Fleet Transport Feb 24

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE & HAULAGE MAGAZINE Inside!

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

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All the latest News, Views, Interviews, Reviews, Reports, Test Drives & Pictures from around the World MOTOrspOrT: Success for Audi, Iveco & Honda in Dakar Rally 2024 MarkeTpLace: Review of 2023 Truck, Trailer and Van Sales in Ireland TesT: Report on the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2453 BigSpace

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Contents FEBRUARY 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 tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 | email: enquiries@fleet.ie subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827 editor:

Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

contributors:

Cathal Doyle, Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Rob Van Dieten, Gianenrico Griffini (ITOY)

photography:

Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott, Newspress, Volvo Group, Woodland Group, Vemaps.com

administration: Orla Sweeney Email: enquiries@fleet.ie advertising:

Mary Morrissey Email: mary@fleet.ie

design:

Crackerjack Design House

printed in ireland

5 news New General Safety Regulations for Trucks Ford & Volkswagen presented with International Awards trophies

p 12

8 inTerView With Emmanuel Beaune, Toyota Motor Europe 10 cOVer Volvo Trucks to the ‘Fore’

p 16

12 new fLeeT Proudly wearing 241 number plates 16 fLeeTing sHOTs Illuminations & Donations 18 MOTOrspOrT Extensive coverage of the 2024 Dakar Rally

p 32

22 preView Road Transport Expo 2024 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.

23 HgV MarkeTpLace 2023 Review 28 wHaT’s new – HgV? Coming on stream for 2024

2024

30 TraiLer MarkeTpLace 2023 Report

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

follow us on twitter.com/fleettransport

32 TesT With the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2453 BigSpace 35 fLeeT MariTiMe Shipping & Freight Newsletter 40 safeTy MaTTers Health & Safety advice 41 cOMMenT Shape up or Ship out!

42 OpiniOn Tolls Tolling 44 finance Strategy for Success 50 cOVer First Drive in the new Ford Transit Courier II

cOnTenTs – issue 1 2024 79 news: Circle K & IONITY in charge, on charge New Fastned EV App 80 LauncH pad New form BYD, SsangYong & Suzuki 81 TesT driVe With the Audi e-tron GT 82 cOnTeMpLaTiOns Focus on females in the auto industry

diary daTes 2024 eVenTs and exHiBiTiOns eVenT

daTes

Venue

weBsiTe

Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2024

13-18 February

NEC, Birmingham, UK

www.ccmshow.co.uk

Geneva Motor Show 2024

26 February – 3 March

PalExpo, Geneva, Switzerland

www.genevamotorshow.com

CILT Mobility & Supply Chain Summit 2024

27th February

The Gibson Hotel, Dublin

www.cilt.ie

UKWA Conference

12-13 March

East Midlands Conference Centre, University of Nottingham Campus

www.ukwa.org.uk

Cold Chain Climate Summit

13-March

The Slate, University of Warwick

www.coldchainfederation.org.uk

Sustainable Supply Chain Exhibition

19-20 March

NEC, Birmingham, UK

sustainablesupplychainexhibition.co.uk

LogiMat 2024

19-21 March

Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre, Germany

www.logimat-messe.de

Mid-American Trucking Show

21-23 March

Kentucky Exposition Centre, Louisville, USA

www.truckingshow.com

SEAI Energy Show

29-30 March

Hall 1, RDS, Dublin

www.seai.ie

IFOY Intralogistics Test Days

9-10 April

Messe Dortmund, Germany

www.ifoy.org

UKIFDA Expo & Conference 2024

10-11 April

Exhibition Centre, Liverpool, UK

www.ukifda.org

Commercial Vdhiclde Show 2024

23-25 April

NEC, Birmingham

www.cvshow.com

Transpotec 2024

8-11 May

Fiera Milano, Italy

www.transpotec.com

Inside Warehouse Logistics IWLEX 24

14-15 May

NEAC Stoneleigh, Coventry, UK

www.iwlex.co.uk

ITT Hub 2024/ Sustainable Road Transport Show

15-16 May

Farnborough International, UK

www.sustainableroadtransport.s

TraffEx

22-23 May

CBS Arena, Coventry, UK

www.traffex.com

Busworld Türkiye 2024

29-31 May

Istanbul Expo Centre (IFM), Turkey

www.busworldturkey.org

Road Transport eXpo – RTX 2024

4-6 June

Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, GB

www.roadtransportexpo.co.uk

Multimodal 2024

11-13 June

NEC, Birmingham, UK

www.multimodal.org.uk

Hillhead 2024

25-27 June

Hillhead Quarry, Buxton, Derbyshire, UK

www.hillhead.com

IRHA Conference 2024

13-14 September

Slieve Russell Hotel, Ballyconnell, Cavan

www.irha.ie

IAA Transportation 2024

17-22 September

Hannover Messe, Germany

www.iaa-transportation.com

National Ploughing Championships

17-19 September

Ratheniska, County Laois

www.npa.ie

Fleet Transport Awards

10-October

Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield

www.fleet.ie

FTAI Transport Manager’s Seminar

17-October

Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield

www.ftai.ie

Paris Motor Show 2024

17-24 October

Porte de Versailles, Paris

www.mondial.paris

Innotrans 2024

24-27 September

Messe Berlin, Germany

www.innotrans.de

CTTC Coach & Bus Show 2024

1-3 November

RDS Simmonscourt Pavilion, Dublin

www.cttc.ie

LiftEx 2024

21-22 November

Exhibition Centre, Liverpool, UK

www.liftex.org

Intermodal Europe 2024

12-14 November

Rotterdam Ahoy, The Netherlands

www.intermodal-events.com

Busworld Europe

18-23 October

Place de Belgique, Brussels, Belgium

www.busworld.org

EuroBus Expo 2024

12-14 November

NEC, Birmingham, UK

https://eurobusxpo.com

TRANSPORT

www.fl eet.ie www.fleet.ie

fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024 Engaging Connectivity Connectivity

AWARDS 2025

saVe THe daTe: THursday 10 OcTOBer 2024 JOHnsTOwn esTaTe HOTeL, enfieLd, cOunTy MeaTH w w w.f le et.ie

| NEWS 1

NEWS I | 5

Be Aware! New General Safety Regulations (GSR) for Trucks

From July 2024, all new trucks sold in the european union must comply with the updated general safety regulations (gsr). the regulations require a range of mandatory advanced safety features.

In 2019, the GSR were updated as a result of new innovations in automotive safety that can help lower the risk of accidents caused by human error. The update means a series of active safety systems that support drivers will become mandatory in new trucks from July 2024.

The objective is to help the EU reach ’Vision Zero’ – its long-term goal of zero fatalities and serious injuries on European roads by 2050. The active safety features largely focus on keeping drivers attentive and alert. Some of them are already in place in some form on many trucks today. what are the general safety regulations for heavy trucks?

A total of 11 active safety features are required. Eight of them will become mandatory on new trucks from July 2024.

The remaining three will follow in 2026 and 2029. The features include: 1. emergency stop signal: A flashing brake light (or similar) that signals to other road users behind the truck that the truck is quickly slowing down or braking heavily.

2. reversing information: Technology, such as camera or sensors, to give the driver an overview of objects and people behind the truck.

3. Tyre pressure monitoring system: A system that monitors the tyre pressure and reports tyre pressure loss in real time to the driver.

4. intelligent speed assistance: A system that actively monitors speed and alerts the driver if he/she is breaking the speed limit, to encourage them to slow down.

5. Blind spot information system: A system that warns the driver of cyclists/ motorcylists/escooters riding adjacent or crossing in front.

6. Moving off information system: A system that warns the driver of vulnerable road users in front of the vehicle before driving off or when driving slowly.

7. alcohol interlock installation facilitation: The rule change requires a standardised interface for alcoholic interlocks (breathalysers) in vehicles.

8. drowsiness and attention detection: Safety systems to assess the driver’s alertness that for instance monitor how long somebody has been driving and warn the driver to take a break when needed.

9. distraction recognition and prevention: A safety warning system capable of recognising the level of attention a driver is paying to a situation and warning the driver, if necessary. Set to roll out in a later phase in 2026.

10. improved direct vision from driver’s position: Specific requirements to improve ‘direct vision’ (what drivers can see directly through the windows of their vehicle) and remove blind spots.

The new standards aim to allow drivers to see cyclists and pedestrians faster and easier. Set to roll out in a later phase in 2029.

11. event (accident) data recorder: A “black box” accident data recorder. Set to roll out in a later phase in 2029. why are the general safety regulations important?

They will save lives. The EU estimate is that the new regulations will prevent at least 25,000 road fatalities by 2038. One key objective is to reduce the number of accidents between trucks and vulnerable road users. And three of the proposed features for trucks – the moving off and blind spot information systems – and the new direct vision standard – are aimed at protecting them.

The direct vision standards (point 10 above), which will be phased in starting in 2025, include specific requirements to improve how much drivers can see from the cab. Better direct vision from the cab has been shown to cut accident rates and driver reaction times. The new direct vision standard is directly inspired by a similar scheme in London, in which trucks are rated based on direct vision from the cab. Here, only trucks that meet a set standard are allowed to enter the city.

The GSR is part of a broader effort to make traffic safer, including better risk-mapping and updated rules on road infrastructure, especially for our most vulnerable road users – pedestrians and cyclists/motorcyclists/escooters – in our growing cities. Similar safety regulations are likely to be implemented in other nations over the coming years. Outside of the EU, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, the UK and Israel are already set to follow the new GSR.

6 || NEWS NEWS II1

Ford Ireland and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland presented with 2024 International Award trophies RNATIONA TE L IN

2024 VA N

available today in the light commercial vehicle sectors.

For the first time, the new Ford Ranger and new Volkswagen Amarok shared the International Pick-up Award (IPUA). Both Ford Pro and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have now won the International Pick-up Award (IPUA) three times, following the announcement and twin-trophy presentation at the Solutrans 2023 Gala Banquet at EuroExpo, Lyon, France. While the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok completed their ‘hat-trick’ of IPUA victories, this time it was shared between the two brands and models.

“Following the IPUA 2023 Group Tests, held in Greece, it was impossible to separate the two models from each other, as both the new Ranger and

International Van of the Year 2024 – Ford Transit Custom O F T H E YE A

R

at Ford ireland’s headquarters at Boreenmanna road in Cork, Jarlath sweeney, Chairman, international Van of the Year (iVotY) & international Pick-up award (iPua) juries presented John Manning, Market lead, sales & Marketing director at Ford Motor Company with replica trophies for the two major awards that the Ford transit Custom and Ford ranger won recently.

In the space of twenty-three years, the Ford Transit has won the International Van of the Year Award five times, the most prestigious honour in the European Light Commercial Vehicle industry. Ford Pro has also now won the IVOTY and IPUA awards in the same year on three occasions – more than any other manufacturer – following double wins in 2013 and 2020. The initial announcement and presentation of the awards were made during a special ceremony at the Solutrans commercial vehicle show in Lyon, France, last November and further validates Ford Pro’s position as a leader in the European commercial vehicle market.

In the election for the 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, Mercedes-Benz eCitan and Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen, indicating the diversity and choice of drivetrains fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

Amarok were co-developed and are made at the Ford factory in South Africa.

Although a collaboration project, each manufacturer has managed to maintain their unique styling and driving traits, which customers will testify,” explained Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman, IPUA jury.

This seventh running of the IPUA for 2024/25 sees the sixth generation Ranger adding to the titles won in 2013 and 2020, while the original Amarok won the inaugural trophy in 2011 and again in 2018 with the upgraded version.

Pictured (below) at the presentation of the IPUA replica to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland (VWCVI) at Frank Keane Volkswagen Liffey Valley, Dublin were Paul Hunt, VWCVI Brand Director and Jarlath Sweeney,

Chairman, IPUA. RNATIONA TE L IN

2024

International Pick-Up Award 2024 – Ford Ranger & Volkswagen Amarok

Pi

ck-

u p A w ar

d

The Volvo Aero range.

Extended efficiency.

With extended cabs streamlined for energy efficiency, the Volvo Aero range is another leg on our journey towards zero emissions. Trucks designed to take you further and to make a difference to your bottom line. The Volvo Aero range is available with electric, gas or diesel powertrains and loaded with innovative features to maximise performance.

Your efficiency. Extended.

Contact your local Volvo Trucks dealer or visit volvotrucks.co.uk

Volvo Trucks. Driving Progress

8 || INTERVIEW NEWS 1

One-to-one with Emmanuel Beaune, Toyota Motor Europe: Head of Corporate Sales & Light Commercials With Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie toyota now offers a full range of light commercials - from small / medium to large. explore how the transition from Hiace and liteace evolved into the Proace family.

What we see now in Europe today, scale and volume is very important. It’s a lot about alliance. If you want to have a competitive line-up in Europe and make the right investment, you have to look at stability and alliances are important for this. We are very pleased with our partnership with Stellantis, which also extends to small cars like the Aygo.

That’s why we wanted to continue this partnership from first with the Proace in 2016, then in 2019 we had the possibility to enter the compact van market with Proace City. Last year we expanded again our arrangement with Stellantis in order to complete the line-up and that new model, the Proace Max is going to come in 2024.

By entering the large segment which represents over a third of the whole market with the Proace Max, where do you see your customers coming from?

I will start with corporate sales and fleet customers. Today proposing a one stop shop is very important as it improves our ability to compete more.

For the customer who wants to have the full range within one brand, sometimes in the past we were not able to win some fleet tenders because we didn’t have a full and complete line-up. For fleet having the full line-up will be very important.

Secondly, the customers are quite different between mid-sized and large sized. In what we have seen, with the larger van it is how much merchandise you can put inside so for us this is very important, and we already have some companies who are asking for a certain cubic metres in order to meet their needs. So we have an additional opportunity here. fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

The third point is we have customers who know that Toyota is also taking care of them, and it’s one of the reasons why sometimes they prefer to choose Toyota versus another brand.

With regards to infrastructure, you mentioned that your network will be up to the mark as regards technicians. and also that you are going to have a standalone toyota Professional image with signage, demonstration vehicles etc. on the engineering side, will dealers have to invest in equipment such as, for example, lifts that they didn’t need before?

With the introduction of the Proace Maxi we need a five tonne lift in order to have the capability to service it, so we are asking our dealers to invest in these in order to be a Toyota Professional Centre. [Regarding selecting dealers for LCVs] firstly we are looking as to where we have sales potential of about 100 units, secondly, we have some standards, both from sales and after-sales such as dedicated after-sales members and a dedicated LCV sales force, but also [the requirement] for some specialised equipment like the five tonne lift.

Your sales have grown exponentially over the last few years, from 46,000 to over 140,000 units. do you see that continuing even though you are potentially going to have less diesel and more electric sales?

