues to grow; in that month alone it is targeting revenues of 550,000 dirhams. While he views B2B customers as potentially driving growth going forwards, it has been the bread and butter deliveries and home moving side of the business, that has provided stability.

Furthermore, one of the more remarkable hallmarks of Trukker during its start-up phase has been a deliberate attempt to use the B2C market as a way to gain visibility with construction companies, retailers and goods providers.

Biswas explains: “Our business model and growth plans are all around B2B which makes sense because the market is so much bigger. The reason we went to B2C as a first step was because we could use it as strategic stepping stone.”

The Trukker website is bright and colourful; simple to use. In short, it is perfectly pitched at a private user needing to move something quickly. Home moving has proven to be popular; with the company using a team of telecallers to support bookings. The other segment, item delivery, is relatively straightforward and all done at a click of a few buttons.

Given the transient and multi-cultural nature of the UAE population, Trukker really could find a niche for its B2C business with people used to buying and

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 19

INTERVIEW

FRIENds aNd BusINEss paRTNERs Gaurav Biswas turned to lifelong friend Pradeep to co-found Trukker and develop the all-important back-office that powers the company’s website, app and software.

selling online, but unsure of how to move their items. Biswas adds the company has teamed up with one of the biggest online market spaces to offer its services.

“We’ve partnered with Dubizzle and if you look at the furniture and home appliance section you will see the delivery options and, if you click on it, you will see the Dubizzle delivery powered by Trukker page.” TruKKer has also launched ‘Item Delivery’ as a product on www.trukker.ae since then and plans to market this aggressively to end users.

Moving onto commercial customers, he says that the B2B segment, initially at least, presented some substantial hurdles for the new company when attempting to break into it and attract the best transporters. Particularly, for a company like Trukker which is offering transportation companies an entirely new but relatively untested way of doing business.

“The reason why we started in B2C was to gain a greater reputation within the transportation world. A new company is not going to start doing hundreds of transactions right from day one, until you do that, your transporters are not going to take you seriously.

“Until they take you seriously they won’t give you the best rates, and if you don’t have the best rates you won’t get clients anyway. We realised it was a typical chicken and egg situation.”

He continues: “What B2C did for us was make it easier in terms of customer acquisition, so we started acquiring customers faster which propelled our 20 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

growth in the first few months.”

An early lesson the Trukker operation had to take was learning how many vehicles it needed to ensure availability to customers while ensuring it remained a profitable avenue of business for its transport partners.

“What we realised was the key to aggregation is the ability to control your capacity of fleet,” he says before listing other issues that needed to be understood and resolved from day one.

“The B2B business is complicated by clients who may have long-term loyalty to their transporters. There are also issues about non-standard rates, non-standard performance levels between companies.

Then you have the requirement for specific documentation. With big companies it can be a lot of customized processes and specific to that client only...”

With the company moving from 10 to 15 truck-loads per day, transporters have subsequently started to sit up and take notice.

“Now we are spread out across the UAE. We operate a fleet of 140-plus vehicles but if my operations manager additional 20 or 30 trucks tomorrow morning, we have the confidence to be able to mobilise them,” comments Biswas. “Just because we now know if a transporter starts working with us, his network of transporters will want to work with us. (That’s another reason why the B2C was a very significant stepping stone, says Biswas).”

While the two approaches serve very different clients, in terms of getting a quote and booking a truck both

At the end of every transaction you get a rating by the customer.

If there are two trucks in Dubai and they are the same, then the customer is welcome to select the one with the higher rating.

Better ratings keep driving more business”

private and commercial customers enjoy a similar experience.

“The process of booking a truck is not very different and if you are moving anything within the UAE – whether its B2C or B2B – you can make the booking within two minutes,” he explains. “Although within the B2B area, the slightly different end of the market is the cross-border business. Within cross-border we don’t allow online bookings yet but we should have the technology for it in place over the next couple of months.

Based on the item you are moving you require different paperwork and custom clearance.”

The job facing the man guiding Trukker’s B2B charge is to capitalise on its progress to date. He tells T&FME that the company is capable of huge list of transportation roles, including shifting construction materials, packaged food, 20 tons steel coils, and much more.

“We want to add value as an aggregator that offers many different kinds of truck on the website. A lot of our clients see that as a value as well, as they don’t have to approach multiple transporters and maintain one contact point.”

Transporters wanting to join Trukker’s service can do so by visiting the website and clicking the become a partner option.

Biswas adds, where once the company had to go out and find its transportation partners, the leg-work has gradually declined as more fleets have become familiar with its name: “Now we have more people in the queue than we sign up. We only join up members when demand goes up.

“We try and keep a contingency and as demand grows we add to our fleet. This ensures that the transporters that we have signed up get continuous business and we don’t end up hiring too many people and all of them suffer from low utilisation.”

When Trukker opens the doors to new members they have to complete a documentation check, including confirmation that the drivers are able to live and work in the UAE. This is followed by a 12-hour training programme that covers customer interface training, the driver app and manual handling of packages. For companies involved in the B2C part of Trukker, like Home Moving, payments are made to the transporter on a weekly basis. For those involved in its B2B shipments, payment will be made within a month: “We are very careful about giving credit beyond 30 days for our own users, but if we do we don’t subject the transporter to more than that.”

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INTERVIEW

Ultimately, at the heart of Trukker’s business is the ability to manage the flow of work being logged by its back-office software with the utilisation of 140-plus vehicles owned by its transporters. Their suitability for a job will be evaluated on their type, location and their rating according to customers and clients.

“We don’t own any of these trucks, we are an aggregator, so all these trucks are owned by third-party transporters – they are either single truck owners or some of them have their own fleet. The business goes to whoever is the most suitable,” he explains.

“When you start working with Trukker... at the end of every transaction you get a rating by the customer. Let’s say someone wants to move something between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, if your truck is not in Dubai then you are not included. If there are two trucks in Dubai and they are the same, then the better rated driver gets the opportunity first.

Better ratings keep driving more business.

He adds that the operations team will also try to assist transporters by ensuring that they can link deliveries to ensure the trucks are available to move to other pick-up jobs – and thus avoid returning with empty trailers – when they are on the move.

“When we promote the technology to clients, we tell them they can track the truck and all those things but the biggest thing is we have our own operations team.

We can continuously keep an eye on which customer is moving from A-to-B and where is demand coming from at B-to-A, so we can use the same truck going and coming back

Now we are spread out across the uAe. We own a fleet of 90-plus vehicles but if my operations manager bought 20 or 30 trucks tomorrow morning, we have the confidence to be able to mobilise them”

full. Return loads is a very big focus for the operations team. Their KPIs are based on how many empty trips are being done.”

