Fleet Transport Dec Jan 2023

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

The Irish Magazine for the Materials Handling, Warehousing & Logistics Sectors

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DEC 23 / JAN 24

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Contents DEC 2023 / JAN 2024 www.fleet.ie | 3 Keep up to date with all the latest news and views from the transport industry in our weekly ezine or daily on www.fleet.ie

Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. F12 E7P2

4

NEWS International Commercial Vehicle Awards presented DAF Trucks star at Autostyle XX 2023

8

INTERVIEW With Mark Barrett, GM Harris Maxus

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Editor:

Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Contributors:

Cathal Doyle, Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Joe O’Brien, Rob Van Dieten, Health & Safety Authority, Johanna Parsons, Charlotte Gillan

Photography:

Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott, Paul Sherwood, IVOTY/ITOY, Jim Mulholland, ECG, Volvo Group, John Ohle

Administration: Orla Sweeney Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Advertising:

Mary Morrissey Email: mary@fleet.ie

Design:

Crackerjack Design House

Printed in Ireland

48 TRUMPET CALL The Rotten Apples – they’re everywhere In Camera at the IRHA Conference 49 REVIEW Solutrans 2023, EurExpo, France

10 COVER MAN on an eTruck charge!

53 EMISSION FREE Latest from Mercedes-Benz on Hydrogen power

12 NEW FLEET Last of the 2023 reg trucks sold

54 UTILITY TEST In the INEOS Grenadier

16 EV CHARGING Best advice on BEV charging options

55 INTERVIEW II With Nathan Wilson, Allison Transmission

18 REPORT ECG Conference, Copenhagen, Denmark 20 TYRES Making the most on your Michelins

57 AWARDS Report & Photographs from the Fleet Transport Awards

22 SAFETY MATTERS “Watch your House!”

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime/ Green Fleet Management are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

2024

24 TEST Mercedes-Benz eActros 26 RAIL SAFETY Information Day at Level Crossings

85 NEWS Sam Moffett wins major EY Award

28 LAUNCH PAD I Scania Electric trucks advanced

86 INTERVIEW With Thilo Jörgl, Manager of TEST CAMP INTRALOGISTICS

30 LAUNCH PAD II IVECO revamps and renews product line 32 SHIPPING & FREIGHT All aboard for maritime updates Disclaimer: Fleet Transport Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Transport management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers.

The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

Fleet Transport Official Irish Jury Member of the International Truck of the Year Award

Official Irish jury member of the International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck Awards

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34 COMMENT From where Howard is sitting 36 FINANCE Looking inwards to get the best results

88 WAREHOUSING I Big investment by Dixon International Transport 90 WAREHOUSING II New products and innovations from Combilift 91 SUPPLY CHAIN Rail Freight Development Programme

38 OPINION From grass roots level 40 LCV I Book Review: Roaming Homes 42 LCV II New additions to Toyota Professional range 44 LCV III Generation 4 Renault Master 46 FIRST DRIVE Introducing the new Ford Trucks F-Line

94 NEWS Presented: Irish Car of the Year 2024 95 TEST Jeep Avenger electric 96 LAUNCH PAD Just arrived at showrooms near you!

98 CONTEMPLATIONS No rest for the weary motorists?

4 | | NEWS NEWSII1

International Awards for Volvo, MAN, Ford & Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

International Truck of the Year 2024 Gianenrico Griffini, IToY President and Roger Alm, Volvo Trucks CEO with the award winning Volvo FH Electric

At the Solutrans Commercial Vehicle Trade Fair Gala Banquet held at the EurExpo, Lyon, France, a number of prestigious international awards were presented at the event which was attended by 1,400 people and featured French singer-songwriter Patrick Bruel as the special guest entertainer.

Trophies were presented to Volvo Trucks, Ford Pro, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and MAN Truck & Bus for the International Truck, Van, Pick-up and Truck Innovation Awards.

Volvo Trucks’s FH Electric range was elected International Truck of the Year 2024 (IToY) with Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks, receiving the prize from Gianenrico Griffini, IToY President.

MAN Truck & Bus Executives share the International Truck Innovation trophy presentation moment with Gianenrico Griffini, IToY President

With a winning score of 84 votes, the Swedish truck manufacturer’s heavy-duty electric range fought off the challenge from Mercedes-Benz’s eActros 300/400, equipped with an electric driveline, and the Scania’s 45S battery electric truck (BEV).

International Truck of the Year (IToY) rules determine that the annual award goes to the truck introduced into the market in the previous 12 months, making the most significant contribution to road transport efficiency. This judgment relies on several critical criteria, including technological innovation, FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

comfort, safety, driveability, energy efficiency, environmental ‘footprint,’ and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

“For the first time in the history of the International Truck of the Year award, whose roots date back to 1977 - an electric truck in series production wins this prize. In fact, four vehicles out of five on this year’s ITOY award shortlist were battery-electric powered with zero tailpipe emissions. It’s proof that the energy transition is gaining momentum in the transportation sector, even though a suitable enabling ecosystem for BEV is still not in place in the EU,” stated Gianenrico.

The 24-strong IToY adjudication panel praised the performance, the seamless acceleration, the quietness, and the vibration-free behaviour of the highly efficient electric powertrain of the FH Electric.

Ford and Volkswagen also claim awards Also on the night, Ford and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles were presented with the International Van and Pick-up Award trophies.

In the space of twenty three years, the Ford Transit has won the International Van of the Year Award (IVOTY) - the most prestigious honour in the European Light Commercial Vehicle industry - no fewer than five times. Ford Pro’s new Transit Custom is the latest recipient of the IVOTY for 2024.

In deciding the winner of IVOTY 2024, the jury, consisting of 24 members of leading commercial vehicle publications across Europe, gave top marks to the latest Ford Transit Custom, ahead of the new Iveco eDaily, while the Renault Trafic E-Tech completed the podium positions.

The other finalists included the HYVIA Master E-Tech H2, MercedesBenz eCitan and Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen, indicating the diversity and choice of drivetrains available today in the light commercial vehicle sectors.

Separately Ford Pro and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles jointly won the International Pick-up Award (IPUA) for 2024, making it three successes in this

category for both brands. While the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok completed their ‘hat-trick’ of IPUA victories, this time the award was shared between the two brands and models.

This was the first time that this has occurred since the global honour for pick-ups was established in 2010. The other contenders were the Toyota Hilux GR Sport II and the new Ford Ranger Raptor.

International Van of the Year 2024 / International Pick-Up Award 2024/25 Pictured (l-r) Karl Bulmqvist VWCV; Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the International Van of the Year Jury and Tim Slatter, VP Global Product Manager Ford Pro

MAN’s Autonomous driving projects ATLAS-L4 & ANITA won the 2024 Truck Innovation Award.

Frederik Zohm, Executive Board Member for R&D at MAN Truck & Bus, was on stage for the handover. It’s the second time MAN Truck & Bus has won this trophy, after the inaugural Truck Innovation Award 2019 edition recognised its aFAS Level 4 automated driverless safety truck.

The Truck Innovation Award - which acknowledges the enormous technological changes and energy transition within the automotive sector - has been awarded by the International Truck of the Year jury. This group comprises 25 commercial vehicle editors and senior journalists representing major road transport magazines from Europe and South Africa.

Also shortlisted was the ZF electrified eAxle, Quantron-as-a-service (QaaS), a zero-emission platform provider for fuel cell and battery electric commercial vehicles, and Westwell Q-Truck, an autonomous electric heavy-duty truck for innovative container logistics.

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6 || NEWS NEWS II1

New Generation DAF XG+ attracts much interest at Autostyle Design 2023 XX Edition

Bart van Lotrigen, head of design at DAF Trucks NV, was a special guest at the Autostyle Design 2023 XX Edition event held over two days at the Villa Schiarino Lena at Mantovano, Mantova, Italy. It was the first occasion in the event’s twenty year history that a truck brand was represented and exhibited at this prestigious annual conference, which showcases the best in automotive design.

Organised by Berman S.p.A, in association with technical partners Wacom and Gravity Sketch, together with media partners, including Fleet Publications, Autostyle 2023 XX hosts a Design Competition Awards ceremony for young automotive design students, while also organising presentation workshops from Styling Centre chiefs.

A highlight every year is an exhibition of vehicles ranging from sports cars to motorcycles, and this year including a DAF tractor-unit.

Bart presented the large gathering to a unique insight into the design philosophy and story of the new DAF XG+ flagship, which was honoured with the International Truck of the Year Award 2022. The Dutch native, who boasts a career of over thirty years in automotive design - including a decade with Volvo cars - heads up a team of ten in-house designers, based at Eindhoven, Netherlands.

He emphasised that from the start the New Generation DAF truck range was created with people in mind, from driver to operator, covering three main themes or ‘pillars’, namely Efficiency, Safety and Comfort. Significant fuel savings of up to 10% have been achieved compared to the outgoing model though advanced cab aerodynamics and rubber sealed FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

panel joint lines, and the XG+ is the first truck to comply with the revised EU Masses & Dimensions 2020 regulations. He mentioned that in order to meet the reduced drag coefficient, (19% better than the outgoing XF cab), the design stylus began at the rear of the combined truck and trailer articulated unit.

Overall, the length of the cab has been extended by 50mm, +16mm to the front end and +33mm to the rear section, which allows for a roomier working and living space inside. In fact, up to 12.5m3 internal space is available inside the cab - a class leading figure. In addition, best ever direct vision has been achieved through a lower dash line, larger windscreen and glazed kerb side door panel. During the design process a so called ‘human centered design process’ was established, whereby a series of customer council clinics were held to seek out what the current professional driver needs and likes to see equipped and installed in trucks of today and tomorrow.

of the applications involved. Sporting a more muscular stance with ‘bolder’ grille and higher ground clearance, the new XFC/XDC series had to be also “urban friendly” he said. The fitting of a rear window is a big advantage when it comes to all round visibility, enhancing the already aforementioned direct vision elements around the other sections of the cab. For municipal operations, a third seat can be installed as an optional extra.

Commenting on his inaugural visit to Autostyle, Bart said he was very pleased to be invited and was overwhelmed with the audience interest and reaction to the presence of the XG+ at the Villa.

“It was a great opportunity to broaden the information base to a different set of non-truck related people. The XG+ looked great among the Lancia, Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini cars on display in front of the Villa,” he added.

Intuitive ergonomics were top of the list along with being able to turn the cabin into a living area, during rest periods. Clever storage areas, LED lighting, a flat floor, a well cushioned bunk, plus swivel seats with slide out table access, were also on the agenda.

Customer and driver reaction has been very positive, much to the satisfaction of Bart and his team.

The latest variant in the New Generation DAF range, the XFC and XDC which cater for construction and vocational operations, also got a mention, with Bart stating that additional on-site clinics were held with clients in order to get a better understanding

Bart plans to be back next year and talk about his hobby - designing sports car concepts!

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8 || INTERVIEW NEWS 1

One-to-One with Mark Barrett, General Manager, Harris Maxus

The Maxus EV range has made a real impact here in Ireland and in the UK, you must be pleased?

It’s amazing to see how far the brand has come in the past eight years. We launched in the Irish and UK market in 2016 under the moniker LDV and since then the brand has gone from strength to strength. A pivotal moment was our rebrand to MAXUS in 2020.

Since rebranding, we’ve launched six new premium vehicles in the UK and Irish markets, five of which are fully electric. Our EV range of LCVs is one of the most comprehensive and versatile on the market, and we’ve expanded our business reach beyond LCVs by introducing the T90EV electric pickup truck, and MIFA 9 (the world’s first fully electric MPV) into our range.

And there is more to come from the brand with the new eDeliver 7 coming into the mainstream LCV market. What are the launch plans for this?

The eDELIVER 7 is our newest electric LCV to join the MAXUS range. We launched at the CV Show in Birmingham last year and there was a really positive response.

The eDELIVER 7 is the first vehicle in the MAXUS EV range to enter the mid-size van market, fitting snugly between our smaller eDELIVER 3 van and larger eDELIVER 9 option. The eDELIVER 7 will be available in three size configurations and two battery options - 77kWh and 88kWH, and announces our arrival into the largest sector of the UK CV market - the 1 tonne payload van sector.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

This particular vehicle offers drivers up to 364 km on a single charge and comes with all the modern safety features you expect in a commercial vehicle today, with a 12.3” touch screen infotainment system thrown in for good measure.

It’s now available to order with delivery from January 2024, and demo vans will be available for test drives at local MAXUS dealers from December onwards.

What about a true 4x4 version of the pick up - is this on the cards?

There are plans in motion to bring this offering to the Irish and UK market, but it won’t be in 2024. I can’t say much more than that right now but as always – watch this space!

Maxus announced model price reductions in the UK, will that happen here too?

Pricing in every market is something we review regularly, working closely with SAIC in China to ensure we can deliver optimum value to our customers. This is an ongoing process and while I’m not in a position to confirm any price reductions at present, this is something we may be able to introduce over the coming months.

Anything else to follow? Trucks?

Yes, we are still reviewing our plans for trucks and working closely with SAIC in China for a model for the RHD markets.

However, it could be the end of 2024 before we see the first MAXUS truck in the UK and Ireland marketplaces.

INTERVIEW | 9

needs, our expert sales reps are ready to help.

We also provide a free home charger with each vehicle purchase, providing our customers with the tools they need to charge easily and cheaply. Not only that, but our website also features a charging map, so EV drivers can locate their nearest charging station wherever they are on the road.

Harris Maxus has made some new dealer appointments. Are there more announcements to come?

While the big name fleet owners can invest in EV LCVs, how can the SMEs be convinced to make the transition?

We’re delighted to say that SMEs make up a sizeable percentage of our customers both in Ireland and the UK. At MAXUS our goal is to help people make the switch to EV. We offer a personalised service to businesses looking to make the switch to electric motoring. We offer a realistic evaluation of where each customer is on their journey to greener motoring and a step-by-step guide to make their transition to EV is as seamless as possible. We also offer our customers additional offerings, such as a free home charger with every vehicle purchase.

As well as that, all our vehicles come with MAXUS Intelligence Onboard as standard. This is our innovative telematic system which business owners can subscribe to for a small monthly fee and in return they can tap into a wealth of knowledge about their fleet including near real-time insights into state of charge (SOC), energy used, energy cost, live GPS tracking, charging data and improved range. Maxus Intelligence Onboard also allows businesses to better optimise and monitor their EV vehicles to ensure they are operating productively.

Motor Industry indicates that electric light commercial vehicles account for just 2.6pc of sales so far this year. This is the result of a number of issues, chief among them being the poor infrastructure right across the country. It’s simply not good enough and we urge government to do more to remedy this or we’ll never reach our EV targets.

Will you be in a position to provide the full package with charging points, driver training, advice, etc?

We always endeavour to go the extra mile for our customers, as mentioned, we do have a service offering in place at all our MAXUS dealerships where those interested in making the switch to electric can get the expert advice they need to make an informed decision, whether that’s driver training, advice on making the switch, information on charging, cost savings and infrastructure

Yes, we’re happy to say our dealer network is growing at a steady rate and we’re delighted to have some very well-known and respected dealer groups join the Harris MAXUS family. We’ve some more great news on this front coming down the track in both Ireland and the UK before the end of 2023.

Is there further expansion plans for Britain re sales, service, parts etc?

The UK is a key market for us and expansion is something we are focused on for 2024. Aftersales is a big focus for MAXUS for the coming year. We will be expanding our parts and services network across the British isle over the coming months and our larger dealer groups will also be expanding their aftersales offering in this regard. We also have plans to expand our central team at Liverpool HQ to support our dealers on the ground with customer queries and sales. It’s an exciting time at Harris MAXUS and we’re hungry to hit the ground running in 2024.

With Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

However, suffice to say, there are still a lot of barriers for businesses in general and a lot more work needs to happen, particularly by the state bodies here in Ireland in order to encourage more businesses and SMEs to make the switch.

Recent data from the Society of the Irish www.fleet.ie

10 | | NEWS COVER 1

MAN on the Move towards electric truck mobility MAN Truck & Bus has taken ‘giant leaps’ towards an all-electric future with the launch of the first production versions of its eTruck heavy-duty range.

A step-by-step approach began almost five years ago with the eTGM. Following successful customer trials the MAN team put a holistic programme in place, the majority of which will be integrated by 2025. A full portfolio of both electric and diesel models will be on sale, produced alongside each other on their assembly lines. An ambitious target is that half of that production will be emission-free trucks by 2030.

At the other end of the scale, MAN’s pan-European wide sales team and technicians have been fully trained up and skilled with the proper equipment to take on the new challenge and cater for every aspect of customers’ interest and needs on making the change to electric.

Being fully aware of the challenges in developing an adequate public charging infrastructure, MAN is in a position to travel along the journey with the customer, taking any of the aforementioned concerns away from their minds, working out a plan that has six main facets to it. n A low cab eTruck tractor-unit, capable of heavy duty, national and distribution operations, with a short wheel base of 3,750 mm and a power output of up to 800 kWh. n An eTruck line-up to suit all applications, trailers and bodywork, with the eTGX and eTGS at the heavier end, while the eTGM caters for urban and regional distribution. n A choice of 3/4/5/6 battery packs taking into consideration price and payload. The correct positioning of said batteries in the front end and on the side rails of the chassis ensures FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

balanced axle and tyre loads. n Battery production, service and maintenance is done in house by MAN at Nuremberg. To date the majority of the production has gone into its city buses in operation mostly around Europe. n Plug in truck charging: there is a option of fitting the charge plug points in any of four locations around the vehicle to suit customer convenience, depending on the type of chargers used. Through fast mega-charging the unit can reboot from 10-80% in 31 minutes. That’s fast! n A series of services can be availed of from consultation, education, analysis, fleet management with vehicle and driver telematics, remote downloads, state of battery health and end of life programmes.

The consultation process is long and ongoing, starting with specifying the right electric truck for the job in hand. Then an outline of how the vehicle is going to be charged is analysed.

MAN has a number of battery box provider partners that advise on this vital aspect. MAN is encouraging road transport operators to have their own charge points on site,

due to the unsatisfactory nature of the required infrastructure, especially when it comes to mega-chargers. These cost between €80,000 and €100,000 to supply and install.

As an aside, some of the major truck manufacturers - Daimler (MercedesBenz), TRATON (Scania & MAN) and Volvo Group (Volvo & Renault Trucks) have come together to invest and install 7,000 megawatt charging stations across Europe by 2027.

Currently over 300 consultation projects have been conducted in 24 countries, mostly from the passenger transport side, but a third of those are from truck operators that specialise in food, beverage, express parcel, refuse collection and just in time deliveries.

Between all, over 4,500 routes have been defined and refined to best suit the operators application and work schedules. A five to eight year projection plan is also drawn up, covering all permutations of the vehicle and battery life condition.

COVER | 11 Pictured is the eTGX LL SA with GX cab Spec includes: Power: 330-400 kW (443-536hp).

Batteries: 320-480 kWh usable, made in-house by MAN in Germany. Charging up to 375 kW. Transmission: 4 gears. GVW: 44 tonnes.

Range: 600-800km daily with one quick charge. Prepared for MegaWatt charging. Mechanical PTO option available.

Smooth, silent and powerful drive with three stage recuperation.

Full suite of services and aftermarket programmes provided.

The road to electrification of its truck range has been carefully project managed. Four years ago, more than 120 body builders undertook hundreds of hours of briefing and discussion sessions in order to prepare for the technical and safety aspects required when working on electric truck chassis and cabs. MAN uses the same latest TG cabs as before, a modular system that can cater for various applications. In using a central drive concept, with no e-axle, this method

suits 4x2 tractor-units better, with better weight balance. With both the compact and lightweight electric motor and 80 kWh (usable) singular battery packs designed in house, the MAN engineering team has first-hand knowledge of how it all works and their expertise can be availed of, should anything go wrong.

A newly shaped chassis rail has been designed to better integrate the battery packs and other fittings such as the brake tanks, auxiliary batteries etc. These fittings have been fully crash tested, with strong side guards protecting these vital elements. During the research and development phases, various high and low temperature tests in extreme conditions were conducted around the world.

The battery production facility in Nuremberg, an investment of €100m,

now employs 350 people, and can turn out 100,000 units per year.

With regards to charging, MAN uses the Common Charging System (CCS) but only the DC type, where from 150 kWh/200 amps up to 375 kWh/500 amps of power can be inserted. With Mega Charging System (MCS) the truck can take up to 750 kWh/1,000 amps. In other words MCS does double the charge in half the time. Unlike an electric car which can get away with a full power boost twice a week, a heavy duty truck needs that injection as often as twice a day. Each battery pack features cooling elements and a brain to marry and transmit the hardware and software elements involved.

MAN’s belief is that even long haul operations, say a near 800 km journey, can be done in its eTruck, by stopping off en route to take a mega charge for 45 minutes during the drivers’ rest break, before completing the run.

Relating to charging stations, there are three main types, the mobile charger, (40-80 kWh), the depot or public charging box - from 50 up to 375 kWh, and the space saving Overhead cable version, which may suit confined yards. For the depot variants, MAN recommends either of its three partners, ABB, Heliox or Shell’s SBRS. Consideration must of course be given to the local power supply, connectivity to the grid and the transformer needs. Monitoring of the charging software must also be conducted.

Warranty is provided in a few ways, standard three year cover for the truck and eight years for the battery packs.

Additional warranty can be purchased if required.

Completing the package is the advanced fleet management and telematics programmes, using RIO platforms, MAN’s sister brand within the TRATON Group.

MAN Truck & Bus has put its cards on the table, keenly promoting its way to electromobility, from the factory right down to the grass roots - the customer.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie Photos: MAN & Jarlath Sweeney www.fleet.ie

12 | | NEWS NEW FLEET 1

More new DAF Trucks deals done

Solve(d) with Four!

Pictured at the handover of four new DAF Trucks to Solve Logistics Limited at DAF Trucks Ireland HQ in Baldonnell, Dublin are (left to Right): Liam Lennon (Managing Director; Solve Logistics), John McCann (Sales Manager; DAF Trucks Ireland) and Jason Lennon (Operations Director; Solve Logistics). The Dublin based family owned and run company purchased two DAF NGD XF 480 4x2 tractor-units and a pair of DAF LF 260 4x2 18 tonne rigids, with Day cabs, 6 speed AS tronic automatic gearbox and bodywork carried out by Monread Body Builders, Naas, County Kildare.

Cobe on song!

A new fully equipped DAF XG FT 4x2 tractor-unit was delivered to Cobe International’s Damastown facility in Dublin by DAF Trucks Ireland recently.

The transport company, run by Gerry and Carmel Carolan is headquartered in Ardee, County Louth.

Dennehy Commercials – the complete deal!

Rounding off a busy and successful sale year for Dennehy Commercials Sales Executive Martin Hough are these new MAN and Renault Trucks sold recently.

The new MAN TGM 18.250 with Hegarty 26’ flat-bed body and Moffett Truck Mounted Forklift was supplied to Moynihan Scaffolding, a family run business based at Farranfore, County Kerry.

The second photograph features the first of two new Renault C440 tippers put into operation by Harry Tobin Ltd., a family owned sand and gravel business operating since the 1960s. Pictured at the handover is Joseph Tobin, son of the late Harry, with Martin Hough, on site at Dennehy Commercials, Limerick.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Big stretch by Bunnoe Agri!

At the DAF TRP Interparts premises in County Cavan, this new 12-tonne DAF LF 230 4x2 rigid was collected by local company Bunnoe Agri, Lisboduff, Cootehill. The spec features a Monread built drop-side body and a PK8501 Palfinger crane fitted by Palfinger Ireland, Tullamore, County Offaly. Pictured are Paul O’Reilly, Regional Sales Executive, DAF Trucks Ireland and Padraic Murray, Bunnoe Agri. Additional lighting was provided by Interparts, Cavan.

Krone in demand at Noone Well known Slane, County Meath haulage company Noone Transport, is investing heavily in a selection of 50 Krone curtainsiders and temperature-controlled trailers over the coming months, most of which will operate from the company’s newly-built warehouse and distribution facility, 20 minutes from Dublin Port.

The new trailer order comprises of 20 Profi Liners and 30 Cool Liners, the latter a mixture of Duplex steel, single and double deckers, some with multi-temperature control. While in transit, each load benefits from KSC ProPlus Cool – the latest telematics system from Krone, which automatically monitors inside temperatures, coupling status, brake condition, door openings, fuel level, trailer location and tyre pressures.

Noone Transport operates a fleet of 50 Mercedes-Benz Actros 1845 tractor-units along with a 100-strong trailer fleet working across main European market routes.

VIEWPOINT | 9

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14 | | NEWS ADVERTORIAL 1

Ireland’s eighth CNG refuelling station opens in Cavan as demand for renewable gas in transport shows strong growth Gas Networks Ireland and Virginia International Logistics have taken another step forward in reducing emissions from Ireland’s transport industry - one of the most difficult sectors to decarbonise – with the opening of Ireland’s eighth Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refuelling station.

New cleaner transport corridor Officially opened in November by Minister for Social Protection and Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, the new station is located at Virginia International Logistics’ premises in Maghera, just outside Virginia in County Cavan, and provides new cleaner transport corridors for Irish freight operators and allows hauliers and fleet operators in Cavan and the North-East region to begin the journey to sustainable transport and supply chains by switching their fuel from diesel.

Minister for Social Protection and Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD refuelling one of Virginia International Logistics zero carbon Bio Compressed Natural Gas (BioCNG) fuelled lorries. The Minister is pictured with Karen Doyle, Head of Business Development from Gas Networks Ireland and James Cole from Virginia International Logistics at the official opening of Ireland’s eighth CNG refuelling station.

Speaking as she officially opened the new CNG refuelling station at Virginia International Logistics in County Cavan, Minister Humphreys said: “Ireland faces a significant challenge to meet its emission reduction targets, particularly in the transport sector, as it currently accounts for 42% of Ireland’s energy use, making it the country’s largest source of energy demand. This new CNG refuelling station allows hauliers and fleet operators in Cavan and the North-East region to begin the journey to sustainable transport and supply chains by switching their fuel from diesel. I am especially excited that a Cavan grown, and now international transport business, employing more than 400 staff with over 130 trucks on the road, is to the fore in helping Ireland transition to a cleaner energy future by providing a low carbon fuel alternative to diesel.”