Yes, our plan now is to go up to 180,000 units. Today we are only in 70% of the markets but having products for an extra 40% additional segments will help our growth.

With regards to other conversions, do you have camper van specialists that are interested in developing the larger van?

It’s something we can see, but as a first step based on the volume we negotiated with Stellantis we want to focus on commercial and van buyers.

As a second stage we could potentially develop campers.

What about marketing the new van - is there an opportunity to provide some of your electric Proace Max to your teams competing in toyota’s various motorsport activities in order to get more exposure for them?

Where we are going to showcase first is during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, In terms of mobility for all, we will have the Proace Wheelchair [special conversion] and also the Proace Maxi BEV, so we will have so good visibility for them. Also we are investigating additional opportunities. are there certain markets you need to focus on with regards to the Proace and Proace City? What about markets where you were strong in the past with Hiace?

Was it difficult to move on from such a successful product as Hiace?

The countries where we were strong with Hiace are usually the ones where we are now also performing well on LCVs. That’s because we started early to put the right network strategy in place, and to also have the right technicians and sales people. Moving on from Hiace was difficult for a while, but when people understood that we will be offering a wider range of products compared to one specific, it was also very welcome.

TRANSPORT

www.fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

Engaging Connectivity Connectivity

AWARDS 2025

The leading Awards Programme for the Irish Road Transport & Haulage Industry SAVE THE DATE: Date: Thursday 10 October 2024 Venue: Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath For further information on sponsorship opportunities please contact: ORLA SWEENEY: +353 86 2439239 orla@fleet.ie MARY MORRISSEY: +353 87 2178495 mary@fleet.ie

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

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10 | | NEWS COVER 1 STORY

“Fore” - Volvo Trucks edges ahead with new 780hp FH Aero and new FM Low Entry

Volvo Trucks people are proudly and loudly shouting “Four!”. It’s not to be confused with the golf warning ‘Fore’ but the proclamation is an alert as to what’s coming down the Swedish motorway from the Gothenburg based manufacturer.

On the way are a quadruple of new developments, mostly associated with Volvo’s heavy duty trucks range. The flagship FH series welcomes a new member to the fleet in the shapely ‘Aero’ model, while similar attention will be given to the engineering of the new 17-litre diesel engine, producing 780hp, and boasting ‘the most powerful standard production trucks in the world’.

Another first is the arrival of the Volvo FM Low Entry, its first ever electric only truck, specialising in cleaner, and safer city transport. To complete the fourth fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

aspect of the modifications made to its Model Year 2024 line-up, the Volvo FM and its sister construction truck the FMX gets safety upgrades. new addiTiOn TO fH faMiLy Revealed at a special event held in Gothenburg, the new FH Aero features a strong aerodynamic design package with a number of innovative additions to take energy efficiency to a new level. FH Aero is available in four powertrain variants including biofuel and Volvo’s International Truck of the Year 2024 award-winning electric technology.

It’s important to note that the Volvo FH ‘Aero’, with its new extended cab design does not spell the end of the iconic FH, as the FH will continue to be offered also with a standard non-extended cab depending on market needs.

While the current FH is already fitted with improved aerodynamics and new technologies such as Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System which replaces traditional exterior mirrors, the new FH Aero is said to further reduce energy consumption and emissions by up to five percent. That’s according to Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks, who stated: “The new Volvo FH Aero is our most efficient truck ever as we continue to reduce CO2 from our entire product range. This is a Volvo Truck at its best – a safe, beautifully designed and superior quality truck for tough long-haul tasks, designed for the success of our customers.”

Roger highlighted that regardless of which powertrain

customers choose, be it electric, gas or diesel – all variants of the new FH Aero will benefit from lower energy consumption, longer range distance and a superior level of safety and driving experience. The new Aero truck models will be rolled out step-by-step to markets during 2024-2025 in four versions – the FH Aero, FH Aero Electric, FH Aero gas-powered and FH16 Aero.

The front section of the Volvo FH Aero cab has been extended by 24 centimetres versus the regular Volvo FH. This extension has been instrumental in creating a more aerodynamic truck cab and also meets new EU regulations relating to cab design. Not only do the better aerodynamics give lower fuel consumption, they also provide better driving stability in windy conditions.

COVER STORY | 11

The improved aerodynamics also benefit the FH Aero Electric model through better free-rolling properties, allowing increased energy regeneration back into the battery while braking or decelerating. What is also significant with the new face of the FH Aero is that it has space over the grille for company branding, unlike the current edition.

That said, a bigger and bolder Volvo ‘Iron Mark’ badge is placed lower – the largest in modern times on a Volvo truck – as well as the Volvo lettering across the face, making no mistake about its identity.

Gone are the exterior mirror housings. Although slimmed down on the current model, a new advanced Camera Monitoring System is fitted, contributing to improved aerodynamics and safety. This new solution opens the visual field for the driver, improving their own safety as well as that for the surrounding road users. In addition, the camera system has a positive impact on the driver’s visibility not only in rainy and dark conditions, but also in direct sunlight and when driving in tunnels.

When driving with a trailer, the camera system has an auto-panning function, following the turning trailer. new 17-LiTre dieseL engine The introduction of a newly engineered 17-litre Euro 6E diesel engine means the Volvo FH16 range-topper becomes the most powerful truck in the industry with 780 horsepower unit with

3,800 Nm of torque. Certified to run on biofuels – the new engine comes with three power levels – 600 hp, 700 hp and 780 hp – while torque levels have been increased to 3,000 Nm, 3,400 Nm and 3,800 Nm respectively. The new engine is available in the all-new Volvo FH16 Aero and the latest version of the Volvo FH16.

Marcos Weingaertner, Product Manager at Volvo Trucks, explained about the achievement: “I’m proud to present our new engine – it really is a masterpiece and the result of world-class engineering. The 780 hp version is the strongest engine in the industry. When climbing steep grades on a road with maximum loads, you don’t want to get stuck with too little torque and power. That is why we have focused all our efforts on making the D17 engine very powerful, reliable and responsive.

For our customers, this translates into getting the job done faster with improved fuel efficiency.”

The new D17 engine is certified to run on HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) in all power ratings. The 700 hp version is also certified to run on 100% biodiesel (B100). The gearbox has been updated to handle up to 3,800 Nm, and internal gearbox efficiency has been further improved on the 3,000 Nm and 3,400 Nm versions.

“I’m confident that customers and drivers will appreciate the higher engine brake power as well as the ability to run on HVO and biodiesel,” added Marcos.

“The D17 is a fabulous engine for a fabulous truck, and all our customers who rely on the Volvo FH16 in their daily work will now have an even more powerful tool to help them.”

VOLVO fM LOw enTry eLecTric Truck As more cities aim to reduce their emission levels, introducing Low Emission Zones, demand is rapidly rising for zero-exhaust emission trucks that can meet new legislation and new customer requirements. Volvo Trucks’ FM Low Entry, its latest addition to its electric truck programme, is a heavy-duty truck specifically developed to handle a wide variety of transport assignments in cities, such as waste management, distribution and construction.

Based on Volvo’s well-known FM model, the spacious cab has been lowered and moved forward, so that

the low instep and flat floor make it easy to enter and exit the truck. These design features create an ergonomic, comfortable and efficient working environment for drivers in busy city locations. The new truck’s low driving position offers drivers excellent visibility and control of their surroundings. As a result, the FM Low Entry has been awarded a five-star Direct Vision Standard rating by Transport for London’s incoming regulations, due to come into effect for heavy duty vehicles in the fourth quarter of 2024.

“This zero tailpipe emission truck is a great addition to our electric range, perfectly suited for working in city centres and designed with the driver in mind. It’s powerful, yet smooth to drive and easy to manoeuvre. The new Volvo FM Low Entry is perfectly in line with our ambitions to expand our electric offer, enabling even more customers to reduce their carbon emissions,” commented Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks.

In relation to the specification, its unique features include: 3-seat option; 2 heights: Sleeper cab (1,575 mm) & Extended/High sleeper (1,945 mm). The axle configurations are: 4x2, 6x2, 6x4, 8x2, 8x4; GVW: 19-32 tonnes; Electric Motor: 330 kWh; Battery Pack: 360 kWh (4 batteries); Range: Up to 200 km; Charging: 250 kW (DC), 43 kW (AC); Wheelbase: 3,900-6,000 mm. enHanceMenTs fOr fM and fMx MOdeLs In addition, the Volvo FM and FMX trucks are being upgraded for even better efficiency, safety and productivity for demanding businesses. The refresh includes the repositioning of the Volvo Iron Mark, and an advanced new Camera Monitoring System, which contributes to both better aerodynamics and improved safety. This new solution, which replaces traditional exterior mirrors, gives the driver a wider visual field, improving safety for both the driver and surrounding road users.

“The heavy-duty Volvo trucks are icons in the industry and with the latest upgrades I am confident that we will further strengthen our position in this segment. Our skilled engineers have done a tremendous job in fine-tuning our heavy-duty trucks for reduced CO2 emissions, improved safety and even better productivity and customer satisfaction,” concluded Roger.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie WWW.Fleet.ie

12 | | NEWS NEW FLEET 1 I

241 Registrations on new MAN Trucks sold by Dennehy Commercials, Limerick

Main Man truck dealer, dennehy Commercials, dock road, limerick has started off the new business year with a number of sales sporting 241 registration plates. sales executive Martin Hough conducted these deals.

This new MAN TGS 8x4 insulated tar tipper was sold to Pat Lynch of Lynkeo Civil Engineering, Limerick, with company driver Eamonn pictured accepting the keys from Martin.

A new MAN TGX 18.520 was bought by Quitmann O’ Neill from Portumna, County Galway. Driver Mattie O Brien is pictured at the handover.

Destined for operation for Kwik Precast RC, Dublin is this new MAN TGX.510 6x2 tractor-unit, the first of two units purchased by the firm, which also has a manufacturing plant in Abbeyleix.

Kwik RC Director Theo was present at the handover.

This award-winning MAN TGM 18.250 fitted with a 28 foot box body with a 2 tonne tail lift was acquired by Newman Logistics, Ennis, County Clare. Michael Newman on left, is pictured accepting the keys. Also, in the picture is Brendan Curran, Transport Manager at Newman Logistics.

Bertschi Ireland’s New Generation DAF XF

Another DAF LF Roadside Recovery truck for AA Ireland The Automobile Association in Ireland has invested in another DAF LF 210 4x2 rigid with Day cab, and 8-speed Powerline automated transmission, to add to its roadside recovery service. The bodywork was built

As part of a European fleet deal, DAF Trucks Ireland was pleased to hand over this latest New Generation DAF XF 450 4x2 tractor-unit with Sleeper High Cab to loyal customer Bertschi Ireland, at the company’s depot in Lusk, County Dublin. Pictured on the occasion were: (L/R) John McCann (Sales Manager, DAF Trucks Ireland) and Mario Bacenga (Driver, Bertschi Ireland). fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

by Thomas Small & Sons, Claregalway.

Pictured at the handover at DAF Trucks Ireland HQ were Gareth Purdy (AA Patrol), Alan Lyons (AA Road Operations Manager), Gavin Smith (Road Operations Manager) and Paul O’Reilly (DAF Trucks Ireland Regional Sales Manager), who conducted the deal.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

VIEWPOINT | 9

Ashbourne Truck Centre, Ballymadun, Ashbourne, Co. Meath, Ireland Tel: 00353 18350573 Josef: 0035387 255 66 77 Sarah J: 0035386 255 66 77

Faymonville 3 axle 9ft wide, extendable low loader, double flip ramps, rear steer axle, wide load marker boards, alu surround boards on neck, alu ramps to load neck, payload up to 45tons, hydraulic rear legs, In stock available now

Faymonville 4 axle 9ft wide, extendable low loader, double flip ramps, 2 rear steer axles, wide load marker boards, alu neck ramps, alu surround boards on neck, payload up to 60tons, hydraulic rear legs, in stock available now

MAX Trailer, 2 axle draw bar low loader, 7m bed, option for alu side boards (removable), spring loaded aluminium ramps, payload up to 16tons. In stock available now, also available in 3 axle version with payload up to 25tons, available for delivery early 2024

Faymonville 5 axle step frame low loader, 9ft wide, extendable, double flip ramps, wide load marker boards, heavy duty out rigger timber, hydraulic rear legs, front lift axle, 3 friction steer axles, payload up to 75tons. In Stock available now

www.ashbournetruckcentre.com

14 | | NEWS NEW FLEET 1 II

Eleven new Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz Actros delivers Actros for Caffrey International Night, NOONE & Day! County Meath-based freight transport and logistics firm Caffrey international has started 2024 on the front foot by enhancing its fleet of heavy commercial vehicles with the addition of 11 new Mercedes-Benz actros 1845ls Big space tractor units, all factory painted in the company’s eye-catching and familiar blue and cream livery.

Developed specifically with national and international long-distance haulage in mind, each unit is from the ‘L’ interior line specification – the biggest and most luxurious version in the Actros model series – and comes bedecked with an array of driver comfort features. Chief amongst them are climate control, night heater, sliding fridge, ambient interior lighting, glass sunroof and premium mattress. Safety is enhanced through features such as tyre pressure monitors, side guard assist and full camera system.

A long-term loyal Mercedes-Benz truck customer, Caffrey International took delivery of its first example of the German-made brand more than half a century ago, in March 1972.

Employing over 300 staff, Caffrey International is an expanding enterprise and one of Ireland’s leading transport groups. Serving more than 500 customers across Europe with bases in Ashbourne and Gdynia, Poland, the Company operates a modern fleet of over 180 trucks, providing specialist logistics services including pharmaceuticals, air-freight, temperature controlled freight, FMCG and hazardous cargo (ADR).

New Scania trucks on song for Ballygorman and Cahill A new Scania R590 6x2 tractor-unit purchased

by John Cahill Haulage Ltd., Cavan, comes complete with a host of extras, including the Scania V8 LED Premium Pack Twin Tail-lights, Premium Leather Seats and Night-time Cooler.

What better way to mark John’s 25 years in business. fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

once again noone transport limited, ashbourne, County Meath has selected Mercedes-Benz trucks as its preferred supplier for its latest round of investment. this sees the company boost its fleet of heavy commercial vehicles with the addition of 22 new heavy-duty actros 1845ls Big space tractor-units, supplied by Motor distributors limited (dublin).

The new highly specified trucks are factory painted and finished with sign writing by FISH Graphics in Noone Transport’s distinctive new white and red livery and will soon become a familiar sight on European roads.

Safety is enhanced through tyre pressure monitors and a full camera system, with Fleet Management systems provided by Transics.

Mcelvaney Motors, Main scania dealers in Monaghan & dublin prepared these new trucks for 241 registrations.