During the interview, Biswas tells T&FME that having learned a lot about the business over the past year, the company is now happy to accept further investment as it looks to grow in the UAE and expand into other countries. By the end of the year, Trukker will be in Saudi Arabia and is eyeing a further step into either Oman or Kuwait. While it could be on the brink of becoming something even larger, Biswas reveals the start-up isn’t ready to start handing him a huge dividend.

“It’s not paying off yet,” he says. “Startups sound very sexy and glamorous but that isn’t the case. I’ve done investments before but into real estate; doing a start-up by leaving your high paid job is a much higher risk. I was at my peak of my career at Aecom, I was leading teams of 400+ engineers and managers in delivery of mega iconic projects by the time I left. But every day I am learning something new and if I found something new yesterday, I have the capacity to do things in a different way from tomorrow morning. There is nothing routine – which is what I am enjoying.

“My mom is the big driver in the family and I was talking to her and I said, I don’t want to see another successful Trukker, and think I could’ve been that guy. She said...go ahead you can always go back to your old life.”

Fortunately for Biswas and the rest of the Trukker team going back doesn’t seem likely at all.

REady FOR aCTION Trukker is looking to expand its workforce and presence across the GCC.

22 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

a BETTER lIFE FOR dElIVERIEs One of the charms of Trukker is being able to serve a variety of sectors and offer them a way to reduce their operational costs, leaving them to concentrate on what they do best.

“We are working with a company called Better Life, the sole distributor of Siemens and a few other Italian white goods manufacturers, like Zanussi. The issue for them was they were having an average of 80-100 deliveries per day – they have their own warehouse and fleet, but their fleet of five trucks barely meets the needs of their everyday business,” Guarav Biswas says.

“Deliveries were getting late and clients were not happy about the late deliveries, so we met their group supply chain person and we asked them what their main pain points were. We said, rather than just giving you a truck when you need it, we can improve on your overall delivery management.

“What now happens is, Better Life gives us their schedule of deliveries every day before 6.30pm in the evening. Through our technology, we can upload a simple excel sheet with all the delivery points and it will automatically do the route optimisation (if a client has a time restraint - like they can only accept good between 6am and 9pm, or something like that, then that is also recognised by the system),” he explains. “(Their general manager tells me) that over a period of time they will end up selling their fleet, because their core business is sourcing material and taking care of their reseller inventories, it is not running, maintaining or hiring a truck and having a driver, and things like that. We’ve been able to reduce the overall costs to their business by 15%.”

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BUSWORLD EUROPE PREviEW

A bustling event

24 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

BUSWORLD EUROPE PREviEW

Will this year’s big bus event be dominated by e-mobility technology?

W

hether it’s a marriage of convenience in an increasingly closer global bus sector or a sign of a toughening up of economic conditions, this year’s Busworld in Belgium unites the world’s longest running bus event with the knowhow of UITP (International Association of Public Transport) at the inaugural and prosaically-titled UITP-Busworld International Bus Conference.

High on the agenda will be the technological advances being made in bus design and drivelines as well as our changing urban landscapes they traverse.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Busworld,” explained UITP Secretary General, Alain Flausch. “The partnership will offer visitors the complete picture of everything that’s going on in this dynamic industry, when capacity is higher than ever thanks to double-articulated and Bus Rapid Transit and when buses are cleaner than ever thanks to hybrid and electric propulsion. We hope this move will enable the event to continue to grow in stature and become an even-more unmissable occasion on the industry calendar”.

This year’s event also has special precedence as it will be the final event in the Belgium city of Kortrijk. Having been held every two years since 1971, the oldest and most famous bus and coach exhibition will move to Brussels Expo in 2019. According to the organisers, the new venue will provide 115,000 square metres covering 12 halls, meaning it can easily accommodate the trade fair with opportunities for future expansion.

“Busworld, with its international and growing ambitions, had to find a new location due to the lack of space in Kortrijk and therefore chose to move to the largest exhibition space in Belgium with the biggest international appeal,”

said Redgy Deschacht, chairman of the board of directors of Busworld.”

Like IAA before it, the event is an opportunity for some of the world’s leading manufacturers to unveil their latest products. Looking at the likely vehicles making their debut and major public showings, visitors from Europe and the rest of the world will have an opportunity to sample where this important pillar of the commercial vehicles industry is heading.

At the 2017 Busworld in Kortrijk, Scania will showcase its extensive range of alternatives to conventional diesel. As progressive European cities increasingly impose restrictions on diesel vehicles, they are examining clean alternatively fuelled buses and coaches for operations.

As the world faces up to the challenge of meeting the Paris climate target of a maximum 2oC global warming, public transport and versatile bus services will be at the fore. Scania is aiming to be a leader in the shift to sustainable transport.

It currently claims to have the broadest range of buses and coaches running on alternative fuels. Scania can presently offer engines for natural and biogas, ethanol, biodiesel, HVO as well as hybrid buses.

In several European cities, Scania has been a forerunner in the transition to clean and low carbon technologies.

Recently, it delivered 53 gas-fuelled double-decker buses to Nottingham, the world’s largest fleet. The UK city of Sunderland has followed suit with its own fleet of biogas double-decker buses.

Many cities are especially interested in gas operations, with gas being an economically sustainable solution providing a lower carbon footprint, low nitrogen oxide emissions and substantially lower noise level. The production of biogas can provide local job opportunities, less dependencies on import and ecosystems where waste from OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 25

BUSWORLD EUROPE PREviEW

residents provides fuel for transport.

Scania can offer gas alternatives for a wide range of city buses and uniquely also for intercity operations.

Other cities see the advantages of hybrid operations, especially in intrasuburban and suburban-to-city traffic.

Scania’s technology in this field offers unrivalled total operating economy.

At Busworld, Scania will also emphasise how its tailored maintenance services can be instrumental in optimising the economic performance for operators.

It has recently introduced Fleet Care, a service whereby Scania takes full responsibility for maintenance and repairs to ensure the highest fleet uptime.

Through continuous monitoring, Scania can plan and execute needed workshop action to keep vehicles on the road.

Daimler has recently preferred to debut its new flagship vehicles in early summer before using the big commercial vehicles events of the Autumn to provide a second bounce of interest. This year it is the turn of the Tourismo RHD – a continuation of the Europe’s most successful double decker tourer.