Demand showing strong growth Demand for renewable gas in transport from Ireland’s road freight sector is continuing to show strong growth – in October 2023, for the tenth month running, demand for this low carbon alternative to diesel saw another significant year-on-year increase, up 32% on the same month last year.

Gas Networks Ireland’s Head of Business Development, Karen FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Doyle said: “Ireland’s commercial transport fleet makes up just 3% of vehicles on the road nationwide yet is responsible for approximately 20% of transport’s carbon emissions. BioCNG is key to driving sustainable supply chains and is the first step towards net-zero commercial transport in Ireland.

We are committed to enabling sustainable energy services and are working towards transporting renewable gases at scale. We have partnered with some of the most prominent forecourt operators and haulage companies throughout Ireland to make the alternative fuel option of low carbon gas a reality for Irish transport.”

This is the latest low carbon milestone Virginia International Logistics “Transport is changing, and we are proud to be leading the way in moving Ireland to a cleaner energy future, particularly as we see increasing demand from customers for more decarbonised supply chain solutions. Being able to offer a lower-carbon transport solution is a strong differentiator for any business and it demonstrates a focus on sustainability when tendering for new business.

Thanks to having BioCNG compatible vehicles in our fleet, we are in a position where we can provide customers with route assessments and advise on the optimal route for emissions savings per pallet of goods moved or kilometre travelled,” stated James Cole, Virginia International Logistics (VIL).

In 2019, VIL became the first haulier in Ireland to complete a zero-carbon HGV delivery to Europe, when they brought a consignment of beef from Cavan to Caen in Northern France.

The expansion of VIL’s BioCNG compatible fleet and the installation of the refuelling technology is supported by Gas Networks Ireland.

To learn more about the many benefits of CNG and BioCNG for fleet operators and hauliers and the future of renewable gas in transport, visit www. gasnetworks.ie/cng Ireland’s network of CNG refuelling stations About CNG CNG is natural gas that has been compressed to fit into a vehicle’s tank and is available for heavy goods and commercial vehicles, while BioCNG is its certified renewable gas equivalent.

Fuelling with CNG can reduce a heavy good vehicle’s (HGV) emissions by up to 22%, while BioCNG, which qualifies as a renewable fuel under the Irish Biofuel Obligation Scheme, can turn a HGV into a carbon neutral vehicle.

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16 | | NEWS EV CHARGING 1

ELECTRIC TRUCKS: Incorporating Sustainability Into Businesses MAN Truck & Bus has published a booklet entitled MAN Charging Infrastructure Calculator, which explains and explores everything to do with vehicle battery charging.

We live in an new era where electric mobility technology is upon us, forever changing to accommodate sustainability and efficiency in the workplace. But there are a number of stumbling blocks for this emission free transition to take place quickly and in line with growing demand from business, transport operators and the general public.

There are now a number of ways one can be more sustainable in daily practice, and implementing a charging infrastructure is one of them. Below are the necessary steps needed to take in order to do this.

Getting Started There are a number of different scenarios for charging that businesses can incorporate into their operational practices:

1. Depot charging (return daily to charge the vehicles at a company depot.)

2. Destination Charging (Rapid charging during loading or unloading).

3. Public charging (using public charging stations instead of one’s own).

4. Providing charging stations for companies as a business opportunity.

Factors to include when implementing an infrastructure like this are: Fleet size: This determines the number of stations needed.

Hours of operation: This implies the charging speed.

Opportunity charging: This means topping up the vehicle while on a journey.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Fleet composition: The number and type of vehicle influences the power and type of charging needed.

Auxiliary consumers: Other items that consume energy such as heating and air-conditioning influence power needed.

Route and range requirements.

Charging Common batteries used in electric vehicles are: NCA Batteries*, LFP Batteries* and NMC Batteries*.

The latter is the recommended option to be used for electric or eTrucks. * Nickel-cobalt-aluminum Li-ion battery * Lithium iron phosphate battery * Nickel manganese cobalt There are three common types of charging systems. These include: 1. Type 2: This is used for AC charging.

They are suitable for small vehicles and the maximum power output is 22kW. 2. CCS: This is used for AC and DC charging, via a cable an standardised connecter system to the vehicle. The maximum power output is 500kW. 3. MCS: This is suitable for large battery electric vehicles. It has its own plug and has a voltage of up to 1500 volts.

It provides up to 3.75 Megawatts.

This DC type is perfect for heavy commercial vehicles as it has short charging times.

Charging Infrastructure There are 4 different aspects needed for the charging infrastructure: 1. Charging Station (A: Mobile charger – 80kW. B: Charging post – 50–400kW. C:Charger with a satellite – 180-360kW, and D: Overhead Charger – variant of the latter, where the dispenser is suspended above the vehicle.)

2. Charging management software: the intelligence behind the charging systems. This includes Timed Charging, Immediate Charging, Profile charging and multiple vehicle charging.)

3. Grid Connection: ideally 400V, this needs to supply all chargers at the depot.

4. Power transformer: this converts the grid supply into the required site voltage.

Financial Considerations Setting up a charging infrastructure involves a substantial investment, so being prepared for the cost is important. Some cost-up factors to consider are project planning/implementation, design, civil engineering costs, the purchase and installation of a transformer, hardware costs, software installation, commissioning, calibration, electricity costs, operational support and service/maintenance.

The MAN Charging Infrastructure Calculator gives an approximate guide to costs.

Although the cost of implementing such an infrastructure seems significant, there are a number of ways to reduce the number: The Government offer tax breaks and subsidies, which can help cut a lot of expense. An on-site electricity generation system can be installed, like windmills, and solar energy. This is both sustainable and cost-effective in the long run.

Tariff optimisation is a brilliant technique one can use where charging is coordinated. There are now projects and plans underway backed by Government and private companies which are helping the electric vehicle movement become more efficient and appealing.

EU Legislation is calling for a minimum of at least one charging station every 60km on core routes and every 120km on extended networks by 2030.

Now, more than ever, one can change the way the vehicle is making an impact on the environment. Businesses can now become more sustainable and reduce the amount of carbon dioxide being emitted into the atmosphere as a result of their vehicles.

Text: Charlotte Gillan – contributor@fleet.ie

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18 | | NEWS REPORT 1

The best is yet to come for Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG) The turmoil of the Covid years followed by the production and delivery challenges for motor vehicle manufacturers and their logistics providers certainly presented unprecedented challenges for the Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG) in recent times. Challenges that the Association took on and dealt with with alacrity, leaving it stronger than ever heading into 2024.

come’. Addressing over 500 attendees - a record of the event, Wolfgang Göbel, ECG President said the slogan was a request to everyone in the room to work together. Acknowledging the good work of the Association in the past, he also recognised the need to change and develop. The industry is facing a lot of changes, he said, noting that some of the decisions made in the past were not always the right ones. “We need to fulfil and keep our promises. We have adapted our terms and conditions, so it is up to us now to deliver quality and performance, and we have to adapt much faster to new technology, do much more benchmarking among the member companies.”

Among the developments undertaken or being Wolfgang Göbel, ECG President; Bjorn Svenningsen, ECG Vice put in place by the ECG, President; Frank Schnelle, incoming Executive Director, ECG Wolfgang highlighted the Association’s publication in June of the ECG Guide to Finished Vehicle A record number of new members Logistics forecasting document which joining the ECG in the past year is has been developed in conjunction a reflection of the strength of the with ICDP. July saw ECG and Smart Association which represents and is Freight Centre publish the first ever made up of companies involved in all methodology harmonising emissions sectors of the Finished Vehicle Logistics accounting in the Ro-Ro segment, while industry in Europe, from family owned a draft version of the German Association SMEs to multi-nationals. Representing of the Automotive Industry (VDA) and road, rail, maritime and fluvial transport ECG Recommendation on Emissions modes. ECG members provide transport, calculation and reporting guideline distribution, storage, preparation and for automotive supply chains is being post-production services to manufacturreviewed. ers, importers, car rental companies and Wolfgang also noted that the vehicle leasing operators across Europe, Finished Vehicle Logistics (FVL) Cost owning or operating more than 360 Index, produced in cooperation with car-carrying ships, 15,100 purpose-built PwC Austria is now being updated railway wagons, 22 river barges and every six months, a process which is more than 23,000 road transporters. working well. Another development that The theme at the ECG’s Conference is progressing is the harmonisation of 2023, held in Copenhagen, Denmark on loaded length of vehicle transporters in October 12-13, was ‘The best is yet to FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

the EU to 20.75m. He also paid tribute to the ECG Tech Board - a digital working group that is doing an excellent job in identifying industry tech challenges, and and facilitating the uptake of solutions to answer them.

An era is set to end next year when Executive Director Mike Sturgeon steps down from the role he has held for over a decade. His successor will be industry veteran Frank Schnelle who will join the Association in April to begin a planned handover period before Mike steps down, ensuring a seamless transition.

Combining a busy day of presentations and discussions with evening gala dinners and other events, the ECG’s Conference in Copenhagen provided an unrivalled networking opportunity for delegates. There were two main themes to the presentations - Embracing Change, and Steering Sustainability.

Market demand in 2024 With the motor industry gradually addressing the supply challenges of the past couple of years, Tatiana Hristova, Director, Central and Eastern European and Middle East and Africa Vehicle Sales Forecast for S&P Global Mobility provided a forecast on light vehicle demand for 2024 and beyond. While the world entered 2023 fully open for business post-Covid, there remain some residual hangover effects. Supply chains have

Tatiana Hristova, Director, S&P Global Mobility

REPORT | 19 largely been restored but the market is evolving to a demand-led cycle to meet residual supply squeezes, especially in relation to chips. Overall though 2023 has been a positive year with a global increase of new vehicle sales by 8.0% over 2022 levels (+6.3M units).

However, there are challenges ahead including weak economic momentum, the ongoing Russia- Ukraine war, inflation remaining high, inflated car prices, Euro 7 timing, CO2 targets, and ZEV mandate - a key risk if consumers are reluctant for EVs. Tatiana noted that affordability will continue to be a challenge, with the switch to electrification particularly in European markets offsetting the easing of the chip crisis.

The arrival of Chinese brands into European markets offer both opportunities in terms of raw materials, battery, connectivity, cost and quality, but also challenges in the form of brand awareness, distribution/services networks; long-term EU CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism - a tool to put a fair price on the carbon emitted during the production of carbon intensive goods that are entering the EU, and to encourage cleaner industrial production in non-EU countries), as well as geopolitical risk.

The IRU is publishing a report annually giving true figures on driver shortage which it estimates to be in the region of 5 to 6,000. She commented that while the shortage may not be keenly felt by shippers yet, it will in the future as the average age of drivers is over 50.

As regards fixes, there’s no silver bullet she said, rather a combination of national and EU level solutions. They include the Revision of the Driving Licence Directive impacting at what age a driver can start and integration of drivers from outside the EU into the system. The other key element is Mobility Package I, a new set of rules for the road transport sector that is meant to improve conditions for drivers.

Mike Sturgeon, outgoing Executive Director, ECG

Raluca Marian, General Delegate, the IRU Permanent Delegation to the EU

IRU - driver shortages a key concern Representing drivers and transport companies, Raluca Marian, General Delegate, the IRU Permanent Delegation to the EU outlined the International Road Transport Union’s goals and objectives within the EU. The IRU’s focus is in two main areas - social and environment. On the environmental side, CO2 standards for HGVs specifically with regards to Euro 7, and the practicalities of electric trucks are key areas the IRU is working with the EU Commission on. Social challenges include driver shortages. “There’s a need to highlight awareness about the acuteness of the issue,” said Raluca.

Maersk - Cars in Container can be a greener solution A Premium Sponsor of the Conference, shipping giant Maersk is based in Copenhagen. Antonio Fondevilla, Global Vertical Head of Automotive at Maersk outlined the case for cars in containers as a sustainable solution for Finished Vehicle Logistics.

According to Antonio, using a Rotterdam - Shanghai shipment as an example, transporting cars in containers can reduce CO2 emissions by 62% (0.99t) per car compared to shipping by RoRo, and up to 89% (1.43t) when using Maersk’s Eco Delivery solution.

However at a subsequent press conference, Bjorn Svenningsen, Vice President of ECG questioned the findings from the Maersk presentation. Outlining that he was speaking in his capacity as the Director of Sales and Marketing in UECC (United European Car Carriers), and not as the Vice President of the ECG, he said that it was important to compare apples with apples. “I can also transport a car emission-free by using biodiesel on our vessels - we have done that for many years and we still do it and will do even

more in the future. But it has to be a fair comparison. What was the basis for that calculation where you saw that terrible graph for RoRo transport? Was that an old conventional vessel using heavy fuel oil with scrubbers? It’s very good that we now have standards as with ECG and the Smart Freight Centre where you have a clear methodology. That was not a correct picture, and I can back that up scientifically.”

Regarding the current interest in car transportation in containers, Bjorn noted that it was largely driven by fluctuating prices. “If you go two years back in time it cost you maybe fifteen to twenty thousand dollars to get a forty footer from China to Europe. Did people transport cars in containers?..No. Then the market tipped completely and container rates went down. Now you can probably get a forty foot container for five thousand dollars. So then there’s the cost reduction incentive, and, at the same time you have a general lack of capacity. Some of the OEMs have said that some of the things they are doing is actually out of desperation - there is no capacity, they need to get the product to market and that’s why they are doing this.”

Delegates also heard keynote speakers present detailed updates on ECG initiatives on the FVL Cost Index and Emissions Reporting Standardisation, while Alan Lewis, Technical Director, Smart Freight Centre outlined work being done to standardise measurement of greenhouse gas emissions for the RoRo sector. Szymon Oscislowski, Deputy Head of Unit, DG MOVE, European Commission also provided an interesting update on CountEmissions EU - a new EC initiative on the accounting of greenhouse gas emissions of transport services.

The 2024 edition of the ECG Conference is scheduled to take place in Hamburg, Germany on the 24/25th October 2024.

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie Photos: ECG www.fleet.ie

20 | | NEWS TYRES1

Michelin gives truck and bus tyres several new leases of life

Michelin is marking 100 years of retreading truck and bus tyres – with around 30 million worn tyres given a new lease of life at its plants in Stoke-on-Trent, UK and Homburg, Germany.

That corresponds to 1.5 million tonnes of raw materials saved, and almost 3.5 million tonnes of CO2 that hasn’t been polluting the environment. “Retreading and regrooving are more sustainable and environmentally friendly processes than new tyre production for haulage companies, own-account operators and both coach and bus fleets,” said Andrew French, B2B Sales Director at Michelin Tyre (pictured above).

Long history In 1923, Michelin began to offer retread truck tyres, leading to greater conservation of resources and lower costs for customers. The next major innovation followed in 1930 with Michelin Metallic: instead of textile layers, the company used metal layers in its heavy vehicle tyres, which were much more resistant to damage. Due to their more robust design, they were suitable for retreading up to three times. With the invention of the radial tyre, Michelin set a new standard in terms of durability, safety and fuel economy for tyres at the end of the 1940s. In the following years, Michelin adapted it for trucks and buses.

Twenty years later, the company developed the Michelin Remix process – with the Remix name standing for REmould, MIchelin, Radial, with the X being used by Michelin as the official designation for a radial tyre. A Michelin Remix tyre delivers the same performance in terms of safety, traction and grip. On average, only 20 kg of raw materials need to be added to the casing to manufacture a Michelin Remix tyre, compared with a new tyre which requires around 70 kg of materials. Truck and bus casings are designed from the outset to have multiple lives in service and to be retread at least once.

Strict Inspection Every tyre is subjected to a strict inspection and verification process by skilled professionals before the retread process begins. All casings pass through a visual, tactile and X-ray inspection

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

process upon arrival at the factory, including a shearographic analysis of the casing surface. Up to 90 per cent of Michelin truck and bus tyres delivered for retreading meet the criteria of the initial inspection. After this verification, preparation and machining, the casings receive new treads and sidewalls before being cured for around 90 minutes in a mould at temperatures of up to 200 degrees celsius, which gives them their final tread pattern. The amount of rubber and the quality of the mixtures are identical to those used to make new tyres, guaranteeing a constant thickness of rubber between the bottom of the tread pattern and the protective layers.

After being remanufactured, all tyres are subject to a final quality inspection which involves inflation to 140psi to

TYRES | 21 tread depth has worn to around 3-4 mm again, the MICHELIN Remix tyre can also be regrooved, which offers the same mileage performance as a new tyre, with the regrooved tyre delivering a fourth life in service.

confirm the product’s integrity. Tyres which have had any casing repairs carried out go through a secondary test, which sees 50,000 Volts passed through the tyre to detect any penetrations to the casing.

Multi-life process Michelin’s multi-life truck and bus tyre retreading offers significant savings potential, as a retreaded tyre reduces the total operating costs for both goods and passenger transport fleets, being around 30 percent cheaper than an equivalent new tyre. A new tyres may cover hundreds of thousands of kilometres during its first life in service until the tread depth has worn to around 3-4mm, whereupon the tyre can be regrooved for a second life in service. The process of regrooving a tyre increases the potential life of the tyre by around 25 per cent in its most fuel-efficient state – meaning it’s around five per cent more fuel efficient than a new tyre – whilst also extending its grip potential. A regrooved tyre is considered worn out when its tread reaches the legal wear limit of 1 mm when it is removed and sent for retreading. Once it has been retreaded as a Michelin Remix tyre – a process carried out exclusively on Michelin casings which have not previously been retread – it is ready for its third life. When the

Encore Also housed in Michelin’s Stoke facility is a modern retreading operation called Encore, which follows a similar process to Remix, but has the potential to extract additional lives from a worn Michelin Remix casing. The Encore process is also able to reuse tyre casings originating from a selection of other manufacturers. The Encore process allows an operator to undertake a smooth switch over to a Michelin product from a competitor tyre brand.

Sidewall markings reveal whether it has been manufactured from a Michelin Remix casing (a Grade M), one of several other major brands (Grade 2), or a good condition casing sourced from a lesser but still reputable manufacturer (Grade 3).

Andrew explained: “The Encore range is central to our circular economy solution, reducing raw material usage and ensuring we extract the maximum performance out of every possible tyre casing.” Around 60 per cent of retreads produced in Stoke-onTrent are destined for fleets operating in the UK and Republic of Ireland, with the remainder exported to mainland Europe.

Highly skilled workforce In Stoke-on-Trent, the retread factory operates with a workforce of 180 people, five days per week, 24 hours a day. The team is highly professional, highly qualified, and thoroughly trained, with some factory roles requiring up to six months on-the-job training to master the skills and level of precision required

by Michelin. Vincent Gridel, Factory Manager, added: “You don’t achieve the consistent levels of quality we deliver with our MICHELIN Remix and Encore product without an extraordinary effort.

Yes, we rely on some highly complex and often bespoke machinery as part of the retreading operation – but we also need a team which knows the process intricately and maintain our high standards.”

“Compared with the importation of non retreadable single-life truck and bus tyres, we generate job opportunities, supporting UK manufacturing, and helping the planet.” The only difference between using a new and a retread tyre is that, in line with recommendations from the British Rubber Manufacturers Association (BRMA), Michelin advises against the use of retread tyres on the steer axle. When Michelin defines a new tyre policy for a customer, it will typically prescribe new tyres for the steer axle, as they wear fastest, and also for the rearmost trailer axle, as they endure the most lateral scrub.

“It’s a strategy which works well for most businesses,” concluded Andrew.

“With retread tyres you need a flow of product to feed your casing bank, so by fitting new tyres on the steer and rear trailer axle, you should always have a supply of retreads for your drive axles and first and second trailer axles.”

Recycling Tyres that are no longer suitable for retreading are recycled into rubber granulate and steel. The rubber granulate recovered in this way is primarily used in sports surfaces and road construction, as well as in door seals on vehicles. The steel from within the casing is also recycled and further processed into quality steel.

Text: Joe O’Brien - contributor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

22 | | NEWS SAFETY 1 MATTERS

Going backwards must be managed too Reversing is one of those slow speed manoeuvres that crops up time and time again in vehicles at work incident statistics.

Reversing and slow speed manoeuvre incidents happen because vehicles all too often engage in multiple or lengthy manoeuvres that could have been avoided if yard managers and drivers gave consideration to the tasks that commonly occur at a premises. The driver should think about putting the vehicle in the required position for the safest and most efficient manoeuvre. Drivers need to think about where the manoeuvre should start and finish to minimise risk and undue complication. By simply doing this the amount of reversing manoeuvres can be greatly reduced, and therefore the risk of something bad happening will also be greatly reduced. In summary, reversing is a high-risk vehicle manoeuvre, and in order to reduce risks drivers should be given instructions on the issues outlined below.

Reversing Vehicles key points If responsible for managing the safety of vehicle operations one should control the risks inherent in reversing by: n n

n n n n n

implementing a reversing policy for the organisation eliminating reversing, wherever possible. This can be done, for example, by laying out a one-way system if the premises allows for this. If this can’t be done, it might be possible to set up designated reversing areas, which should be marked as such. All non-essential personnel should then be excluded from such areas. minimising it when it can’t be eliminated – both the amount of reversing and distances using reversing aids – reversing cameras, mirrors, sensor alarms Installing stop blocks or buffers to prevent vehicles reversing onto people/structures Adopting a “reverse in – drive out” policy for parking of all vehicles using trained reversing assistants or banksmen/signallers.

When using reversing assistants, operators should make sure that: n

n

only trained reversing assistants are used to help reverse a vehicle, and both driver and assistant are trained in the use of hand signals. all reversing assistants are provided with clear instructions on where to stand when giving direction to the driver to make sure the driver can see them. Similarly, reversing assistants must be able to see the driver in the mirror at all times.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

The table below may be useful for giving instructions to drivers.

Some simple driver tips for safe reversing and manoeuvring your vehicle n Before setting off, make sure vehicle mirrors are clean and adjusted, reversing lights and siren are working, reversing cameras, where fitted, are working and no items are obscuring vision. n On arrival and before reversing: STOP AND THINK! n Can reversing be avoided? If not: n Try to reduce the length of reversing as much as possible. n Observe surroundings, and avoid blindside reversing, if possible. n No person should be in between the rear or sides of the vehicle and fixed objects such as walls, lamp posts or cars. n Walk around the vehicle to look for obstacles or hazards if safe to do so. n Ask questions. If possible, ask for help, but make sure reversing assistants are trained and remain in a safe area and in view at all times. n Think and plan the path you will be taking when you are reversing. Where you are going to start and where you will finish. n Check again that all safety features, such as reversing cameras and mirrors, are correctly positioned and that they are working properly. n Turn your head to view everything around you, use mirrors, check both sides before reversing and continue to do so throughout the procedure. n When safe to do so, reverse as planned. n If there is any doubt at all, STOP, GET OUT and CHECK AGAIN. n Reverse slowly at all times and allow for overhang at the rear of the vehicle. n Do not overcorrect or panic, return to original position if needed. n If you lose sight of someone or catch a glimpse of something not right, STOP IMMEDIATELY!

It is vitally important to consider the vehicle risks in your workplace, and implement a workplace traffic management plan, part of which should address reversing. For more information on managing vehicle safety go to the Health and Safety Authority’s website at www.vehiclesatwork.ie

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24 | | NEWS TEST 1

Mercedes-Benz eActros 300 - Irish Green Commercial of the Year Award Winner - ‘Charging Ahead’ While we wait for a commercial vehicle charging infrastructure in Ireland to help encourage a move to ‘emission’ free transport. The major vehicle manufacturers are charging ahead with important developments in their product lineup. At this stage, the gap between the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and the infrastructure providers is widening. The OEMs are applying their battery electric technology (BEV) to ever-increasing numbers of their models, and the vehicles that are hitting the roads are well and truly the finished article.

Recently ‘Fleet’ took out one such example to assess the potential for the electric truck to work in Ireland. As a diesel, the Mercedes-Benz Actros is one of the most popular distribution trucks for many operators, which would lead one to think that there could be a market for a BEV version. Rigid trucks account for almost 30% of market share.

A significant reduction in emissions could be achieved if this sizeable percentage was to make the transition from diesel to electric.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

The electric variant, the eActros, is certainly a unit that would make that transition as easy as possible.

Actros is a thoughtful unit, well-designed to assist drivers in their day’s work. This includes features such as easy access with good door openings, entry steps and grab rails. While the test truck was a day cab there is ample room in this cab for the nature of the work, and the eActros is certainly not claustrophobic as can be the case with some other day cabs.

Actros has always benefitted from a well-appointed interior and this BEV unit is no different. All vehicle and trip data can be easily read, with modes and settings simply changed on the digital display and infotainment screens.

These are uncluttered, easy to read,

and arguably the best on the market.

Visibility is always an important factor in a distribution vehicle and here Actros scores well. The mirror assembly is quite large and does demand the driver to look around the mirror head-on on occasions, though this is similar to other trucks in this segment. Given time, Daimler’s MirrorCam digital mirror system will become the norm here too.

In typical Mercedes-Benz fashion, all controls are positioned in a logical

TEST | 25 order including the electric parking brake which still manages to confuse on occasion. However, there is a holding feature which will keep the wheel brakes applied once the footbrake has been forcefully pressed. This is not a hill-holding device which will switch off after a time - this brake will remain engaged until you move off again.

The eActros has two electric e-motors that deliver power outputs of 400 kW peak and 300 kW constant to its electrified drive axle which is the Re-440 model produced in-house by Daimler. These are powered by the three 105 kWh Li-ion batteries which offer a range of 300 kms. This ensures the eActros accelerates quickly to its limited cruising speed of 85 kmh. There is a slight increase in road noise from the tyres but the unit is otherwise silent and the operation through the two-speed drivetrain is hardly perceptible.

As with any electric vehicle, once you begin to move the smooth transfer of power to the road wheels is immediate, as is the realisation of how quiet the truck is. This brings a new level of comfort to the driver’s day and extends the benefit to pedestrians and other road users. Also bringing an added level of comfort in this sector is air suspension on both front and rear axles.

With prudent use of the five-stage ‘endurance brake,’ it is possible to develop a one-pedal driving style while recuperating energy to the batteries.

While fully accepting there are issues with the charging infrastructure, research from Mercedes-Benz shows that even in long-haul operations over 60% of all journeys are less than 500 kms.

In Ireland, a recently published report by the Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) found that the average daily journey of a truck is 281 kms.

With this in mind and considering the range of the eActros being 300 kms, the truck is well capable of working comfortably for the vast majority of companies whose operations demand this type of 4x2 vehicle. It also means that the truck can work realistically on an in-house depot/ depot charging regime.