Ballygorman Contracts Ltd., Malin Head, County Donegal, has put into operation this new Scania 770S V8 tractor-unit with twin-wheel tag. This 6x2 is fully equipped with lots of optional extras. Ballygorman specialises in concrete and form-work, civil engineering and industrial flooring, with the Directors actively involved in the day to day running of the business.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Uniting The Liquid Fuel Distribution Industry For Future Thinking EXPO 2024 is the place to stay ahead of the curve, embrace the shift and collaborate for business resilience in these changing times.

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To register to attend or for more information, please visit www.ukifda.org or contact UKIFDA’s membership and events manager: Dawn Shakespeare

Email: ds@ukifda.org

LinkedIn UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA)

16 | | NEWS FLEETING 1 SHOTS

over 90 high decorated and gleaming trucks and a few brightly shinning tractors from around Connacht and further afield once again lit up Maam Valley, along the Mayo and galway county boundaries on saturday 9 december, with a wonderful display of flashing lights and honking air-horns for the third annual Joyce Country truck run & lights show 2023.

This year’s event, which saw the convoy begin at Maam Cross Mart and on to Clonbur, raised funds for Galway

Maam Valley Illuminated on Joyce Country Truck Run & Lights Show 2023

Hospice and the First Light charity, which supports suddenly bereaved parents and families.

“Last year’s event, which returned after the pandemic outbreak was most memorable with a huge convoy of brightly lit and greatly decorated trucks from all over the country. This year’s was even more spectacular than ever, with a few surprises in store, including a special visit by Santa, who arrived on a classic Fire Truck,” commented Paddy

Rock, on behalf of the organisers. He thanked all of the participants for their time and effort in putting this great showcase together and in supporting the designated charities.

All of the trucks involved competed for the much coveted Men’s Shed Trophy, introduced for the first time, by the Cornamona Branch, won by Mairtín Flaherty, Litir Mór, County Galway.

Classic Fest Donates €10,000 to the Parent Accommodation Fund of the Neonatal ICU Unit in University Hospital Galway Classic Fest 2023, held at galway racecourse last July, was again the largest vintage and classic vehicle event in ireland last year. on the day there were well over 1,000 vintage and classic cars, tractors, commercials, army vehicles, tractors and steam engines on display in Ballybrit. alongside the main attraction there was live music, a food village, children’s entertainment and many trade stalls. Blessed with fine weather, Classic Fest proved to be one of the best family days out in the West for the summer of 2023.

This year’s Classic Fest benefactor was the Parent Accommodation Fund of the Neonatal ICU Unit in University Hospital Galway, who received a cheque for €10,000 from event organisers Irish Vintage Scene at a recent presentation at the Oranmore Lodge Hotel.

“The success of this Parent Accommodation Fund means that parents of critically ill or premature babies who are not from Galway will have their accommodation needs supported during their stay in Galway. fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

Unfortunately there is no accommodation available for this unit in the hospital, so it’s all private, paid-for accommodation that’s used, and the donation from Classic Fest will help those families at this very stressful time in their lives,” explained Tom Heavey, owner of the Oranmorebased publishing and printing business with his wife Pauline, who also heads up the organisation of Classic Fest.

The cheque was presented to Dr Johannes Letshwiti, consultant neonatologist and Irene Glynn, clinical nurse manager of the Neonatal ICU Unit.

On presenting the cheque, the event organisers thanked everyone who made Classic Fest so memorable, adding: “We, both as a family and company, are delighted to be able give something back to the NICU unit in Galway, where

miracles happen. Our grandchild, Kai Naughton, spent his first six months of life in the NICU unit, where he received the best care anyone could ask for. We as a family were lucky that we lived close by, but with babies coming to the unit from as far away as Donegal, others have the added stress of finding accommodation. We are delighted to be helping those families with this donation from Classic Fest ’23.”

The other great news on the night was that Classic Fest will return to Galway Racecourse on Sunday the 30th of June 2024. For more details, see www. irishvintagescene.ie.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

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18 | | NEWS MOTORSPORT 1 I

Challenging 2024 Dakar Rally sees experience to the fore as Audi, Iveco and Honda take the honours The 46th edition of the Dakar Rally, the fifth to be organised in Saudi Arabia, finished after more than 4,700 kilometres of Special Stages and a total distance of almost 8,000 kilometres. The gruelling event tested riders, drivers, co-pilots and crews to the limit, taking in a route from the ancient city of AlUla to the shores of the Red Sea, and passing through the oceans of dunes in the Empty Quarter.

The various winners of the 2024 cross-country, off-road marathon each, in their own way, took advantage of teams capable of achieving success based on their collective strength.

The powerful Monster Energy Honda team saw American Ricky Brabec, riding a Honda CRF450 RALLY, secure a second title in the motorcycle category following his triumph in 2020. He held

fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

earned title to the Czech Republic, 23 years after the country’s last triumph achieved by Karel Loprais, whose nephew Aleš Loprais (Praga V4S DKR) finished as runner-up to Macík. In third place was Dutchman Mitchel van der Brink in his Eurol RallySport Iveco.

off the endeavours of Ross Branch from Botswana on his Hero, the first Indian bike to grace the Dakar podium, while Ricky was ably supported by team-mate Adrien Van Beveren who took the third step on the podium.

In the car category, Audi, in its third and likely final attempt at conquering the Dakar with the hybrid powered RS Q e-tron achieved success courtesy of 61 year old Carlos Sainz Senior, who duelled with fellow former WRC champion Sébastien Loeb throughout the two week event. While Loeb eventually finished 3rd in the Prodrive BRX Hunter, the veteran Spaniard picked up his fourth Dakar title thanks partially to the back-up provided by his team-mates Stéphane Peterhansel and Mattias Ekström. ‘El Matador’ finished with a lead of 1 hour and 20 minutes over Belgian Guillaume de Mevius in the Overdrive Racing Toyota Hilux.

In the Truck class, Iveco had four PowerStars in the top 5 and seven in the top 10, with Martin Macík (MM Technology Iveco), bringing back the hard

Hats or helmets off to two Irish lads Oran O’Kelly (KTM) (pictured above) and David McBride (Husqvarna) who experienced numerous trials and tribulations before getting to the finish line in 58th and 49th position respectively, riding with the Vendetta Racing UAE team.

In total, 239 vehicles (versus 340 that took starter’s orders) reached Yanbu, including 96 bikes (vs 132), 7 quads (vs 10), 55 Ultimate class cars (vs 70), 3 Stock class cars (vs 3), 29 Challenger class cars (vs 42), 28 SSVs (vs 36) and 21 trucks (vs 47). Of these, the riders, drivers and crews of 182 vehicles were able to climb onto the final podium to receive a finisher’s medal, with the remainder not having completed the entirety of the route.

MOTORSPORT I | 19

audi Makes dakar HisTOry For the first time, a low-emission prototype with an electric drive, high-voltage battery and energy converter wins the world’s toughest desert rally with the Audi RS Q e-tron. The Spaniards Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz secured Audi’s first victory in the Dakar Rally.

MOre Magic frOM Macik!

At only 34 years of age, Martin Macik was lining up for his 12th Dakar in the Iveco PowerStar, in earnest. The Czech entrepreneur has followed in the footsteps of his father Martin Senior, who first competed in the world’s toughest rally in 2003. Martin Junior began in 2013 as a navigator for Vlastimil Vildman, before switching to the driver’s seat from 2015 onwards.

HiLux On a HigH With six Toyota Hilux in the top 10 finishers, French pairing Guillaume de Mévius and Xavier Panseri set the scene, winning the opening stage and overcame time delays later in the week to take second place in their Toyota GR DKR Hilux prepared by Overdrive Racing.

LOprais MOVes up pOdiuM The long wait is over. Aleš Loprais returned to the Dakar podium after 15 daring attempts. After lots of hard work, great performances, but also too much bad luck, the Praga pilot can finally enjoy the reward and satisfaction of his 2nd place finish following his previous third place in 2007, when Dakar was still in Africa

LOeB On pOdiuM wiTH BaHrain raid xTreMe TeaM Victory on the final stage by Sébastien Loeb and Fabian Lurquin, their fifth stage win this year in their Prodrive BRX Hunter, was the most of any crew on the rally. However, the duo finished less than nine minutes off second in the end. Prodrive also prepared a Hunter for rally favourite and defending champion Nasser Al-Attiyah but he dropped out after the half way stage.

ViVa Van der Brink!

With a driver that’s 21 years-old and a co-driver that’s 24, the Euro Rallysport Iveco squad certainly had youth on its side, with driver Mitchel van der Brink following in his father’s footsteps.

The young duo managed to win a stage, proving that they have the speed to fight up front.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie WWW.Fleet.ie

20 | MOTORSPORT II

Interview One-to-One with Martin Macik (MM Technology) - 2024 Dakar Rally Winner and win a stage but that won’t bring you the overall Dakar prize. But of course, you must be fast, consistent and to have a great truck, which we have.

Can you outline the major steps in your career as a driver of rally-raid race trucks?

It all started for me with motorbikes from an early age of 5 or 6, doing some short races, then I sat in an off-road car with my father. He was off-roading racing and in 2002 we went to see Dakar Rally in Senegal. There and then my father decided to go to Dakar the year after with an old LIAZ truck which competed in the past. I was 13 years old but got into it from that moment. I didn’t do much in racing until I was 20, and in 2009 I navigated with my father in a race truck for a whole year, competing in the Silk Way Rally, Baja Aragon, Hungarian Baja but not the Dakar. “University first, then Dakar”, my father said. So, after graduation I started as a navigator in the 2013 and 2014 Dakars. After getting along and knowing what to do I started on my own behind the steering wheel in 2015, with the support of my father.

describe the story of your dakar this year? What were the main turning points? When were you confident of winning?

One is never confident of winning.

The turning points were Special Stages 5 and 6. The sand dunes of the Empty Quarter started with a 120 km stage where we had to get back for the fight because we had lost about 45 min to the leader. I did manage to get back over 30 minutes and then we could start the difficult Chrono 48 (Stage 6) in first place, which was actually not an advantage but we made it to be. Chrono 48 was a two day stage of 570 km in dunes only, which was very demanding, with hundreds of metres tall hills of sand making the going very hard indeed. To still be in the lead was unbelievable and from that moment I knew inside that I could believe in my (Iveco ProStar) truck with every kilometre of our journey. It worked like never before!

How do you compare the dakar in south america with the dakar in saudi arabia? Was this year’s rally more difficult or less difficult than last year’s race?

The biggest difference is the number of spectators. In South America there were so many fans around the cross-country routes and stop-offs, cheering for you all day long regardless of what your position was. In Saudi you don’t see so many of them. Comparing the route of Dakar, it’s a completely different world and nature, so it’s hard to compare really. Saudi has got all types of terrain in every stage except for the Empty Quarter. And about the difficulty? This year was definitely the hardest one in Saudi and I believe one of the toughest in the whole Dakar history thanks to long distances every day, the Chrono 48 stage and the high flying dust, which was annoying.

Who were your most challenging competitor this year? ales loprais?

Mitchel van den Brink? Janus van Kasteren? Who else?

I would say Janus especially from the beginning. He won the early stages, starting off each next day dust free, which was an advantage and he is incredibly fast. But he didn’t do well in Chrono due to technical problems, while we just jumped over everybody. From then on, we were just looking on the rest of the field and how they were fighting between each other.

fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

What about your driving style? are you aggressive, or a cool tactician?

I am what’s needed in the moment of the race. I drive with my head and don’t do crazy staff. I manage the truck to be able to go faster every kilometre and day, to compete right until the end of Dakar. It’s a cross country marathon and navigational rally, you can be aggressive

Where do you feel at your best as a rally pilot? on rocky stretches? soft desert sand? dunes? narrow and windy routes?

I can’t actually say. Our Iveco truck is made for all of these terrains, but if I can choose something I go for rally style windy routes and technical terrain. But to succeed in the Dakar, we like to see very difficult routes, because that’s where we can shine the most.

Please explain the role of the iveco Powerstar in achieving this result?

Was it as reliable and high-performing, as you expected? did you modify it compared to last year’s truck? are you using an automatic gearbox?

The truck I drive is called “Cenda”. It is our own production, a MM Technology development. The engine, chassis and body are from Iveco, and the automatic transmission is by Allison. It’s really fun to drive even though I miss the manual gearshift to play with the truck more. Our achievement was fifty percent down to the high performance of the truck and its reliability, which is very important.

Almost everything is developed by us, according to the rules and regulations.

This year we only did a few changes on the chassis set up and with minor technical changes elsewhere, because it was a great truck from last year. The biggest advantage of our truck is for sure the compactness of the whole vehicle, with low weight balance and easy control. I just love it!

Can you tell us anything about your future projects?

We have built eight race trucks already and we are building new ones either for us or for our clients. We also maintain them too and compete in different rallies. That’s what we want to do, to move ahead and create the best rally trucks in the world.

With gianenrico griffini (itoY)

22 | PREVIEW

Road Transport Expo is back this summer at NAEC Stoneleigh!

Registration is now open for this summer’s unmissable Road Transport Expo 2024 (RTX) – the trade show extravaganza with a dedicated “all about the truck” focus.

Taking place at NAEC Stoneleigh, near Coventry, in Warwickshire from 4-6 June, this free-to-attend event is ideal for anyone involved with the running of an HGV fleet or associated ancillary equipment. It provides the opportunity to meet more than 200 suppliers, including all major truck-makers, and trailer brands in one vast venue.

Show visitors can check out the latest trailers, tyres, tippers, tankers, safety equipment, training providers, insurance experts, compliance firms, workshop kit manufacturers - and much, much more.

There is also the opportunity to chat to new businesses and start-ups in the road fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

transport sector over in the Innovation Zone.

Show attendees can also take a test drive in the latest trucks on the market.

From Euro-6 diesel models through to battery-electric and biogas models, there will be a wide range from the leading manufacturers to explore.

There is also an opportunity to attend informative sessions at the show’s Knowledge Zone covering key topics such as vehicle compliance, technology innovation and fleet decarbonisation.

RTX is also a fabulous networking opportunity to catch up with industry peers or meet those all-important new business contacts.

There are plenty of informal catering options and meeting areas dotted around the site, including the brand-new ‘Inn on the Green’ and a delicious farm shop selling locally produced food.

A number of exciting show announcements will be made over the coming months, so make sure to

register on-line for free tickets at https:// road-transport-2024.reg.buzz/ and to keep in the loop for RTX news!

Attendees will also be able to easily find out what’s happening at the show through a simple-to-use app or the official printed show guide. You’ll also be able to read up-to-the-minute show news, announcements and stand activities in the brand-new daily RTX Newspaper launching at the show this summer.

Vic Bunby, divisional director at RTX organiser Road Transport Media, said: “The feedback has been fantastic from the 2023 event, which is why we were encouraged to create an even larger event for 2024. We have booked more space at the venue for the 2024 show, with an additional show hall providing 4,000 square metres more indoor space and an expanded outdoor area for large displays, both of which are filling up fast with leading exhibitors. I am really looking forward to this year, and following three years of customer and visitor research, I think the formula will be absolutely spot on.”