Daimler Buses holds a market share of over 40 percent in the constantly growing European long-distance bus services. In Germany, no less than one in two longdistance buses bear the Mercedes-Benz or Setra logo. Like its predecessor the new Tourismo RHD will be manufactured at the Turkish plant in Hoşdere near Istanbul.

With its four model variants and a wide

ONE THIRD OF NEW TRANSIT BUSES WILL BE ELECTRIC IN 2020 The CEO of US electric bus manufacturer Proterra believes EVs will soon challenge their internalcombustion counterparts for dominance of city streets.

The market share of electric buses will expand much more rapidly than has been the case with electric cars, Proterra boss Ryan Popple said on the Energy Gang podcast. He predicts that by 2020, one-third of new fleet bus purchases will be electric, that electric buses will account for half of fleet purchases by 2025, and that by 2030, every new bus purchased will be electric. That would represent strong growth in a relatively short period of time, but Popple believes it is achievable due to the nature

MAN TO DEBUT NEW LION’S CITy With a clear focus on efficiency, comfort and ergonomics, the developers of the new MAN Lion’s City claim to have set new standards for all of the components.

26 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

of the commercial-vehicle business. Proterra is “already beating” diesel and CNG on pricing, Popple said.

A lower price may be enough for fleet operators to convert to electric vehicles en masse. Think-tank Carbon Tracker predicts that average battery prices will drop to $100 per kW/hr by 2020, down from $268 kW/hr today.

Besides a potential price advantage, electric buses are also less affected by charging and range issues than electric cars. Because buses operate on predictable routes, at scheduled times, and within predefined areas, the installation of charging infrastructure is should be easier compared to passenger cars.

variety of powertrains and equipment, the new Mercedes-Benz Tourismo covers the wide-ranging needs of customers in the entire touring coach segment.

“The Mercedes-Benz Tourismo is the most successful European touring coach of all time, and a key driver for the success of Daimler Buses,” said Hartmut Schick, head of Daimler’s buses division.

“In order to safeguard our market leadership in this segment for the future, we have invested 400 million euros in the development and production of completely new touring coach generations.

This makes our best-seller even more economical, comfortable and safe.”

According to Daimler, the new Tourismo is particularly strong when comes to fuel efficiency, as a minimised total cost of ownership (TCO) is a key buying argument in the bus sector. The new Tourismo RHD meets this criterion, thanks to a fuel consumption level that has been reduced even further: fuel consumption has been decreased by around 4.5%, mainly due to optimised aerodynamics and the completely redesigned, lighter body.

The saving amounts to as much as 7%, says Daimler, when the consumption advantage of the OM 470 engine generation with efficiency package, which was introduced in summer 2016, is included.

With new optional equipment items such as Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) or Eco Driver Feedback (EDF), fuel consumption and thus emissions can be reduced still further. An extensive standard equipment package and optimised service schedules also contribute to maximum cost-effectiveness for bus operators.

Schick added: “The new MercedesBenz Tourismo is a genuine all-rounder.

Whether as a shuttle-bus, charter or long-distance bus, it offers our customers an even wider range of applications than before. This particularly pays off for the constantly growing long-distance buses services in Europe. It is especially here that bus operators increasingly rely on great operational variety and flexibility.”

MAN Truck & Bus will also launch an update of one its most popular vehicles the, MAN Lion’s City at the event. According to the company, the new generation of MAN Lion’s City, is a completely new type of urban bus for the inner city environment.

The vehicle possesses a wide range of technical upgrade, both inside and out, and the bus has been developed completely from scratch and combines a clear focus

BUSWORLD EUROPE PREvIEW

vOLvO’S ELECTRICITy SCOOPS UITP AWARD The ElectriCity partnership for electrified transportation in Gothenburg, Sweden, took first prize in the “operational and technical excellence” category when the prestigious UITP Awards 2017 competition results were announced in Montreal on May 17th.

The award was received by Volvo Buses and Västtrafik, two of the main partners in ElectriCity.

The partnership’s most public aspect is bus route 55, where 10 electrified Volvo buses have been plying the route between the two Chalmers University of Technology campuses since 2015.

So far more than 1.5 million passengers have used route 55.

The awards committee’s verdict was that “this project successfully integrates all elements of modern busbased mobility solutions and points to the future of bus services worldwide.

Its innovative technology is deployed in real operation conditions and it is perfectly integrated in the public transport system.”

The UITP Awards are given every alternate year, spotlighting ambitious, sustainable and innovative projects that can contribute to increased public transport usage. More than 230 entries were submitted to this year’s competition.

“The restructuring of the transport sector is necessary if we are to succeed in creating a sustainable society and the cities of the future.

Here sustainable public transport is an important puzzle piece. ElectriCity and bus route 55 is an excellent example on business, academy and public sector cooperation to achieve this. It is very gratifying that it is recognized on an international level,” said Niklas Gustafsson, chief sustainability officer Volvo Group.

SCANIA TAkES LEAD IN ALTERNATIvE DRIvES Scania claims to have the broadest range of buses and coaches running on alternative fuels.

on efficiency, comfort and ergonomics with the new MAN bus design/ Set for to make its market debut in early 2018, the new MAN Lion’s City has been kept well-hidden during testing, but, the company says: “now the veil is gradually being lifted to reveal a completely redesigned city bus, which has inherited the strong genes of previous MAN buses.

With a clear focus on efficiency, comfort and ergonomics, the developers have set new standards for all of the components, such as for the life-cycle costs (LCC) of the driver’s workplace and the lighting.

At the same time, the MAN Lion’s City complies with all current legal standards, as well as all those that are expected to be introduced in the future.”

From the outside, it has a range of eyecatching features, including its distinctive headlights, which incorporate an LED band that acts as daytime running lights, and the typical black MAN front panel and chrome trim that is synonymous with quality, as well as its large side windows. Not only do these lend the vehicle an impression of dynamism, but as aspects of segmented panelling, they also contribute to the improvement of Life Cycle Costs (LCC).

The rear of the new MAN Lion’s City is also unmistakeable. Clear and unique and classically arranged, it enables perfect accessibility to the various components.

The new MAN bus design shines through clearly and is highly recognisable.