What is needed now is for the infrastructure to not only catch up with the current status of vehicle technology but also move further to allow manufacturers like Daimler AG to push past their planned models. Ireland’s infrastructure is trying to keep pace with today’s off-theshelf models that are currently available, whereas OEMs like Daimler have moved past this and have already presented their next generation trucks such as the eActros 600 to work with Megawatt charging. For this to work we need to seriously futureproof our proposed charging network.

Of course, the detractors will focus on the initial price tag which could be two

and a half times that of the equivalent diesel. That is however an unfair method of calculating the value of the truck. If the costs are based on the total cost of ownership (TCO) over. say. five years, then the figures may well stack up. This is of course heavily dependent on two factors which themselves are unpredictable. One is the price of electricity, the second is the price of diesel. These factors can radically change the TCO over the lifetime of the truck, which leads Mercedes-Benz to say eActros is probably the more profitable option.

We are well aware that the diesel Actros is, and has been a competent distribution unit for a large number of companies across many sectors for many years. Taking this as a given, it should follow that the BEV eActros 300 should perform even better insofar that the truck drives just like an Actros, only that it is quieter, smoother and comes with a TCO that in five years could well be the more cost effective option.

Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie

Spec Check Make / Model Chassis / Cab E-Motor / Range Battery Capacity Charge Time E.Motors / Axle Braking Suspension Additional Equip’t Wheels / Tyres Drive Axle: Bridgestone: Body / LN / WB Payload Ancillaries Power Take Off

Mercedes-Benz eActros 300 4x2 / Day Cab / GVW 19t 400 kW Peak / 330 kW Constant / 300 Kms (3x105kWh) 336 kWh Installed / 291 kWh Useable 180 kW DC: 20-80% in 100 Minutes 2 e-motors 400 kW peak & 300 kW / Daimler Re-440 Axle Discs F&B, ESP, EBS, ABS, ASR, 5-Stage Endurance Brake , Front: Air Suspension / Rear: Air Suspension PredictivePowerTrain Control Front Axle: Bridgestone Duravis Steer 315/70 R22.5 Duravis Drive 315/70 R22.5 Quinn Refrigerated Body / 9605 mm / 5500 mm +6,000 kgs Thermo King Temp Control Unit / D’Hollandia Tail-lift ePTO 56 kW Peak / 33 kW Constant www.fleet.ie

26 | | NEWS RAIL SAFETY 1

Irish Rail hosts a series of Level Crossing Safety Awareness exercises

To mark International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD) – 26th Oct 2023, Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail in conjunction with An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority with the support of Local Authorities undertook a series of information exercises with motorists at three locations around the country.

Personnel from each semi-State body were present to speak with drivers, highlighting the dangers at Rail Level Crossings and handed over some safety flyers.

The focus of these information sessions was to inform and educate road users about the dangers of not acting safely at level crossings. These information mornings took place at the following locations and were attended

by Fleet Transport:

involve road vehicles colliding with crossing gates or barriers - resulting in damage to the crossing/ barriers.

Iarnród Éireann continues to install additional train detection warning systems at User Operated Level Crossings around the country.

These measures have now been introduced at 36 user operated level crossings, with a ILCAD 2023 Facts & further four to be commissioned in the Figures of Note coming weeks and have been well received within the communities that are served by them.

There are currently 902 level crossings on the Iarnród Éireann network. n Lisangry, Limerick These are a combination of n Sandymount, Dublin 4 automated CCTV crossings, n Tinare, Ballymahon, Longford manned crossings and unmanned user operated accommodation Pictured (l-r) Noel Flynn, Carl Page, Iarnrod Éireann; crossings.

Regina Staunton, Road Safety Authority; Brian Finnegan, To further David O’Sullivan, Aidan Reid – Iarnrod Éireann. increase public awareness around Total length of lines: 2,200 kms Level Crossing Safety, Total number of train-kilometres Iarnród Éireann had com(millions) 18.24 missioned an additional Total number of LC 2019: 937* Pictured (l-r) Frank Golden, David Dunne, Peter Tuohy, Philip number of its latest Total number of LC 2020: 917* O’Brien, Kieran Kelly – Iarnrod Éireann; Nicola Walsh, Road Safety Engineering Road fleet of Total number of LC 2021: 909* Authority; Vincent Corcoran and Vincent Connolly, Iarnrod Éireann. vehicles to have a custom Total number of LC 2022: 915* wrap applied, displaying Total number of accidents 2022 : 55 key safety messages. These vehicles were Year-to-date there have been 71 Total number of fatalities 2022 : 0 exhibited on the day and are now in incidents at level crossings across the * Active Level Crossings operation into the engineering road fleet network, of which 30 resulted in crossing at urban centres where the high usage damage or injury to the crossing user.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie level crossings are located.

The majority of level crossing incidents FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

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28 | | NEWS LAUNCH 1 PAD I

Scania undergoing V8 heart bypass surgery to BEV

Going from the mighty trademark V8 diesels it is closely associated with to BEV (battery electric vehicles) is a most significant transition for Scania trucks, not least with its customers and ultimately its drivers. Indeed, the move from traditional internal combustion engines to electric is a big challenge for the Swedish manufacturer, described as undertaking major heart surgery during a special presentation to the International Truck of the Year jury members at Sordertalje, last month. The danger is that this major transformation is tearing the heart out of Scania and all it stands for: power, performance and driver attraction, as well as its ability to retain customers like no other.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

In reality it’s a step-by-step measure, one of bringing the customer along with it on the journey towards zero emission transportation. The Scania engineers are confident with what has been developed and that it is ready for the marketplace.

Wary of changing the visual aspect of the evolution of the Scania truck, the battery electric version sticks with the same cab structure, albeit in modular form.

“It still looks like a Scania, but is very different underneath,” stated Magnus Macaldener, Senior Vice-President, Head of e-Mobility Development at the

company. “We will continue to play with our strengths in offering standard and bespoke truck variants to customers.”

Magnus mentioned that of the 100,000 trucks sold each year, around 50% are specific to customer needs and special applications.

Central to the adaption to electric is the need for unashamed power, up to 450 kW to begin with, using a central power system. Further advances in battery power and quicker charging is being worked on, but for now what’s

LAUNCH PAD I | 29

one module block, that are crash tested, and slotted into each side of the chassis frame between the axles, the 624kWh battery is able to deliver the 350km at 80% usable.

offered for regional haulage with a 40 tonne gross 4x2 tractor-unit is a 624kWh battery cell pack, 450kW E-motor propulsion power, and an average 350km range. Using a 500V/375kW charging system, a 20-80% charge can be done in 45 minutes, during the driver’s rest break. Scania is aiming for 700-1000 volts for megawatt charging, to cater for long haul operations. Its concentration is on battery electric only for now, and its plug in hybrid system has been discontinued.

Fellow Swedish company NorthVolt, which Scania is a shareholder in, provides the battery cells, produced in a -70% carbon free environment and by utilising nickel magnesium cobalt in the manufacturing process. This guarantees long battery life of up to 1.5 million kilometres, according to Magnus. With these ingredients, a fuller recyclability can be achieved. Containing 18 cells in

As experienced during the inaugural drives around the Scania Demo Drive Proving Ground, the 450kW of continuous power is delivered through a six speed seamless transmission. An ePTO allows electrical or mechanical connectivity. Battery energy regeneration is achieved by a five phase stalk operated retarder, just like the diesel version.

Inside there is no real difference with the cab interior, with BEV truck have the same layout as diesel versions. It takes two twists of the key for full operational engagement, and the automatic electronic hand brake frees up once the accelerator is pressed.

Around the track and with a full load on board, there was little need to use the foot brake, as the retarder could do the job. The quietness and smoothness of the drive is noticeable and there is no doubt that once the habitual V8 driver takes to the wheel, an instant conversion will occur.

On the downside, with each of the six battery packs weighing 200kg, the payload penalty is evident. To date the EU has passed a two tonne allowance

on heavy duty BEVs, but this needs to be doubled to bring the payload on par with today’s diesel trucks. Unladen, the BEV truck comes in at just over 11,000 kg.

A 6x2 configuration with more power is being worked on, in order to reduce the overload on the front axle, save on tyre wear and enable it to be more long-haul oriented.

In time this modular cab structure will accommodate the installation of hydrogen fuel cell power, but that’s an article for another day.

While at the Scania Demo Centre, a number of other electric powered trucks were driven, indicating the growing number of applications and operations being catered for - with more to come.

A re-engineered urban spec fleet will be launched some time next year.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

30 | | NEWS LAUNCH 1 PAD II

Ole! Ole! Ole! IVECO’s ‘Be The Change’ Special Event - Barcelona

The Iveco Group has been somewhat quiet of late, which usually indicates something is about to happen. So an invite to Barcelona to see what Iveco was calling “Be The Change - ‘MY24 Evolution’” range was not to be missed and it did not disappoint.

When the fanfare faded we were left looking at new versions of S-Way, Daily and Eurocargo. But that wasn’t all as Iveco then revealed new battery-electric versions of Daily and S-Way. This was followed by new Cursor 13 and Tector 7 diesel engines, plus enhanced CNG units and telematics, and finally a new Iveco logo.

Iveco intends to boost its market share from the 5% recorded in 2019.

The Italian company has already made inroads in this direction by reporting a figure of 8% last year. This is helped by its strong presence in the natural gas market where it commands 50% share in both the light and heavy segments and claims 100% of the medium sector as the only OEM in that segment. Iveco sees great potential in compressed natural gas (CNG), especially when using Bio-methane as this alternative fuel

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

can deliver a negative carbon emission rating.

Reducing CO2 and emissions was of course high on the agenda in Barcelona and this focus offered Iveco a chance to unveil the new battery electric S-Way the so-called Se-Way. This zero-emission truck is to be built at the company’s facility in Ulm in Germany, where Iveco has relocated its EV Centre of Excellence.

Powered by 9 batteries producing 728 kWh, the Iveco Se-Way offers a range of 500 kms at 44 tonnes, and can recharge to 80% in 90 minutes. Unfortunately, Se-Way will not be with us anytime soon on these shores as there are no immediate plans to build a RHD version. The Iveco people say they will, but they’re just not sure when.

While a right hand drive Se-Way may not be seen for a while, what Iveco has on offer is the new Cursor XC13 from sister-company Fiat Powertrain Technologies (FPT). Commenting on the new engine the President of Iveco’s Truck Business Unit Luca Sra said: “XC13 is Euro 7 ready depending on final definitions of regulations and it is also ready for Hydrogen (H2).”

Interestingly the Cursor 11 engine has been dropped and we will now have

only have Cursor 9 and 13.

Top-rated power of the new XC13-litre has been increased to 580hp with 2,800 Nm of torque from a low 850 rpm for the diesel version, and 500hp with 2,200 Nm of torque for the gas engine. Service intervals for the gas unit have been extended to 45,000kms for

urban work and 70,000kms for regional haul operations. Iveco has also increased the fuel capacity for the CNG truck, with a 1,240-litre tank available that can extend the range to 800kms.

FPT’s new Cursor XC13 is offered in power ratings of 460, 500, 540, and 580hp, with torque ratings of 2500, 2600, 2700, and 2800 Nm respectively.

Interestingly, the new engine is 114 kg lighter than the previous Cursor 13 and a surprising 62 kg less than the outgoing Cursor 11. In a further drive for efficiency, Iveco will now offer two new rear axle ratios of 2.17:1 and 2.06:1- and when the new engine efficiencies are combined with the other enhancements such as 1.5 l/100 from the cameras, a possible fuel-saving of 10% over the previous Cursor 13 powered S-Way is

LAUNCH PAD II | 31

achievable. On the important issue of safety, operators can opt for one of three different endurance brakes.

There is a standard retarder, a standard engine braked and now there is the option of Iveco’s Hi-Performance Engine Brake.

Externally some new styling can be found on the Se-Way’s grille, while there’s now also a mirror camera system option and some improved aerodynamics.

Internally there is a greater focus on the driver with improved storage, a pull-out table, and new trim options. One update we are glad to see is a new button on the floor to adjust the steering column, an electric parking brake and a stop/ start button. Other key upgrades are a selection of infotainment systems which range from 7’ and 10” to 12” across the S-Way, Eurocargo, and Daily models.

The systems are certainly more than simple radio, phone and Sat-Nav devices.

They will allow the driver to access the individual vehicle’s handbook in an easy-to-use and logical search format, and they also enable the fleet manager to monitor the units and activate or restrict certain aspects of the vehicle.

While the devices will monitor the vehicle’s numerous functions they will also deliver software updates over the air and work with Amazon’s Alexa and Iveco’s Driver PAL system to

enhance connectivity. Connectivity is certainly the topic at the moment and Iveco was keen to point out that in 2016 it had 5,000 vehicles connected.

By 2023 this number has increased to 100,000, and by 2030 they expect to connect 500,0000 vehicles. All of this information is then used to reduce downtime and continuously improve the OEM’s products and reliability.

Driver reliability, specifically the driver’s health was the most novel function of Iveco’s digital connectivity portfolio. Through a wrist-worn enabler, a new App will monitor the driver’s health status including heart rate, oxygen saturation, ECG and sleep patterns. All of which Iveco believe will help with driver well-being and subsequently driver retention.

The new Driver’s Health App will no doubt deliver road safety benefits, and for Iveco, the issue of safety is a priority. To this end, it has extended the same systems across all models from S-Way to Daily. Nevertheless, Daily gets some enhancements of particular benefit to improve safety in the urban transport sector. These include mission-appropriate features such as Stop & Go, Blind Spot Assist, Keyless Entry, and one of particular importance in the van segment Reversing Cross Traffic Brake - that will stop a van reversing when it detects traffic crossing behind where the driver can’t see.

One interesting development is a new focus on what Iveco calls a ‘Single Wheel Version’ of Daily. By using a new chassis rail material, a smaller fuel tank, lightweight steel rims, and composite suspension springs in addition to other

lightweight components. Iveco can dramatically reduce the kerb weight of a chassis cab unit. This could be highly attractive to many operators as it can enable a Class B licence driver to operate it.

Looking forward the company is ready for, but waiting to finalise its offering for Euro 7. Iveco is continuing to develop its gas offering which has now been further enhanced by the new 6 cylinder 6.7-litre Tector 7 engine with ratings of 220, 250, and 280hp with 800, 850, and 1000 Nm respectively. The new Tector is matched to the new ZF 8-speed Automatic transmission which they say offers a 5% fuel saving over a standard mechanical transmission, though there is still the option of an Allison xFE3000 if preferred.

While Daily will be offered in a BEV construction version, Luca Sra stated that there are no immediate plans to offer a full BEV to the larger construction truck sector, with its X-Way and T-Way models.

No doubt it has its reasons, although we feel the construction sector could readily make the transition to electric as the trucks generally work within a short radius and generally on a return to base cycle - nevertheless we shall watch that space.

On the issue of automated driving, Iveco is currently working with Level 2 (reactive driving) and will move to Level 2+ (predictive driving) around 2026 to 2028. The company sees different levels of automation applying to different transport operations (closed environment, urban, regional, hub-to-hub and long-haul) over the next few years. However, it believes all areas of operation will be able to move to Level 4 Autonomous possibly by late 2029.

Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

32 | | NEWS SHIPPING 1 & FREIGHT

Ferry network serving Irish ports continues to evolve P&O Ferries is continuing its withdrawal from the Irish Sea Central Corridor, reducing schedules to a single daily round trip for the vessel Norbank and it is planning to withdraw that vessel during December. At the time of writing there are strong indications that another operator will then take up the route.

Meanwhile, Irish Ferries has taken the P&O owned Norbay on an initial six-month charter, replacing the Epsilon on its Dublin/ Holyhead and Dublin/Cherbourg routes. The Epsilon will move onto her Polish owner’s Baltic Sea routes. The company has also reported significant improvements in passenger car carrying, posting a 12% annual rise in the period to 31 October to 588,000 cars. Freight units carried were up by 3.9% in the same period, to 639,000 transactions. Irish Ferries has also announced that it will sell a new freight service between Northern Ireland and Scotland, commencing early 2024. In a statement, it said: “This new service will expand our route network, improving our connectivity between Ireland, UK, and Europe whilst also complementing our services from Dublin and Rosslare”.

network carrying trailers and containers and linking Cherbourg with the Spanish Border and other locations.

National Ports Policy Review underway The Department of Transport has opened a Public Consultation on a review of the National Ports Policy. The initial Consultation will close on 15 January 2024. This will be followed up by the publication of an issues paper which will be subject to further scrutiny and will form the basis of a revised draft Ports Policy document, due to be published in 2025. The existing Ports Policy has been in place since 2013.

Speaking at the launch of the Consultation, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan emphasised the importance of engaging stakeholders and the public, stating that Ireland’s ports would continue to play a crucial role in the country’s future economic development. He mentioned that the consultation was a timely opportunity for stakeholders and the public to have their say on the type of port infrastructure and maritime sector needed to develop and build, to balance the needs of the economy, the environment, and wider society in a sustainable way.

Norse Atlantic Airways operates Antarctica flight

CLdN has placed the Seatruck Pace, owned by subsidiary, Seatruck, on its Dublin/Santander route, while moving one of its own fleet onto Seatruck’s Dublin/Liverpool route to boost capacity and frequency. The company now operates up to four round-trip sailings daily on the route.

Grimaldi Line subsidiary, Finncarriers, continues to build ISO container volumes on its three times weekly Zeebrugge/Rosslare Con-Ro route with a weekly average of 150 containers carried on mafi-units aboard the vessels each week. These containers are carried on behalf of several third-party operators.

Brittany Ferries has switched its weekly Rosslare/Le Havre service to a Rosslare/Cherbourg operation, giving a twice weekly frequency on that route. The Rosslare/Bilbao services currently operate to Santander to facilitate the completion of terminal development works at Bilbao and will return there in March 2024. The seasonal Roscoff/Cork route has been extended to an eleven-month schedule, operating a weekly round trip during the winter months. Brittany Ferries is continuing to progress, along with the port of Cherbourg, the terminal and other facilities required to enable the operation of a freight rail FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

With a payload of 45 passengers and 12 tonnes of cargo, Norwegian Airline, Norse Atlantic Airways flew a Boeing 787 Dreamliner from Oslo to Troll Airfield in Antarctica, touching down there on 15 November last. The aircraft had made several stops en route and was the first standard specification aircraft to land on the 3,000-metre x 60 metre ice runway.

A significant factor in the choice of the Dreamliner for this trial is the substantial cargo space on board and the Norwegian Polar Institute said that the success of this mission will greatly facilitate the development of further research in the region.

Foynes Port rail link makes significant progress There are current expectations that work on the Foynes Port rail link to the Irish Rail Network will be completed by the end of 2024 to a level that will enable the commencement of operation of freight trains on the route. The line is expected to have capacity to handle up to 12 trains each way per 15-hour operating day.

Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

ADVERTORIAL | 33

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Digicom, founded by transport and logistics expert Brigid Derry, is changing the game. This trailblazing Irish startup just won ‘Innovation Award’ at the Fleet Transport Awards 2024 for its ground-breaking digital customs platform, bringing logistics into the 21st century.

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34 | | NEWS COMMENT 1

From where I’m sitting Howard Knott howard@fleet.ie

Will COVID-19 be seen as the ultimate Supply Chain disrupter?

Recently, I took part in an ‘in-person’ Irish Exporters Association (IEA) Dublin Regional Group meeting. This one was hosted by Irish Rail and took place at the soon to be live traffic Control Centre at Heuston Station. The discussion and presentations moved between rail freight development plans and the implementation of digital technology on managing and operating the rail network.

This was the second IEA ‘in person’ meeting held over the last month, the earlier event was in Waterford, and, as happened on the previous occasion, the point to ponder upon heading home was a simple question raised by an attendee, prompted by my presentation to the meeting, but unexpected.

The question was: “What was the biggest disrupter to Supply Chains over the last century and the one most likely to be looked back on as the major game changer?”

The quick answer might be, either the arrival of the ISO Freight Container, or, perhaps, the arrival of digital technology, but another possible contender would have to be the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why might COVID be a contender?

Well, just think about what happened to supply chains when the pandemic struck. The regular flow of goods arriving in Distribution Centres and onward to ultimate users on a predictable schedule and at a certain cost, was FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

completely disrupted. This transformed Supply Chains from being something that the people in the Warehouse look after, to being something of which the boardroom needs to take notice.

When that happened, of course, some serious discussions began to take place within companies as to what products they were sourcing, from where, at what price and, critically, how urgent were the shipments. Over the years it had become a habit that the best source of any products had to be from China or one of its neighbours. For most companies that all worked fine, but it meant that they had no real alternative sources lined up. When COVID struck and both the production and the shipping of products, not only to and from Deep-Sea locations, but also to and from European manufacturers and customers, clogged up, then some hard thinking was needed.

A couple of years later, we see major ‘near-shoring’ going on with, in particular, raw materials and components being sourced far closer to destination, whether it’s US companies sourcing product in Mexico that was earlier coming from China, or European companies sourcing in North Africa.

This is all making a lot of sense and is ultimately cheaper and less environmentally damaging.

Another major shift is a re-think of that whole ‘just-in-time’ mantra. There’s a certain simplicity in the notion that materials can be produced as close to the time at which they are needed, shipped by the fastest possible route, and landed at point of use just as they are needed. After all, operating this way minimises stock in warehouses with all the attendant costs, not to mention the finance costs of having to purchase materials before they are needed.

COVID exposed the weakness in this

mantra, demonstrating that the right material may not arrive at the right time, and that the cost of taking it in had gone through the roof. Maybe instead, companies figured, it might be a better idea to order and set delivery dates further in advance so that the factory or retail premises does not grind to a stop?

Once this idea is accepted, then the notion of, say, a ten-day transit time from a central European supplier using containers aboard trains and container ships and some waterway channels, might make a lot more sense than booking the cargo onto driver accompanied trailers that, Brexit and other controls permitting, might deliver within seven days. If nothing else, the interest payable on paying for the goods earlier might well be more than offset by the savings in freight costs from the intermodal solution.

In twenty years’ time, will air freight and driver accompanied trailer transport still be big factors in Supply Chains? Or will the future be boxes and trains?

THE NEW eACTROS. Charged & Ready. Sustainable, future-oriented, driven by innovation, and quiet: that’s the new eActros – the first all-electric truck from Mercedes-Benz.

36 | | NEWS FINANCE 1

Where is that umbrella?

It’s unusual to start a finance advice column with the above headline but to recall the old saying: “the banks will give you an umbrella when its sunny and look for it back when it starts to rain” the subject matter will start to make sense.

Currently Ireland is in an unusual economic situation as the country is in full employment. In fact, as the transport industry often highlights, it is short of workers in all sectors of the business, from drivers and mechanics, to those working in administration and management. If it were a company, Ireland would be in the top 10 multinationals given its surplus in tax revenue. This has steamed predominately from the pharma and IT sectors but is now in a slow-down mode. While the coalition parties knows this surplus is short lived and may turn quickly, the Government is still in a spending mode to keep the populace at peace (which clearly isn’t working) trying to keep itself in power after the next election.

It is now almost an accepted fact that it is impossible get employees at all levels to work as hard as people did in the 1980s and ‘90s.

Ireland has quickly become a high cost, low productivity country that was lucky to be able to attract foreign investment and offer multi-nationals low tax on profits. In the past we had a low cost, highly motivated workforce, in addition to a safe and stable environment and a Government policy that supported external investment. Of course, there were problems in spending inefficiencies, and for small to medium sized firms such as transport companies, draconian red tape and little support hindered progress, but there were still opportunities.

Now back to the main topic, which is the review of the financial risk in businesses. Let’s hope recent events in Dublin were a once off, and that we continue to live in a relatively safe environment where rule of law prevails.

Very quickly the buoyant tourism industry could be affected and that would have massive repercussions on coach operators. We all know in business that the one constant is change. While we now have a strong multi-national presence, that will quickly dwindle if they do not keep investing at a time when the tax regime is about to change.

If the multi-nationals deem Ireland an unsafe environment then investment will cease and they walk away very quickly.

We always had a strong and growing agri sector and as these businesses developed they went on and dominated foreign markets with their high quality products and expertise. Now we are in contracting mode with milk production and it’s getting to the stage where it’s unpopular to be called a farmer.

Based on the above, it’s time to be cautious, so do not over-extend or overtrade, keep tight control of the business, and while not being notified of a storm ahead, it would be prudent to batten down the hatches and prepare to set a course for a safe harbour. It’s very easy to sail around the Fastnet Rock on a fine day but it is treacherous when conditions are averse, so don’t put the business in jeopardy. Perhaps it’s also time to look at customer diversification, not putting all the eggs in the one basket, so to say. Perhaps look at opportunities in other countries and certainly look to see how storm ready the business is.

In adversity there are always opportunities. Organising the business to have a higher margin from a lower turnover while being exposed to less risk is always possible. Being the best and most productive in the sector a business is operating in always carries an advantage.

Sometimes, listening to the financial institutions which now are risk adverse is not a bad idea.

Text: Donal Dempsey – donal@fleet.ie

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38 | | NEWS OPINION 1

Dangers at Railway Level Crossings

Over 300 people were killed at Railway Level Crossings last year across Europe.

That startling figure was released by Irish Rail at the end of October while conducting an Information Day during European Safety Week. In Ireland, there have been 79 incidents at Level Crossings. Most of these have been around the Dart Line, but there have been incidents throughout the country, some fatal.

One of the frustrating aspects of Level Crossing incidents is that they are completely avoidable. Unlike some road traffic accidents that are unpreventable because of road conditions or road design, this is not the case at a Level Crossings. Warning lights are positioned well in advance of the crossing and there is plenty of time to get stopped. All the CCTV images and reports from gate keepers come to the same conclusion, drivers try to beat the lights. There are some cases where a driver enters the yellow hatched area without being able to clear it. If a train is approaching the barriers will be activated and there is the potential for a very serious accident.

Some of the incidents we have seen around Ireland were in these circumstances.

At the end of October, Irish Rail held Information Day events at three crossings to highlight the dangers to the public.

One of these was at the Lisnagry

Crossing, on the road between Birdhill and Limerick, which was the original N7 from Dublin to Limerick. Although it is now bypassed by the M7 motorway, it is still a busy commuter route. And a challenging crossing for a few reasons.