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

HGV MARKETPLACE | 23

Irish Truck Market continues to grow and evolve upwards and onwards for the commercial vehicle industry in ireland as numbers of new registrations continue to increase. all sectors showed higher figures – vans, trucks and buses, which augers well for the economy and the environment. at the top end, sales of new Heavy Commercial Vehicles last year (HgV) saw an increase of 20.4% (2,655) in comparison to 2022 (2,205) and 19.9% on 2019 (2,214).

Brian Cooke, Director General, Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) was pleased with the outcome from last year, commenting: “2023 was a year of progress for the Irish Motor Industry, both in terms of new vehicle registrations and electric vehicle sales. The commercial vehicle sector both light and heavy vehicles also delivered a solid performance in 2023. Light commercial vehicles finished 25% ahead of last year and Heavy Goods Vehicles saw a 20% increase on 2022.” in brief, the numbers recorded by the siMi were as follows: ■ New Light Commercial Vehicles sales year to date (2023) 29,403 v (2022) 23,510 +25.1%

scania – THOMas diffLey, saLes & MarkeTing Manager, wesTward scania “In our market segment we calculated that there was a 23% increase in HGV +16-tonnes registrations for 2023.

This was driven by a very strong first half, but a weaker Q4, with most of the later months showing a decrease. The

■ New Light Commercial Vehicles sales year to date (2023) 29,403 v (2019) 25,336 +16.1% ■ New Heavy Goods Vehicle total sales year to date (2023) 2,655 v (2022) 2,205 +20.4% ■ New Heavy Goods Vehicle total sales year to date (2023) 2,655 v (2019) 2,214 +19.9% ■ New Buses/Coaches sales year to date (2023) 340 v (2022) 287 +18.5% ■ New Buses/Coaches sales December (2023) 22 v (2022) 30 -26.7% As a barometer in ascertaining the current and future state of the nation, Fleet Transport asked representatives from all the truck brands to outline their thoughts and forecasts.

Questions related to sales targets, delivery times, interest and take up on electric power and the ongoing use of alternative fuels. Then there is the labour shortage, rising component costs, volatility within the haulage industry and the evolving aspects of asset finance.

earlier months of 2023 were obviously driven by deliveries of orders made 12 months ago and more, so we would take the final quarter as an indication of a slowing sector. This happened later than expected, as we had felt that a softening market would happen in mid-2023.

Eventually the effects of increased asset prices, higher financing costs, dropping residual values, and reduced haulier confidence are feeding into the market.

Residual values were artificially high due to a lack of supply, and as this has eased up, values have decreased. That said, with skill shortages affecting franchised and non-franchised dealers and operators alike, the demand for services is increasing. This is putting additional pressure on an already stretched sector, and the attraction of running newer trucks is high for many hauliers.

Lead times have improved, but an extremely strong order book for pre-GSR trucks, means that there is virtually no unsold units available before July.

Bodybuilder and workshop capacity is also an issue, thus creating longer than expected lead-times. There are also supply issues of certain components such as certain tyre patterns and alloy wheels. In most cases we have been able to agree alternatives with customers, but supply disturbances seem to be part of the landscape for the foreseeable future In line with what we said last year, we feel that early forecasts by manufactures have been extremely optimistic for the adoption of EV’s. The haulage industry is an extremely competitive and cost conscious one, and aside from some own account operators and a few early adopters, most hauliers are adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach. Gas is still important, and we have much more interest in this sector given the more widespread availability of Bio-gas.

WWW.Fleet.ie

24 | | NEWS HGV MARKETPLACE 1

Hauliers find it a more palatable choice, given the more certain range and proven technology that Scania gas trucks can offer. All our network can look after gas trucks, and parts back-up is similar to our diesel trucks.

The EV infrastructure is only one issue for many hauliers. Rather it is the capital cost, uptime and worrying depreciation, as has been seen in the car sector. Many are saying that they will wait for the technology to mature as even if a better infrastructure were rolled out, the cost of charging and the speeds involved is likely to be prohibitive.

Quite a few customers have said that they are running on HVO, with no major issues reported. We have guidelines for customers who operate their trucks on HVO and of course diesel that meets EN demands. It should be noted however that there are service requirements relating to using other than approved diesel, and that DPF life, service intervals and fuel economy may all be impacted.”

fully EV trucks ordered. We think 2024 will be a little slower than recent years but go into the year in a healthy position.

Lead times have reduced and depend very much on the model / specification. The supply chain is pretty much back to normal following the Covid years. Interest and order level remain high with our electric line-up. Obviously a charging network would help but given the range limitations, most operators use a ‘back-to-base’ solution which is working well for us. Many of our customers have moved over to HVO, delivering an instant 90% saving in CO2. All of our Euro 6

inflation levels as they are and this is of course outside of our control. Asset finance changes all the time, sometimes customers buy outright, sometimes have finance and sometimes lease. Very often it’s what’s right for them at the time which drives the decision.

DAF Trucks – Simon Teevan, Managing Director, DAF Trucks Ireland

VOLVO Trucks - Martin Tomlinson, Head of Media & Truck Demonstration, Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland “2023 was our best year ever, exceeding sales targets for UK & Ireland.

Sales of EV’s grew rapidly, with 175 FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 2024

engines from Step D and above can run on HVO as the norm.

Technicians are still hard to find and we have various schemes and incentives out there to convert car / LCV techs to Heavy Trucks. Recently just opened a new training centre to help with this process. Costs are still rising with

“2023 was a good year for new HGV registrations in Ireland. DAF retained its strong position registering exactly 400 units in the year - an increase from 298 in 2022. Our market share rose from 13.8% in 2022 to 15.3% in 2023. Thankfully, lead times are back to more usual levels now. We anticipate the total market falling back to about 2,200 units overall, which is the more normal market size for Ireland. There is substantial interest in electric commercial vehicles but until we see some meaningful supports from the Government they are unlikely to gain much traction in the Irish market.

The markets where they are gaining ground are those that have considerable financial incentives. The ongoing lack of high powered charging infrastructure is certainly not helping, however we believe that most electric trucks will be used in back-to-base operations where they will be charged in their depots overnight ready for use again the next day.

The use of HVO is steadily increasing.

There is no doubt that more operators would adopt it if it had price parity with diesel. There are less lenders in Ireland now and an increasing number of new

HGV MARKETPLACE | 25

rates in the market. Finance costs have also made a big impact on contract hire pricing with repair and maintenance as well as tyre costs impacting pricing.”

Mercedes-BenZ Trucks – fergus cOnHeady, saLes Manager, Mercedes-BenZ cOMMerciaL VeHicLes ireLand

trucks are being financed by manufacturer-owned finance arms such as, in the case of DAF, PACCAR Financial.” renauLT Trucks – Harry nasH, Managing direcTOr, seTanTa VeHicLes saLes LTd “With the market being up 20%, I think that in general all manufacturers had a good year. We were slightly ahead of the curve in that regard. But I think that increase was in part at least due to two things. 1) The huge demand on vehicles in 2022 and 2) The long lead times between manufacturers and bodybuilders pushing the registration of vehicles into 2023. I think the overall 2024 numbers will be down on 2023 and see us back to perhaps pre-Covid market levels. We’ve always had a relatively stable market in or around the 2,100/2,200 HGVs and I think the market will be back at those levels this year.

We are now experiencing pre-Covid lead times from the factory again which is giving more certainty for our dealer network, sales team and our customers.

We hope this will help stabilise sales forecasts and revenue this year allowing us to deliver on promised deliveries.

However, lead time in bodybuilders is still a significant issue particularly in Ireland and we will have to work hard to ensure delivery of bodies vehicles as scheduled this year.

We see the main impetus for Electric Vehicles coming from the State and Government Bodies through tenders and a mandate to State and semi-State bodies to decarbonise their fleets. This will likely impact LCVs first. We also see a push from the larger distribution companies to their logistics providers to electrify their fleet but the numbers

will be small to begin with. The charging infrastructure will remain the main obstacle to making the switch to electric vehicles, and it is pushing dealers and operators to install their own infrastructure rather than wait for any Government led initiative. Not withstanding that we are putting on a fridge and curtain side demonstrator. We have interest from customers with urban operations that have a requirement for these zero-emission vehicles.

For Renault Trucks all our vehicles are capable of operating on HVO without any modification. And we have not seen any adverse impact of this fuel in the aftermarket.

Qualified technicians remains a concern, but we welcome the removal of vehicle mechanics from the ineligible list for general work permits.

We feel that the rising costs of components will factor greatly on purchasing decisions for operators in 2024. The industry has seen sharp and significant price increases for vehicles since Covid as a result of component shortages and inflation. We anticipate that we will see a few casualties in the haulage sector again, as smaller operations struggle with the increasing costs and close margins in the industry. Plus the fact that we are experiencing higher interest

“The anticipation in the industry is that 2024 will remain flat at 2023 level of circa 2,500 units. The big challenge for Mercedes-Benz Trucks will be the introduction of GSR which will come later in the year. Factory productions have generally stabilised with supply chains being more predicable than in previous years. While traditional diesel powertrains are where the majority of conversations are we’re seeing a heightened interest in the eActros 600 Tractor-unit that will make its way to Ireland in January 2025. We are having conversations around HVO with fleet customers and hoping to gain traction here.”

Man Trucks – TiM crOnin, saLes Manager, Man iMpOrTers ireLand LTd. “The marketplace was quite heated for 2023, driving demand for new and used product. As we headed into 2024 the outlook appears to be more normalised for products from WWW.Fleet.ie

26 | HGV MARKETPLACE

customers. Thankfully lead times have significantly reduced, allowing for better planning and configuration of vehicles for customer’s needs, with the hope of this resulting in a positive impact to registration figures. The upcoming arrival of the MAN eTruck product, has resulted with increased customers interactions regarding this electrified product offering. There is concern over the infrastructure as many of these customers already have electric private cars and have first-hand experience with the charging network. The appetite is there for alternatives to ICE, with the added caveat that there is concern over the usability for everyday commercial vehicle work with the current infrastructure that’s in place. Government action is required to be taken around infrastructure in order to make any impactful transition to electric transport.

There is a growing proportion of our customer base using HVO, as it’s possible to do so with the MAN product range with no implications.

The ongoing concern is the drastic shortage of skilled labour and the lack of new entrants to the workforce, from workshop personnel to administrative staff. The same is an issue for our customers and often a subject of great debate. Supply chains still appear to be on a knife edge with geopolitical issues giving concern to whether production line operations could be affected at any moment and also EU inflation measures resulting in rising costs of credit”.

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 2024

FUSO – Andrew Johnson, Sales Manager, FUSO Ireland “The Irish commercial vehicle market in 2023 was good although that was

on the back of poor supply in 2022. We were very happy with the performance of FUSO in 2023 and see the brand and market growing again in 2024. FUSO experienced no production delays with stock available immediately for delivery.

As FUSO has just launched the Next Generation eCanter in 4.25, 7.5t and 8.55 tonne GVW, we have seen a lot of interest in our 100% electric trucks. This is mainly coming from County Councils, other Government bodies and last mile delivery companies. We would like to see Government implement more high powered chargers which are suitable for trucks to charge however as the eCanter has up 200km range, we feel the new eCanter is ready today to meet majority of our customers range requirements. Charging capabilities of up to 22kWh on AC and over 100kWh on DC allow customers to charge quickly and efficiently to ensure range anxiety is never an issue!”

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

New Registrations - Heavy Commercial Vehicles By Make – 2023 - SIMI Rank Make

2023

2022

2023 %

2022 %

Units

Units

Share

Share

1

SCANIA

689

565

25.95%

25.60%

2

VOLVO

500

448

18.83%

20.30%

3

DAF

400

296

15.07%

13.41%

4

RENAULT

335

277

12.62%

12.55%

5

MERCEDES-BENZ

274

208

10.32%

9.42%

6

MAN

183

152

6.89%

6.89%

7

IVECO

70

70

2.64%

3.17%

MGV

ISUZU

82

111

3.09%

5.09%

MGV

FUSO

59

23

2.22%

1.04%

The Transport Operations & Commercial Driving Apprenticeship provides the academic qualification and practical training and work experience that supports a vibrant and exciting career in the freight distribution and logistics sector. Apprentices will also receive expert driving lessons and training in advance of completing their C/CE driving test and attaining the Driver CPC qualification.

The academic award for this apprenticeship is a Higher Certificate (NFQ level 6) in Business in Transport Services and is the first qualification on the national framework of qualifications (NFQ) linked to the profession of commercial driving!

Benefits for Apprentices

✔ QQI Level 6 Award ‘Higher Certificate in

Transport Operations & Commercial Driving’.

✔ Internationally recognised qualification. ✔ Earn as you Learn. ✔ Two year employment contract leading to permanent position.

✔ Gaining valuable on the job experience and workplace skills.

✔

Excellent Career Opportunities in the vibrant sector.

Benefits of recruiting apprentices for Employers

✔ Attracts new entrants into the business. ✔ Increases pool of qualified people within the business.

✔ Help with succession planning. ✔ The programme is built around work related experience and work specific projects.

✔ Apprenticeship State Grant for employers of apprentices €4,000 funding.

Minimum Entry Requirements • Hold a Full ‘B’ Driver Licence.

• Be at least 18 years of age.

• Meet medical requirements for driving.

• Minimum entry requirements are a grade H7/O6 or above in five Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) subjects.

— A minimum of grade O6 must be obtained in English.

— A minimum of grade O6 or a B2 or above in Foundation level must be obtained in Mathematics.

• Holders of a QQI Level 5 or Level 6 (or equivalent) in cognate areas (eg business, logistics and distribution, supply

chain management, etc.) can apply for entry onto year 1 of the programme.

• A mature candidate, over the age of 23, who does not hold qualifications as set out above, but who: — Has a minimum of two years’ experience working as a commercial driver.

— Is recommended by their employer.

— Demonstrates the correct attitudes, behaviours and literacy skills.

The Coordinating training and education provider for this apprenticeship programme is Atlantic Technological University Sligo (ATU Sligo) The lead proposer us the Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI)

Twitter: @commdriver1 www.cdap.ie

Tel: 01 8447516

28 | | NEWS WHAT’S 1 NEW - HGV

New Trucks for Model Year 2024 coming on stream

New Renault D Range

With regular shipping routes across certain global channels becoming more difficult to pass or are even being bypassed, the supply chain of parts and components for the automotive industry could once again delay delivery times for new builds, just as the manufacturing industry was recovering from the difficulties experienced during and post pandemic.