An example of this is the lights on the front and rear of the bus. It is not

the partnership will offer visitors the complete picture of everything that’s going on in this dynamic industry, when capacity is higher than ever thanks to doublearticulated and bus Rapid transit and when buses are cleaner than ever thanks to hybrid and electric propulsion”

just the daytime running lights of the MAN Lion’s City that make use of LED technology. Full-LED main headlights are now available for the first time. The new MAN tail lights are fitted with LEDs as standard. In the interior, indirect and continuous LED lighting, together with optional ambient lighting, create a uniform, contemporary and dynamic lighting design. The lamps impress with their long service life of up to 10,000 operating hours and are also extremely reliable and energy efficient.

An integrated colour and trim concept in the interior creates a highly contemporary and bright impression that looks neat and tidy and welcoming.

A great deal of thought goes into selecting light and dark colours to provide appropriate functional support to functional areas. The drivers of the new MAN Lion’s City will also find a completely redesigned and optimised space. With a focus on ergonomics, comfort and safety, the positioning of the switches and instruments has brought about an increase in user-friendliness.

The high driver’s door and a raised seat improves the driver’s position in relation to the passengers boarding the vehicle.

The MAN Lion’s City will first venture onto the roads in September, when practical testing will begin in several European cities. The new generation of city buses will then be introduced to a selected group of people in March 2018 during its launch.

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 27

ADVERTORIAL

PuTTing The driver FirsT

Ford Trucks on how its new series of trucks are optimised for driver comfort and performance

F

ord Trucks is continually focused on building long-term relationship with its customers by understanding the true need of each customer and the regional requirements. It is always Ford Trucks’ aim to provide a unique experience to each customer by finding the right solution based upon their business needs.

Thanks to its wide network across the globe with seamless support on important international routes in Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, Russia and CIS countries, Ford Trucks provides tailor-made solutions and products. Ford Trucks’ 57-year production experience with market-specific product development drives the company to produce compatible 28 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

products and have a better understanding of its customers’ needs and expectations.

Through many years of experience, Ford Trucks knows that the best support can be given to customers by understanding how to keep drivers comfortable to optimally improve their productivity. Consequently, the company’s optimised interior design of their trucks can have a substantial impact on operational cost. While the trucks may be powerful, Ford Trucks’ care in cab design ensures that the driver is able to maximise his potential. After all, a driver’s knowledge and ability to maintain his concentration and performance is crucial to a successful fleet business. Since the best way to increase that is through ergonomics, comfort features and proper product training are key benefits provided by Ford Trucks.

Ford Trucks is also focused on keeping drivers comfortable to optimally improve their productivity”

When it comes to Middle East Region, cab ergonomics remains another important factor in the decision-making process for fleet purchasing managers and there are different requirements from different segments.

Mostly, the long haulers are keen to have an ergonomic cab where field drivers look for a solution to reduce stains caused by rugged construction area. For instance, a large country like Saudi Arabia, where the transfer of goods is made by road transport, the distance from north to south of the country can be even longer than most of the European neighbour countries. With many transporters now operating crossborders to, distance cab ergonomics and comfort level has become very important for the driver. A poorly designed cab that has not been designed for this role can affect

ADVERTORIAL

his performance; as well as his ability to drive safely over long hours. It is extremely important for the company as Ford Trucks to provide the necessary comfort and safety for its clients and fleet drivers.

With that aim, the new Ford Trucks Series has been shaped with enhanced air-suspended driver seats and independent cab suspension support from four different points to counteract unwanted vibration from the ground for construction drivers and extra storage areas with two 50l and one 20l upper drawers for long haulers. Also, the new series comes with four different types of cabin – low roof day cab, low roof sleeper cab, high roof sleeper and extra high roof sleeper - so customers can make the right choice on their business needs.

Additional to comfort features, safety is another essential priority for Ford Trucks in the region. The tough working environmental conditions and the need to work within a wide network of logistics - in a region where long transportation trips are typical – makes safety critical. For that reason, Ford Trucks has developed secure technologies within its new series. The most important ones among those technologies are the cruise control system and Electronic

Stability Program (ESP) which becomes active when the vehicle is pushed away due to reasons and cruise control if the trucks gets out of its line without a driver’s will so those systems helps the vehicle to move forward safety. The Active Emergency Brake System is also another innovation which demonstrates that Ford Trucks models offer a high level of safety.

The new series reaches its peak with a new generation Ecotorq engine which offers high driving performance with up to 430 hp of power and 2,150 Nm of torque and also stands out with its high efficiency.

13l Ecotorq engine-powered trucks feature 12-speed, ZF Automated transmission options which are purposely-designed to provide an easier driving experience for drivers and deliver efficient fuel consumption for businesses. According to tests conducted by independent institutions, the new Ford Trucks Series reaches the significant fuel consumption values while offering high performance in all conditions with its improved torque and horsepower figures.

Ford Trucks has also improved braking on its new models compared to its previous generation and the new Ford Trucks Series has a braking system that is now seven times

The new series comes with four different types of cabin - low roof day cab, low roof sleeper cab, high roof sleeper and extra high roof sleeper - so customers can make the right choice on their needs”

stronger. In addition to a 400 kW engine brake, it also offers a 600 kW intarder as an option to fleets. Placing an emphasis on movement on the road, the total 1,000 kW braking power clearly shows how much the new Ford Trucks Series’ cares about stopping.

As a latest trend in the region, Fleet management system has been appointed from Ford Trucks’ clients recently. It is very valuable program which provides close track of driving behaviour and truck’s operation. Ford Trucks support all clients with different package and options regarding to their business requirements.

Ford Trucks owns the motto of “sharing the load” for a purpose. Because the company knows how important it is to share the load with all parties: drivers and fleet owners or managers. That is the reason Ford Trucks is always focused on new technologies and safety solutions. The company employs more than 500 R&D engineers to ensure that this philosophy is followed throughout development. With its long history and experience of different regions around the world, Ford Trucks adheres to the best standards in ergonomic design and comfort when it comes to its cab development to help take your business forward.”

COmFORT AnD COnTROL Ford Trucks has worked hard to gain a high level of comfort and safety for its clients and fleet drivers – a poorly designed cab can affect the performance of drivers and a fleet business.

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 29

WORKSHOP

COnTinEnTAl HyBRid BuSinESS / AW ROSTAmAni STRATEgy / KRAmER And dEERE AlliAnCE / PiRElli TRiCOlOR / nExTER & WABCO dEAl

workshop Continental aims for $1bn hybrid business Will FOCuS On EFFiCiEnT EnginE TECHnOlOgy And dRiVES

AW ROSTAmAni OPEnS uP SERViCE TO All VEHiClES SERViCE

Continental is to divert increased funds into research and development of hybrid and electric drive systems as part of the company’s new global Powertrain Strategy 2020+.