A fast and straight road leads into it on both sides. The railway line crosses the road diagonally, which means the crossing zone is much longer with a larger yellow hatched area. Nonetheless, the warning lights are positioned far enough back to allow any vehicle stop in time.

Richie Clifford has been the gate keeper the Lisnagry Crossing for over 40 years. He says all level crossings are potentially dangerous, but completely safe if drivers follow the rules. As he explained: “When a driver sees a yellow light in advance of the crossing, that means the next one will already be red, and you need to be prepared to stop. It’s that simple”. Over the years Richie says the improvements made to the crossing have made it safer. There are now three sets of warning lights in advance and the crossing is lit up at night.

He added that cyclists also need to be vigilant: “They are advised to dismount, very few do”.

All over the country Irish Rail has been enhancing the safety features at Level Crossings. There are currently 902 crossings nationwide. Since 2014, 93

of these have been closed by creating under-passes and over-passes, with seven more on the main Dublin – Cork line currently in the planning process for closure.

Another area that is problematic for Irish Rail is bridge strikes. Back in the late 90’s, Irish Rail and the IRHA (Irish Road Haulage Association) began an initiative with the Rail Safety Office to try to reduce the number of strikes. Back then, one Irish Rail engineer famously commented: “We need to identify the ‘Bad Actors’ in terms of bridges that are most frequently stroke” This was a good policy and along with some re-measuring and new signage at bridges, the numbers were in the first instance quantified, and secondly reduced. However it remains an issue. So far this year there have been over 80 strikes. While in most cases the truck or bus will come out second best, there is the potential for death and injury on both the railway and road systems.

Safety officers in transport companies must continue to include the risk of incidents at Level Crossings and bridges as being real. Irish Rail does and continues to enhance safety where trains pass over or across roads.

Here is a thought to remain in the back of your mind. Next time you travel by train, be conscious of how long it takes from when you feel the brakes being applied to when the train stops. Then think what your chances of surviving a collision at a level crossing are. The words of Richie Clifford at Lisnagry crossing are worth repeating. Be careful and be prepared.

Text: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie Photo: Jarlath Sweeney

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40 | | NEWS LCV I 1

Reading Matters Book Review: Roaming Home by The Van Conversion – Author: Shane Monks O’Byrne *The comprehensive guide for converting your van into a campervan ISBN 978-1-3999-5928-5 www.TheVanConversion.com

Roaming Home by Shane Monks O’Byrne is a must-read for anyone with an interest in motor homes and campervans.

It starts off by introducing us to seven individual people and their separate journeys through converting their own vans. It shows photos of the outstanding interiors competed on each one, along with details about the cost and time it took to transform, including the floor plans and all the technical details, like where they get their water supply.

Then we get into the first few chapters, beginning with “The Planning Stages.” Here, O’Byrne outlines and explains each step needed to plan and prepare for the conversion, including budgeting, project management, choosing the right van, design, factors to consider, and more. He also shows a list of the top nine most popular makes of vans being converted and their details, and covers all different types of vehicles one can use, from ordinary panel vans to school buses and active mobile units.

The next chapter is on Metalwork, which delves into the world of fitting windows, removing rust, inserting air conditioning and skylights, installing awning, swivel seats etc. Each step required to install an item is aided with helpful photos and graphics.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Electrics and Insulation are contained in the next few sections, which covers everything from wiring the van, installing fridges and solar power, to sound deadening and the types of insulation that’s right for the user.

The Carpentry section shows the ins and outs of all things woodwork, tools needed, cladding, instructions on making furniture, and smart storage.

The Water and Gas part is next. This consists of everything needed for a water system, all the various types of pumps, drainage schemes, sinks, showers, toilets, faucets, heaters, pipes, gauges, tanks and filtration plans which you can implement. This is not to mention the adapters, compression fittings, regulators, valves, filters, gas lockers (and how to make one), heaters, ovens and gas installation.

Finally, the last chapter gives ideas on ways to pass the time, the Do’s and Don’ts of camping, and security advice.

The entire book is beautifully written, with all 379 pages covered in aesthetic photographs of converted vans, alongside graphics demonstrating steps to a task. The language is very easy to read and explains things brilliantly while also maintaining a witty undertone.

The author manages to incorporate every single detail, from the most vital and obvious ones, to the things you would never think of. O’Byrne knows all the tips and tricks from his own

experience from living full time in a van himself, so no matter what problems one may to encounter on the epic journey to creating a campervan, this book has a solution to it.

This extensive book leaves nothing unturned, and is very thorough in its content, ensuring every part is accounted for. It prepares the reader so they can face every challenge head-on.

After reading this book, one would feel inspired to do a camper conversion in due course!

It is an incredibly helpful and easy to read instruction book, sure to delight anyone interested in camper conversions.

In the words of the author: “If you want to trade in your daily routine for a life of peace, happiness and adventure on the open road, then this is the book for you!”

Text: Charlotte Gillan – contributor@fleet.ie

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42 | | NEWS LCV II 1

Enhanced Toyota Professional offerings presented at 2023 Kenshiki Forum in Belgium

Brussels, Belgium is the hub of European politics and economics and the chosen location for Toyota Motor Europe to host its 2023 Kenshiki Forum. For Toyota Professional, its commercial vehicle division, the main item on the agenda was to promote an enhanced line up of vans and introduce the latest member of the family, a big brother christened the Proace Max, along with introducing additional powertrain offerings on the Hilux.

The Japanese brand is now covering the three main van segments - small, medium and large - with the extended Proace family and will offer both diesel and electric power.

Enhancements, which includes a minor facelift on existing models, come with improved interior safety and comfort levels, and also see a few extra kilometres added to the range distance on the electric versions. All thanks to recent developments undertaken by the Stellantis Group, which produces the Toyota LCVs on production lines alongside its Peugeot, Citroën, Opel/ Vauxhall & Fiat Professional brand models.

Thus the new Proace Max is a replica of the latest Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Relay, Opel Movano and Fiat Ducato which have recently been upgraded also.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

For a number of years now, Toyota has only catered for the small and mid-range van sectors, the sub and 1-tonne plus customers, and has never fully recaptured the once loyal Hiace clientele. At one time in the ‘80s and ‘90s and into the noughties, the Hiace was the High King van in Ireland. With the Proace Max offering a gross weight of up to 3.5-tonnes, a broader audience can be captured and bring more business to dealerships.

These in turn will now have to upgrade their service facilities to accommodate the higher levels of GVW coming through their doors.

Proace Max is available in six configurations, featuring two wheelbases, three lengths and three heights for multiple load-carrying options. In its largest specification the Electric version has a best-in-class cargo capacity of 17 m³. The selection of body and platform types include Chassis, Platform and Crew Cab lay-outs with two rows of seating.

Loading and unloading is straightforward thanks to full height doors, with a low loading floor area for easy access. For the first time on a Toyota, the doors open 270 degrees, maximising the kerbside loading space and access to the cabin.

The new Proace range benefits from a cleaner surface front end with full LED lighting technology and alloy wheels.

A more modern interior features a new steering wheel design plus the latest

onboard equipment according to the trim level, including fully digital displays and an up-to-date infotainment system with built-in navigation, plus wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity.

Toyota Proace new frontal design

With regards to connected services, all Toyota Professional vehicles feature the latest Toyota Safety Sense technology, assisting the driver and providing additional peace of mind.

The latest battery electric technology provides the comfort of zero emissions driving with the practicality of up to 420km (WTLP standard) range.

For Model Year 2024, the mid-sized Proace van comes with a number of powertrain options, with the EV battery delivering a 20km increase in range of up to 350km. It has a load volume capacity of up to 6.6 m³ and a payload of up to 1,400kg.

The smaller Proace City offers an available load space of up to 4.4 m³ volume and up to 1,000kg of cargo, depending on the powertrain. The latest EV battery technology also delivers a range distance of 330km, a 50km increase from the current generation. All van variants comfortably seat three front

LCV II | 43

Toyota Proace City

passengers.

Meanwhile, the all conquering Hilux gains diesel-electric technology, the Toyota forte! Hilux Hybrid 48V benefits from improved fuel efficiency and enhanced driving performance, further enhancing the pick-up’s formidable capabilities on and off road.

As well as the Hilux’s legendary durability and reliability, the Hilux Hybrid 48V has improved throttle response and linear acceleration, with enhanced off-road performance too via smoother acceleration when navigating rough terrain, and regenerative braking on downhill sections.

Proace City new frontal design

Driving enhancements come with no compromise on towing and payload capacity, which remain exceptional at 3,500kg and 1,000kg respectively.

The enhanced Toyota Professional line-up represents a renewed commitment to commercial vehicles and Toyota aims to continue its year-on-year sales volume increase in this sector.

During the Plenary sessions at the Kenshiki Forum, held adjacent to Brussels Airport, Matt Harrison, COO, Toyota Motor Europe highlighted the continuous sales growth that the Toyota, Lexus and Toyota Professional brands are achieving currently, reporting that the 1.17 million units sold is 100,000 more

than recorded last year.

And the 2024 order book is strong, with over 300,000 cars and vans set for delivery early next year.

As the media representatives attending got visuals of what is to come from both car brands in the next few years, what is almost here and now in the marketplace is the newly extended and revamped light commercial vehicle line-up.

Emmanuel Beaune, Head of Corporate Sales & LCV outlined the success of the Toyota Professional brand. Launched in 2016, it recorded 46,000 units that year, but this figure grew to 119,00 units in 2022, and is looking good to reach 140,000 units this year. That growth’s helped by the addition of the Proace City joining the already established Proace range, with both diesel and electric offerings. That upward trajectory is set to continue with the addition of the 3.5-tonne Proace Max. Emmanuel stated that the company aims to be a Top 6 commercial vehicle brand by 2025 with a goal of 180,000 annual unit sales by then.

Toyota has been missing out on the large van segment for decades, which commands almost a third of all LCV sales across Europe. He sees growth opportunities from the fleet sector, as well as with current Toyota van customers and new conquest sales to enable the Proace Max gain a foothold in this ultra competitive sector.

Emmanuel acknowledged that as the brand’s LCV range is now complete, Toyota Professional dealers can become a one-stop-shop for light commercials, from product, aftermarket and services, catering for the fleet buyer to the SME client.

‘This Toyota range is complete - full and electrified’ More details were revealed about the new editions to the Hilux range, including the 48V Hybrid and Hydrogen powered prototype.

More power and torque

is available from the 2.8-litre, 206 hp diesel, with 12kW/16hp mild hybrid, and automatic transmission, assuring a 10% reduction in CO2 and more fuel efficiency. With the battery pack placed within the ladder frame chassis, there is a little compromise in that the wading depth is cut short by 100 mm and is now at 700 mm. Self-charging, it does not run on electric power alone but has the same payload and towing capacity as the diesel version.

To date, a phenomenal 21 million Hilux have been sold worldwide and the model continues to innovate, with Toyota displaying a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Prototype version as a extra single cab.

Notably, the Fuel Cell Electric Powertrain layout is the same as the Toyota Marai Marai FCEV, fuelled by

Toyota Hilux H2 Fuel Cell Concept

hydrogen gas, emitting only water vapour.

Also on exhibit outside was the Toyota Hydrogen powered DAF CF, wearing the badge of VDL, the Netherlands-based bus builder. This converted 4x2 tractor-unit will operate in a fleet of trucks that will travel around Central Europe undertaking decarbonised logistics operations on behalf of Toyota.

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

www.fleet.ie

44 | | NEWS LCV III1

New ‘Master of all Trades’ from Renault

Hidden in Normandy’s forests and skirting the meandering river Seine, the Centre Technique d’Aubevoye (CTA) is a secret Renault Group base. The mission, ‘Jim’, was to undertake an undercover first test drive in the new Renault Master E-Tech prototype. It was 6.45am on a cold, misty morning in early November. No photos were allowed to be taken but we could touch and feel the new incarnation that is fourth generation Master van.

We left with strong positive opinions, reinforced by the fact that we were able to do a direct comparison by driving the outgoing model first before taking to the wheel of the highly camouflaged new model, which was due for its world premiere a few weeks later at the Solutrans 2023 trade fair at EurExpo, Lyon.

Despite the zig-zag wallpaper pasted on each body panel, there was enough evidence to show that this is a completely new version, not a facelift of any kind. New Master, (code named XDD) sports a higher, more square bonnet, wider side loading doors, and its cabin and load area are roomier. The position of the wheels have changed and it boasts the most aerodynamic shell shape of any panel van in the marketplace to date. The new platform accommodates diesel, electric and hydrogen powertrain technologies. It’s said to be 50kg lighter and the new range extends to 4 tonnes GVW.

When the wraps came off the actual show model at the Solutrans exhibition, all these elements and more were revealed.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Largely on account of its completely new aerodynamic design, thanks to the creativity of Chief Designer Louis Morasse and his team, the Master ensures a significant reduction in energy consumption, of up to 21% compared with the previous generation. The electric versions, with a 40 kWh or 87 kWh battery, offers a WLTP range of over 410 km.

“We put the customer – and simplifying their daily life – at the centre of everything we did. We stopped at nothing to make sure the All-new Renault Master doubles up as a proper, practical, comfortable and, especially, ultra-high-quality workstation, ” explained Louis Morasse, design director, LCV Range, Renault.

The 2.0-litre internal combustion diesel versions have much lower C02 emissions, while delivering power ratings from 105hp to 170hp and a new 9-speed automatic gearbox for enhanced driving pleasure.

New and exclusive equipment is fitted as standard to enhance driving comfort, including a driver-facing dashboard, a 10.1” secondary display, an induction charger and wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, access to Google Services, automatic climate control and generous storage space.

In addition, new advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) enhance safety and driving comfort, with such features as adaptive cruise control and speed limiter, parking sensors (rear, front and side) with reversing camera, lane assist, blind spot warning and traffic sign recognition. Additionally, thanks to its reduced turning radius, the Renault Master is easier to manoeuvre in the tight spaces of city and town centres.

Technical specifications of the Renault Master E-Tech n Gross vehicle weight: up to 4 tonnes n Payload: up to 1,600 kg (3.5 t chassis cab without bodywork) n Pallet capacity: up to 5 euro pallets n Electric motor: Maximum power: 105 kW / Maximum torque: 300 Nm n Batteries: up to 87 kWh n Range: up to 400 km with a maximum speed of 90 km/h n Recharge time: from 15% to 80% in 40 minutes (130 kWh) n Towing capacity: up to 2.5 t “Our goal with the All-new Renault Master was to get as close as we could to the ideal van. Tradespeople, contractors and fleet managers will see a real leap forwards, a vehicle that is there for them whenever they need it, to maximise their productivity. A van they can lean on for their work, day in and day out, whatever type of energy they choose,” stated Hélène Carvalho, Renault Master programme leader, at the launch event.

Pictured at the launch were Heinz-Jurgën Löw, Head of Renault Vans along with Hélène Carvalho, Renault Master programme leader and Louis Morasse, design director, LCV Range, Renault.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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46 | | NEWS FIRST 1DRIVE

New F-LINE Series from Ford Trucks launched in Turkey and France

Ford Trucks has introduced the F-LINE, a new series of mid-heavy duty trucks said to offer a comfortable driving experience with a new design, connectivity technology, and advanced safety features.

Ford Trucks, the heavy commercial vehicle brand of the automotive giant which is jointly owned by Ford Motor Company and the Koç Group’s Ford Otosan, unveiled its new F-LINE series at a launch event in Antalya, Türkiye. It subsequently made its global introduction at the Solutrans 2023 exhibition in Lyon, France, both events attended by Fleet Transport. Designed and developed in-house by Ford Trucks, the F-LINE series captured the press and public’s attention with its connected vehicle technologies and advanced safety features, as well as comfort enhancements and modern design.

Created to cater for three segments – national distribution, construction, and municipal - the new series is said to offer customers efficiency and maximum uptime with connected vehicle technology as well as high performance.

F-LINE effectively replaces the long serving selection of mid to heavy duty trucks originally derived from the UK built Ford Cargo, dating back to the 90s.

Inspired by the themed vision of ‘Sharing the Load’, Ford Trucks designed the F-LINE series to meet market demands and

customer requirements in a range of different sectors.

At the launch event in Turkey, Emrah Duman, Ford Trucks Leader, emphasised Ford’s commitment to offer innovations with its products and services with the vision of ‘creating value with the most efficient transportation solutions.’ He added: “Our success in Türkiye and all other international markets grows year after year. We will continue to propel our brand forward by innovating in our product portfolio and the technologies we offer. With the new F-LINE series, which was built in response to consumer feedback, we offer innovations that increase both comfort and vehicle performance. We provide our customers a more comfortable driving experience with connected vehicle technology and enhanced safety technologies. As Ford Trucks, we will continue to create efficiency and offer performance and cutting-edge technologies to our customers.”

The cabin and exterior design of the F-LINE series, inspired by the brand’s flagship model, the F-MAX, were developed with enhanced ergonomics, comfort, and efficiency.

Emine Coskun, Market Leader, Ford Trucks, explained that the new F-Line keeps within the Ford design language. Surrounding the large black grille and rectangular lights structure on the F-Line cab is a multi-section front bumper and adjustable side and roof deflectors. Wide angle mirrors complete the exterior design,

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

FIRST DRIVE | 47

although the side windows do look small in dimensions.

The interior design has a 9-inch multimedia display that allows drivers to manage many functions inside the vehicle, together with a new steering wheel, and control buttons to enhance driving comfort. The 2.2m wide cab design will best suit applications operating in the urban environment, with the F-LINE series also featuring numerous safety technologies. These include Blind Spot Information System, Reversing Camera, Traffic Sign Recognition System, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Emergency Stop Signal, and Alcohol Interlock Preparation to ensure a safe journey on every road.

Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Automatic High Beam Assist, and Lane Departure Warning System are also on the spec sheet.

While at Antalya, members of the International Truck of the Year jury were given the first opportunity for an inaugural drive around a short and hilly test track. In honesty the terrain was more suited to the manual gearbox, rather than the 9 or 16-speed automated transmission on the choice of models driven particularly as it was surprisingly raining throughout the exercise (yet, 21 degrees!). That said, these were pre-production variants and more software tweaking has to be carried out before the F-LINE goes on sale in mainland European next year.

At Solutrans, Ford Trucks and Quantron AG confirmed its recently signed letter of intent for the joint development of heavy commercial vehicles with fuel cell drivetrains. The innovative Quantron Inside technology will be integrated into Ford Trucks’ F-Max heavy-duty vehicles. In the first phase of the collaboration, QUANTRON will ensure a seamless adaptation of Ford’s advanced trucks, which will be built in compliance with new safety regulations from the first quarter of 2024.

On sale will be selection of tractor-unit and rigid cab types - day/sleeper, with low/high roof heights available, as well as a choice of wheelbase lengths. Practically all axle configurations are covered, from 4x2/6x2 tractors to 4x2/6/2/6x4/8x4 construction to 4x2/6x2/6x4/8x2 road rigids. A 4x4 all-wheel-drive variant will added to the order book in due course. Powering the new line-up is a varied output choice from Ford’s own 9.0-litre and 12.7-litre EcoTorq Euro 6E diesels, offering 330 and 420 (9.0 litre) and 450 and 480 (12.7 litre) horsepower outputs. These are mated to either a 9-speed manual or ZF automated transmission for the 9-litre or a new in-house developed 16-speed automated gearbox for the 12.7-litre. Voith supplies the engine brake retarder.

With Ford Truck’s ConnecTruck, which is also offered in the F-LINE series, customers can connect to their vehicles at any time via a web portal or from their mobile phones. By monitoring their vehicles on the map, they can receive quick live vehicle data and previous vehicle usage records through a well thought out fleet management system. Telematics solutions provide efficiency that will boost vehicle uptime to 100% and assure optimum performance, offering remote diagnostics and software updates, thanks to connected vehicle technologies. The status of Ford Trucks vehicles is monitored remotely in real-time.

With this technology, Ford Trucks remotely monitors vehicle data instantly and aims to increase operation times by intervening with predictive remote diagnostics algorithms before vehicles are left on the road.

Pictured at the signing were (From left): Michael Perschke (CEO Quantron AG), Güven Özyurt (CEO Ford Otosan), Andreas Haller (Founder & Executive Chairman Quantron AG) and Emrah Duman (Ford Trucks Business Area Leader).

Ford Trucks is committed to ensuring that its product portfolio will consist entirely of zero-emission vehicles by 2040.

In line with this goal, the company is following the transformation roadmap it launched with zero-emission, connected, and autonomous technologies in heavy commercial vehicles under the name ‘Generation F’.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

48 | TRUMPET CALL

The Rotten Apples – they’re everywhere *Call to arms, to respect one another

Like me I’m sure you’re reeling from the recent events in Dublin City Centre, firstly the stabbings of young children and their carers. Then the knee jerk reaction of the rioting and the looting that followed.

It was terrible to see on television, a bus driver being attacked simply because of his colour and race. Which makes us wonder, would the bus have been allowed to travel on if a Dub was driving it? Would the driver be attacked? I doubt it. Shame on them. The horrific scenes, broadcast and published to all of the world, of burning Garda patrol cars, the Luas and breaking into shops did untold damage to the image of Ireland and will have repercussions to our vital tourism trade and also to the ongoing vibrant student exchange programmes.

It is hard to comprehend the mindset of these people. Our justice system has to do more to protect people and property.

All the excuses in the world will not gloss over what happened and it will take some time to be resolved.

I can only make general statements as an employer, in business since 1991 and have staff working with us for over 25 years. We employ a number of HGV drivers and I have to say, they all are honest and hard working people. One of our drivers is Polish born, and with us for over 20 years. He has worked diligently to support himself and his family. Both he and his family are part of the ‘New Irish’ and are indeed very welcome to this green and pleasant land.

In Camera – at the IRHA 50th Anniversary Conference – Killarney, Kerry “And you’re saying that there were petrol trucks like these, with no power steering, and no heaters back in the day?

And no driver shortage then!”

That was the assumption from this dialogue between Damien Byrne, Jason O’Sullivan, Sean O’Sullivan (former Kerry IRHA Chairman and life long honorary member) and Michael Collins (Collins Transport) with Junior Minister for Transport Jack Chambers at the 50th IRHA Conference, held in Killarney recently.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Our industry, road transport, is by its nature a sometimes difficult one, working unsociable hours away from home maybe for weeks on end around the continent. I, for one, can say that we cannot survive as a country without employing staff from outside of Ireland, but it’s not just transport, it’s in every sector.

Take medical care, for example, a sector which has a large number of workers from outside Ireland who have made this country their home, giving loving care and healing to us all. I say to everyone involved, thank you.

It was not so long ago that the Irish had to scatter to the four corners of the earth to find employment and a new life aboard.

So, we should have some compassion for our fellow man and woman in their time of need.

Sure, there are rotten apples in every barrel and we have them here amongst the Irish as well as foreign nationals living here. But that is why we have the laws of the land.

What I’m really trying to say is that we need to speak up and say that we will not stand for racist views in our industry or any industry. We respect the right to work free of intimidation, racist views, and fear and also to be respectful of your fellow man.

It’s a call to arms, to respect one another.

Best Regards, Wm Cyril Mc Guinness.

Haulier, Dublin

REVIEW | 49

SOLUTRANS 2023 – EurExpo, Lyon, France 21-25 November 2023 EurExpo, the big exhibition centre situated in the outskirts of Lyon, France once again hosted the biennial Solutrans trade fair. What once was a national commercial vehicle exhibition has truly become more international, with multi-national companies and global manufacturers booking stand space across five halls. All backed up by a growing number of international journalists attending.

Solutrans 2023 also provided the stage for commercial vehicle world premieres and, as per previous occasions, facilitated the announcement and presentation of a series of national and global awards. Ford, Volkswagen, Volvo & Man Trucks were successful here from the International Van, Pick-up, Truck and truck Innovation selection of trophies handed over. (See news section for more details) Topping the Bill was the world debut from the Renault Group with its all-new fourth generation Master range of large vans and chassis-cabs. Created by chief designer Louis Morasse and his team, the new commercial is a revolution in terms of setting standards in aerodynamics, more load volume, improved driveability, driver safety and comfort plus a choice of powertrains. Up to four horsepower options are available from the 2.0-litre dCi diesel, while the new E-Tech Electric has more range distance. Heinz-Jürgen Löw, Head of Renault LCV stated that

currently the electric light commercial segment is at 8% of the market and will grow beyond 55% by the end of the decade. Next year will see the HYVIA Master E-Tech Hydrogen version roll off the production line alongside the other forty variants available.

Ford Motor Company, cock-a-hoop on scoring a double in winning the International Van of the Year Award 2024 with the Transit Custom and the International Pick-up Award 2024/25, shared with the Volkswagen Amarok, had the stated Custom in electric form alongside the new E-Courier and E-Transit on display. Another newcomer on the van side was from Stellantis, showcasing its new Fiat eDoblò with its new face and improved drivetrain.

Also on its stand was a used Peugeot Expert panel van that was converted from diesel to electric ex-factory. The plan is to seek opportunities and further potential in this, according to Xavier Peugeot, who heads up the company’s light commercial department.

Remaining with French marques and closer to home with Lyon headquartered Renault Trucks, which featured its latest Oxygen prototype in the shape of a mid-sized electric truck, fitted with the ‘Fleet Transport Truck Innovation Award’ winning bus style high and wide kerb side door, for more efficient deliveries and safer urban driving. This unit is destined to go on trial with Geodis and another one set for a big name in logistics shortly. New cab styling on the Renault D range were revealed, based on the FL & FE series from their Volvo Trucks www.fleet.ie

50 | | NEWS REVIEW 1

brethren. Next in line was the flagship T E-Tech, the first of its electric heavy duty trucks. Renault Trucks zero-emission selection now extends from 650kg to 44tonnes. To date over 10 million emission-free kilometres have been covered, saving over 10,000 tonnes/CO2 into the bargain.

Innovation and foresight is the order of the day at Spanish bus and coach builder Irizar, with its next generation ‘ie’ electric truck, using components similar to that used on its coaches.

This tri-axle chassis version featuring a completely renewed, lightened design, is technically updated to comply with the latest legislative requirements (ADAS and GSR2). A two-axle unit, fitted with a refrigerated box body, manufactured

by Chereau, was on display at its stand.

Another example was a rear-loading, 100% electric vehicle fitted with a waste collection body.