As with the commercial vehicle industry in general there are always some new regulations for road transport operators to adhere to, which can distort the marketplace. From July 2024, all new trucks sold in the European Union must comply with the updated General Safety Regulations (GSR II). The regulations require a range of mandatory advanced safety features. In 2019, the GSRs were updated to incorporate new innovations in automotive safety that can help lower the risk of accidents caused by human error. The latest update means a series of active safety systems that support drivers will become mandatory in new trucks from July 2024. As a result, dealers expect a surge of orders before this deadline, as these new safety items to be added will ultimately cost the buyer more.

New Volvo FM Low Entry

Alongside our HGV Market Review, we asked the various truck brand importers and distributors to outline what new vehicles are in the pipeline fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

for 2024. Most have something coming on stream. Starting with the market leaders Scania, Joe Crann, Managing Director, Westward Scania said: “GSR will be rolled out across the range, and there are additional continuous improvements coming across the current product portfolio. A new 13-Litre Compressed Natural Gas engine will be launched with 420 and 460 horsepower performance steps. More options will also be added to the battery electric (BEV) portfolio. The hybrid versions will be discontinued.

According to Martin Tomlinson, Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, the other Swedish brand “will have some improvements to aerodynamics, vision and performance in Q1 2024. These trucks should be seen on the roads in the latter part of the year.” Of course, he was being diplomatic as our cover story details.

“DAF Trucks has completely revamped its entire model range over the last couple of years, making them the most up-to-date range in the industry. In fact, DAF was the first truck manufacturer to take advantage of EU Directive 96/53/EC which promotes greener and safer trucks by allowing longer more aerodynamic cabs with improved comfort. DAF continues to roll out more variants of its New Generation DAF (NGD) model line-up into 2024 to include Electrics,” stated Simon Teevan, Managing Director, DAF Trucks Ireland.

Mentioning Electric, expect a fuller offering from Renault Trucks, now that the heavy duty T, T High, C & K ranges have been electrified, termed E-Tech. At the lighter, urban end, a revamped D range, sporting the same cab design as its Volvo FL & FE cousins and bearing the new Renault insignia. Then there’s the Fleet Transport Truck Innovation Award-winning D-Wide E-Tech Low Entry Cab with bus-style

opening kerb side door, becoming available to order.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks is on a charge, literally, with the ongoing development of its emission-free product line. It has refined its eActros 300/400 tractor-units and rigids, with promising orders coming in. Interest is increasing with the eEconic refuse collectors also. In the meantime, the long-haul eActros 600 will be available to order as will an electric version of the Atego light to medium rigid line-up.

MAN Trucks has set out its stall, offering battery electric versions of its TGX and TGS, called eTruck, which will be ready for market introduction before the year end. For the other trucks in its range, the TGL and TGM will benefit from the newly developed and well-received 8-speed automated transmission from ZF.

New Iveco S-WAY interior

For full commercial vehicle manufacturer Iveco, the Italian brand is keen to regain market share and is pinning its hopes on upgrades made to its entire model line. While the S-Way, X-Way and Eurocargo have received minor external changes, it will be the long-awaited revamp of the trucks’ interiors that will be noticed and appreciated. A CNG powered Eurocargo will go on sale, as will the S-eWay electric heavy duty electric truck.

Finally, on the lighter front, FUSO will have on sale the full range of the Fleet Transport Green Commercial of the Year Award-winning eCanters in 4.25t, 7.5t and 8.55 tonne GVW. These were launched late 2023 in time for a full year sales campaign in 2024.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

LOW RUNNING COSTS FOR YOU.

HIGH COMFORT FOR YOUR DRIVERS. I’LL SWITCH TO E. WHAT ABOUT YOU? THE NEXT GENERATION eCANTER. AVAILABLE NOW. CONTACT YOUR DEALER TODAY.

FUSO.IE

30 | | NEWS TRAILER 1 MARKETPLACE

Trailer market pulling ahead in 2024

allied closely to health of the truck market, vibrant new trailer sales go hand-in-hand in keeping the wheels of transport in motion. Within the heavy goods vehicle sectors there is lots of evolution with electrification becoming more to the fore, with all the commercial vehicle brands now offering zero-emission light, medium and heavy-duty working trucks. Meanwhile trailer manufacturers are specifying electric axles, electric refrigeration units and a broader range of telematics and fleet management systems.

Fleet Transport posed some questions to leading brands on the state of play within the industry starting with a response from Colin Maher, Managing Director of Schmitz Cargobull UK & Ireland. With regards to the overall view of the new semi-trailer and trailer marketplace in general during 2023 and into 2024 and how Schmitz performed, Colin replied: “There’s no doubt 2023 was a tough year for the market as a whole.

This was largely due to high interest rates and a downturn in investment, one indicator for which is the decline that can be seen in UK & Ireland growth for this period. We know this situation is not sustainable in the long-term. With ageing fleets, the cost of ownership increases and subsequently products will have to be replaced, even when considering the overstated purchases of previous years due to long delivery times and global supply chain issues. In 2024, we expect the market to recover to an above pre-covid yearly average.

At our facility in Manchester, we are now building trailers with a specification tailored to meet the exact market demands of transport companies operating in the UK & Ireland. With the dry freight box S.BO PACE and two curtainsider options, in the S.CS FIXED ROOF and the ‘pillarless’ S.CS FREEPOST, we have our strongest ever product portfolio in the UK & Ireland. By building these fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

trailers in Manchester, we can provide vehicles with market-specific features, the shortest delivery times, an extensive 24/7 spare parts supply, as well as our proven range of services from financing to telematics and used vehicle sales.”

On the transition towards electric, he said: “Last year we delivered a Schmitz Cargobull S.KOe COOL into Manfreight, which was the first of its kind to be put into operation in the UK & Ireland. We expect more to follow. Manfreight has paired the fully electric semi-trailer with a Volvo FM Electric, providing the business with a 100 % zero-emission solution for its temperature-controlled division.

The S.KOe COOL is the ideal solution for companies leading the charge towards a cleaner and greener transport sector.”

On delivery times of new trailers into Ireland, Phillip Keenan, recently appointed Regional Sales Manager, Schmitz Cargobull, commented: “As a general indication our lead times would vary from 12-18 weeks, depending on specification. Of course, we always try and provide the best service for our customers and special lead times may be obtained upon request. In relation to pricing: “While all customers are a lot more cost conscious due to the increase in general market pricing and higher interest rates, we are finding that pricing is not as much of an issue as market instability.

Customers are always looking for reliable, innovative products, so pricing is not always the key decision maker. Volatility, however would be our main concern as we have next to no control over how the market may react over the coming 12 months.

In the wake of Covid, the used trailer market showed further signs of a revival over the last couple of years, according to Glen Bagnall, National Used Trailer Sales Manager, Schmitz Cargobull UK & Ireland. “The Schmitz Used Trailer Sales operation offers a variety of excellent

options for UK & Ireland transport and logistics operators as well as companies working in Europe, enhancing our reputation as the go-to manufacturer for second-hand trailers. After a year characterised by high pricing in the used trailer market, the challenges have come as prices have stabilised. It’s been a tricky balance between not overvaluing and being left with overpriced stock, or undervaluing and missing out on a deal,” he said.

Long established and prominent manufacturer Dennison Trailers with manufacturing facilities in Naas and Lancaster, continues to expand its client list. Aidan Kinsella, Chief Executive Officer remains positive: “The 2023 trailer market was very strong with a lot of the manufacturers including Dennison playing catch up from the previous two years back-log of orders. This applied to all the markets we supply in Ireland, UK, and Europe.

The Dennison brand continues to be strong in the market for our core products. We are very happy with the level of business in the curtainsid-

er market where our customers had requested us to scale our manufacturing capacity, this has also led to significant new business. We have a new premises in Lancaster to build these. Our traditional skeletal, platform PSK and trombone markets remain our key focus and have performed exceptionally also. The order book was healthy coming into 2024. If the enquiries of the first two weeks are to be an indication, 2024 looks set to be another busy year meeting all our expectations.

Pricing is becoming a challenge in regard perceptions that the price of all commodities such as steel and timber

TRAILER MARKETPLACE | 31 have fallen dramatically. This is not the case, and some products such as axles, flanges etc have not reduced. We are not currently seeing reductions in our supply chains and prices remain like last year. Interest rate rises are also having a significant effect on new equipment purchasing decisions. For the last 10 years, money was cheap, but it looks like longer term rates will be settle at 4 to 5%, like pre-2008. All businesses will be reviewing their business models to reflect these changes.

Despite this, there is a well-recognised shortage of skilled mechanics and fitters to maintain trailers. Operators who are struggling to get the skills to maintain their fleet, are finding it necessary to invest in new trailers to keep them on the road. The Government has announced an expansion of the trades that can now qualify for work permits to increase the labour pool.

However, they have at the same increased the rates for 2024 with another increase to take effect from January 2025 in addition to the new pension scheme, sick pay and increased PRSI. All these costs are estimated to increase manufacturing and labour costs by 40% over the next two years.

The price of second-hand trailers has fallen dramatically. The feedback from our customers is that they prefer to invest in new trailers as the costs associated with refurbishment is now a false economy compared to a new trailer.

Lead times are now between 12 and 16 weeks for most standard trailers, longer for more specialised products.”

On issues ahead, Aidan made some interesting points of note: “One of the direct effects of Brexit has seen a split in the homologation and registration rules for new trailers. Ireland followed the European Type Approval system which requires a heavier rear underrun bar (crash-bar) since. Purchasers need to be careful buying some models of trailers from the UK as the crash-bar may be under different regulations and will need to be upgraded to be registered here. TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring) becomes mandatory in Ireland and Europe from June 2024. Meanwhile the UK are adopting their own Type Approval rules, the full extent are not fully defined yet.”

Dennison exhibited at a number of trade shows in 2023 attending Transport Logistics, Munich in May, The Road Transport Expo, Stoneleigh in June and Solutrans, Lyon in November. “We had an encouraging response to all these

events further reinforcing the brand.

2024 will see the company back at the Road Transport Expo and of course, the IAA Transportation in Hannover in September. We look forward to launching three exciting new products in 2024 at various shows. Overall, we are positive about the prospects for 2024. Despite added costs pressure, competition etc, the challenges are no different than faced in the past. The company is celebrating 60 years in business this year and no different than before, we will continue to adapt to the challenges and look forward to the next 60!”

From across the Irish Sea, Tiger Trailers is starting to make an impact Thomas Stott, Technical Sales Manager, Tiger Trailers, provided an overview: “Covid saw a massive increase in order uptake across the trailer-building sector and lead times increased from an average of 13 weeks to around 12 months.

This continued well into 2023.

During Q3 and Q4, trailer manufacturers started to catch up on standard products but the demand for bespoke build trailers is still very much there, which at Tiger largely includes our hydraulic moving double deck trailers. The Tiger brand has seen a huge increase throughout Ireland, as we continue to lead the way offering our customers their exact specification and requirements. We are also proud of the fact that we deliver when we say we are going to deliver. There is clearly some uncertainty in the market with increased interest rates, inflation and increases in materials. We are confident that will continue to see new customers coming onboard due to our high quality and bespoke products as well as retaining our current customers and continuing our dedicated support.

Our lead times vary on specification and product type. We would always encourage customers to contact us for the very latest and up to date lead time information as our current order intake remains high. Customers have always sought to obtain the best prices for their products, with no exception throughout 2023 and looking forward to 2024. While global supply chain challenges have resulted in rising component prices, Tiger’s teams have been able to mitigate many of them on the whole due to close relationships with its suppliers and also customers, many of whom increasingly place an emphasis on procuring quality rather than the cheapest solutions from

the market. Pricing one-offs or small batches can unsurprisingly present challenges, but for larger-volume orders, Tiger has invested significant funds and time into making its production lines increasingly efficient, enabling it to meet the majority of price and timescale requirements tabled by scale customers such as national 3PLs. We expect that rising component costs will remain a challenge for many firms in our sector for the foreseeable future, with Covid’s effect now having been replaced by conflicts in various countries around the world, but Tiger’s engineering and supply chain teams act in an agile way to counteract external

influences. While it’s naturally very sad to have seen some well-known haulage companies go into administration over the last six months or so, demand for trailers across the board remains as high as ever.

We have spoken about electric variants with many of our current and prospective customers. This is something that we do offer, but the technology largely remains unproven and remains a significant cost to the operator. We expect to see this technology become more readily available and accessible over the next 3 to 5 years.

This month (January 2024) we have just introduced temperature-controlled rigids to our product portfolio.

The initial rigid reefers to come out of Tiger’s factory in collaboration with our partner Lecitrailer/EGA of Spain are 26t single-zone variants built on Renault Trucks D Wide 320 chassis, with Carrier Transicold Syberia 11 PTO refrigeration units, and tail-lifts from Dhollandia. They will be entering service shortly for a dairy via a 3PL contract. Over the coming months, Tiger will be manufacturing refrigerated rigids of various other sizes and specifications from 3-tonne vans upwards as part of its Tiger Siberian range, which since 2020 has included urban and tri-axle trailers in single, dual and multi-zone configurations.”

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie WWW.Fleet.ie

32 | | NEWS TEST 1

On board the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2453 Generation 5 (BigSpace)

the significant investment daimler truck ag made in the Mercedes-Benz actros project delivered a radical departure in design and styling. When launched, the heavy-duty range was warmly received by operators, drivers and the road transport industry in general. actros has since continued to appeal to operators and drivers alike, and arguably this appeal arises from its inherent ability to strike a balance between taking care of business for the operator, with an efficient reliable truck, and taking care of the driver by providing a practical working environment combined with a spacious well-appointed and comfortable resting space. over its generational time, actros has benefitted from a number of facelifts that have served the model well, ensuring it remains contemporary and not out of sync with its competitors.

While this, the fifth-generation Actros is a familiar sight on the roads, it is worth taking another and more in-depth look at the truck. Our familiarity with the Actros means we may overlook some of the clever engineering features and the practical aesthetic design.

Entering the high-mounted cab is easy with a wide door opening, well-placed steps and functional grab rails. Once inside there is a Germanic feel to the interior that is practical and well thought out. It is also well-finished with robust materials, yet it remains a comfortable and pleasant space to be in, especially for prolonged periods. All you need is to hand, and Mercedes-Benz has consistently enhanced the features and functions of Actros and improved build quality.

We have some reservations about the all-consuming need for manufacturers fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

to introduce digital screens to vehicles - and scepticism about the benefits or not of these systems. That said, the screens fitted to the Actros are certainly one of the better examples around. Not just clear and easy to read, importantly they are easy to use when needing to adjust a setting or monitor the status of the truck. Accepting that a little time is needed to become familiar with the system’s functions, we feel the Mercedes-Benz device is more user-friendly and works better than most.