Focusing on two key targets, Continental is recognising the demand for the most efficient combustion engine technologies that will lower carbon emissions and looking to benefit from the prospective growth in environmentally-friendly

hybrid and fully electric drive systems. While Continental’s Powertrain division won’t entirely move away from finetuning motors, it sees electric and hybrid vehicles accounting for 40 percent of the global car market by 2025.

Commenting on Continental’s ‘Powertrain Strategy 2020+’, Jose Avila, a member of the Executive Board and President of Continental’s Powertrain division said:

“Our Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) business is already experiencing a rising order intake. We expect a growing turnover of approximately $130 million today to up to $1 billion by 2021. Continental is planning to pursue business opportunities of almost $2 billion by 2025, with further investment in research and development of HEV-related technologies.

This is why we intend to spend over $300 million more than projected.”

AW Rostamani Group has launched Autotrust – a new arm of the group that will service and repair multi-brand cars while also selling certified pre-owned vehicles. The launch follows the recent inauguration of a new multi-brand car service centre in Sharjah and a multi-brand certified pre-owned vehicles showroom in Dubai. AW Rostamani Group has historically serviced Nissan, Infiniti and Renault vehicles in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates. Autotrust will see it offer its services to customers with all makes and models of cars across the UAE. “We have been in the industry for over 50 years, and throughout this time our customers have remained our number one priority,” said Michel Ayat, CEO of AW Rostamani Automotives. “Autotrust has been launched as part of our ongoing efforts to make their lives easier by offering them more diversified services. There are over 3 million vehicles on UAE roads with expired warranties, and we are confident that Autotrust will help to improve this statistic. The Autotrust network includes four locations, but we have plans for expansion and will be opening additional centres over the coming months.”

inSidE THiS mOnTH’S WORKSHOP REAd OuR mATERiAlS HAndling 2017 SHOW REViEW, COmBATTing COunTERFEiT And nEW TyRE REgulATiOnS OVERViEW 30 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

WORKSHOP

PiRElli lAunCHES limiTEd iTAliAn TyRE

kramer and deere alliance approved EquiPmEnT

Kramer-Werke, a Wacker Neuson SE company and John Deere, a member of the Deere & Company group, USA, recently announced that they are entering into a strategic alliance focusing on the sale of Kramer-branded telescopic handlers and wheel loaders for the agricultural sector. The European anti-trust authorities have now approved the collaboration.

The agreement covers the sale of Kramerbranded compact equipment (known as the ‘green line’) for the agricultural market.

The European anti-trust authorities have now given the collaboration the green light, allowing the machines, which are designed

by Kramer and feature the Kramer brand, to be distributed by John Deere dealers.

The market for material handling products is growing rapidly in the agricultural sector.

Kramer aims to gain broad, lasting access to the agricultural market through this close, long-term alliance with the John Deere dealer network.

The models in question are already available and will be showcased at Agritechnica in Hannover from 12-18 November, 2017, alongside other agricultural equipment from John Deere.

John Deere is recommending Kramer as the preferred supplier of the following equipment to its partners: 13 Kramer-branded all-wheel drive compact wheel loaders and tele wheel loaders, 9 telescopic handlers (6-9m lifting height), plus a large selection of attachments, accessories and spare parts. These products will be designed and manufactured at Kramer’s site in Pfullendorf, Germany.

“John Deere is also acquiring an equity stake in Kramer. This sends a clear signal to sales partners and underscores the long-term, sustainable nature of this alliance. Now that we have approval from the European anti-trust authorities, we can get things moving,” comments Cem Peksaglam, who is going to hand over the role of CEO of Wacker Neuson SE to Martin Lehner (CTO and current Deputy CEO).

TyRES Pirelli, one of Italy’s most famous brands says it was to make the famous Italian Tricolour “travel all over the world” with the launch of a new limited edition tyre The Pirelli Colour Edition, a tyre with a coloured sidewall recently launched by the Italian firm, will be produced in a limited edition run with the colours of the Italian flag, to be used on Italian diplomatic cars in France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Japan, China, Russia, the United States, the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The very first Maserati Quattroporte running on green, white and red P Zero tyres was revealed by Marco Tronchetti Provera, CEO of Pirelli, in the presence of Italian Foreign Minister Angelino Alfano, during the final session of the fourday XII Ambassadors’ Conference, hosted in the Pirelli HangarBicocca, Pirelli’s space dedicated to contemporary art. The occasion marked the handover of the first set of Pirelli ‘Tricolore’ tyres to the Italian diplomatic corps. Pirelli’s Color Edition tyres represent the final stage of the ‘perfect fit’ strategy, followed by Pirelli to respond as best as possible to the increasing requirement for personalisation.

nExTER/WABCO TO STEER dEVElOPmEnT STEERing WABCO has signed a long-term cooperation agreement with Nexteer Automotive, a USbased leader in intuitive motion control, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

The two companies will collaborate in the development and supply of active steering systems for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles using Nexteer’s MagnaSteer Actuation Technology. WABCO and Nexteer will integrate MagnaSteer’s proven technology with Sheppard’s suite of power steering gears, which has set the industry standard for heavy-duty commercial and specialty vehicles. Through an existing exclusivity agreement between Nexteer and Sheppard,

WABCO can offer a compact, cost-effective, technological solution that enables active steering control for commercial vehicle manufacturers in North America. In addition, it has access to this technology for all medium- and heavy-duty commercial truck markets outside North America.

“This cooperation agreement marks another key milestone as WABCO advances toward enabling self-driving commercial vehicles,” said Jorge Solis, WABCO president, Truck, Bus and Car OEM Division. “We have a clear line of sight on the fundamental technologies – such as active steering, active braking, electronic stability control and other advanced driver assistance systems – which will enable significant intermediary steps on our industry’s path to realise fully autonomous driving.”

Full dynamic control of commercial vehicles – lateral and longitudinal – is necessary towards autonomous driving.

The acquisition of Sheppard and the cooperation agreement with Nexteer are key capabilities toward providing lateral control through active steering, which is a cornerstone of WABCO’s technologies in longitudinal control through active braking, stability and suspension controls.

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 31

Bringing the latest

construction news from across the GCC

www.meconstructionnews.com

TYRES

To The highesT ZDegree

Kenneth Arnold, general manager, ZDEGREE on changing regulation in the UAE

T

here’s a lot to be learned from the approach taken by the Emirates Authority Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA) when it comes to reforming tyre regulation and standards in the UAE. Rather than dutifully copying and pasting GSO rules of tyre safety, it has reached out to tyre companies in the past few years, drawing on their expertise to reshape certification and educate the consumer.