MAN Truck & Bus was also among the prize winners at the Gala Awards Dinner, held during the Solutrans event.

Its Anita Autonomous project won the International Truck Innovation Award, based on the electric TGX tractor-unit.

Similar heavy-duty eTrucks from the German manufacturer were on display FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

here, along with a biofuel powered TGL distribution box bodied rigid. On many of the stands, a number of the truck brands focused on alternative fuels like biogas, HVO and B100, which are readily available and can significantly lower road transport’s carbon footprint. MAN’s future is directed towards electric and by 2050 over 50% of its sales with be zero-emission.

Staying with the Traton Group, which also owns Scania, the Swedish truck and coach producer arrived with its latest developments in electric trucks and along with mobile charging units and also had a hybrid version located nearby.

Turkey based Ford Trucks is fast becoming a main player in the mid to heavy duty sectors, making an impact initially with the F-Max flagship and now with the F-Line range, which received its first show airing here at EurExpo.

As featured elsewhere in this edition, the new series will cater for national haulage, construction and municipal applications. Shortly after the official presentation Ford Trucks executives and Quantron management confirmed its strategic cooperation whereby Quantron Inside technology with its effective range, innovative e-axle, customized

high-power battery, hydrogen fuel cell and tank integration, efficient energy-management will be integrated into Ford Trucks’ F-Max tractor-unit, enabling emission-free transport solutions.

Emillio Portillo, Managing Director of IVECO France, and Clément Chandon, Product Director of IVECO France, shared the latest news from the Italian brand and the solutions developed to support the energy transition. They outlined IVECO’s completely renewed full range of commercial vehicles, including a 100% electric offering from 3.5 to 44 tonnes GVW. See report from the launch event in Spain in this issue.

Daimler Trucks France outlined some interesting facts and figures relating to the Group’s commercial vehicle performance. It continues to increase sales with 385,921 units delivered worldwide into Quarter 3, 2023. In France, Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz and FUSO truck brands improved its market share by 8%, in a 49,000 unit strong sector.

All eyes were on the new eActros 600 long haul electric tractor unit, with its three 207 kWh battery pack offering up to 500km, 44 tonnes GVW and around

REVIEW REVIEW | 51

350 kilometres. There is also a 190 kW option. Dedicated sales, planning advice, training and charging points are all part of the package.

22 tonnes payload. Across the way was the new FUSO eCanter, recently awarded Irish Green (Light Truck) Commercial of the year at the Fleet Transport Awards.

2025 will see the introduction of the latest hydrogen powered Actros Gen H2 heavy duty tractor-unit.

A Renault Range T tractor stood prominently in the Hyliko space, and on closer inspection, stand visitors realised that it was converted to hydrogen power. The Paris based start-up uses Toyota’s second generation hydrogen fuel cell modules into heavy-duty for its zero-emission fleet offering. And with trucks responsible for 77% of freight movements across Europe, great potential is to be exploited here.

Sitting pretty alongside its multi-award winning XG & XF series was the new DAF XB 120e Electric rigid, that can cover from 12,16 & 19 tonnes, providing a range of up to

and wet grip performance, even when the tyre tread is in the worn condition, to when regrooving is encouraged.

The other main Turkish truck brand, coincidentally with a former British name is BMC, which made a brief foray into local markets here some years ago, went all out to promote its flagship Tuğra heavy duty truck range. BMC has fifty years’ experience in commercial, exporting to 80 countries worldwide.

Meanwhile Bridgestone is concentrating on the latest generation of Ecopia, its long-haul tyre family. Created for fleets seeking to maximise fuel efficiency and boost their total value of ownership, the new Bridgestone Ecopia ENLITEN range applies Bridgestone’s innovative approach to tyre development, ENLITEN, to unlock enhanced wear and reduced rolling resistance year-round.

Practically all of the main tyre brands were present, none more so than Michelin, which launched Michelin Connected Mobility, a new, comprehensive and technological offering which aims to provide an effective response to fleet managers’ many needs.

From selecting the best suited tyres to fleet management, monitoring and automatic inspection, the object is to reduce vehicle downtime, emissions and accidents.

Hankook introduced a new Long-Haul tyre range called SmartLine AL50 and DL50, the first with Artificial Intelligence supported tyre design. Consisting of new and more sustainable materials and 3D printed metal tyre moulds, they are said to offer up to 15% better fuel efficiency

When it comes to transport refrigerators, there are only a few global names, with Thermo King, which undoubtedly had the most influential and attractive stand designs. Welcome to the e-Zone www.fleet.ie

52 | REVIEW

it said, in promoting the validated use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and B100 Biodiesel, as more sustainable fuel alternatives to power all its truck and trailer refrigeration units. Presented for the first time in Lyon, was its new 100% electric powered E-500e unit designed for Electric Light Commercial Vehicles. This new model is the flagship Thermo King E-Series range for urban and inner-city deliveries. The E-500e is powered directly by the vehicle’s battery, eliminating the need to invest in an additional battery pack or shore connection module.

No less than twenty examples of Carrier Transicold products were on display all around the halls at various associated trade stands. For semi-trailers, it has the Vector eCool motor-less, all-electric, fully autonomous refrigeration system. Its Syberia eCool 100% electric refrigeration units cover trucks, featuring E-Drive technology, while for Light Commercials, it offers three models: the high-voltage Pulsor eCool; the Neos HE 200, an electric system for small vehicles, both thermal and electric; and the Xarios 8 MT, ideal for 7.5t trucks.

For accessories, Carrier Transicold has developed a range of reverse-reading displays, which enables the driver to read the key indicators of the refrigeration unit in the vehicle’s rearview mirror without having to stop the vehicle to check them. A range of solar panels (50 and 110 watts) were also showcased, designed to improve the life of 12-volt batteries used in refrigeration units for semi-trailers.

SmarTrailer is the name for a whole new selection of refrigerated trailer and box body units from Chereau.

In replacing its current ranges, and improving on quality and performance, three pillars are considered: Environment; Employees; Connected logistics. In addition, insulation within the body FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

axle, the eTrailer’s eAxle not only supports the drive of the tractor unit, but also recovers braking energy through recuperation. This enables the eTrailer to provide impressive drive assistance and reduce fuel consumption on long journeys. In combination with a battery-electric tractor unit, the range of the entire system is doubled or even tripled.

panels has increased by 8%. Along with the refrigerator producers, Chereau can offer a wide choice of energy solutions such as diesel-electric hybrid with mains rechargeable battery. Frappa, a French bodybuilder since 1845 had a big stand area occupied by a selection of refrigerated trucks. Expect to see a version of its emission free cryogenic powered reefer unit on a Renault D-Wide E-Tech electric truck on trial in Ireland early next year.

In its fourth appearance at Solutrans, Kässbohrer exhibited finest examples from its complete range; the SSL 38 its most efficient non-tipping silo with maximum payload, the K.SLA HS3 with extendable lowbed with hydraulic gooseneck ramp, K.SCH Hardwood floor Curtainsider, and the K.SPS XS Light Platform Series, efficiently meeting the needs of its customers across Europe.

Kassbohrer takes care of its customer’s needs with its expert after-sales network as well as spare parts operations.

Flying the Irish flag was Dennison Trailers, which had a European spec version of its skeletal semi-trailer with Aidan Kinsella and David Dennison on duty to explain all to show visitors during the five days.

Krone presented its eTrailer, developed in close cooperation with technology innovator Trailer Dynamics.

Equipped with a powerful electrified

If in the heavy haul business, operating trailers for heavy and special transport, the name Faymonville is synonymous with the manufacture of well-coordinated, task-optimised low loaders, low-bed trailers, flatbed trailers, in-loaders and modular vehicles for all tasks in the field of special transport or heavy transport.

The next edition of Solutrans is set for 18-22 November 2025 Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

EMISSION FREE | 53

Daimler Trucks achieves ‘Grand’ milestone with Mercedes-Benz GenH2

A significant milestone in the evolution of alternatively fuelled heavy goods vehicles was reached on September 26th when a hydrogen powered Daimler Truck brand model completed a distance of over 1,000 kilometres on a single fill of liquid hydrogen.

The Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck achieved the record-breaking run by travelling between Wörth am Rhein and Berlin in Germany without having to refuel, a total distance of 1,047 kilometres. The Actros-based tractor unit, with fully loaded trailer giving a gross combined vehicle weight of 40 tons, ran on public roads under real-life conditions, with the record attempt independently confirmed by TÜV Rheinland.

To reach and exceed the magic 1,000km target, the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck was fuelled with liquid hydrogen at Daimler Truck’s filling station at the company’s development and testing centre in Woerth, using renewable hydrogen produced from bio-methane supplied by Air Liquide. The cryogenic liquid hydrogen at minus 253 degrees Celsius was filled into two 40 kg tanks mounted on either side of the truck chassis. Daimler Trucks stated that thanks to the particularly good insulation of

the vehicle tanks, the hydrogen can be kept at temperature for a sufficiently long time without active cooling. It prefers to use hydrogen in liquid form in the development of hydrogen-based drives as it has a significantly higher energy density in relation to volume compared to gaseous hydrogen.

This means more hydrogen can be carried, significantly increasing the range to the extent that the hydrogen truck offers comparable performance with that of a conventional diesel truck.

Speaking at the finish line in the Ministergarten in Berlin, Andreas Gorbach, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler Truck AG, Head of Truck Technology said the achievement was a validation of Daimler’s dual-track strategy of developing hydrogen and battery-powered vehicles alongside each other.

“To decarbonize transport, we need both battery-electric and hydrogen-powered drive technologies. The sweet spot for fuel cell trucks lies in flexible and demanding long-haul transportation tasks. By cracking the 1,000-kilometre mark with one fill, we have now impressively demonstrated: Hydrogen in trucks is anything but hot air, and we are making very good progress on the road to series production.

At the same time, our record run is a reminder that decarbonizing transportation requires two other factors in addition to the right drive technologies: a green energy infrastructure and competitive costs compared to conventional vehicles.”

Of course hydrogen (and BEV)

trucks are significantly more expensive than their diesel counterparts at present.

In relation to that point, Andreas perhaps controversially added that Daimler is in favour of governments artificially increasing the cost of operating diesel trucks so as to make battery electric or fuel cell vehicles more competitive. He explained it could be achieved “either [by increasing the price of ] the fuel or [increasing the cost of ] driving the diesel truck, which could be done by, for example, increasing the tolls for diesel trucks - which is the way the European Union is choosing to go, I think that is inevitable to make it more attractive for our customers wanting to drive battery or fuel cell trucks.”

First unveiled to the public in September 2020, prototype versions of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck Concept have been undergoing rigorous testing and development in the period since.

Notable steps have included negotiating the Brenner Pass, one of Europe’s busiest and most challenging transit routes.

While not committing to definite dates as to when the hydrogen truck may enter production, Daimler Truck’s goal remains firmly set to introduce the series version of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck in the second half of the decade, with first fuel-cell trucks expected to be tested in customer hands in the coming years.

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

54 | | NEWS UTILITY 1

ON TEST: INEOS Grenadier Utility Commercial 4x4

Over the decades we have often heard the story about how the first concept of the Mini was drawn up on a serviette in a restaurant. Well, the first thoughts on creating what has become the INEOS Grenadier came about over a high bar stool discussion among friends in London! They were mourning the loss of the original Land Rover Defender and how, in their minds, its successor didn’t cut it as an all-round utility vehicle. And so they set about putting their ideas, ideals and money behind the project. Five years later, the Grenadier - named after the pub where it originated - was revealed.

The resulting design is appealing, turning heads and generating curiosity and interest from a broad audience wherever it goes.

Longer, taller and wider than the iconic model it drew its inspiration from, the Grenadier’s boxy shape is constructed on a box sectioned ladder frame and has enough space inside the load area to accommodate a europallet.

Inside, Ricaro seats hug the driver and front passenger, while the cockpit is like that found inside a helicopter with a myriad of switch gear and controls stretching from the touchscreen right up along the roof panels. All very cool, and a welcome alternative to the multi-function touchscreens offered on most vehicles today. Meanwhile, Bluetooth connectivity and lots of functionality through the steering wheel buttons help keep eyes on the road.

One major difference that those familiar with the cramped space inside the old Defender will notice is that there is plenty of elbow room in the Grenadier - no banging against the door panels here.

Although thoroughly British in design and nature, this unique 4x4 Utility is actually built in France and powered by a BMW 3.0-litre straight-six twin-turbo diesel. This block pushes out 245 hp FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

and 550 Nm of torque, all through an 8-speed automatic, supplied by ZF (Germany).

Diesel power for now, but electric and even hydrogen zero emission technologies are being worked on presently.

No issues with how the powertrain performs; the ‘Beemer Six’ works well with the ZF auto box. From a running costs point of view, our 1,000 km week long test of mixed work returned an average fuel consumption of 11.7L/100 km, which is above average for a machine that weights over 2.5 tonnes unladen.

Body styles are a 5-seat Station Wagon in passenger form, and either a 2 or 5 seat Utility Wagon commercial. A pick-up version, called the Quartermaster, has recently been launched.

Looking strong and well-built from every angle, the INEOS is truly a multi-purpose heavy duty utilitarian type vehicle that’s built to last. Among useful features is a 400 W power take-off (PTO). Access to the flat floor load area, supported by a wire mesh bulkhead, is though the side doors and split rear doors (30/70) with the wider panel housing the full spare wheel, on the outside.

Due to the 17” thickly grooved BF Goodrich tyres, and the recirculating ball hydraulic steering system, on-road driving takes a little getting used to.

Notably the steering doesn’t self-centre like on most vehicles, requiring the driver to physically straighten the wheel after going around a corner. The advantage of this system is that it is much more efficient and safer - less chance of ‘kickback’ from the steering wheel when negotiating tricky off-road terrain.

Another observation is that a handle on the door panels would assist in getting in and out of the vehicle.

Off-road there were certainly no complaints. The Grenadier is a machine that loves to get down and dirty. It took to the task of traversing over mud, spit and gravel with vigour, with all

the traction and control mechanisms available at the touch of a switch making it clearly very capable in the rough stuff.

And also capable of towing or wenching up to 5.5 tonnes if required.

With prices from €64,995 plus VAT for the 2 seat Commercial version, this is by some way the cheapest Grenadier on offer, yet is still at the premium end of the (admittedly small) Commercial SUV market. While the new INEOS Grenadier may not have the full grandfather rights to the original Land Rover Defender, for the driver needing a serious off-roader, it now very much a benchmark in the allwheel-drive utility segment.

Spec Check Make/Model: INEOS Grenadier 4x4 Body type: Utility Wagon Commercial - 2 seat Engine: 3.0-litre Straight-six twin-turbo diesel Power: 245 hp @3,250-4,200 rpm Torque: 550 Nm @1,250-3,000 rpm Transmission: ZF 8-speed automatic with manual overdrive Suspension: Heavy duty coil Tyres: BF Goodrich 265/70R17 All Terrain Steering: Recirculating ball hydraulic Wading: Features: LED lights/Power heated mirrors/Rear view camera/Full size spare wheel/30-70 split rear door/ Ricaro seats/Bluetooth hands free/5.5-tonne heavy duty wench/400W PTO Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

INTERVIEW II | 55

Trading up – why fully automatic transmissions are not just for domestic refuse collection Q&A with Nathan Wilson, Account & Area Sales Manager UK & Republic of Ireland, Allison Transmission Allison fully automatic transmissions are the default choice for domestic refuse collection vehicles (RCVs) irrespective of chassis manufacturer, but trucks used for trade waste collections and indeed other industrial applications are more likely to be specified with the standard OEM automated transmissions. Why is this?

NW: The obvious answer is that trade-waste trucks are more likely to be based on standard chassis-cabs, and while Allison transmissions are available as options for most of these, it’s an option that comes at an extra cost. There is also a perception in the market that the Allison is only suitable for low-speed operations, and will be too slow and thirsty for trade work, where stops are further apart and journey speeds are higher.

We argue, and indeed evidence from a recent fleet study proves, that this is an inaccurate stereotype. The latest iterations of Allison products are equal or superior to the standard equipment in terms of fuel consumption and journey times, while their proven durability when compared to transmissions with fast-wearing dry friction clutches means that the premium charged by the OEMs for the Allison product will easily be recouped over the life of the vehicle.

The business case for fully automatics in terms of whole life costs is there not just for commercial refuse, but for bulk haulage, tankers and many other industrial applications.

Very interesting claims. How can you substantiate them?

NW: We introduced a new product variant, the xFE (for extra fuel economy), to the 3000 and 3200 transmissions in 2021. This differs from the standard Allison products in having an early (400 rpm) mechanical lock-up in first gear, and

double-overdrive fifth and sixth gears.

This allows today’s high-torque engines to operate at optimum low rpms.

Further fuel savings come from the standard fitment of Allison’s Fuel Sense 2.0 software and electronic controls.

Working with Biffa, we trialled two Dennis Eagle Elite 26-tonne municipal trucks fitted with the xFE Allison transmission against others with standard versions on a variety of routes and duties. The xFE-equipped trucks returned an average fuel savings of 4.8 per cent.

The results support the theoretical CO2 emissions saving calculated using the European standard VECTO fuel consumption tool of up to 3.7 per cent on the Municipal Utility cycle when compared to the Allison 3000 Series.

What about your claims on reduced journey times?

NW: The use of a hydraulic torque converter amplifies the torque available at the wheels when the truck pulls away.

Performance is further enhanced by seamless shifting between ratios, and like-for-like acceleration is 13 per cent quicker than on a truck with a standard automated manual transmission (AMT).

Remember that Allison transmissions are specified on fire appliances worldwide and are also used by the vast majority of trucks running in events such as the Dakar Rally, in part because they offer better acceleration, and they are also more durable than their mechanical counterparts. They can handle repeated full-power shifts without detrimental wear.

How much more durable are the Allison products over the OEM automated transmission fitted to most trucks?

NW: Analysis of the maintenance records of a major UK fleet shows that 40 per cent of trade-waste trucks fitted with

standard AMTs experienced premature failure of their mechanical clutches, after as little as two years of operation in some cases.

The harder the truck was worked, the more likely this was to occur, with trucks operating in intense urban conditions the most vulnerable. High engine torques and overall gearing, which aid fuel economy at highway speeds, increase the wear and thermal loading on the mechanical clutch in traffic. Dust from the clutch accumulates on the release bearing and causes the clutch to ‘ride’, further increasing heat and wear.

Once this process starts, it’s a vicious cycle into premature failure.

The total cost of one repair, including vehicle recovery and hiring-in a specialist replacement vehicle, can equal or exceed the price premium charged by the OEM for specifying an Allison over the standard transmission type.

Sixty trucks fitted with Allison transmissions from new on the same feet, and doing comparable work, experienced zero mechanical failures with only routine fluid changes required. Over a period of six years, the only unscheduled repairs required were the replacement of three electronic control modules: a simple and low-cost task compared to splitting the engine and gearbox on a standard truck to fit a new mechanical clutch.

In conversation with Rob van Dieten – rob@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

Quick. Safe.

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The S.CS FREEPOST is built at the Schmitz Cargobull factory in Manchester and is designed specifically to meet the requirements of the UK and Irish markets. Find more information on www.cargobull.com/uk or contact us directly via email FREEPOST@groups.cargobull.com.

Fleet Transport Awards 2024 Supplement

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

Sligo Haulage & Distribution Ltd Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year 2024

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

OVERALL WINNER IRISH HAULIER OF THE YEAR 2024 - SLIGO HAULAGE & DISTRIBUTION LTD.

www.fleet.ie

58 | NEWS I

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

Title Sponsor

Associate Sponsor

Sligo Haulage & Distribution collects the Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year Award 2024

Pictured (l-r) Keith, Stephen and Gareth Mullen, Sligo Haulage & Distribution – Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year 2024; Glenn Carr, Director, Commercial Business Units, Rosslare Europort (Title Sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Commitment, dedication, efficiency, top quality customer service and maintaining an impeccable fleet, were just some of the plaudits from the judging panel in awarding Sligo Haulage & Distribution Ltd. the prestigious Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year Award 2024.

It was a special and memorable occasion for the Tubbercurry, County Sligo based Mullen family as they received strong applause from the full house gathering at the Fleet Transport Awards 2024 Gala Banquet at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath on Thursday 9 November.

Receiving the prestigious accolade from Glenn Carr, Managing Director, Rosslare Europort, the main award sponsors, Stephen Mullen, founder and Managing Director, Sligo Haulage & Distribution, was asked by event compère Shay Byrne’s: “What does this recognition mean for you?”

“Well, as a small to medium sized family owned and managed

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

business based in the North West, it is a dream come true. We pride ourselves on our service quality and dedication to our customers’ needs and meeting every challenge with a can-do attitude for 25 years. To have this recognised is indescribable in words. We would not

Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor, Fleet Publications

be able to do this without the hard work and dedication of our excellent team in the office, warehouses and on the road.

Along with the loyalty of our customers and suppliers we have achieved this together.”

NEWS I | 59 difficult number of years for us personally and those who know us are aware of the reasons why.”

Shay Byrne, RTE Radio 1 – Master of Ceremonies

“Our thanks go out to the Fleet Transport Team and the judges for honouring our family business with this prestigious award, which we will proudly display across our vehicles in the future. Even though this accolade is for 2024, it’s an award which will stay with the company for its lifetime. To be recognised as one of the best hauliers in the country, an award that is normally associated with larger operators, is a huge honour. We are truly humbled by the amount of well wishes we have received from our peers, and to have received a standing ovation when it was announced was most memorable.

To be honest, it hasn’t really sunk in yet that we are the Irish Haulier of the Year 2024. It has been an extremely challenging time for our family over the past number of years in business, with a global pandemic, a war which has played havoc with the global economy, and of course the rising costs. It has also been a

While Stephen is firmly at the helm, his two sons Gareth and Keith are also very much involved in the day-to-day running of the family business, and take great pride in running their highly distinctive fleet of predominantly yellow liveried trucks, trailers and vans. 2024 marks the 25th anniversary of the firm.

Welcoming the attendees, Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor, Fleet Publications, on behalf of the organising team stated that the annual event continues to maintain its objective – “Honouring best practise in the Irish Road Transport Industry” and highlighted the great variety of entries from sole traders/owner drivers and SMEs to large fleet operators. “We appreciate the time and effort in submitting the applications and are pleased to see new entrants. Congratulations to the winners and well done to all the finalists for their participation.

This annual occasion provides the opportunity for companies to look inward and highlight what they are doing well, with great energy and enthusiasm, which is praiseworthy.”

He continued: “As you will all know, this is an ever changing industry, with so many issues, rules and regulations to deal with day-to-day, as well as looking after number one – the customer.

The interview sessions that were conducted with the finalists proved most interesting, giving us a great insight in the state of play, more like the state of the nation, as in reality, road transport turns the wheels of the economy at home Gareth, Ann, Stephen and Keith Mullen, Sligo Haulage & Distribution and abroad.

In recent times, we have seen some mergers and acquisitions and this is likely to continue as the sector becomes more consolidated. But the SMEs will remain at the heart of the haulage industry. And many of these family-run businesses are finalists here tonight.

Then there is the transition to electro-mobility, which is happening but has a number of challenges, ranging from the initial cost to the lack of charging infrastructure, but also the change of mindset required. High praise must go to the commercial vehicle manufacturers for turning out highly engineered and competent electric vans and trucks in a very short time. This technology is continuing to evolve and alongside is the ongoing research and development

of hydrogen powered trucks and vans. In recent times, I have had the opportunity to drive these latest alternatively powered vehicles and will keep you informed through our magazines, website and social media posts.”