As said, the LS BigSpace is a large cab and the inclusion of some small details can make life for the driver that bit more comfortable. Simple ideas such as the cinema seat on the passenger side

mean moving around the flat-floored cab much easier. Life on the road is also made easier with plenty of well-designed practical storage both inside and outside, while our test unit came with a large under bunk fridge and a microwave oven mounted in one of the overhead lockers. The modern truck needs to have a selection of well-placed power points

TEST | 33

to charge the ever-increasing number of devices that must travel with the driver, and Actros fulfils this need more than adequately.

Although opinion is somewhat divided on manufacturers replacing external mirror assemblies with cameras and screens, we are becoming more used to the feature. To the extent that as our test truck actually came with external mirrors, it took a few minutes to get used to these again, especially when looking around the mirror heads approaching some roundabouts and, at certain junctions.

The Actros designation of 2453 denotes the truck is a 6x2, rated at 530 hp. The 24 denotes that the truck has a mid-lift axle fitted with smaller (than normal) wheels, the main purpose of which is to save weight, Also the smaller axle can provide more space around the chassis therefore allowing more

options for the placement of additional ancillary items such as hydraulic oil tanks, compressors, cranes or pumping equipment. This means the 2453 is well suited to weight-sensitive transports, especially in the areas of bulk powder, liquid tank, or walking floor trailer operations.

The 53 designation tells us that the truck is rated at 530 hp, and is powered by the 3rd generation of the 12.8 litre MB OM471 in-line six cylinder. The OM471 is a tried and tested engine used across a wide range of Daimler truck and bus models. The engine is available in five power outputs from 420 hp through to the largest, the 530 hp (390 kW) - as fitted to our test truck. This achieves maximum power from 1,450 rpm and delivers 2,600 Nm of torque from 1,100 rpm. It is a solid engine that even when operating at maximum weights is never troubled.

This was made clear on our test drive from Dublin down the east coast on the M50 and M/N11

towards Wexford.

The overall experience was of a quiet and pleasant drive with all aspects of the truck working well and delivering a firm but comfortable ride. Actros offers a good driving position with a wide range of adjustments possible from both the seat and steering column to ensure drivers of all shapes and sizes can find their preferred seating style.

There is a small amount of body roll as would be expected from a high mounted air sprung cab, though this is in no way an issue and we found the Actros sure-footed on all types of roads.

In relation to drivability, one system which has been enhanced since its launch over ten years ago is the Mercedes-Benz Predictive PowerTrain Control (PPC). When it first appeared PPC was viewed by some as having near supernatural powers and was not to be trusted. Today we realise that the benefits PPC has brought to reducing fuel consumption for operators has been immense, and to order a truck without PPC would not be viewed as a wise move. Equally, our test truck came with Attention Assist which is a system that will become more prevalent and possibly a legislatively required addition to heavy commercials in the near future.

In some ways, the latest, and 5th version of Actros proves the adage that if it’s not broken don’t fix it. Actros is one of the most popular trucks throughout Europe with the model forming the backbone of some of the largest transport fleets in many different countries. The truck works well for both the operator and the driver. It offers a wide range of options to suit all manner and types of work and enables both the operator and the driver to perform and deliver.

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

WWW.Fleet.ie

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FLEET MARITIME | 35

FLEET MARITIME

Vol 20, No. 1– SPRING 2024

SHIPPING & FREIGHT NEWSLETTER – Compiled by Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie

Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd announce a new operational co-operation agreement. the announcement from Maersk stated: “to deliver the best possible service network for our customers, we have entered into a long-term operational collaboration with Hapag-lloyd. Called the ‘gemini Cooperation’ it will be implemented from February 2025, immediately after the conclusion of our current 2M alliance.”

The current Alliance is one of several agreements set up by large ocean carriers at the time of the economic crash, to enable each Line to reduce costs by sharing capacity on partner vessels. In the case of Maersk, the current alliance is with MSC, which has left the two largest container lines working together. This alliance, together with

other similar arrangements between other lines have now been outlawed following intensive lobbying by the European Shippers Council and other Agencies.

It is likely that, in the coming weeks, other carriers will make similar announcements.

In a separate advisory, Maersk Line has announced the re-organisation of several container shipping services transiting the Panama Canal.

Over the last year rainfall amounts in the region have dropped off dramatically due to Global Warming and the Panama Canal company has had to restrict the number of vessels using the Canal.

Initially these reductions were confined

to tanker and bulk cargo vessels while scheduled container shipping services have not been affected.

The restrictions continue to tighten, and these have forced carriers to use other routings. For many operators the preferred alternative routing has been to use the Suez Canal, but Houthi attacks on vessels using that route have forced vessels to sail around either Cape Horn or the Cape of Good Hope.

Maersk has now made arrangements to ship large volumes of containers through Panama using the railway that runs close to the Canal with vessels turning round at ports at either end of the Canal. However the capacity of this rail route is limited.

Strong welcome for the inclusion of more ports in the EU’s European Transport Network in the original regulation which governs the ports that are included as part of an integrated european transport network (ten-t) the criterion on which this inclusion was based was purely freight and passenger volumes through the port. inclusion in the network makes more funding from a range of sources available for development of the port in question.

The regulation passed in December 2023 will now allow a port to be included based on its contribution to energy transition.

One port that would be eligible for inclusion is Galway Port, which has seen

strong growth in its shipping operations linked to onshore wind projects. “The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) designation for the Port of Galway signifies its integration into a comprehensive European transportation framework,” the Port of Galway said in a statement.

“This inclusion is significant as it enhances connectivity and accessibility, promoting efficient transportation links between Galway and other key European ports,” it said.

“It will lead to improved infrastructure, opening the door to EU funding, streamlined logistics, and increased

trade opportunities, fostering economic growth for the region and strengthening its role in the broader European transportation network.”

The new TEN-T deal also foresees more ambitious rail requirements, including port rail networks. The European Sea Ports Association (ESPO) says that ports welcome the strengthening of, and focus on, strong rail connections. The level and type of implementation of these rail requirements will need to consider the specifics of each port.

WWW.Fleet.ie

36 | FLEET MARITIME

FERRY SERVICES OPERATING OUT OF IRISH PORTS

Troon Larne

Belfast Warrenpoint

Cairnryan IOM

Dublin Rosslare Cork

Heysham Liverpool Birkenhead

Holyhead Fishguard

Rotterdam

Pembroke

Zeebrugge Dunkirk

Cherbourg Roscoff

© Vemaps.com

Santandar

fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

Bilbao

©Vemaps.com

FLEET MARITIME | 37

ferry serVices OperaTing OuT Of irisH pOrTs frOM

TO

sHipping Line

freQuency

pass & freigHT

nOTes & TransiT TiMes (Hrs).

Larne

Cairnryan

P&O Ferries

6 x daily

Yes

(2)

Belfast

Cairnryan

Stena Line

6 x daily

Yes

(2.25)

Belfast

Heysham

Stena Line

2 x daily

No

(8)

Belfast

Birkenhead

Stena Line

3 x daily

Yes

One ferry is freight only. (8)

Warrenpoint

Heysham

Seatruck

2 x daily

No

(8)

Dublin

Heysham

Seatruck

1 x daily

No

(9)

Dublin

Birkenhead

Stena Line

1 x daily

Yes

Starts February (8)

Dublin

Holyhead

Stena Line

4 x daily

Yes

(3.5)

Dublin

Liverpool

Seatruck

Up to 4 x daily

No

(9)

Dublin

Holyhead

Irish Ferries

4 x daily

Yes

Also operates fast ferry on route (3.5)

Dublin

Zeebrugge

CLdN

2 x weekly

No

(35)

Dublin

Rotterdam

CLdN

3 x weekly

No

(42)

Dublin

Santander

CLdN

2 x weekly

No

(36)

Dublin

Cherbourg

Irish Ferries

3 x weekly

Yes

Extra freight vessel in Summer (18)

Rosslare

Pembroke

Irish Ferries

2 x daily

Yes

(4)

Rosslare

Cherbourg

Stena Line

6 x weekly

Yes

(16)

Rosslare

Cherbourg

Brittany Ferries

2 x weekly

yes

(16)

Rosslare

Bilbao

Brittany Ferries

2 x weekly

yes

Runs to Santander to end Feb (28)

Rosslare

Dunkirk

DFDS

5 x weekly

yes

(24)

Rosslare

Zeebrugge

Finnlines

2 x weekly

No

May add extra sailing (34)

Rosslare

Fishguard

Stena Line

2 x daily

Yes

(4)

Cork

Zeebrugge

CLdN

2 x weekly

No

(32)

Cork

Roscoff

Brittany Ferries

2 x weekly

Yes

One sailing in Winter (15)

Information is correct as at 16th January 2024.

Note that frequencies shown are the number of round trips in the period.

WWW.Fleet.ie

38 | FLEET MARITIME

Recent Ferry service developments stena line will open a daily service linking Dublin Port with Birkenhead in February. This will replace the P&O Ferries Dublin to Liverpool service which closed in December. Stena will open the service operating a single daily sailing in each direction on the 8-hour route. The Birkenhead service will operate initially on a freight traffic only basis, but Stena are expected to take tourist traffic and add a second vessel shortly, bringing frequency and capacity up a similar level to that previously offered by P&O Ferries.

Commenting on what will be Stena Line’s seventh Irish Sea service, Paul Grant, Trade Director (Irish Sea), Stena Line said: “The launch of our new freight service between Dublin and Birkenhead secures an important trade route on the UK/Ireland corridor and further strengthens our position on the Irish Sea. Stena Line will now operate two routes out of both Dublin Port and Birkenhead establishing key logistics hubs, connecting freight flows across the Irish Sea, and creating efficiencies for port users.”

Barry O’Connell, CEO, Dublin Port Company

Commenting on the development Barry O’Connell, CEO, Dublin Port Company, said: “It’s essential for Ireland’s economy that we have strong availability and competition on direct shipping routes between Dublin Port and the UK. We are pleased to welcome Stena Line’s new Dublin-Birkenhead route which brings choice to the market.”

This service will operate from Terminal 5 in Dublin Port alongside the Seatruck Heysham service, berths that had previously been used by P&O Ferries.

In Birkenhead, the service will share terminals with the Stena Line three times daily Belfast Ferry service.

DP World Group member company, p&O ferries has announced the opening of a new ro-ro freight route in the North Sea, between London (Tilbury 2) and Rotterdam (Europoort), starting in March 2024. The service will complement P&O fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

CLDN Seatruck

Ferries’ existing Zeebrugge to London route together with strengthening its rail-connected hub in Rotterdam.

Peter Hebblethwaite, P&O Ferries’ CEO, said: “The opening of our new route between London and Rotterdam gives P&O Ferries a unique network in the North Sea. We now have five hubs: Hull, Teesport, Tilbury, Zeebrugge and Europoort, connecting the Northeast and Southern England with the Continent.

We will offer our freight customers the earliest arrival on the Thames from Rotterdam, along with swift access to the M25 and terminal rail connections.

The opening of the London - Rotterdam route will mark another significant step in our business transformation and further contribute to the end-to-end logistics service offered by our parent company, DP World.”

The route will be served by the existing P&O Ferries vessel Norbank, which was until recently operating on the Dublin/Liverpool corridor, with a capacity of 2,040 freight lane metres.

She will sail overnight from Rotterdam to Tilbury with a daytime sailing to Rotterdam. It is being speculated that Norbank will be joined by her sister-ship Norbay on the completion of her six-month charter to Irish Ferries, enabling P&O to operate a twice daily service in each direction.

The launch of the new service from the DP World facility at Tilbury comes a couple of months after the closure of the dfds freight only service from that port to Calais. Announcing the service closure DFDS advised the market that they will be making more capacity available for unaccompanied trailers on their Dover/

Calais and Dover/Dunkirk services.

DFDS has completed the acquisition of FRS Iberia/Maroc. The acquisition brings DFDS into the Western Mediterranean and gives it a significant place in the fast-growing North Africa to Europe trailer business. Maersk Line will also open a new Morocco/Italy ferry service while CMA-CGM has, following its takeover of the Marseilles based La Meridionale Ferry Operation, placed significant orders for new vessels to serve routes to Corsica.

Irish Ferries & Stena

stena Line’s deployment of the Cruise Ferry Stena Vision on its Rosslare/ Cherbourg in June 2023 is being credited as the reason for a 90% increase of passenger and tourist car carryings on the route. At time of going to press Stena has not advised what vessel will run alongside Stena Vision during 2024. cLdn subsidiary, Seatruck, now offers up to four sailings a day in each direction on the Dublin/Liverpool route. The capacity increase comes from the re-deployment of vessels with the company’s Warrenpoint/Heysham route and use of CLdN vessels. The feeder operation where trailers shipping from Santander to Liverpool are shipped on the CLdN vessel to Dublin and then transferred on the seatruck vessel to Liverpool is proving to be very successful.

While announcing the movement of the Dublin terminal for its Heysham service, the company said that it is seeking to develop traffic levels on that service that would justify the deployment of a further vessel to support the Seatruck Pace on the route.

The Seatruck Pennant which was sold some months ago to the Jordan based Arab Bridge Maritime Company and is now sailing under the name Ur is likely to be a part of the fleet to operate that company’s new Sea and Land Bridge service between the Jordanian port of Aqaba and Egypt’s ports that border the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria, Port Said and Damietta. The route cuts the need for hauliers to transit Israel and Gaza.

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40 | SAFETY MATTERS

Managing transport operations and vehicle risks the rate of vehicle related fatal incidents at work reported to the Health & safety authority continues to be a cause of concern. in recent years, in the region of 50% of reported fatal incidents involved vehicles or activities associated with vehicles such as loading/unloading. these incidents occurred across five broad sector categories, being transportation & storage, agriculture, Construction, Manufacturing, and Waste Management. this rate of incidents points to a need for more effort in managing workplace vehicle risks.

The operation of practically every workplace involves some element of vehicle activity. In some premises this activity will be very apparent, particularly those with their own fleet of vehicles and mobile work equipment, such as trucks, vans or forklift trucks.

For other workplaces it may be less apparent and confined to the activities of visiting vehicles, such as collections and deliveries, involving, for example delivery or collection vans. Some workplace vehicle risks will simply arise from employees travelling to and from work using their own cars. In many businesses employees will travel for work outside of the work premises in their own or in company-owned vehicles. It is probably fair to say that because vehicles are such an inherent element of the activity of many businesses, they can be taken for granted, and the risks associated with them are often overlooked.

‘The bottom line is that every workplace should have a section of their fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

safety statement dedicated to a transport and vehicle operations risk assessment’ Vehicle safety in the workplace must be competently managed. Every employer is urged to be aware of the risks arising from vehicle-related activity at their workplace. They should assess what is the level of vehicle activity involved in the running of their organisation, and commit to better managing vehicle movements and operations in their businesses. The size and form of the management system will vary depending on the size of the operation. a typical vehicle safety management system should address the following: 1. Definition of the policy and rules for the management of vehicles at the workplace and identification of responsible person for managing vehicle safety.