It is estimated than 5% of all road deaths in the country can be contributed to tyre failure and it’s not a huge leap in logic to assume that if people are buying tyres that last longer and are more durable, lives can be saved.

ESMA has once again turned to the tyre companies to develop a new system of RFID tagging which will help reduce the number of counterfeit tyres in the market. Due to come into the UAE by the end of the year, Kenneth Arnold, general manager of ZDegree,

says his company fully supports ESMA’s determination to tackle the trade in fake tyres.

“ESMA remains actively involved in ensuring that the tyres being sold in the UAE conform to the GSO standards. ESMA is currently spearheading the initiative of utilising RFID labels on the tyres, which reduces the proliferation of non-certified tyres in the UAE,” says Arnold. “An equally noteworthy effort is ESMA’s move to involve tyre companies and include them in their technical committee, which is aimed to further promote RFID regulation and encourage its use.”

According to Arnold, stopping resellers getting fake products into the market is key to help consumers from unwittingly driving on substandard tyres – even if they look like they are from a recognisable brand.

“ZDegree supports the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai,

Although a good tyre will last around 50,000 km, this average can vary enormously depending on the quality and conditions of use”

to protect consumer rights,” he says. “Some consumers may buy poor quality or fakebranded tyres that shopkeepers pass off as coming from an established manufacturer, without being aware that the potential consequences could mean endangering the lives of drivers and passengers.”

He continues: “Every year, local police and industry experts continuously warn drivers about the dangers of using faulty tyres, which are believed to be one of the main causes of car accidents. This almost goes without saying that the quality of tyres plays an important role in keeping safety on the roads.

“Car tyres should provide sufficient grip when turning and braking on both dry and wet roads. Although a good tyre will last around 50,000 km, this average can vary enormously – depending on the quality and conditions of use, including driving habits, road surface and weather conditions.

This is why safety translates to buying OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 33

TYRES

ZDEGREE’S hOT wEAThER ADviCE

authentic high quality and efficient tyres.”

As the head of one of the most progressive independent vehicle service maintenance operations in the region (ZDegree was the first company to open an online tyre shop supported by a fleet of mobile service vans), Arnold believes that vehicle owners are now, more than ever, keen to keep their vehicles on the road for as long as possible. The recent slump in new car sales is ironically, perhaps, a good thing for the company and road safety in general.

“Recent industry reports have shown that new car sales have gone down in the UAE by 29%,” Arnold explains. “We see the drop in new car sales as a good sign as more motorists are looking at repairing and maintaining their current cars instead of purchasing a new one.”

He adds: “One of the most essential points to remember in both road and auto safety is keeping the vehicles well maintained – especially the tyres. Due to the hot UAE climate, vehicle batteries and tyres need to be checked for wear and tear regularly.”

ZDegree services all types of vehicles from passenger cars, SUVs, 4x4s, vans, light commercial vehicles to trucks. The company was launched as the retail arm of Zafco in 2011 and ventured into serving the fleet sector with the opening of its fleet service centre in Dubai in. It also runs its own suite of fleet services, providing back-up to taxi, shuttle bus, delivery van and truck companies. Arnold says the company is committed to offering customers an alternative to the agency for servicing their vehicles and replacing their tyres.

He adds: “We’re also focused on providing the best repair, customer service and on the job training for our 34 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

one of the most essential points in both road and auto safety is keeping the vehicles wellmaintained especially the tyres”

employees. ZDegree currently operates nine service centres that are strategically located across the Emirates. All ZDegree facilities offer full automotive services including tyres, brakes, batteries, mechanical, electrical and auto parts.”

The company is also in the midst of expanding its footprint in the UAE and will soon add a truck centre in Sharjah to its portfolio.

“We’ve recently opened the only carwash in Dubai Investment Park, giving our family of customers the automotive experience from ZDegree they’ve come to know and trust,” says Arnold. “Our newest venture, our first Truck Center, is located in Sharjah. Our Sharjah Truck Center will bring a new level of professionalism, tyre replacement and service that has only come from the agency until this point.”

The warm weather conditions of the UAE should prompt users into maintaining key safety while on the road. Here are some key tips to observe and follow; • Respect the tread wear indicator marked on the sidewall in the form of a triangle or tyre brands’ logo or TWI marking. It is an important indicator that shows the stage when you need to replace tyres. Tread depth of a tyre should not be less then 2mm.

• Check air pressure periodically to avoid potential hazards.

The inflation pressure of tyres is very important as tyres perform well when they are properly inflated. If the tyres are underinflated, the temperature inside the tyres go up and can potentially result in tyre failure.

• There are lot of misconceptions about appropriate tyre pressure to be maintained. The right pressure to be followed in tyres is as per car manufacturers’ recommendations.

MOvinG SUppORT ZDegree was the first company to open an online tyre shop supported by a fleet of mobile service vans

COunTERfEiTing

Combatting Counterfeit

Ozgur Yalcin, SSAB’s Area Sales Manager for Middle East speaks to T&FME on why counterfeit steel is a serious matter

C

ounterfeiting has plagued industries across the globe for ages. However, the issue has assumed monumental proportions in the last decade, with its consequences expanding beyond loss of revenue to impact on the health and safety of individuals.

The steel industry has been no exception.

Cheaper imitations that offer inferior quality steel with claims of best-of-breed material have become a common occurrence around the world – especially in the Middle East. A recent study by the Steel Alliance Against Counterfeiting (SAAC) indicates that more than 53% of the steel industry has reported an incidence of possible counterfeit steel products at some point in day-to-day operations.

The construction and infrastructural boom in the region has meant heightened

36 TRUCK&FLEET ME OCTOBER 2017

demand for steel and associated products.

But with fakes doing the rounds, the impact on customer operations and safety, especially in the context of construction equipment and vehicles – cranes, trucks, trailers, tippers – can be potentially hazardous.

Incorrect thickness of steel sheets, reduced diameters in steel bars, a higher tare weight – these are just the starting points of the problems customers can encounter with imitation steel, but the impact of these inferior steel characteristics is much bigger.

Fakes or inferior grade steels cannot withstand the weight and load they purport to.