Jarlath thanked everyone involved in making the night another great success, including the adjudication panel, the host venue and members of the organisation team. “We are grateful of your ongoing support and appreciate the great business relationship with our event sponsors and magazine advertisers. He mentioned the broad selection of commercial vehicles and trailers on display at the Exhibition Arena outside the hote - “the best ever,” he said and thanked all the companies involved in contributing towards this “fine showcase for the road transport industry”.

with Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine

www.fleet.ie

60 | NEWS II

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

Irish Haulier of the year Year Winners National Haulier of the Year 2024 Sponsored by Volvo Trucks Winner: Zellwood

Van Fleet Award 2024 Sponsored by Peugeot Winner: Uisce Éireann

Technician of the Year 2024 Sponsored by Dennison Fastparts Winner: Liam Phelan – JS Ryan Freight

Refrigerated Transport Specialist (International/National) Award 2024 Sponsored by Thermo King Winner: – Hendrick European

Livery Award 2024 Sponsored by Renault Trucks Winner: Byrne Logistics

Excellence in Warehousing & Product Handling Award 2024 Sponsored by Combilift Winner: Derry Group

Own Account Transport Operator of the Year 2024 Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Winner: Sweeney Oil Owner Driver Haulier of the Year 2024 Sponsored by MAN Truck & Bus Winner: A Transport Regional Transport Operator of the Year 2024 Sponsored by FUSO Ireland Winner: Sligo Haulage & Distribution

Women in Transport Award 2024 Sponsored by Enterprise Flex-E-Rent Winner: Jodie Prendergast – Kennedy International Safety Practice Award 2024 Sponsored by Health & Safety Authority Winner: McCulla Ireland Ltd Innovation Award 2024 Sponsored by Close Brothers Commercial Finance Winner: Digicom Environment & Sustainability Award 2024 Sponsored by Gas Networks Ireland Winner: Dixon International Transport

Customer Service Excellence Award 2024 Sponsored by Schmitz Carogbull Winner: Smith Vehicle Solutions Fleet/Transport Manager of the Year 2024 Sponsored by IVECO in Partnership with Emerald Truck & Van Winner: Thomas Heffernan – Iarnród Éireann Customer Service Excellence Award 2024 Sponsored by Capital Flow Recipient: Moffett Family

Irish truck of the year Year & Green Commercial awards Awards 2024 Irish Flagship Tractor-Unit of the Year 2024 Sponsored by AIB Finance & Leasing Winner: DAF XG+

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Trucks – Medium Duty Sponsored by ePower Winner: Mercedes-Benz eActros 300/400

Irish Distribution Truck of the Year 2024 – Medium Duty Sponsored by AIB Finance & Leasing Winner: MAN TGM

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Trucks – Light Duty Sponsored by ePower Winner: FUSO eCanter

Irish Distribution Truck of the Year 2024 – Heavy Duty Sponsored by AIB Finance & Leasing Winner: DAF XD 6x2

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Van – Small/Medium Sponsored by ePower Winner: Renault Kangoo E-Tech

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Trucks – Heavy Duty Sponsored by ePower Winner: Volvo eFH

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Van - Large Sponsored by ePower Winner: Ford E-Transit

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Irish Truck Innovation Award 2024 Sponsored by Freight Transport Association Ireland Winner: Renault D-Wide E-Tech 6x2 low entry cab with bus-style folding door and low step height Irish Trailer Innovation Award 2024 Sponsored by Freight Transport Association Ireland Winner: Dennison Urban Split Curtainsider Trailer

CATEGORY WINNERS | 61

category winners National Haulier of the Year 2024

Winner: Zellwood William Flanagan, Zellwood; Joe Roddy, Network Truck Sales Director – Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland (sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Refrigerated Transport Specialist (International/National) Award 2024

Winner: Hendrick European Diarmaid Bucke, Thermo King Area Manager – Ireland Sales & Service (sponsor); Alan Hendrick and Simon Cox, Hendrick European and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

www.fleet.ie

62 | CATEGORY WINNERS

category winners Own Account Transport Operator of the Year 2024

Winner: Sweeney Oil Fergus Conheady, Commercial Vehicles Sales Manager, MercedesBenz (sponsor); John Sweeney and Louise Martin, Sweeney Oil and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Owner Driver Haulier of the Year 2024

Winner: A Transport Callum Anderson, A Transport; Tim Cronin, Head of Sales, MAN Importers Ireland (sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

CATEGORY WINNERS | 63

category winners Regional Transport Operator of the Year 2024

Winner: Sligo Haulage & Distribution Gareth Mullen and Stephen Mullen, Sligo Haulage & Distribution Ltd; Andrew Johnson, National Sales Manager, FUSO Ireland (sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Van Fleet Award 2024

Winner: Uisce Éireann Paul Mahon, Tara Dooley, Uisce Éireann; Sam Weir, Fleet Manager, Peugeot (sponsor); Ken Clayton, Uisce Éireann and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

www.fleet.ie

64 | CATEGORY WINNERS

category winners Livery Award 2024

Winner: Byrne Logistics Harry Nash, Managing Director, Setanta Vehicle Sales/Renault Trucks Ireland (sponsor); David Byrne and Jess Carey, Byrne Logistics and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Women in Transport Award 2024

Winner: Jodie Prendergast – Kennedy International Jodie Prendergast, Kennedy International; Owen McNamara, Head of Sales, Enterprise Flex-E-Rent (sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

CATEGORY WINNERS | 65

category winners Safety Practice Award 2024

Winner: McCulla Ireland Ltd Ashley McCulla, Wendy McCulla, Drew Elliott and Brian Beattie, McCulla Ireland; Paul White presenting the award on behalf of Health & Safety Authority (sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Innovation Award 2024

Winner: Digicom Allan Vincent, Sales Manager; Colin Robb, M.D.; Jayne Murdock, Shipping Manager and Brigid Derry, CEO, Digicom

www.fleet.ie

66 | CATEGORY WINNERS

category winners Environment & Sustainability Award 2024

Winner: Dixon International Transport Brendan Dixon, Dixon International Transport; Fran McFadden, National Customer Acquisition Manager, Gas Networks Ireland (sponsor), Colum Aungier, Dixon International Transport and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Technician of the Year 2024

Winner: Liam Phelan – JS Ryan Freight Liam Phelan, JS Ryan Freight; John Browne, Dennison Fastparts (sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

CATEGORY WINNERS | 67

category winners Excellence in Warehousing & Product Handling Award 2024

Winner: Derry Group Patrick Derry, Derry Group; Noel O’Dowd, Product Manager for Ireland, Combilift (sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Customer Service Excellence Award 2024

Winner: Smith Vehicle Solutions Colin Maher, UK Managing Director, Schmitz Cargobull (sponsor); Peter Smith, Smith Vehicle Solutions and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine. www.fleet.ie

68 | CATEGORY WINNERS

category winners Fleet/Transport Manager of the Year 2024

Winner: Thomas Heffernan – Iarnrod Éireann Thomas Heffernan, Iarnrod Éireann; Patrick Farbrace, Truck Business Line Director, IVECO (sponsor) and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Customer Service Excellence Award 2024

Recipient: Moffett Family Ronan Kelly, Managing Director, Capitalflow (sponsor); Carol Moffett; Shay Byrne, Master of Ceremonies and Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport Magazine.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

CATEGORY WINNERS | 69

category winners

www.fleet.ie

70 | IRISH TRUCK OF THE YEAR

Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 2024

Sponsored by

Irish Flagship Tractor-Unit of the Year 2024

Irish Distribution Truck of the Year 2024 – Medium Duty

Winner: DAF XG+

Winner: MAN TGM

Felim O’Donnell, AIB Finance & Leasing (sponsor); John McCann, Sales Manager, DAF Trucks Ireland and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Felim O’Donnell, AIB Finance & Leasing (sponsor); Tim Cronin, Head of Sales, MAN Importers Ireland and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

IRISH TRUCK OF THE YEAR | 71

Fleet Transport Irish Truck Green commercial of the Year Awards 2024 awards 2023 Sponsored by Irish Distribution Truck of the Year 2024 – Heavy Duty

Winner: DAF XD 6x2

Felim O’Donnell, AIB Finance & Leasing (sponsor); John McCann, Sales Manager, DAF Trucks Ireland and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Sponsored by

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Trucks – Heavy Duty

Winner: Volvo eFH

Joe Roddy, Network Truck Sales Director – Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland; Hugh Hall, ePower (sponsor); Martin Tomlinson, Head of Media & Truck Demonstration, Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

www.fleet.ie

72 | IRISH TRUCK OF THE YEAR

Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 2024

Sponsored by

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Trucks – Medium Duty

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Trucks – Light Duty

Winner: Mercedes-Benz eActros 300/400

Winner: FUSO eCanter

Hugh Hall, ePower (sponsor); Gerry McDonnell, Technical Sales Executive and Fergus Conheady, Commercial Vehicles Sales Manager, Mercedes-Benz Commerial Vehicles and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Alexander Kuhnt, Daimler Truck AG; Andrew Johnson, Natasha Maher and Eline de Vries, FUSO Ireland; Hugh Hall, ePower (sponsor) and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

IRISH TRUCK OF THE YEAR | 73

Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 2024

Sponsored by

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Van – Small/Medium

Irish Green Commercial of the Year 2024 – Electric Van Large

Winner: Renault Kangoo E-Tech

Winner: Ford E-Transit

Conor Dixon, Key Account Manager, Groupe Renault; Hugh Hall, ePower (sponsor) and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

Hugh Hall, ePower (sponsor); Padraig Duane, Fleet Business Manager, Ford of Ireland and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

www.fleet.ie

74 | IRISH TRUCK OF THE YEAR

Fleet Transport Irish Truck INNOVATION Award 2024

Sponsored by

Irish Truck Innovation Award 2024

Irish Trailer Innovation Award 2024

Winner: Renault D-Wide E-Tech 6x2 low entry cab with bus-style folding door and low step height

Winner: Dennison Urban Split Curtainsider Trailer

Harry Nash, Managing Director, Renault Trucks Ireland; Aidan Flynn, C.E.O. Freight Transport Association Ireland (sponsor) and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

David Dennison, M.D. Dennison Trailers; Aidan Flynn, C.E.O. Freight Transport Association Ireland (sponsor) and Sean Murtagh, Fleet Transport Magazine.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

welcome reception | 75

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

welcome reception

Paddy & Petronilla Ryan with Liam Phelan (middle) – JS Ryan Freight

Sean Murtagh, Howard Knott, Leo & Valerie Gunning

Katherine Chivers, Smith Vehicle Solutions; Simon Cox, Hendrick European and Orla Sweeney, Fleet Transport.

Fergal Campion, Oisin Berg, Ian Doyle, Ronan Kelly, Kevin Scullion and Paidi White – Capitalflow

Zoltan Bognar, William Flanagan & Andras Simo – Zellwood.

Ricky Fitzpatrick and Paula Kelly - Fitzpatrick Freight

www.fleet.ie

76 | WELCOME RECEPTION

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

welcome reception

Brian Giblin, Stephen Smyth, Olivia Lohan, Martin Smyth, Bridie Smyth, Kevin Regan and Joey Smyth – Evergreen Fields

Emma Taaffe and James Kennedy Kennedy International Logistics

Paul O’Reilly, Michelle O’Brien, John McCann, Lorna Reville, Conal McCourt, Suzanne Duffy and Damien Finn – DAF Distributors Ireland

Gareth, Keith, Stephen and Ann Mullen – Sligo Haulage & Distribution

Sinead Anderson, Calum Anderson, Vickie Anderson, Roger Anderson, Olive Anderson and Enda Wright – A Transport Ltd FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Ashley McCulla, Wendy McCulla and Drew Dliott – McCulla Ireland Ltd

WELCOME RECEPTION | 77

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

welcome reception

Henry Ritchie, Alison Richie, Stephen Flanagan, Ronan Dunn, Denise Ryan, Aaron Hyland, Anthony Crosbie, Jackie Kinch and Des Byrne – Polar Ice Ltd

Iveco and Emerald Truck & Van – sponsors of the Fleet/ Transport Manager of the Year Award

The team at Fleet Data and Smith Vehicle Solutions

Jodie Prendergast and Jack Kennedy Kennedy International Logistics

Management and Staff at Digicom

Gareth and Stephen Mullen Sligo Haulage & Distribution www.fleet.ie

78 | WELCOME RECEPTION

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

welcome reception

Mary Morrissey, Frances Murtagh, Anne Marie Grant, Cathal Doyle and Orla Sweeney – Fleet Transport Magazine.

The team at Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles

Katherine Chivers and Peter Smith – Smith Vehicle Solutions

The winning team at Hendrick European

Jarlath Sweeney, David Moffett, Noel O’Dowd, Carl Moffett, Josh Moffett and Martin McVicar (Combilift)

Mary Morrissey and Orla Sweeney, Fleet Transport with Martin Hough, Dennehy Commercials.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

outdoor exhibition arena | 79

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

outdoor exhibition arena

www.fleet.ie

80 | OUTDOOR EXHIBITION ARENA

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

outdoor exhibition arena

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

OUTDOOR EXHIBITION ARENA | 81

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

outdoor exhibition arena

www.fleet.ie

82 | OUTDOOR EXHIBITION ARENA

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

outdoor exhibition arena

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

Sponsors | 83

TRANSPORT www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity

AWARDS 2024

Sincere thank you to the Sponsors, Exhibitors and Attendees for making this event possible

Fleet Transport Awards 2023 Sponsors

www.fleet.ie

84 || NEWS AWARDS 1 extra

Family Values Acknowledged

Sometime in business we find ourselves working in a sterile and professional environment based on systems and procedures that allow very little latitude for human emotion or sentiment.

So what a nice surprise to see some simple and dignified human reaction at both the recent Fleet Transport Awards and the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards events. When Sligo Haulage & Distribution Ltd., (pictured above) was announced as overall winners as the Irish Haulier of the Year 2024, representatives from the successful company were called to the stage to receive the trophy.

When company founder and managing director Stephen Mullen and his sons arrived at the stage, he was clearly overwhelmed and emotional and was so overcome that he left the interview to his sons Gareth and Keith. At their table in the room, other members of the Mullen family and their staff, and those in attendance shared the moment with the family.

FLEETTRANSPORT | DEC 23 / JAN 24

One week later at the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards, Cronin’s of Cork were announced as the winners of the “Coach Operator of the Year - Tours”. Company MD Derry Cronin (pictured below) was called to the stage to accept the award.

It was clear there was a little hesitation as event compare Sile Seoighe awaited his arrival. Some knew what the delay was about. Derry’s father and company founder, Dermot Cronin, at 93 years of age was going to accompany him to the stage. As they made their way through the room, there was a spontaneous standing ovation for Dermot, a sign of

the respect he and his family are held in by their peers. Not in the least bit phased, he charmed the audience as he had a few words with Sile, highlighting the importance of family values in business.

Business has become competitive, exact, but rules and regulations, although necessary, sometimes take away from personal exchanges and relationships. So, in the fast moving world of business it was refreshing to witness genuine human reaction and interaction.

The Irish Magazine for the Materials Handling, Warehousing & Logistics Sectors

At the annual EY (Ernest & Young) gala ceremony which took place at the Powerscourt Hotel, County Wicklow, Sam Moffett, Managing Director and founder of Moffett Automated Storage Ltd (Monaghan) was named as EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2023. He also won the award for EY Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year 2023.

Sam Moffett founded Moffett Automated Storage in 2017.

Headquartered at Clontibret, County Monaghan and employing 65 people, the company specialises in the development of innovative, automated pallet storage and warehousing solutions. The company designs, manufactures, installs, and supports fully integrated automated warehouse pallet storage systems that enable end users to pick and pack from palletised materials. This disruptive, dynamic business offers a range of cost, operational and sustainability benefits to clients. It enables clients to double the storage capacity within existing warehouse facilities and can reduce the energy usage of companies operating within a freezer environment in the cold storage industry by 50 percent.

County Monaghan received another prize with Ciaran Marron, CEO and Founder of Activ8 Solar Energies in Carrickmacross, announced as 2023 EY Established Entrepreneur of the Year.

this technology to find new ways of making hydrogen, e-fuels, capture carbon and compress hydrogen, all of which are needed to achieve a decarbonised world.

Tom Walsh, CEO and Co-Founder of Staycity was named 2023 EY International Entrepreneur Of The Year.

Established in 2007, Activ8 Solar Energies is a pioneer in the solar energy sector in Ireland, helping to lead the nation’s transition to sustainable energy. Activ8 Solar Energies has installed more than 100,000 solar panels across Ireland and works on both residential and commercial properties. The company is on a mission to empower homeowners and businesses to generate renewable electricity and reduce their carbon footprint.

Each year EY also presents a Special Recognition Award to individuals who have made a significant contribution to life on the island of Ireland through their vision, innovation, and commitment to excellence. This year, the prestigious honour was awarded to David McRedmond, CEO of An Post in recognition of his work in leading some of Ireland’s best known businesses through transformational change.

Dr Andrew Woods, CEO and Founder of CATAGEN was the recipient of the 2023 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Sustainability award. The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Sustainability Award recognises the critical importance of innovation leadership in meeting our collective sustainability challenges.

Established in 2019, Belfast-based cleantech company CATAGEN’s primary objective is to clean and decarbonise the air. CATAGEN provides a range of emissions tests for after-treatment systems to vehicle manufacturers which will have a direct impact on our cities and air quality. The company was founded on technology for green emissions testing and is now evolving

Commenting at the awards, Roger Wallace, Partner Lead for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year programme said, “This year’s finalists are a phenomenal group of entrepreneurs who are achieving incredible success both at home and abroad. It has been such a privilege to get to know them and their businesses over the past eight months and I look forward to their continued involvement in the programme through our alumni network.

On behalf of EY, I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to this year’s award winners. These entrepreneurs have shown themselves to be visionary leaders in their industries, developing innovative concepts that enhance how we live, work, and experience the world around us.”

The International Forklift & Intralogistics Awards (IFOY) associated Test Camp Intralogistics event has made a name for itself as an opportunity for anyone who wants to gain an in-depth overview of the latest technology in all areas of internal logistics in a relaxed atmosphere. On April 10 & 11, 2024, Test Camp Intralogistics will open its doors for the fourth time at Messe Dortmund, where and more than 100 innovations will be presented.

Thilo Jörgl, Manager of the event, explains why “Testing makes the difference” is more than just a catchphrase and outlines which paths the organisers want to take with Test Camp Intralogistics.

“Testing makes the Difference” is the motto of Test Camp Intralogistics. What makes the event different from other events?

We have intentionally committed ourselves to not being a trade fair.

Trade fairs are big and crowded. And every exhibitor from the industry can exhibit. Intensive discussions are often neglected, and it is usually not possible to test exhibited products. Please don’t misunderstand us, we love trade fairs and enjoy attending events at home and

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abroad. Nevertheless, it was important to us to establish with the Test Camp Intralogistics a different kind of event.

Smaller, more personal, more direct, class instead of mass. An event with a conference at which only selected, new innovations are presented and not products en-masse - and not just to look at, but to try out. Regardless of whether it is a forklift truck, a software product or something completely different.

Who can present an innovation at Test Camp Intralogistics? Every company like at a trade fair?

A good mix of products and solutions is important to us. For this reason, we select our exhibitors carefully and make sure that the exhibits on show are not only innovative, but also new and have not been available on the market for many years. Each year, the finalists of the IFOY Awards are placed, which undergo a three-stage audit as part of the Test Camp Intralogistics. In addition, we do our own research in our network and approach companies worldwide that have innovations and new products to offer and are a good fit for the event. The whole package has to be attractive for visitors.

Does that also apply to visitors? Not everyone is allowed to enter, right?

The same applies here: quality instead of quantity. Of course, we try to make this possible for everyone who wants to visit the Test Camp Intralogistics. However, the number of available tickets is limited because we are not aiming for overcrowded company boxes, but want to create space for intensive discussions between manufacturers and visitors with a concrete interest in buying and investing. In addition, we, our cooperation partners, some logistics initiatives and our exhibitors are inviting top-level B2B guests - precisely those decision-makers from industry, trade and logistics services who are not only significantly involved in the acquisition of new solutions in their companies, but also want to see them live, touch them, drive them themselves and test them. And all this in peace and

quiet. Nobody feels comfortable when ten people are already waiting in front of and behind them to test a product.

Which industries are represented as visitors on site? Is there a general trend here?

Logistics service providers are the most strongly represented at Test Camp Intralogistics, and in this group it is mainly contract logistics providers.

Due to the AGV Mesh-Up, numerous experts from the automotive sector and industry are also on site. E-commerce and stationary retail, as well as consumer goods and beverage suppliers, mechanical engineering, chemicals and pharmaceuticals are also present with numerous representatives.

Last year, the Test Camp Intralogistics reported 1200 participants. When you hear this figure for the first time, it doesn’t sound like a lot at first.

You can’t compare us with a trade fair when it comes to this figure either. 1,200 participants over two days is ideal to give all exhibitors the chance to talk to visitors in a relaxed atmosphere, present their products to them in detail and make them available for on-site testing. Many visitors are responsible for investment budgets in the three-digit million range.

We offer them the opportunity to take an in-depth look at the latest innovations at the beginning of the year, laying the foundations for further discussions and contracts later on. In the meantime, there have already been some major deals that originated at Test Camp Intralogistics.

This is of much greater value to the exhibitors than going home with as many leads as possible.

Are there any other points that differentiate Test Camp Intralogistics from a traditional trade fair?

The Test Camp Intralogistics is a holistic experience format in which selected innovations meet decision-makers willing to invest. To make the visit as efficient as possible for these decision-makers, we help out. At a trade fair, you are handed a list of exhibitors and have to plan your own day. With us, this is not necessary - because anyone who wants to can have the innovations presented to them at a glance as part of guided, themed highlight tours through the hall.

In addition, we try to design our areas in such a way that the visit is as varied as possible. We do this for example with

special exhibition areas. The VDMA’s AGV Mesh-Up is a live test of the VDA 5050 communication interface, which is designed to ensure that mobile robots in warehouses can communicate with each other via plug-and-play technology regardless of the manufacturer. We also have an attractive conference program with half a dozen panel discussions on offer and the Get Together on the first evening, an ideal opportunity to expand your network in the community.

The IFOY Test Days are also part of the Test Camp Intralogistics. How are Test Camp and IFOY Awards connected?

The IFOY Awards and the Test Camp are - to put it casually - brothers and sisters in spirit. The Test Camp Intralogistics was originally created from the IFOY Awards and the IFOY Test Days, which are part of the IFOY Awards, but is now an independent event. As part of the IFOY Test Days, all companies and their innovations that have made it to the finals in the competition for the IFOY Awards must undergo a three-stage IFOY audit. For a long time, only the finalists themselves, our international jurors, the testers and the IFOY partners had access to this. During IFOY Test Days 2018, some of the jurors - all of them editors-in-chief of leading logistics media worldwide invited contacts from their readership - a few logistics service providers, automotive suppliers, DIY store managers. And they were all enthusiastic about the opportunity to test the IFOY finalists themselves. So the idea was born to always admit a limited number of B2B guests - initially 50 in 2020, a few more in 2021 - and by 2022 there were almost 1000. Test Camp Intralogistics is now an independent event, but still offers the perfect setting for the IFOY Test Days.

Another special feature of Test Camp Intralogistics is the topic of sustainability. How can an event of this size be sustainable?

Sustainability is much more than just a buzzword - and when you look at large trade fairs in particular, it is shocking to see the amount of waste they generate.

Another problem in terms of sustainability is individual booth construction - in line with the motto “higher, bigger, further”, exhibitors try to compete with each other. This is not only a burden on company coffers, but also on the environment.

It is important to us at Test Camp that it is not about appearance, but

about functionality. For this reason, we have decided not to allow individual booth construction, but to plan, set up and dismantle the company boxes centrally in the form of modules made of aluminium trusses. The branding is also standardised and additional decoration is not necessary. “Innovation instead of unnecessary decoration” is our motto.

Many of the materials we use during assembly are also reusable. This applies not only to the aluminium trusses, but also to the barrier fences and the rental furniture from service providers in the vicinity of the event. The carpet we use is shredded after the camp and made into a new carpet. The central catering in the restaurant also saves water and resources. We also use green electricity.

How does on-site testing work?

As already mentioned, we take visitors on highlight tours to all exhibitors to give them an initial overview. Afterwards, each manufacturer offers individual test rides or tests and explains their innovations in detail in one-on-one discussions. All test areas are cordoned off and safety shoes are mandatory for all participants.

In addition, we issue safety vests to everyone who enters the hall.

Will there be new highlights in 2024?

One of the key topics at Test Camp Intralogistics 2024 will be mobile robotics. As this topic is becoming increasingly important for both 3PLs and contract logistics, we are not only taking this into account with a special test area of around 2,000 square meters but are also organizing a separate conference as part of the camp. On the second day of the event, the Main Stage will be reserved exclusively for the topic of mobile robotics. In addition to a keynote speech, panel discussions and a panel discussion on the VDA 5050 communication interface, numerous specialist presentations by scientists, manufacturers and users are also planned.

It is important to bear in mind that the German robotics and automation industry is forecasting growth of nine percent to a turnover of €15.7 billion in 2023 - despite inflation, the energy crisis and war. This illustrates the current importance of this topic, even though the transformation of many industries has only just begun and innovative automation solutions are the key to the future.

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From quite modest beginnings, Dixon International Transport has evolved to become one of Ireland’s best known and most respected road haulage operations.

When the company moved to its present location in Swords beside Dublin Airport, it allowed scope for Dixon to diversify from road transport into materials handling and warehousing.

The move was initially driven by an opportunity to provide an enhanced service to its customers, which in turn would realise improved efficiencies for its own transport operations.

Now thanks to a major investment, Dixon International Transport will open another new state-of-the-art warehouse in early 2024. However the new 46,000 pallet facility is somewhat different to the previous one, as the unit is set to be one of the most advanced in Ireland, both in the methods of materials handling, and the facilities’ low environmental impact.

The new warehouse will not only be able to handle standard ambient goods but will also cater for chilled

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products. In addition, it will be one of the few facilities in this country to handle products sensitive to humidity, and will have the capacity to store up to 8,000 pallets in specially controlled dedicated spaces.

To call the new facility a warehouse is to be somewhat disingenuous as the design of the building and the equipment installed will be the latest technology available. All aspects of running a modern warehouse were considered, with management focused on designing the unit to be as low-impact environmentally, and as future-proof as possible.

One of the key features of the facility is the latest fully automated pallet handling system from Moffett Automated Systems (MAS) - the Moffett Taxi. The MAS will deliver immense benefits to the efficient operation of the facility, as it allows materials to be handled and stored in any location in the warehouse and retrieved as necessary without the need for forklift operations. Forklifts and pallet trucks will only be needed for loading and unloading onto the road transport units through one of the six cross-docking loading bays.

The MAS can operate above the allowable reach of regular forklifts, which means the pallet capacity can be at a higher

density on a smaller floor space. The self-charging automated pallet carriers (Taxis) will put away and retrieve pallets from any level or position throughout the warehouse. As the Taxis are fully automated they can work around each other and will self-charge when not in use allowing them to work 24 hours a day.

Apart from receipt and dispatch of goods, the warehouse will have few operatives and so it will be able to work in darkness which will dramatically reduce energy consumption. Importantly it is envisaged that the vast majority of the energy used will be generated by using the latest roof-mounted solar panels, which will greatly reduce the facility’s carbon footprint.

Environmental sustainability is a very important consideration for Michael Dixon, the firm’s Managing Director, and

the issue is of increasing importance to many of Dixon International’s customers.

When combined with the solar panels on Dixon’s other warehouse units the company will have the capacity to generate 1.1 megawatts of power. This will also deliver a benefit with helping to charge the company’s increasing fleet of electric trucks, and Michael believes that buildings like warehouses and other similar structures are the best places to mount solar panels.

Many of Dixon’s customers are among the most recognised blue chip and high-profile names in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Any company working in these sectors will only survive if it operates to the highest standards, and in turn demands similar standards from its service providers.

This is where Dixon has to date excelled, which in turn has generated an increased demand for its services, leading to the need to increase capacity. Nevertheless, it is not simply a case of build it and the customers will arrive at your roller door. The handling of such specialised products is an area of warehousing that Dixon has a recognised and proven track record in, one in which it can assure quality standards and absolute product integrity. The multi-award-winning company has numerous accreditations in many areas of industry, including a number of accolades at the Fleet Transport Awards over the years.

Amongst these are the Health Products Regulatory Authorisation, several ISO 9000 accreditations, and importantly, a double AA-rated BRCGS certification - an AA rating is awarded on being found to be fully compliant during all unannounced inspections.

In this digital age the idea of taking

in a number of pallets, putting them away, and then when the customer wants them again you go and find them in your racking is long gone.

Customers now want full track and trace from their production facility through the handling and storage and through to the final handover of the products to their customers. Dixon has chosen the Navitas Software warehouse management system to operate in the new facility. Once installed the system will also fully integrate with the current warehouse network. This will ensure the seamless handling of products across all of Dixon’s warehouse facilities. Being able to track and report to any customer the exact status of any product or order is a vital element of providing the service demanded by that customer.