2. How to carry out and record risk assessments - this means writing down the most significant hazards, identifying who is at risk and listing the safety precautions which should be in place.

3. Determine the training needs of workforce and the preventative maintenance program required for ensuring ongoing workplace vehicle safety. Any changes to vehicles, workplace or personnel which might have implications for the safety of the system must be allowed for.

4. Employees who may be affected must be kept fully informed of the system and of any changes to it.

5. Details of how acceptable standards for workplace vehicle safety are achieved and should also be included in the site-specific Safety Statement.

The Health & Safety Authority has a broad range of resources on its website to assist businesses to put procedures and measures in place to manage transport operations and vehicle risks.

These resources consist of guidance material, e-learning courses, information videos, sample policies, check sheets and posters. These are available to access free of charge at https://www.hsa.ie/eng/ Vehicles_at_Work/ TOp 10 wOrkpLace TranspOrT safeTy Tips ■ Control entry to your workplace.

■ Keep pedestrians and vehicles apart.

■ Eliminate vehicle reversing, where possible.

■ Provide clearly marked pedestrian walkways.

■ Mark and signpost vehicle only areas.

■ Make sure all work areas are well lit.

■ Keep traffic routes free of obstructions / mark permanent obstructions.

■ Provide impact protection to vulnerable parts of the workplace such as lamp posts and columns.

■ Provide and wear high visibility personal protective equipment.

■ Accompany visitors.

COMMENT | 41

‘From Where I’m Sitting’ – Howard Knott

Let’s think it all out again in last month’s ‘Comment’ piece i wrote about the whole business of ‘near-shoring’ and touched on the semi-trailer versus container debate. i would like to follow through a little further on those issues but would also like to look further at eu trans-european networks (ten-t) developments.

Over Christmas I read a piece on the whole shortening supply chains or near-shoring issue. It was in one of these pieces where the whole confusion involving a mass of issues becomes very clear. The proposition by John MannersBell as set out in his book: “The Death of Globalisation – How Politics, Ethics and the Environment are transforming Supply Chains” is that when producing goods, 20th Century thinking was that the lower the cost of labour, the lower the cost of manufacture. Therefore, to produce an item in, say, Germany where wages are relatively high, is going to be far more expensive than doing so in an under-developed Asian country. Allied to this is that the unit cost of shipping from Asia has been coming down since the 1970s, perhaps to the extent that the cost of shipping a container-load of goods from China to Germany might even be less than a shipment of a similar quantity of goods from Ireland to Germany.

There were always going to be issues with long-range manufacturing and purchasing due to the lack of visibility that the purchaser of the goods has on the products’ production and design,

with quality issues only becoming apparent when the container is opened at destination. The financial aspects of the operation can also become a bit challenging.

Heading for the second quarter of the 21st Century and the cost of labour has become a lot less important in manufacturing. For sourcing product in Asia this is good because labour, regulatory and other costs have spiralled upward in recent years so that the use of automated processes becomes crucially important. But, if the same automation and use of AI is applied to a manufacturing plant in Europe, then perhaps similar products can come out of there for much the same price as they do from Asia.

And is there a thought that keeping the process and the revenues within Europe rather than sending it off to prop up regimes that may not be to Europeans’ liking might be politically sensible?

For the freight shipping industry, does all this mean that volumes being shipped from Asia to Europe and North America will drop away and volumes moving much shorter distances will grow massively? One statistic that jumped out at me this morning was that for eleven of the last twelve months, Mexico was the USA’s largest trading partner, followed

by Canada with China trailing both of them. Only a couple of years ago China was the number one supplier. It is also probably not a coincidence that major shipping lines including Maersk, MSC

and CMA-CGM are investing heavily in developing European ro-ro ferry businesses.

Moving back to the trailer versus container debate, I would argue that this is also a technology thing. The rationale of shipping goods in driver-accompanied trailers was that the cargo owner knew where the product was at any point in time. The thinking behind unaccompanied trailer transport was that the haulier concerned had a reliable partner at the other end of the shipping or rail route that could pick up the trailer and safely deliver it.

What’s the difference between this and the use of a Lo-Lo container?

Perhaps it is that using the container is intrinsically a less expensive option and, with good tracking technology, the cargo is not going to get lost.

On 18 December the European Parliament published a revised version of the TEN-T system. The fundamental change was that a port’s position in the Ten-T network will now be assessed not only based on tonnage throughput, but also on its contribution to the energy transition. The deal also foresees more ambitious rail freight service requirements, to enable seamless and environmentally through transit of goods.

These changes will allow several Irish ports that had been excluded from the Community’s support network to now secure assistance for development.

That has to be a big positive.

WWW.Fleet.ie

42 | | NEWS OPINION 1

News of Increased Toll Charges hard burden to bear

January 1st 2024 saw an increase on all road tolls throughout the country. Not surprisingly there was a strong reaction from hauliers and bus operators. Indeed, the way these increases are announced on occasion is not helpful. There is an arrogance about the manner in which they are done by the toll operators, which does not go down well. Two things that struck me about the media coverage at the time were the statements from the Opposition and TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland). Opposition politicians and some Independents were calling for the increases to be reversed and tolls abolished. Not a very responsible attitude, but possibly understandable from a political point of view.

Trade associations are wise enough not to fall for that level of false concern by opposition politicians, who are generally only trying to drum up support for themselves. A little bit more curious were the statements made by TII explaining that price increases were imposed because of the legislation created around the PPP (Public Private Partnership). For sure these comments took a little pressure off the Toll operators, nonetheless it infuriated those that have to actually pay tolls.

So where can hauliers and bus and coach operators go next and is there any possibility that the cost of tolls will ever be reduced? Well, the toll operators are protected by legislation. To be fair to them, they could never have started some of the road projects we have now unless they got some level of guarantees.

However, the Government could have been more proactive and should have learned from previous projects. The handling of the West-Link and East-Link bridges by the Governments of the day did little to inspire confidence in the public. In the case of the East-link Bridge, promises were made when it was built first that when it was paid for, the toll would be removed.

Of course this never happened, as it became a source of revenue. When the West-Link Bridge was paid for, it was retained by the Government in State ownership and the workings of it was sub-contracted. Both of these bridges are now very significant sources of income for the State. So, if leadership is required in terms of toll reduction, really the ball is in the Government’s court.

Nobody is accusing any toll operator of being anti-competitive, as motorists are not forced to use these routes - there

are alternatives. That said, there are little incentives either to use the tolled routes.

Of course, there are time savings to be had, less wear and tear on the vehicles to a degree.

One angle that the Government could consider. A second operator could be appointed to operate the West-Link toll bridge. In the same way that many operators sell energy on the electric network, competition could be introduced, thereby giving value to motorists. If this worked and there is no reason why it would not work, a legal framework could be established to make all routes competitive.

In the short term there are some improvements that could be made at the toll gates to make them more efficient and a speedier process. There is a variance in the speed of the software at toll collection points. At some of the toll collection points, even with a tag, a vehicle may have to practically stop.

A cash transaction further slows down traffic and a credit card transaction is slow and sometimes tedious. Ideally the gantry system used on the M50 and throughout Europe should be the aim.

Road tolls will always be a contentious issue, each increase will bring media attention and resistance from motorists, hauliers and bus/coach operators. Toll companies have a legal right to increase charges as allowed for in the legislation. However, they could improve the efficiency of the payment and tag system. In a time where we are all more conscious of climate change and pollution, it is not insignificant the amount of emission reduction that could be achieved if vehicles, particularly HGVs and buses did not have to slow down or stop. Its not all about money.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

44 | FINANCE

Strategies for Business Success Ten key management tips to achieve financial success

focus on customers.

Very often warehouse and logistics providers concentrate on equipment and staff issues and rarely communicate with their customers. The perception is that a call to a customer will only result in the need to listen to current problems!

If that is true then is it not far better to understand any customer issues that they have, before they decide to take their business elsewhere. Also it’s the value added services that are offered that will secure the customer into the future and add profit to the business. gather and analysis information: If an accountant provides a set of management accounts showing a low margin, look at this information in more detail so as to ascertain which customers are profitable and even those customers that are unprofitable. This helps to decide on certain elements of the work that gives a margin to be retained and other work to be eliminated. sharpen Marketing skills: Most logistics providers never look at marketing their business, instead work comes by way of referrals allowing the business to grow. Now we are in a very changing economic climate, we work in a global economy and we need to position companies in whatever niche that will maximise profit. Having the company name on a hundred vehicles may stand out on the road, but to target the MDs of fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

indigenous manufacturing and distribution firms, a marketing strategy is needed to reach that audience. eliminate waste: The most highly profitable Irish businesses have senior management that on one hand look forward strategically so the firm is growing and changing (with five and ten year plans), while at the same time look at all costs on a continuous basis to eliminate waste and adopt best practices. increase customer perception of value: It is a fact that very often management visits customers to explain cost increases but never explain the full levels of service provided and how the firm is actually saving them money. It’s not unusual that the local indigenous haulier/logistics provider is actually providing far more services than the customer’s multi-nationals owner ever knows about. position the business uniquely: Whether a niche player or a dominant player in a certain region, there may be advantages re cost, rate negotiation and profitability that can be identified and implemented. study the success of others: In Ireland we have a unique quality of begrudging the success of others who have made a success of their business.

Instead we should be looking at those

who have been successful to see what formula they have applied and to learn from it! Many firms that are successful have no real issue sharing expertise with businesses that are not in direct competition with them. improve something every day: Every day there is an opportunity to make one positive change, no matter how small. Imagine how well run the business would be after one year of doing this!

This is the strategy that high level sports managers - whose job is to develop and improve - adopt. embrace change: Successful Irish firms have evolved over many decades. The economic climate changes people’s needs, technology changes how these needs are serviced.

If changes are not made, fallbacks will occur. Embrace change and take a lead. pull the Trigger: If suppliers, workers or indeed customers are not complying with requirements there is a tendency to persevere. The biggest management failing is indecision - leaving it alone and reviewing later.

If a decision is not immediately made, difficult as it may be, the businesses could go bust.

Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

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H E O F F I COF I A LTHE I R I SINTERNATIONAL H J O U R N A L O VAN F THE OFFICIAL IRISHT JOURNAL OF THE YEAR T H E& IINTERNATIONAL N T E R N AT I O N A LPICK-UP VA N OAWARD F THE YEAR

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www.fleet.ie Volume 21 no. 1 spring 2024

Ford Courier II -

inside

Delivering More All-Round

MarkeTpLace: Review of the new Van & Pick-up sales in 2023 cOMparisiOn: Ford Tourneo Custom vs Volkswagen Multivan prOTOType: New Volkswagen Transporter 7 cOncepT: New Kia Commercial Vehicle Range LauncH pad: Introducing new Nissan Interstar WWW.Fleet.ie

LION DAYS LCV RANGE

ALLURE MAKES YOUR BUSINESS BETTER Roominess and modularity for any mission Dynamic Surround View • Connected infotainment system

km) is 146-254.

WLTP (1) combined fuel consumption (l/100 km) for Boxer, Expert and Partner is 5.6-9.8. WLTP (1) combined CO2 emissions(g/

(1) The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures mentioned comply with the WLTP homologation (regulation EU 2017/948). From 1 September 2018, new vehicles are typeapproved using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which is a new, more realistic test procedure for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The WLTP fully replaces the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), which was the test procedure used previously. Due to more realistic test conditions, the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions measured under the WLTP are in many cases higher compared to those measured under the NEDC. The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures may vary depending on specific equipment, options and format of tires. Please contact your dealer for more information or visit www.peugeot.ie

www.fleet.ie | 49

Contents Spring 2024 50 cOVer First Drive in the new Ford Transit Courier II 2024

Fleet Van & Utility holds the Chairmanship of the International Van of the Year Jury

52 LcV MarkeTpLace Strong 2023 sales 56 wHaT’s new – LcV? Here’s to MY2024

Fleet Van & utility Magazine, d’alton street, Claremorris, County Mayo, ireland. tel: +353 (0)94 9372819 email: enquiries@fleet.ie

editor: Jarlath Sweeney contributors: Cathal Doyle,

58 cOMparisOn MPVs – Ford vs Volkswagen

Stefan Bowman (IVOTY) photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle administration: Orla Sweeney advertising: Mary Morrissey,

Printed in Ireland

design: Crackerjack Design House

disclaimer: Fleet Van&Utility 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.

60 prOTOType In disguise: New VWCV T7 62

LauncH pad Introducing the New Nissan Interstar

64 cOncepT Kia enters global LCV sector

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50 | | NEWS COVER 1 STORY

More competent, capable and connected Courier II delivered by Ford Pro

For Ford, the Courier nameplate goes back a long way. The Fiesta Courier van, produced from 1991-2002, followed the popular Ford Escort van. Unlike the Escort commercial (19802002), which had a box body behind the cab to bear the load, the Fiesta Courier featured a higher and more cubed body.

It was eventually replaced by the first edition of the Transit Courier in 2014. This B-segment (compact/city) vehicle was made in Turkey, and was offered as a panel van or passenger carrier to customers all over Europe. A car derived van version of the Fiesta 3-door hatch was also sold in certain markets.

fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

While the next generation Courier remains the entry level version within the Ford Transit family, it has been completely redesigned, with a new body shape and shell, offering a larger and more flexible cargo area that delivers 25 percent more load volume than the outgoing model, and also comes with increased payload. Therefore it moves into the sub C-segment and compliments the Transit Connect at the other end.

Courier’s cargo length has been increased by 181 mm to 1,802 mm, and new rear suspension with angled shock absorbers increases the load width between the wheel arches to 1,220 mm.

Total cargo volume is 2.9 m3, 25 % more than the outgoing model.

According to the Ford engineers, this new compact van can now carry two Europallets, albeit with a squeeze, as the protruding bulkhead into the load area impacts on the allowable height and shape of the goods carried on the said pallets, especially the one at the front.

Planks or pipes over 2,600 mm long, can be facilitated inside thanks to the load-

through area in the lower section of the bulkhead.

In fact, customers can now choose between a standard payload model, 680kg or a high payload version fitted with dual-rate springs to handle maximum gross payload of up to 854 kg – an increase of over 45 % compared with the outgoing model. Maximum towing weight for all variants is 1,100 kg.

All panel vans feature 180-degree opening rear cargo doors and six floor tie-down points as standard.

While the exterior body shape features bold design styling, the interior gets a future proofed interior fit and finish, with a high level of built-in technology with a so-called “digiboard” instrument panel, consisting of a digital instrument cluster, an 8-inch centre touchscreen and featuring Ford’s latest SYNC 4 connectivity system. The onboard connectivity is powered by a built-in modem offered as standard, enabling always-on connectivity with the Ford Pro ecosystem and allowing wireless software

COVER STORY | 51

updates that can evolve the vehicle’s capability over time without requiring a dealer visit.