This not only leads to added costs due to extensive wear and tear across shorter time frames, but also entails significant loss of revenue during downtime due to breakdowns. And the breakdowns themselves can be potentially hazardous, as trailers

fakes or inferior grade steels cannot withstand the weight and load they purport to”

carry some of the heaviest cargo loads. Add to that lighter loads and increased trips to manage the reduced load capacity due to higher tare weights, and you have a watertight case for why customers should say NO to imitations. And also why it is the onus and responsibility of steel producing brands to educate customers on the pitfalls of fakes.

It is a great place to be when your brand becomes synonymous with an industry standard, when your quality is deemed the benchmark for excellence and your products the torchbearers for durability and strength.

But with this success comes responsibility.

Of ensuring that customers who place their trust and faith in the eminence of your brand and products do not suffer at the hands of unscrupulous suppliers peddling their goods under your proprietary name.

SSAB has fortunately enjoyed the same

COunTERfEiTing

HARDOX in MY BODY The Hardox in My Body branded sign on a truck or tipper body guarantees end-users that the body is constructed from genuine Hardox wear plate. Every sign comes with a unique serial number for quality assurance and traceability. So, when you see the sign you are sure you’re getting a superior steel product manufactured by a qualified programme member – steel that delivers unsurpassed wear resistance and impact strength, saving time and money down the road.

Earning the seal of trust is no easy matter. Each approved product is thoroughly assessed and certified

by SSAB to guarantee the end-user a robust and reliable product. This works in the favour of customers as well, as the recognition for using Hardox wear plate products establishes their credibility as manufacturers of high-quality products.

There’s only one Genuine Hardox steel is solely produced by the Nordic steel company SSAB in Sweden and the USA. Products offered under the Hardox wear plate brand have for more than 40 years set the standard for extreme wear resistance and extreme toughness, meeting also strict demands on strength, consistent quality, flatness and surface condition.

While the Hardox in my Body programme helps end-users identify bonafide users of Hardox high strength steel in their trailer and tipper bodies, SSAB aims to directly educate the entire customer base, including manufacturers, on Hardox steel. You can only buy Hardox wear plate directly from SSAB’s local sales offices.

success, with its highly specialized high strength steel products recognized globally for their quality and durability.

Customers demand ‘Hardox wear plate’, assuming Hardox steel to be a hallmark of strength and quality. And often, unauthorised dealers exploit this misconception, pushing other products as Hardox wear plate.

So how do we tackle counterfeiting?

How do we ensure that customers who place their trust in the credibility and quality of our products are protected? And how do we safeguard our brand equity and reputation?

Counterfeiting can be combatted in two ways. Firstly, it is important to have a strategy in place that strengthens awareness about the quality and value of the original product, in our case Hardox wear plate, as well as highlights the dangers and pitfalls of inferior qualities. This allows customers to make an informed choice. Secondly, it is equally important to have measures in place that make imitation difficult, and educate customers on what to watch out for to ensure they are buying a genuine product and not an inferior copy.

By reaffirming why your product is better or superior and highlighting the reasons why customers choose your product quality brands can make allies of customers making them see the value in originals versus fakes.

When a lower-grade of steel is used for high-stress, high-load requirements, it can

incorrect thickness of steel sheets, reduced diameters in steel bars, a higher tare weightthese are just the starting points of the problems customers can encounter with imitation steel”

seriously impact customer operations, due to low product durability, higher weight, reduced toughness and hardness, and increased downtime. Customers need to be educated on this constantly. Armed with this information, customers can be wary of ‘cheaper’ alternatives that can turn out to be more expensive in the long run. This makes allies out of customers in the battle against fakes. But how do you protect customers who feel they are buying a genuine Hardox wear plate but are tricked into buying a counterfeit?

At SSAB, we feel it is our responsibility to constantly educate customers on not only our product range and its strengths and capabilities, but also on our authorized sales and dealership centers to ensure customers do not end up getting duped.

And there are several ways we have endeavored to do, whether by investing in a certification that constantly evaluates product quality of members, or running educational campaigns to keep potential customers and end-users aware of SSAB’s trademark products and dealerships.

While growing your reputation and brand equity is a constant process, shouldering responsibility for the trust and faith customers place in your brand needs equally consistent work.

Our anti-counterfeiting efforts are designed to not only protect our investments in innovation and our reputation and quality, but more importantly, to protect our customers.

HAnDlE THE lOAD According to Yalcin, fake or inferior grade steels cannot withstand the weight and load they purport to.

OCTOBER 2017 TRUCK&FLEET ME 37

EVENT REVIEW

Towards auTomaTion Materials Handling Middle East 2017 returned to Dubai in September

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ast month’s Materials Handling Middle East 2017 featured 126 exhibitors from 21 countries, and welcomed 3,300 visitors from 50 countries at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The 9th edition of the biennial three-day event saw the participation of seven of the world’s top 20 materials handling systems suppliers, including the global top three of Daifuku from Japan, German company SSI Schaefer, and the American-headquartered Dematic.

It also featured major local suppliers and service providers such as Kanoo Machinery, Al Futtaim Motors, General Navigation and Commerce Company (GENAVCO), SPAN, and ACME, while a two-day Supply Chain and Logistics Forum and a Forklift driving competition ensured visitors and exhibitors alike were informed and entertained.

Much of the discussion on the show-floor centred around the readiness of warehouse automation in the GCC. According to research firm MarketsandMarkets, the GCC’s automated material handling equipment market will grow 8.6 % annually through to 2023, when it will reach US$500 million from US$278 million

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in 2016. That helps explain why Dematic, one of the world’s leading specialists in automated intralogistics solutions, was a debut exhibitor at Materials Handling Middle East 2017, along with the fact that in January 2016, it secured the contract for what will be the Gulf region’s largest automated distribution centre upon completion toward the end of 2018.

Michael Kreeft, sales manager from Dematic’s European office which handles the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) region said, while he couldn’t go into specifics, the Dubai-based project was the largest Dematic had secured in the company’s 100-plus year history.

“We signed the project in January 2016 and it’s going live next summer hopefully,” said Kreeft, adding that it was in the general merchandise industry. “There’ll be people working in pick stations, but it’s highly automated. We have project managers working on it, and 50 resident engineers based here along with a customer service office. It’ll take two and a half years to build along with testing and then it’ll go live.

“We specialise in highly automated solutions but we know in this region labour is cheaper so the RoI is always more difficult

in this region labour is cheaper, however, the addition of VaT in 2018 will eventually lead to higher salaries comparable to Europe, making automation more attractive”

with automation. However, the addition of VAT in 2018 will eventually lead to higher salaries comparable to Europe, making automation more attractive,” added Kreeft.