The company will now have a combined capacity of 66,000 pallet spaces which it is more than confident there is a demand for. Indeed some of this demand has already materialised.

Logistics Manager Colum Aungier feels that recent issues such as the Covid pandemic, the Suez Canal blockage and the War in Ukraine have all helped to bring about a revaluation of the just-intime supply chain. These have all led to

a greater demand for space, especially where companies need to have ready access to their products.

Colum says that once full testing of all the warehouse systems has been completed they will begin the intake of products immediately as there are already pallet spaces booked. This would indicate even at this early stage that Dixon has another successful venture to add to the already long list of such enterprises and Colum feels there is no reason that this side of the business will not grow and expand further.

Dixon International has already secured another site to develop if the need or demand arises. Michael says he is never afraid to invest in the

business once there will be a return on the investment. From our visit to the company, there is certainly a sense around Dixon International Transport that the new 46,000 facility will not be the end of the story.

Text: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

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Monaghan forklift manufacturer Combilift hit national headlines when it announced its move into the off-shore wind power sector. But that was just part of the story. To mark its 25th year in business Combilift actually launched five new products.

The flurry of excitement in the national media was caused by the Combi-LC, a load carrying innovation that uses two vehicles to handle and

transport the component parts of off-shore wind turbines.

Using two vehicles in tandem means that enormous blades and mast tug type towers can be manoeuvred far more easily than with previous handling equipment, even on rough terrain.

Each Combi-LC machine has multidirectional steering and can be fully remote controlled. This means that, for example, blades can now be despatched from between two piers at a dock.

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One machine cradles the delicate flat end of the blade, whilst the other caries the heavier central part. The Combi-LC “root end” carrier unit has a unique attachment designed to securely grip the substantial cylindrical end of the blade, firmly affixed to the generator hub.

The “tip side” carrier unit smoothly moves beneath the blade and nestles it in a U shaped clamp which is mounted on a hydraulic tilting table.

The Combi-LC was developed in collaboration with Siemens Gamesa, which already has several in use, and a further ten pairs of the carriers on order for its sites in France Denmark, Taiwan and the USA. “We were really looking forward to getting these things going, it’s going to make a huge difference for us,” said Robert Kach of Siemens Gamesa.

The blades in widest use at the moment weigh around 75 tonnes, however bigger turbines are in the pipeline, which will measure 140 meters and weigh close to 150 tonnes. Each Combi-LC machine has a capacity of 75 tonnes, meaning

components of up to 150 tonnes can be manoeuvred already.

“We are thrilled to have launched this new product – The Combi-LC, and we hope it will act as a gateway for us to further progress within our venture into the wind energy sector,” said Josh Moffett, Heavy Equipment Manager at Combilift.

“The scale of offshore wind projects around the world leads to a very unique set of challenges, one of which being the ability to transport the very large

components that make up a wind turbine. We recognised this and used our expertise in load handling to develop a solution to support those in the industry.

The product is specifically made to order and therefore can be uniquely customised to fit specific applications.”

MORE TO OFFER But that is not the only innovation that was on show at Combilift’s latest factory tour. The firm has also moved into the automated guided vehicle market with the Combi-AGT, an Autonomous Guided Forklift Truck.

This sideloader offers automated handling of long loads in narrow aisles.

It can operate in guided aisles ensuring optimal space utilisation and can also roam freely when necessary.

It offers users the flexibility of manual driving when required, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of applications. It has a 2 wheel drive with 4 wheel steering, has load sensing steering with safety cut-off sensors and a tilting chassis.

With its ability to navigate tight

spaces efficiently and safely the Combi-AGT promises to enhance warehouse operations and streamline material handling processes.

Ten Combi-AGTs are already in use with one customer in the USA. Combilift also unveiled its first telematics offering, Combi Connect. This telematics software will provide customers with insights into fleet management and how their trucks and equipment is being used and performing.

The system will provide real-time visibility of all machines, and will record and analyse data such as location tracking including geofencing, usage analytics, shock detection, fuel/energy usage, and maintenance alerts, so businesses can make informed decisions to improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance overall performance.

Combi Connect should not require fitting or configuration, and Josh stated that it can be used “straight out of the box” and is a “fit and forget” solution.

It is designed with Combilift equipment in mind and is available on all the firm’s models, but Combi Connect will also work with machines from other manufacturers though with slightly less data availability.

The software for the Combi-AGT and Combi

Connect was developed in-house at Combilift, with a partner taken on to assist with the navigation IT. Getting back to Combilift’s bread and butter, it also released two new electric forklifts. The Combi-Cube and the Combi-CB70E. The COMBI-CUBE is Combilift’s premium electric counterbalance forklift, for indoor or outdoor use. It has a capacity of 3,000Kg and technological and ergonomic design features such as the optional Dynamic 360 Steering system, which offers seamless directional changes. The driver is seated in the centre of the truck, and an adjustable arm rest is mounted to the seat suspension which incorporates a multi-function joystick and an LCD colour touch screen.

And Combilift reckons the Combi-CB70E is the shortest 7 tonne capacity counterbalance truck on the

market. It has multidirectional Dynamic 360 Steering, a spacious cab, tilting steering, hydraulic steering and auto swivel seats that twist 15 degrees towards the direction of travel to improve visibility and driver comfort.

The Combi-CB70E is ideally suited to robust applications such as the timber industry with its 7,000kg lift capacity, its large super-elastic tyres, compact wheelbase and a “gas strut” suspension cab. It also has independent traction which negates the need for a differential lock on slippery surfaces and reduces long load momentum twisting when travelling sideways.

With all these innovative products hitting the market, it’s clear that even as it makes strides into whole new market arenas, Combilift won’t forget its core business of manufacturing forklift trucks.

Text: Johanna Parsons – contributor@fleet.ie

91

Irish Rail hosted a meeting of the Irish Exporters Association Dublin Regional Group towards the end of November, at which progress and research currently underway to achieve the company’s 2040 Rail Freight strategy objectives were discussed.

The fundamentals of the strategy revolve around climate sustainability objectives. Current operations using diesel-fuelled locomotives have been shown to offer significant reductions in carbon and other polluting gas emissions per unit carried compared to movement by road. Irish Rail is planning to reduce the carbon footprint further through the introduction of lower emission fuels in the locomotives, with trials currently underway using HVO. Next year the company will initiate a research project on the feasibility of adapting existing locomotives to hydrogen fuel cell technology.

The tender process is already well underway to replace the existing container wagon fleet which will enable the introduction of longer and faster trains. Implementation of a highly automated train control system for the entire Irish rail network will also greatly increase operational efficiency for both freight and passenger rail.

During the Irish Rail meeting, it was pointed out that a major driving factor pushing for the re-development of significant use of the rail network for freight to and from ports in particular is the ever-stronger desire from multi-national manufacturers to base their end-to-end supply chains on the most

92

climate friendly possible routings. In a world in which such firms must compete with their sister companies in other locations for continued investment and development projects, the opportunity to use rail rather than exclusively road freight can be a significant factor.

While the re-development of the Foynes to Limerick link to the overall network is physically underway. further developments, particularly restoring the links between Rosslare and Waterford, Claremorris and Athenry, and Marino Point with the network are well advanced.

CO2 toll in Germany to increase road freight operator toll costs by up to 83% Research carried out on behalf of the Road Haulage Industry indicates that the CO2 truck toll on German highways which has come into force on 1 December this year will mean that road haulage companies and their clients, freight forwarding, and logistics companies will have to pay surcharges of about €200 per tonne of CO2 in carrying out their operations.

The toll increase does not currently apply to Zero Emission vehicles, including electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles up to the end of 2025. From that date the rate for these low emission vehicles will be 25% of the rate then in force for diesel powered trucks.

Currently tolls account for about 12% of road haulers costs in Germany and the CO2 toll will bring this figure up to about

20%. Some logistics providers including Maersk and DB Schenker have advised customers that the rise in toll fees will increase their costs and that a new tariff will be issued to cover the extra costs.

The extra revenue generated will be used to fund the provision for further rail and barge services. Hauliers however, have said that they are sceptical about the ability of rail networks and barge companies to increase services to facilitate any significant migration of freight. Nevertheless, it is likely that other EU countries will now follow similar toll increase policies as part of a policy move to ‘green’ transport.

A further obstacle to the switching of significant road freight volumes to river and canal operators is the lowering of water levels in the Rhine and other waterways due to climate change, which has been caused by reduced melted snow volumes throughout Europe.

Significant Digitalisation progress in shipping sector From 1 January 2024 it is mandatory for ports throughout the world to operate a fully interactive Maritime Single Windows system which will enable the exchange of all information required at the point of the vessel’s arrival, during its stay and at departure. This will enable the smoother operation of ports and reduce delays for vessels operating there.

This development comes with increasing usage by cargo owners of digital Bills of Lading and other paperwork required to enable the quicker flow of cargo through all parts of the Supply Chain, and to do this at a considerably reduced cost.

Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

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IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

Issue 8 | DEC 2023/JAN 2024

www.fleetcar.ie

Edited by Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

Hyundai IONIQ 6 is Irish Car of the Year 2024

Models from MG, BYD, Renault, Nissan and BMW also claim category awards Irish Performance Car of the Year: BMW M2 Separately the Mercedes-Benz Citan won the overall Irish Van of the Year 2024 award, while the Ford Ranger Raptor claimed a category success as Irish Commercial SUV of the Year 2024.

What Fleet Car’s journalists thought:

Joe Rayfus, Chairman of the Motoring Media Association of Ireland (MMAI); Sarah Hayes of Hyundai Ireland; Tom Dennigan of awards sponsor, Continental Tyres; with the winning car, the Hyundai IONIQ 6.

Hyundai’s IONIQ 6 has been announced as the Irish Car of the Year 2024 in association with Continental Tyres, the longest established and most reputable automotive award title in Ireland.

It’s the fourth straight year an electric car has claimed the prestigious award, but marks the first time that Hyundai has claimed the overall Irish Car of the Year title.

Members of the Motoring Media Association of Ireland (MMAI), 35 motoring journalists representing major media outlets the length and breadth of Ireland (including Jarlath Sweeney and Cathal Doyle from this publication) selected the IONIQ 6 from a shortlist of seven finalists that had earlier been chosen from an overall shortlist of 32 cars. Notably, these finalists included examples from two Chinese brands, MG and BYD, marking the first success for manufacturers from this rapidly growing automotive market (see below for the full list of category winners).

Commenting at the ceremony Chairman of the MMAI, Joe Rayfus said: “Congratulations to Hyundai Ireland FLEETCAR | WINTER 23

on taking the coveted Irish Car of the Year title for the IONIQ 6, a very worthy winner indeed. What more concrete proof can there be that the era of electric motoring is truly here. Our fourth straight winner of the title. And look at the evolution of vehicles in that time, electric models have gone fully mainstream and luxury as this IONIQ 6 proves.”

Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres, longtime sponsors of the Irish Car of the Year awards added: “The Hyundai IONIQ 6 is a really stylish car at the forefront of automotive design. I am sure that our Irish Car of the Year title will be a huge boost to the nameplate’s profile with Irish motorists who are considering making the move to electric.”

Irish Car of the Year category winners: Irish Small / Compact Car of the Year: MG4 EV Irish Small / Compact SUV of the Year: BYD Atto 3 Irish Medium SUV of the Year: Renault Austral Irish Medium / Large Car of the Year: Hyundai IONIQ 6 Irish Large SUV / MPV of the Year: Nissan X-TRAIL Irish Luxury Car of the Year: BMW i7 / 7 Series

Jarlath Sweeney: In recent years Hyundai has made its mark with striking design and style that appeals to a growing audience. Its electric technology is up there with the best and early pioneers and the IONIQ 6 pays testimony to that. A worthy overall winner.

Asian car manufacturers are increasingly to the fore these days, initially with the Japanese brands, then the Koreans, and now the Chinese automotive producers are coming on stream with high quality, well-built, value for money electric cars, such as MG and BYD, which are conquesting market share. They deserve to be recognised in this manner with these category awards, and there is more to come, I’m sure!

Cathal Doyle: For me the Hyundai IONIQ 6 stood out as the best car I drove this year. While its striking looks may be slightly polarising, I love the fact that it dares to be different in an increasingly homogenised car market. But it’s more than than, it drives very well, is spacious and well equipped, and - very importantly - it is the most economical electric car I have driven to date.

Of the other contenders, the MG4 and BYD Atto 3 are both excellent examples of more affordable electric cars, while both the Renault Austral and the latest Nissan X-Trail have moved significantly upmarket. And once again BMW shows that in the luxury and performance sectors it has few peers.

NEWS TESTII | 95

Jeep enters electric future with new Avenger

Jeep has flown under the radar in the Irish market in recent years, due to a combination of a lack of suitable product and an underdeveloped dealer network. That’s changing on both fronts thanks to significant developments both globally and domestically.

At a global level Jeep is part of the giant Stellantis Group, and the first products using shared floor plans and components from sister brands such as Peugeot, Citroën and Opel are now starting to seep through. Within Ireland, Jeep is now part of Gowan Auto together with other Stellantis products and Honda, and is benefitting from significant investment into the dealer network. Indeed, that dealer network has expanded significantly in recent times from 4 to 10 outlets currently, with that number set to expand to 12 by Q2 next year.

The all-new Jeep Avenger may take its name from another vehicle from within the extended Stellantis family the Chrysler Avenger of the 1970’s, but it heralds a new dawn for the brand that traces its roots back to the Willys Jeep of World War II. It’s Jeep’s first all-electric

vehicle - one of four to be launched by the end of next year.

Moreover it’s specifically designed for and built in Europe another departure for the all-American brand.

A compact crossover that Jeep believes will appeal to customers from B-Segment compact cars to higher end C-Segment SUVs, the Avenger comes very competitively priced for an EV at a time when prices of all cars are rocketing.

Entry level Longitude models start from €35,995, with what is expected to be the volume seller Altitude model priced from €39,495, while the range topping Summit version starts at €42,495 Awarded the prestigious European Car of the Year 2023 at the start of the year, the Avenger shares much of its underpinnings with Peugeot’s e2008 and the Opel Mokka Electric, but nonetheless maintains a quite distinct identity.

Perhaps anathema to hardcore Jeep fans, it comes with two wheel drive only, but with 200mm ground clearance, it should easily handle the urban jungles that will be its natural habitat, while driving modes like mud, sand and snow maintain that link to the brand’s off-road heritage.

The Avenger is the first Stellantis product to avail of the latest generation battery and electric motor, with a 54kWh battery (51kWh net capacity) giving a promised range of up to 404km - in real

world driving we were getting around 340-350km. The motor develops up to 115kW (154hp) and 260Nm of torque, enough to accelerate to 100km/h from rest in Sport mode. Leave it in default Normal setting and the horsepower is reduced to 108hp, while in Eco mode it’s further reduced to 81hp. Features like a heat pump fitted as standard and regenerative braking via ‘B’ mode further help to maximise distance achievable on a single charge.

On the move it rides well, though the steering is a bit light to offer much driver feedback. Some road noise is noticeable at higher speeds but overall it’s a pleasant and comfortable vehicle to pass a journey in, while the controls are well laid out and easy to use. Physical buttons too for the heating controls, which are so much easier to use than having to navigate via a touchscreen.

“With Avenger’s cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly design, this vehicle is set to revolutionise the way we think about electric cars. The Jeep Avenger boasts an impressive range, allowing you to go the distance without worrying about recharging,” said John Saunders, Managing Director of Jeep in Ireland. Certainly it’s a very attractive offering in a competitive market, and combined with a resurgent dealer network, should help to significantly revive the fortunes of Jeep in this country.

Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

96 | LAUNCH PAD I

Tesla’s revised Model 3

An updated Tesla Model 3 has gone on sale with prices starting from €42,990.

It’s available to order now on the Tesla configurator, with deliveries expected to start from January next year.

External updates are relatively minor, with the Model 3 getting new headlights, and brighter tail-lights that are now integrated into the boot lid. Two new

colours - Ultra Red and Stealth Grey have been added. The bodywork has been subtly revised with sharper body lines and aero-optimised surfaces to improve aerodynamics. Tesla says the Cd figure of 0.219 is the lowest of all its models to date.

The cabin has had a significant overhaul, with all-new seats and a redesigned centre console. Customisable ambient lighting wraps around the full cabin. The large 15.4” centre display is

the same size as before but offers more usable screen thanks to a thinner bezel.

A new 8” rear display with integrated climate control, ventilation, and entertainment is available to rear seat passengers.

Noise levels have been improved thanks to improved suspension bushings, more sound deadening materials and 3600 acoustic glass.

Moving away has been simplified - just sit in, press the brake pedal and swipe up or down to engage Drive or Reverse. Safety has also been improved with additional side impact protection and blind spot indicators in the door pillars.

Cathal Doyle

Škoda Kodiaq take two gains hybrid power Škoda has unveiled the second generation of its large SUV, the Kodiaq.

It’s expected to arrive in Ireland in early 2024 and looks to build on the success of the first generation model which has sold 841,900 models worldwide and over 11,000 in Ireland.

Noteworthy is a plug-in hybrid version, a first for the Kodiaq. It promises an electric range of over 100km and power output of 193 hp. Also available will be a mild-hybrid 1.5 TSI with 150 hp, and a 2.0TDI diesel with 193 hp and allwheel-drive. All powertrains are mated to a DSG automatic transmission as

standard.

External revisions feature elements of the new Modern Solid design language and technologies such as TOP LED Matrix headlights. The interior gets sustainable materials, while new features include a free-standing 13-inch infotainment display, innovative Škoda Smart Dials with haptic controls, and a new range structure with Design Selections. A head-up display is available as an option for the first time while the gear selector lever is now mounted on

the steering column. Two smartphones can be charged at a time using the new Phone Box inductive charging.

Improved assistance systems include new Turn and Remote Park Assists, and the Dynamic Chassis Control system.

Cathal Doyle

New Citroën ë-C3 is all about comfort, price…. and electrification!

The fourth generation of the Citroën C3 has been unveiled - and it’s all electric!

The B-segment ë-C3 is engineered around a platform designed from the outset to accommodate an all-electric power train, Citroën says the focus is on best-in-class comfort, an easy electric experience, and high level of equipment. While prices have yet to be revealed, Citroën says it has been created to aggressively meet the challenges of making all-electric mobility accessible to all at a net, fair FLEETCAR | WINTER 23

and affordable price - comparable it says to an average petrol-engined B-hatch vehicle.

Electric propulsion is via an 83kW (113hp) electric motor while a 44kWh battery pack delivers up to 320km WLTP driving range. Fast charging at speeds of up to 100kW DC is possible.

At 1.57m high the ë-C3 is taller than before, making entry and exit easier. All models of the ë-C3 come with Citroën’s Advanced Comfort Suspension as

standard, tailored for the car and using additional foam to provide a soft feel and supportive ride. Also featuring is C-Zen lounge, which, Citroën.says, reinvents the traditional dashboard and provides extremely high levels of comfort. Instead of a traditional instrument cluster, the ë-C3 uses a new Citroën Head-Up Display that reflects vehicle information onto a glossy black section between the top of the dash panel and the bottom of the windscreen.

Cathal Doyle

LAUNCH PAD II | 97

KIA enters new territory with EV9

A new flagship model from Kia has gone on sale in Ireland. The EV9, an all-electric cross between an SUV and and MPV comes with six or seven seats, a driving range of up to 563km, and 800V fast charging. It’s priced at €77,500 for the 7 seat RWD Earth model, while higher spec GT-line versions with 6 or 7 seats retail at €85,500.

Built on Kia’s dedicated EV platform E-GMP, the EV9 comes with a flat floor that maximises passenger space in the cabin. While physically it’s a substantial vehicle, it boasts an impressive air drag factor of just 0.28. Power is provided from a single electric motor to the rear wheels (Earth models) developing 204PS and providing a range of up to 563km, or dual motors giving all-wheel-drive, an output of 384PS and range of up to 512km. A new generation high voltage 99.8kWh Lithium-Ion battery offers 8.5% increased energy density compared to

that in the EV6, and can accept charging speeds of up to 210kW. The EV9 can tow up to 2.5 tonnes.

Inside the EV9 is generously appointed with a triple panoramic display comprising two 12.3” screens and a 5.3” climate control screen. On the six seat layout the 2nd row of seats can swivel to face backwards. New technology includes a digital key, custom smart cruise control and, coming soon, vehicle to grid charging and plug and charge at Ionity stations where the charger automatically starts charging when plugged in.

Cathal Doyle

New Peugeot 208 on way, while 308 gets full electrification Peugeot has announced an updated 208 and launched electric versions of the 308 and 308SW. The 208 gets a new external light signature inspired by the 9X8 Hypercar and updated grille. On the inside, a fresh design for the digital instrument cluster can be seen, along with a 10-inch touchscreen taking centre stage on the dash, and dynamic ambient lighting available with 8 different colours to choose from.

The iConnect system has improved substantially, by offering full connectivity via a wireless mirroring function with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, as well as extra USB sockets, a more

powerful induction charger and high-definition parking cameras. A new range of driving aids include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency brakes, extended road sign recognition and display, active lane departure warning with lane correction, driver attention alert, and blind-spot monitoring.

Three trims are offered– ALLURE, ACTIVE, and GT. Five powertrains include a new 115kW all-electric motor on the e208 which offers an improved range of up to 400km. There’s also a new mild hybrid option with a 48V powertrain matched to a PureTech 100bhp engine.

The new 208 is ready to order in Ireland for January with prices starting with €25,395 for the PureTech and €32,780 for the E-208.

Full electric versions of the 308 in both hatch and SW estate form will arrive early in 2024, making Peugeot the first in Europe to provide a 100% electric estate.

They will have a range of up to 413km from a new electric engine with 115kW and 260Nm of torque.

Charlotte Gillian

New Mercedes-Benz E-Class moves up a level

The new Mercedes-Benz policy as stated by the Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG - Ola Kaellenius is “we must get back to our core to make modern luxury vehicles.” The company is no longer going after market share but intends to deliver a high quality and desirable product for their customers.

The new E-Class just launched fully embraces that statement. The

model arrives loaded with a host of standard features including a new chassis that allows integrated rear-wheel steer, as well as an increase in interior space and 540 litres of luggage space. Inside, the level of technological innovations is unrivalled and includes such features as an enhanced version of the MBUX system, Apple Car Play / Android Auto, facial recognition, and the car-key embedded into your phone. With this level of sophistication Mercedes-Benz believe it will set a new benchmark in the industry.

With E-Class it is now possible (when stopped) to host video conference

via the six onboard cameras, and for a passenger to amuse themselves by gaming on the 12.3” dashboard screen.

Safety is clearly a high priority and the E-Class includes many of the latest active and passive safety systems and the car is now arguably a serious rival to the short wheelbase S-Class.

There are a choice of 3-diesel and 3-petrol engines with additional options for mild hybrid, and all are linked to a 9-speed automatic. Prices start from €80,525 for the E 220 diesel and €82,130 for the E 200 petrol.

Paul White www.fleet.ie

98 | | NEWS CONTEMPLATIONS 1

As our road casualties mount, we’re about to close our motorway lay-by rest areas to private cars. How is this good policy?

I was surprised to read a report last month that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) is planning to close access to motorway lay-bys to private cars, limiting their use instead to emergency services and drivers of heavy goods vehicles from the end of this year.

It follows the conclusion of a public consultation process on a policy which has been in place since 2014 on the need for lay-by rest areas. Seemingly TII believes that because of growth in motorway service areas, there are now a sufficient number of rest areas of this type to make it no longer necessary to offer temporary rest areas at motorway lay-bys.

According to the report in the Irish Times, a spokesperson for TII said that there are currently 29 unserviced lay-bys available to be used by the public as well as a further 20 Garda enforcement areas.

TII is proposing to close eight of these 49 lay-bys and designate the remaining 41 as “new” lay-bys for professional drivers only.

Granted, there has been an increase in the number of motorway service areas which is to be welcomed, with these locations offering decent facilities for both the private motorist and professional driver.

But that still leaves significant gaps in the motorway network where drivers are unable to pull over, nor has TII explained why it feels the need to take this step - or how it is going to implement it.

Is it that it believes that lay-bys are currently being overwhelmed by private car drivers? Certainly not the case in my experience…you’d rarely see more than a handful of vehicles in any lay-by at any point in time? And I’ve never seen people FLEETCAR | WINTER 23

wandering around them, so it’s unlikely that they are being used for social or malfeasant activities.

It also begs another question. If TII is leaving these lay-bys open to be used by professional drivers, it clearly believes that there is a need for such halting places to allow such drivers to rest. Therefore it presumably thinks that private drivers are less likely to be tired or feel sleepy behind the wheel considering that the alternative motorways services also cater for the professional driver?

The thinking behind this logic would be interesting to hear.

Also, what defines the professional driver in TII’s definition? Is it just drivers of HGVs? What about professional drivers in vans of up to 3.5 tonnes GVW doing huge mileage, as well those bigger commercials of up to 7.5 tonnes GVW that require a tachograph, or even the professional reps in humble cars? Do they not get tired the same as truck or coach drivers? And if this type of driver is allowed to use these lay-bys, how is TII planning to enforce it?….a ‘professional’ van or car looks pretty much the same as a privately owned one.

It’s doubly depressing to see that the Road Safety Authority - you know, the organisation that likes to plaster signs all over the place saying that ‘Tiredness Kills’ - is backing TII in this move. In a statement to the Irish Times it said: “The RSA agrees with the repurposing of lay-bys, as alternative, safer lay-by options now exist within an appropriate distance. The RSA does not believe the repurposing will impact road safety as the proposal takes into account the requirements under EU law to ensure the provision of adequate service areas

across the motorway network where road users can park, rest and access facilities” Well that’s alright then. As long we meet EU minimum requirements, to hell with actually trying to achieve best practice or actually do something to lessen the possibility of a driver falling asleep at the wheel.

As anyone who has experienced it knows, drowsiness and sleepiness happen very suddenly. You can be driving along perfectly alert, then suddenly you’re struggling to keep your eyes open. It’s especially a problem on motorways which by their nature require relatively little driver input.

To take one example if this new policy comes into place, that of someone heading westward from Dublin to Galway on the M6. At present there’s the choice of a number of lay-bys where they can pull in and rest along what is one of the most featureless and sleep inducing sections of motorway in the country.