UAE-based ACME is a regular exhibitor and this year it was launching Cavalry, a semi-automated man to goods order picking solution. Holger Humburg, vice president of Projects at ACME, said the ACME-designed solution is a mobile version of the Sort to Light system, using a guided manned miniload crane, and capable of travelling along aisles 100m long and up to 25m high.

“When we tell anybody that we have a fully automated system, some people get scared because they need trained people for operation, and they need maintenance from experienced staff,” said Humburg.

“People can operate Cavalry without specialist skills or qualifications, and that’s why we’re going to the market with a more or less semi-automated system. This type of system will be particularly popular in this region because the first step of automation is semiautomation and we would use it for different goods with small and midsize throughout. If you have standard operations to deliver, for spare parts or pharmaceuticals with delivery

EVENT REVIEW

once a day, you can manage with Cavalry.”

Humburg said it was important for the ACME to continue exhibiting at Materials Handling Middle East to keep its existing and prospective customers up-to-date with its latest solutions.

“We’ve been in the market for more than 40 years, mostly as a supplier for static wracking and shelving systems,” he added. “Two years ago, we started with semi-automated and automated systems, and we’ve now secured a huge automated project for Saudi Arabia’s second largest dairy operation where we’re installing their main distribution centre with 25,000 pallet locations. It’s a huge step for us.”

Other top 20 worldwide suppliers at Materials Handling Middle East 2017 were Mecalux from Spain, Beumer Group from Germany, and Swiss companies Swisslog, and Kardex Remstar. UAE Company Kanoo Machinery was also onhand as the regional agent for its material handling equipment brands Hyster, Utilev, Aisle-Master, and Combilift.

Mohamed Elabd, brand manager for Kanoo Machinery, said the rental division of its material handling equipment department was becoming increasingly important as a revenue-generating

The first step of automation is semiautomation. if you have standard operations to deliver, for spare parts or pharmaceuticals with delivery once a day, you can manage with Cavalry”

stream: “Our rental division has grown by 25-30% over the past two years, and there’s more and more enquiries now,” said Elabd.

“Most of the third-party logistics providers are asking for rental equipment for long-term leases of three to five years.

We were one of the first companies to offer rental of material handling equipment and in the past three-four years it’s really grown.

“It’s popular firstly because customers don’t have to have service team. If there’s a problem with the machinery we will fix it.

It’s hassle free and the most important part is there is very little initial investment and risk.”

Materials Handling Middle East 2017 also featured the 2nd Forklift Operator of the Year – a unique competition where more than 80 of the UAE’s most skilled Forklift jockeys were judged on their ability to safely and efficiently manoeuvre three-tonnes of electric forklift machinery in tight and narrow spaces, replicating a warehouse environment. The competition was sponsored by SPAN, which provided its Jungheinrich forklifts to be guided by the finest operators from more than 30 companies, including IKEA, Aramex, Global Food Industries, Airlink International, Unilever, RSA Logistics, and Agility Global Logistics.

After several preliminary rounds, the contest was eventually narrowed down to several finalists, with Deepak Kataria from CWT-SML Logistics crowned the Forklift Champion of Materials Handling Middle East 2017.

Kataria, who had learnt his trade at CWT-SML Logistics, and for whom he had worked for seven years, said: “It’s a great thrill to win this year, the competition was tough with many highly-trained forklift operators, but I was confident in my ability to impress the judges enough.”

Representing more than 200 brands, Materials Handling Middle East 2017 also introduced a new Transport and Logistics section to the show floor, putting the spotlight on commercial vehicles and adding more focus on a sector that is poised to experience significant growth in the region.

Ahmed Pauwels, CEO Messe Frankfurt Middle East, the organiser of Materials Handling Middle East, said: “Significant investment is being made throughout the Middle East to develop the materials handling industry and support its growth, and key industries such as e-commerce, retail, and FMCG will fuel further growth.

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PARTING SHOT

The heaT TesT Borgward puts its SUV through its paces in the UAE’s summer heat

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ollowing from T&FME’s coverage of the announcement of its launch in GCC, the BX7 SUV, one of the first new models of the Borgward Group AG to come to the region, has undergone a se-ries of on-the-road testing in the UAE. The German brand has just finished its first set of tests in the country, including the tempera-ture test during the height of summer in August, to measure the BX7’s adaptability to the blazing heat. The vehicle even endured the windless environment of locations like the desert near Al Aweer in strong sunlight.

The BX7 was in the UAE to test its engine power and controllability through running in the desert and hills in the country, during which a Borgward iAWD (Intelligent All Wheel Drive) system served as a support vehicle.

The iAWD of Borgward is a combination of BorgWarner’s fifth generation 4WD

technology and TRW’s intelligent electronic stability control system. The high quality of top global partners provided guarantee for BX7’s off-road performance, safety and reliability in local conditions, claims Borgward.

“Now the engineering team is conducting local testing here in the United Arab Emirates to ensure the BX7 is technically perfect for the Middle East launch. The pre-launch testing is part of a comprehensive pre-launch strategy

by Borgward as we move into one of the most important markets for us.” said Philipp Schimitt, Chief Electrical Engineer of Borgward Group AG. Schimitt continued: “The BX7 was tested in the desert by Al Aweer, showing indifferent to the scorching heat. Whether it’s cruising from Dubai to Al Ain, or powering up hills in Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, the BX7 stays perfectly cool.”

In the tests of static A/C performance, A/C performance when running, mountain climbing and idling performance, BX7 has met the criteria

in terms of thermal management, warm start at maximum temperature, thermal protection of supercharger, exhaust temperature, coolant, engine oil and engine intake air temperature control.

While it’s the peak heat of summer, BX7’s A/C performance met the company’s performance expectations, whether the engine was idling or at high speed, and with its OBD (On-Board Diag-nostics) and control system functioning perfectly, Borgward claimed: “The results showed that even over long and uphill driving, cool cabin temperatures can be maintained with no increased heat or overheating of the engine.”

“The engineering team has conducted numerous tests covering the length and breadth of the UAE, testing the BX7 on different road conditions, environment and temperatures.

Checking on key performance under the August sun has been an ideal opportunity for us to demonstrate the capabilities of the vehicle under local conditions,” commented Schimitt.

NEXT ISSUE: SPECIAl COVERAGE Of THE fIRST T&FME SAfETy ANd EffICIENCy ROUNdTABlE, ON THE ROAd wITH ATS wORld, BIG-5 ANd mUCH mORE!

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