However going forward, if this driver is hit by a wave of tiredness having just gone past the motorway services at Kinnegad, they will now have to travel a distance of 56 kilometres before being able to legally pull in at the next motorway service halt just east of Athlone. That’s 56 kilometres of potentially weaving across lanes or coming off the road entirely at motorway speeds - think of the potential carnage.

And dare I say it, but what happens in the future if the passing motorist is to be charged to park at these motorway services, like in some countries? The hard shoulder or long acre will not be wide or long enough…..

Not building additional lay-bys is one thing, but deliberately deciding to restrict drivers access to rest time on existing lay-bys is bordering on criminal.

This is a shocking policy, and should not be adopted.

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS

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Contents Winter 2023 Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISSN: 1649-9433 Managing Editor: Jarlath Sweeney Editor: Sean Murtagh Contributors: Cathal Doyle Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Paul Sherwood Administration: Orla Sweeney Advertising: Mary Morrissey Design: Crackerjack Design House Printed in Ireland

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102 NEWS New arrival from Volvo Bus into

116 IRISH COACH OF THE YEAR Category Winners Announced

Irish Market New Managing Director of Go-Ahead Ireland

119 WELCOME RECEPTION Welcome Reception sponsored by Johnstown

104 REVIEW

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132 CONDUCTORS’ STAND Government ignores

108 AWARDS

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102| NEWS | NEWS 1

Volvo B8R – MCV eVoTor coach arrives in Ireland

Volvo Buses’ B8R – MCV eVoTor coach has exclusively been introduced to the Irish market, with an attractive package and offering an alternative to operators looking for cost efficiency and reliability.

Built on the proven and successful B8R 8.0-litre chassis for the first time, this entry-level addition to Volvo’s portfolio keeps costs down and uptime up to further extend the manufacturer’s reach within the Irish coach markets. Built in collaboration with Volvo’s Egyptian

partner MCV, the body benefits from a subtle facelift.

The B8R features Volvo’s proven for fuel-efficiency D8K engine, producing up to 350 hp and a peak torque of 1,585 Nm. All vehicles are PSVAR-compliant and designed with 53 high quality seats and a toilet, which can be dismantled to allow for 55 seats, alongside generous on-board luggage racks.

A Bosch audiovisual system also comes as standard with individual USB charging points to keep passengers

connected on the go. The 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission combines smooth and precise gearshifts with high average speeds and outstanding driveability.

The B8R – MCV eVoTor is one of two new models from Volvo Bus confirmed to enter the marketplace in early 2024, with a third on the horizon. Opening orders have also been placed for the second confirmed model, which is the facelifted Sunsundegui SC7 on the B13R chassis.

of more than 225 buses operating on 33 routes and employs 760 colleagues.

Go-Ahead Ireland was appointed by the National Transport Authority to begin running services in Dublin in 2018 and currently runs 28 services in the outer Dublin city area and five Dublin commuter routes, serving 14 million passengers per year.

Upon her appointment, Ms McKay said: “Go-Ahead Ireland is an ambitious company which delivers great bus services to passengers, and

I’m really excited to be taking on this new challenge. With the BusConnects network redesign comes the opportunity for Go-Ahead Ireland to demonstrate its continued dedication to providing safe, reliable, and accessible services for our customers. Go-Ahead Ireland is a trusted mobility provider across the Greater Dublin Area, and I’m thrilled to be at the helm of such an exciting business, one that continues to play an important role in Dublin’s public transport.”

New Managing Director of Go-Ahead Ireland

The Go-Ahead Group, which operates services in and around the Greater Dublin Area, has appointed Dervla McKay as Managing Director of its bus division.

The Donegal native brings extensive experience in bus and coach operation across Ireland and England. She joins Go-Ahead Ireland from her previous role as Managing Director of Aircoach.

Dervla took up her role last month and replaced Andrew Edwards, who moved to Go-Ahead London to become Operations Director after three years in Ireland.

With depot locations in Ballymount and Naas, Go-Ahead Ireland has a fleet FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

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Busworld 2023, Brussels, Belgium

It’s been four years since the last Busworld bus and coach exhibition was held in Brussels.

Covid-19 brought the world to a standstill within a few weeks, and it took a lot longer to re-start normal trade. Postpandemic, things are very different. Notably the pace of introduction of electrification in vehicles and the use of alternative drivelines has increased.

Busworld had it all for visitors to see and discover. Over the week of the exhibition, more than 40,000 people visited.

While operators may still be sceptical of some of the developments, they got a glimpse of what the future will look like.

After the first day walking around the various stands and demonstrations, two elements stood out; the scarcity of diesel buses and the arrival of new manufacturers from India, China and Turkey. In all, there were 75 manufacturers present compared to 66 last time. In total there were 628 exhibitors, again a big increase from the last event, and interestingly over 150 of these were there for the first time. Many of the new exhibitors were suppliers of charging infrastructure and electric batteries, while some offered refuelling solutions for hydrogen powered buses. As always, some new innovations were presented. For example, a Finnish company, Jaako-Tuote FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

Oy which has developed windows that have built in solar panels.

While Busworld is the main event, there are other aspects dovetailing with it. In recent times a “Zero Emissions Bus Conference” has been held annually, and this year it was hosted by Busworld.

Driver shortages was a topic on everyone’s lips, and the International Road Transport Union (IRU) held some workshops which were open to operators to help them formulate new and more innovative solutions. Over 40% of bus drivers in Europe are over 55 years of age and only 3% are under 25, so this is a big issue.

Regardless of all these interesting side events, Busworld remains all about buses. Indeed there were 222 of them on show, with a further 29 available to test drive outside. Here are some of the highlights from the manufacturers.

Iveco Bus

For Irish operators the e-Daily electric mini-bus and the e-Daily electric chassis will be of interest.

MAN Truck & Bus

MAN’s Bus division started series production of the electric Lions City E just three years ago. In the weeks leading up to Busworld it delivered the 1000th zero-emission bus from its plant in Poland. This bus is one from an order of 20 destined for Madrid. By 2025, half of MAN’s bus production will be electric and by 2030 that figure will be 90%. A new Neoplan Tourliner was also launched here in Brussels. Since its launch in 2003 almost 4000 Tourliners have been sold.

Yutong

Iveco was one of the first manufacturers to embrace low and zero carbon buses.

For many years the Italian company has sold these environmentally friendly units to cities all over the world. At Busworld, a new 12m E-Way H2 was displayed.

This hydrogen fuel cell electric bus was developed in partnership with Hyundai.

Chinese manufacturer Yutong has been manufacturing electric vehicles for 26

review | 105 years. In that time over 175,000 units have been put into operation and it is estimated that these buses have covered almost 40 billion kilometres. With this experience and investing 7% of its annual turnover in R&D, Yutong feels confident about the future success of its products. There are over 1000 buses and coaches operating in Europe, including the UK, where there are some electric coaches in service.

Thermo King

New interiors and drivers’ area redesigns are innovative and now available as standard on all coaches. Vanhool also unveiled a newly developed ExquiCity BRT electric bus. It is one of 56 destined for Paris.

Iiesbus (CNG) and electric variants. To date only diesel powered buses have come to the Irish/UK market but next year will change that, with electric buses being listed on the order book. Last year 50 units were sold in this market and EVM is confident that 2024 will see this figure increase.

Look out for the Nova Volt electric 7.3 m coach with 29 seats.

ZF

Air conditioning and climate control are essential elements of the passenger experience when commuting or touring.

Launching the new Athenia ENVI Heat Pump, Thermo King stated that the new unit is roof mounted, and uses an environmentally friendly natural refrigerant. With the ability to operate in a temperature range from -50C to +50C, this all-in-one unit can utilise waste heat from other sources of heat in the bus.

EVM

As the electric driveline starts to become the norm, this technology presents a new challenge for transmission manufacturers, a challenge that ZF has relished, and continues to embrace. Its latest electric axle, the AxTrax 2 LF is designed for low floor buses. ZF claims that the new axle will provide savings of up to 10% in terms of improved efficiency and is further enhanced for start/stop driving.

Its compact design will also give more space in the bus.

VanHool

Irish manufacturer EVM had a big presence at Busworld. One of the centre pieces of its display was an electric minibus built on an Iveco Daily chassis, with full wheelchair and low floor access.

A newly developed Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with 16 seats and a wheelchair lift fitted was also showcased. Like many manufacturers, lead times are up to 12 months. EVM is now also the agent for Isuzu Buses in Ireland and the UK, offering products available off the shelf.

Anadolu Isuzu Isuzu’s JV bus division had five vehicles on its stand, including diesel, natural gas

Vanhool was one of the few manufacturers that featured diesel powered coaches at Busworld, showcasing the EX-range and the new T coach. Sales of the TX range are strong, but in the future only double deck models will be continued.

This Welsh manufacturer, represented in Ireland by JJ Kavanagh Coach Sales, is making inroads into the market here. it was unusual to see a right-hand drive vehicle at Busworld - an e-City with 25 seats, two wheelchair spaces and 17 standees, based on the Iveco Daily. An e-City chassis was also displayed and both will be coming to Ireland early next year. In pre-production testing under full load conditions, e-City has achieved a range of over 200km.

Irizar

While diesel featured on the Irizar stand with the launch of the ‘efficient’ range, the big news was the hydrogen powered coach. The i6s is a prototype but in tests it is achieving a range of 1000km. Irizar is confident about the hydrogen coach and says it will also be offered as an i4 model. It is claimed that the coach can be fuelled in 20 minutes, will be lighter and have more passenger capacity and luggage space. Alls featured was Irizar’s electric road tram, which is in service in 11 European countries. Demand for the tram is so strong that production is booked up for 2024.

Daimler Bus - Mercedes-Benz – Setra At the Mercedes-Benz & Setra press www.fleet.ie

106| NEWS | review 1

conference Daimler Bus CEO, Till Oberwörder, used the opportunity to send a strong message to the politicians and administrators across Europe. He suggested that their policies were based on wishful thinking rather than reality and urged them to engage rather than preach. Back on stand the ultra successful Citaro modal was on display with hydrogen used as a range extender rather than the primary power source.

Also announced was the option to have digital cameras replace mirrors.

passengers, Higer is represented in Ireland by Harris Bus & Coach and carries the full range of products, services and parts. Harris has worked closely with Higer to make some modifications to enhance the coaches, making them more suitable and adaptable for the Irish market.

Higer Chinese manufacturer Higer launched three new vehicles - the Azure 9, a mid-range bus, the F1 Fencer integral EV, and the Azure 7, regarded as a ‘Last Mile’ shuttle bus. At 9 metres it has deep windows, which with its bright interior give a sense of freedom and space to FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

VDL

BYD

Scania

Scania unveiled its new electric bus chassis/platform promising a range of 500km. One of the points made by the Swedish manufacturer was the likelihood that most world markets will have different requirements, and the company wants to help and engineer tailor-made local solutions. Like some manufacturers, Scania proposes to sell its chassis and drivetrains to coachbuilders, an example of which featured a coach body built by Castrosua. Also in the coach segment, Scania has developed an natural gas (LNG) powered coach offering a range of 1200 km.

presented by the Turkish builder. Of great interest is the partnership established with Caentano to present a hydrogen powered inter-city coach with a range of 1000 km on a single fill. Temsa is committed to two forms of zero emission - hydrogen and electric. Serial production of the hydrogen coach will begin in 2025.

Temsa has enjoyed 61% growth globally in the past 24 months and continues to invest around 5% of annual revenues in R&D.

BYD regards itself as a trailblazer in the electric bus market and there is some truth in that claim. Not a company to rest on its laurel’s, the relatively new Chinese automotive and battery producer presented a double decker electric coach, which is a joint venture with UNVI. Primarily aimed at the open top tour sector, it may prove a winner with cities that insist on zero emission vehicles only.

It is also the first bus chassis to use the new blade battery which is encased in the chassis, and is said to offer a range distance of up to 600 km.

Temsa

Temsa had an electric inter-urban coach on display, one of ten vehicles

Having sold all of its available Futura coach stock until 2024, there are some limited slots for ordered vehicles in RHD form. Soon customers will be able to see what the new Futura coach will look like.

Although a mock-up of it was on the stand, everybody was tight lipped about what propulsion system would be used.

New Futura will feature new seating along with many interior enhancements and some additional safety features. Also on stand VDL had the latest CITEA on display, which is proving very popular.

Conclusion Having spent a few days looking into the future of the bus industry, it seems most operators cannot get their heads around where this will end up for them.

All of the zero emission buses are very expensive, and require complex charging facilities that are scarce and also expensive. The consensus on which propulsion is most effective is continuously changing. For the most part the people purchasing all this equipment are funded by governments, city councils and ultimately the taxpayer. Regulators, environmentalists, and politicians are convinced nations are on the right track to decarbonisation, but private operators are left scratching their heads trying to make sense of it. Who is going to tell the emperor that he is ‘wearing no clothes’ or when will he realise it?

Text: Sean Murtagh - sean@fleet.ie

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108 | NEWS

Bus & Coach AWARDS 2024

Tony Christie

Operators from the four provinces of Ireland honoured at the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards 2024

Bus and Coach operators from all across the country were honoured at the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards Gala Banquet, held at the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath on Thursday 16 November with JF Dunne Insurance as Title Sponsor for the Awards.

First award of the event, Services to the Passenger Transport Industry was presented to Caoimhe Kavanagh, Pierce Kavanagh Coaches, Urlingford for her continuous campaigning and work behind the scenes on behalf of bus and coach operators.

Complimenting the prize winners, Jarlath Sweeney, Managing Editor, Fleet Bus & Pictured is Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurances – Coach said: “Congratulations Title Sponsor of the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards with to all of the prize winners, who Síle Seoige, Master of Ceremonies thoroughly deserved their awards for their sion electric buses and coaches were fine services to the public honoured at the event. and to tourism visitors. With Congratulating the winners, Sean more and more taking to Murtagh, Editor, Fleet Bus & Coach and the bus and coach, it augers Irish jury member of the International well for the industry and Bus/Coach jury said: “Full compliments shows that the great service to the various brands and models on provided by operators is being among the prize recipients at our being acknowledged and awards evening. Thanks to the manurecognised. Hopefully these facturers and distributors for presenting honours presented will further their finest offerings, each and every promote positivity in the one providing top levels of comfort Services to the Passenger Transport Award – Pictured (l-4) industry, which is so important and safety for their passengers and the Sean Murtagh, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Caoimhe to the Irish economy.” driver.”

Moloney Kavanagh and Síle Seoige, Master of Ceremonies Six of the best buses and coaches honoured The showcase event, which acknowlat the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards edges best practice and customer service 2024 excellence has been re-established after Also at the Fleet Bus & Coach a few years’ absence due to the global Awards five leading bus and pandemic. Compèred by TV celebrity coach manufacturers received Sile Seoige, a great night of tributes, recognition for their achievemusic and entertainment were among ments at the Irish Coach Awards the highlights, topped by a very special 2024 which were sponsored guest appearance by the legendary

by Close Brothers Commercial singer Tony Christie, who brought the Finance. A mix of conventional gathering to their feet singing along to diesel powered and zero-emishis most famous recording “Amarillo”.

Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor, Fleet Publications FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

Bus & Coach AWARDS 2024

CATEGORY WINNERS | 109

category winners Coach Operator Award 2024 – Town/ City Service and Local Link Provider

sponsored by EVM

Winner: O’Callaghan Coaches Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Philip O’Callaghan, O’Callaghan Coaches; Shaun McBride, EVM (Category Sponsor) and Síle Seoige, MC.

Coach Operator Award 2024 – Inter City / Airport Services

sponsored by AdTec Aerauto

Winner: Dublin Express Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Rory Fitzgerald General Manager National Express Ireland; John Boughton, Managing Director Dublin Express / National Express Ireland; Kieran Mulvaney, Managing Director, AdTec Aerauto (Category Sponsor) and Síle Seoige, MC.

www.fleet.ie

Bus & Coach

110 | CATEGORY WINNERS

category winners Coach Operator of the Year 2024 – Tours

AWARDS 2024

Winner: Cronin’s Coaches John Quirke, Cronin’s Coaches; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurances (Title Sponsor); Niall Cronin, Cronin’s Coaches; Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Dermot Cronin, Derry Cronin, Niall Cronin, Cronin’s Coaches and Síle Seoige, MC.

Coach Operator of the Year 2024 – Tour Organiser & Coach Provider

Winner: Pierce Kavanagh Coaches Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Diarmaid Thompson, National Accounts Manager, Volvo Bus & Coach (Category Sponsor); Conor Kavanagh, Pierce Kavanagh, Caoimhe Kavanagh, Pierce Kavanagh Coaches and Síle Seoige, MC.

FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

Bus & Coach AWARDS 2024

CATEGORY WINNERS | 111

category winners Bus Operator of the Year 2024 – 10 or less Vehicles

Winner: Collins Travel Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Vincent Clarke, M.D. Clarke Autowash (Category Sponsor); Brendan and Andrew Collins, Collins Travel and Síle Seoige, MC.

Bus Operator of the Year 2024 – More than 10 Vehicles

Winner: Donoghue’s of Galway Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Vincent Clarke, M.D. Clarke Autowash (Category Sponsor); Joe Donoghue, Donoghue’s of Galway and Síle Seoige, MC.

www.fleet.ie

Bus & Coach

112 | CATEGORY WINNERS

category winners

AWARDS 2024

School Bus Operator of the Year 2024

Winner: Brigdale Coaches Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Karl Jennings, Close Brothers Commercial Finance (Category Sponsor); Shane Brigdale, Cian Crimmins and Shane Óg Brigdale, Brigdale Coaches and Síle Seoige, MC.

Safety Practice Award 2024

Winner: Aircoach Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Kim Swan, Managing Director, Aircoach and Johanna Parsons and Síle Seoige, MC.

FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

Bus & Coach AWARDS 2024

CATEGORY WINNERS | 113

category winners Livery & Corporate Identity Award 2024

Winner: Irish Citylink / Go Bus Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Frances Cahill, Irish Citylink / Go Bus; Tommy Callinan, Callinan Coaches; Mark Noone, Brian Noone Ltd (Category Sponsor) and Síle Seoige, MC.

Care for the Environment Award 2024

Winner: Spain’s Coach Hire / Luxury Irish Tours Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Glen Guildea, Managing Director, M50 Truck & Van Centre (Category Sponsor); Claire Spain and Keith Spain, Spain’s Coach Hire / Luxury Irish Tours and Síle Seoige, MC.

www.fleet.ie

114 | CATEGORY WINNERS

category winners Investment in Innovation Award 2024

Bus & Coach AWARDS 2024

Winner: Dave Long Coach Hire Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Willie Martin, Chairman, Coach Tourism & Transport Council (Category Sponsor); Damien Long, Dave Long Coach Hire and Síle Seoige, MC.

Women in Passenger Transport Award 2024

Winner: Siobhán O’Hara – Corduff Travel Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine; Carlos Dunne, JF Dunne Insurance (Title Sponsor); Pat Curran, Harris Group (Category Sponsor); Siobhán O’Hara, Corduff Travel and Síle Seoige, MC.

FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

Bus & Coach

CATEGORY WINNERS | 115

category winners

AWARDS 2024

www.fleet.ie

116 | IRISH COACH OF THE YEAR

Bus & Coach

Fleet BUS & COACH - IRISH COACH of the Year Awards 2024

AWARDS 2024

Irish Coach of the Year 2024 Sponsored by

Irish Midi-Coach of the Year 2024 Sponsored by

Winner: VDL/DAF Double Deck Coach

Winner: Noone Turas 700S (Iveco)

Karl Jennings, Close Brothers Commercial Finance (Sponsor); Bas Gielen, VDL Coach & Bus; Bruce Archer, OHM Group; Sean Murtagh, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine and Síle Seoige, M.C.

Karl Jennings, Close Brothers Commercial Finance (Sponsor); Mark Noone, M.D. Brian Noone Ltd; Sean Murtagh, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine and Síle Seoige, M.C.

FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

IRISH COACH OF THE YEAR | 117

Bus & Coach

Fleet BUS & COACH - IRISH COACH of the Year Awards 2024

AWARDS 2024

Irish Electric Coach of the Year 2024 Sponsored by

Irish Electric Bus Drivetrain Award 2024 Sponsored by

Winner: Higer Azure 12 metre

Winner: Volvo Bus BZL

Karl Jennings, Close Brothers Commercial Finance (Sponsor); Brian Patterson and Denise Harris – Harris Group; Sean Murtagh, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine and Síle Seoige, M.C.

Karl Jennings, Close Brothers Commercial Finance (Sponsor); Diarmaid Thompson, National Account Manager, Volvo Bus; Sean Murtagh, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine and Síle Soeige, M.C.

www.fleet.ie

118 | IRISH COACH OF THE YEAR

Bus & Coach

Fleet BUS & COACH - IRISH COACH of the Year Awards 2024

AWARDS 2024

Irish Electric Mini-Bus of the Year 2024 Sponsored by

Special Merit – Wheelchair Accessibility Award Sponsored by

Winner: Maxus eDeliver 9

Winner: Noone Turas 900S (DAF)

Karl Jennings, Close Brothers Commercial Finance (Sponsor); Brian Patterson and Denise Harris – Harris Group; Sean Murtagh, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine and Síle Seoige, M.C.

Karl Jennings, Close Brothers Commercial Finance (Sponsor); Mark Noone, M.D. Brian Noone Ltd; Sean Murtagh, Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine and Síle Seoige, M.C.

FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

WELCOME RECEPTION | 119

Bus & Coach

Fleet BUS & COACH Awards 2024 Sponsored by

AWARDS 2024

welcome reception

Aircoach

John Boughton, Ann Gallagher, Doreen Bell and Padraig McGrane – Dublin Express

Emma Callinan, Linda Lambert, Ava Keane, Frances Cahill, Michelle Callinan – Irish Citylink and Callinan Coaches

Noel Brady and Anne Cronin

The team from EVM

William Aherne, Shaun McBride, Lorna Miller, Mary Cronin, Ray Murray www.fleet.ie

120 | WELCOME RECEPTION

Bus & Coach

Fleet BUS & COACH Awards 2024 Sponsored by

AWARDS 2024

welcome reception

Pauline Walsh, Shane Aherne

Spain’s Coach Hire / Luxury Irish Tours

Mary & Vincent Clarke – Clarke Autowash

Philip Kenny and Gabriel Finn

Conor Kavanagh, Pierce Kavanagh, Caoimhe Kavanagh, Linda Kearney and Roy Kearney

Corduff Travel

Dennis McGannon and Ray Murray

Jarlath Sweeney and Emma Callinan

Cronin’s Coaches

FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

WELCOME RECEPTION | 121

Bus & Coach

Fleet BUS & COACH Awards 2024 Sponsored by

AWARDS 2024

welcome reception

David Conway and William Martin – CTTC

Pierce, Caoimhe and Conor Kavanagh – Pierce Kavanagh Coaches

Brigdale Coaches

Dublin Express

Tony Christie, Sile Seoige and Jarlath Sweeney

The winning team from Cronin’s Coaches

Callinan Coaches and Irish Citylink/Go Bus

Eddie Brigdale couldn’t make it to the Fleet Bus & Coach Awards but was proud of the award when it got back to Clare

Andrew and Brendan Collins

www.fleet.ie

122| NEWS | CONDUCTORS’ 1 STAND

Government Ignores Bus Operators By ignoring CBOs (Commercial Bus Operators), the Government could be accused of discriminating between passengers on Public Service Obligation (PSO) services and those using Private Operators. It is disappointing that, despite intense lobbying, the Coach Tourism & Transport Council (CTTC) got very little from Budget 2024.

Many agencies are encouraging people to use more sustainable travel options, including using private buses and their services. While the Bus and Coach sector has come out of the Covid crisis relatively unscathed, it still needs a lot of Government support and assistance. We are more reliant on public transport than ever before, and as more of us populate the planet, careful planning will be required in the decades ahead to ensure some degree of comfort and efficiency. Buses will be a key part of any plan. One of the problems is that the investment required to allow the private sector tool up cannot be generated through normal trading, a not unusual situation for sectors looking to cope with increased demand.

Carrying 75 million passengers including two million tourists, and employing almost 20,000 people, the private bus sector is significant. While most operators are experiencing a return to pre-Covid levels and some rate improvements, there is some nervousness about the future amongst operators.

In presenting its Budget submission the CTTC divided its document into two. A request for specific financial help for operators and the need for future strategic development for public transport was made. VAT has always been a bugbear for operators, adding up to 21% to their costs, and the CTTC have asked for some changes here. It asked for a scrappage scheme for operators’ vehicles, for all private operators to be included in future fare reduction schemes, and to introduce an incentive investment for accessible vehicles. From a strategic point of view, it asked for a fuel contingency fund, a reconfiguration of Ireland’s Transport strategy and some state encouragement to attract drivers into the sector.

As the Budget approached, the CTTC got involved in some national and local lobbying of politicians and had some meetings with Government Ministers. There was a degree of anticipation and hope that the Government would see the importance of giving some incentives and assistance to the private bus sector. Unfortunately, it was not to be.

In a statement after the Budget speech, Willie Martin, Chairperson of the CTTC commented: “While we acknowledge the challenges faced by Government in balancing various priorities, the absence of a 20% fare reduction for CBOs in Budget 2024 is deeply disappointing. It represents a missed

FLEETBUS&COACH| WINTER 23

opportunity to level the playing field for operators who are integral to the functioning of our public transport system. We urge the Government to reconsider this decision and work towards a fairer and more sustainable future for the industry.”

“The exclusion of CBOs from fare reduction schemes affects a substantial portion of the population, the vast majority outside the Greater Dublin Area. It is estimated that over 71% of the population across the State do not have full access to the 20% fare reduction scheme. The CTTC is also disappointed that the broadening of the VAT71 criteria was not included to allow operators to invest in more sustainable vehicles, in particular those commercial operators operating town services.”

Willie concluded by saying that the CTTC was committed to continue trying to get the Government to be a little more receptive to their members.

As Government and its agencies continue to roll out policies to reduce the use of fossil fuels, they need to be careful that they do not give an advantage to one group over another. On a wider note, they would also want to be careful not to discriminate against commuters. Cyclists and pedestrians are not superior to bus passengers. Any investments and policies aimed at getting people to leave their cars at home should not discriminate against what mode of transport they choose.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

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