For drivers who need regular access to their smartphone, a built-in dashboard phone mounting fin is standard on all Transit Courier vans. This removes the need for an air vent or windscreen mount and keeps the phone in a safe but visible location.

The best way to describe the interior design is functional, with storage areas well thought out, with open areas behind the digiboard and above the glovebox as well as a place for tablets or A4 pads in the centre console. The door bin inserts feature a separator and a holder large enough for 1.5-litre bottles.

Access to devices and cables necessary for a safe day’s work are close to hand.

Powering the all-new Transit Courier is a 125 PS variant of Ford’s efficient 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, offered alongside the 100 PS version of the

same engine. It produces less CO2 and offers improved fuel efficiency in comparison to previous models. The EcoBoost powertrain is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, or a new 7-speed dual clutch transmission. Most demand will initially be with the 100 PS 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

More and more van operators are

benefiting from various fleet management and telematics systems in vans. For example, the well received FordPass Pro mobile app is available to assist busy small business owners who manage their own vehicles. The complimentary smartphone app covers many daily operational aspects of the van enabling customers to remotely lock and unlock their van, check its location, track fuel spending, and receive health alerts for fluid levels, tyre pressures, oil life and brake condition to help prevent costly breakdowns.

This modem also powers connection to the successful FORDLiive programme, which in 2023 enabled over 700,000 days of additional vehicle availability across Europe, saving on downtime, worth an estimated €319 million to customers.

A comprehensive array of driver assistance technologies has also made Transit Courier the first van to receive a platinum safety award from Euro NCAP according to their most recent testing standards.

It comes with such features as LaneKeeping System, PreCollision Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist and Rear parking sensors. For more peace of mind during urban driving, customers can also specify systems such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control – with Stop & Go and Lane Centring with the automatic transmission, Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert! Intersection Assist and Reverse Brake Assist.

Co-designed by Ford Germany and its production partners Ford Otosan in Turkey, manufacturing of the all-new Transit Courier is now underway at Ford Otosan’s Craiova plant, in Romania, which is undergoing a €490 million redevelopment investment. Built alongside the Puma passenger car, the Courier range will be completed by the electric E-Transit Courier model, with order books opening later this year.

A 5-seat Tourneo passenger version has also been created alongside but alas

is not available in Ireland yet. A Ford Ireland spokesperson replied as to the reasons why: “At this time, we do not see the sales viability for the Tourneo Courier in the Irish market given the very real segment trends and customer purchasing habits in the market but we are continuously monitoring this space and reviewing our plans accordingly so we are not saying never.” The door is however left open to take the electric version when it goes on sale.

Featuring a taller, wider stance than heretofore, new Courier is more SUV, sports utility like, and drives like one. On two 90 minute tests in and around Sitges, south of Barcelona, the workings of the newly designed machine performed as expected - smoothly and efficiently.

Considerations such as the weight of the door and the texture of the furnishings and high build quality give impressions

that this is a more premium product than before.

The 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel, now with 200 Nm of torque, is not the fastest off the blocks but has good low end power, meaning less gear changes. Another notable aspect is the silence of the said powertrain while it glides up and down the 6-speed manual gearbox.

Transit Courier II is a well developed urban commercial that straddles two segments. Said to be priced competitively, Ford sales and marketing people are confident that customers of the original model will move up to the new larger version and that some clients of the Transit Connect may downsize (a little). The fact that the Fiesta Van is no more and that the new Transit Connect, due later this year, is based on the Volkswagen Caddy Van, are two deciding factors pertaining to this. And so, the Courier name will live on, well into the next decade.

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

52 | LCV MARKETPLACE

A STRONG 2023 AND LOTS OF POSITIVITY FOR LCV MARKET IN 2024 The light commercial vehicle market in Ireland recorded 28,943 unit sales in 2023, its highest figure since the market collapse of 2008, and 23% up on 2022 sales. That reflected a return to normality after the product limitations brought on by the Covid pandemic and the subsequent disruption to supply chains. But what of the year ahead? Fleet Van & Utility got in touch with spokespersons from the leading LCV brands to get their thoughts on the year gone by and what to expect in 2024.

Ford Pro Ford finished 2023 on top of the LCV market, taking 23.4% share of the market, with its models recording the 2nd, 5th, 6th and 7th best sales results with respectively the Transit Connect, Transit, Transit Custom and Ranger models. Not bad considering three of the four have, or are about to be updated during 2023/24. John Manning, Market Lead for Ford in Ireland, was understandably pleased with the year.

“With an increase of more than 23 percent, the new LCV market for 2023 performed strongly. We are delighted

fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

that Ford was again the top brand in the market with 6,780 units sold that represented a very respectable 23 percent of the total market. However, while our vans did very well in the overall market, Ranger reigned supreme in the Pick Up segment: 1,363 units sold and the total for the segment was 1,397 – we can safely say that the latest versions of Ranger have been very warmly received

by Ireland’s Pick Up owners and drivers and the nameplate is now the go to model for anyone who wants a can do Pick Up that not only looks great but is also a great driving vehicle.”

Looking ahead to 2024, John said: With the continuing healthy outlook for the economy to grow in 2024, I would say we are looking at another good year for LCV sales in the market. Delivery times can still be a challenge but this is more rooted in the heightened demand for Ford Commercial Vehicle products.

We worked on improvements in this area during 2023 and we expect to see that trend continue.”

Electric LCVs are an important part of Ford’s growth plans. “Electric powered CVs are continuing their onward march in the market and 2024 will be another year of growth in this area. For ourselves, we will see the completion of our electrified CV range with full electric model launches for Transit Custom, Transit Courier, and plug-in hybrid versions of Transit Connect and even Ranger. More needs to be done though at official level, in John’s opinion. “I really feel that government needs to do more to support businesses – in particular, SMEs – in investing in electric CVs, they also need to look at the anomaly that sees some larger EVs like our E-Transit fall foul of the weight rules governing VRT.”

renault Pro+ A strong year for the French manufacturer saw Renault take second place in the LCV sales charts with 15.3% market share. Impressively, despite it being due for imminent replacement, the Master was Ireland’s best selling van in 2023, with 2,044 unit sales, while Trafic was the third best seller. With the new and much improved Kangoo and Kangoo E-Tech going on sale last year, the future is looking bright for Renault.

Harry Nash, Managing Director of Setanta Vehicle Sales which distributes Renault LCVs under the Red Edition label said that the brand had a great year across the network, with strong sales on both the Renault Master and Trafic Red Editions. He is positive about 2024.

“We think there will be some activity on LCV this year particularly for state and semi-State owned companies. It needs a cohesive plan at Government level to really see good traction and in the absence of that it will be slow” Asked about electric vehicles, he sees the lack of high powered charging infrastructure hindering progress: “Absolutely and no sign of a planned roll out on the horizon either.”

VolKsWagen CoMMerCial VeHiCles It’s a measure of the broad range of products offered

by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles that only the Caddy

LCV MARKETPLACE | 53

appears in the list of top ten selling LCVs in 2023 in 9th place, yet overall the brand recorded an overall market share of 11.22%. Kim Kilduff, Head of Sales & Marketing for VWCVI says it was a positive year for the brand.

“The LCV market in Ireland saw strong growth of 23% vs. 2022 closing the year at just over 25,000 units (excluding car derived vans). The continued demands on all sectors of the construction industry in 2023 has been a contributing factor to this positive shift. Alongside this, online shopping continues to be Irish consumers preferred choice resulting in a requirement to increase logistics/delivery fleets to furnish this ongoing shift in consumer purchasing behaviours.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles had a strong performance with a yearon-year sales increase of 11%. The used market also continues to be strong.

Residual values remained steady over the course of 2023 and we expect this to continue onwards into 2024.”

Kim expects further growth in 2024: “We are anticipating another strong year for the Commercial Vehicle market in Ireland, with an expectation that demand will remain strong but supply may limit full growth potential. We are expecting to see a growth of a further approx. 5%.

In 2024 our 21 Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles retailers have access to a volume of units that are stocked here in Ireland which are readily available for immediate delivery. However as demand continues to be high, there may be times throughout the year where deliveries to customers will be extended.

On the electric LCV front, Kim says there is an urgent need for commercial vehicle categories to be revised to factor in the differing specifications of electric LCVs such as Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz.

“There continues to be a shift from Internal Combustion Engine vehicles to Battery Electric Vehicles, this is driven by both by environmental benefits and of course lower operating costs. The ID. Buzz has been the preferred Battery Electric Commercial Vehicle choice

for progressive Irish companies such as An Post, DAA and numerous other Irish businesses who are committed to making a significant environment impact initiating the move to decarbonise their commercial vehicle fleets.

To encourage a greater uptake of Battery Electric Commercial Vehicles, further and continued, reviews of the categorisation of Commercial Vehicles and electric vehicle grants is required to ensure that the SME sector has an incentive to switch their fleets to electric.”

vehicles being transported around South Africa, which is likely to add 2 weeks to lead-times for many manufacturers.”

Regarding electric vehicles Cathal said: Feedback from early adopters of electric commercials has been very positive. Key to this success is matching customer expectations with the vehicle capabilities.” However,” he noted: “For mass adoption across the market, greater tax breaks and/or government incentives are required to offset the more expensive EV retail prices.”

toYota

oPel

The Land Cruiser Commercial continues to sell strongly, ably supported by the Hilux, Proace and Proace City, giving Toyota just over 11% market share last year. Fleet Sales Manager Cathal Ryan said that after a strong year, 2024 is also looking positive. “The 2023 commercial market got off to a strong start demand for with demand outstripping supply for many brands across the market. At Toyota, Land Cruiser and Hilux models continue to lead their segments in terms of sales, while new Electric Proace sales increased by 48%. Overall 2023 was a very successful year for Toyota commercial vehicles. Commercial vehicle demand continues to look strong for all 2024. Diesel powertrains will continue to dominate this market, though there is steady/growing demand for electric alternatives.”

Regarding supply chains Cathal noted that challenges are continuing because of global uncertainty in the Middle East: “Given all the supply chain issues resulting from Covid and the Ukraine war, Toyota’s lead times continue to be one of the shortest and most predictable within the industry. However, the present uncertainty in the Red Sea/ Suez Canal region is likely to necessitate

The German arm of the Stellantis Group has had a strong couple of years in the Irish LCV market, taking 7.3% market share in 2023. Its Vivaro model was the best selling version of the Stellantis Group mid-sized vans. “Opel performed very well in all the categories in which we compete, except car-derived vans which were slower due to a lack of availability of Astras,” said Fergal Marron, Head of Fleet Sales at Opel Ireland.

Of the market as a whole he noted: “Demand remained strong in 2023, but supply was much better into the new market. Some de-fleeting took place into the used market but higher pricing meant replacement costs encouraged fleets to hold onto vehicles longer than in the past.”

Looking forward to 2024 Fergal expects continued strong demand but that this will be tempered by higher cost to change and interest rates. “Increasing spec levels on vans mean they are safer and better equipped than ever but at a cost! Used values will remain stable as imports are still not as available as in previous years.” Among the challenges being faced he believes that delivery times are improving but there is still some unpredictability due to component availability and manufacturers being WWW.Fleet.ie

54 | LCV MARKETPLACE

required to achieve fleet emissions targets. He also noted that safety regulations change in July 2024 will bring more safety equipment but more cost and complexity.

Fergal added that legislation will drive the uptake of EVs but the extra costs to business, particularly SMEs needs to be offset somehow. “EV technology is improving, increasing range and payloads, and charging options are improving for drivers but it is still challenging to have vehicles charging instead of driving. Cost is the biggest challenge to uptake: the price of the vehicle plus the investment in infrastructure to support, competing with diesel that is cheaper and easier to keep driving so more profitable for businesses to use.”

to normal, Ciaran Cusack, Marketing Manager at Peugeot Ireland said that Peugeot is monitoring global events.

“With the international space in such a state of volatility, this of course could change and we are closely monitoring our shipping and logistics.”

Like other brands Ciaran feels that more could be done to encourage people into electric LCVs. “There is strong demand for Electric Light Commercials from semi-state and large organisations, as these entities seek to reduce their carbon emissions. The SME sector is starting to make the switch and the interest is certainly there, but they could be encouraged to make the change with improved government financial supports and a bigger investment in the public electric charging system.”

Peugeot

Citroën

Peugeot’s Partner van remains a popular choice, outsold only by the Ford Transit Connect in the small van segment in 2023. Its EV products also performed well. Overall Peugeot took just over 7% market share and Stephen McGrath, Head of Product and Pricing, Peugeot Ireland was pleased with the year: “The LCV market performed well in 2023 with further growth reflecting continued confidence in the economy.

We were delighted to finish the year with volume growth following post-Covid supply issues and logistical blockages early in the year. It was fantastic to finish the year also on the podium for BEV which gives us a good foundation for our growth strategy in BEV sales in 2024.”

Looking to 2024, he added: “Sales have started extremely well for Peugeot with an increase compared to this time last year. We are well above a market that is seeing a huge growth of over 30% so far.

We believe that the fundamentals of the Irish economy will remain strong in 2024 which will end with double digit growth for the LCV market.”

While delivery times are now back

A 23% year on year growth for Citroën is a positive for the French brand. Trevor Hunt, Marketing Manager for Citroën Ireland notes that although Citroën still achieved 6.37% market share, supply issues early in 2023 impacted its growth potential. He sees 2024 as being a strong year for the LCV market, but urges caution about challenges ahead.

“YTD LCV registrations have started very strongly, tracking +38.2% increase on January 2023. January 2023 in turn was +9.9% ahead of January 2022. This acceleration in growth reflects our buoyant economy and perhaps also reflects the earlier supply issues the industry faced in January 2023. Delivery time issues have now been resolved, as have many of the supply issues experienced. [However] despite a very buoyant start to 2024, there are many much publicised head winds facing SME’s in this inflationary period, which could impact LCV demand going forward.”

On the electric front Trevor had this to say: “Electric LCV uptake has been strong across some sectors, particularly

FLEETTRANSPORT | FEBRUARY 2024

Government departments and multi-national companies, but overall, in 2023 only 3.47% of all LCV’s purchased were electric. 2024 shows similar results to date, with electric powertrains representing 3.36% share of LCV. This, combined with ongoing government support, both in terms of vehicle and taxation incentives and investment in a fit for purpose charging infrastructure will be crucial to growing electric penetration of the LCV market, and widening the appeal to additional sectors.”

Mercedes-Benz Vans The Stuttgart manufacturer entered a new segment of the market-place in 2023 with the launch of the Citan and will have hopes of growing market share in 2024 as the compact van comes full on stream. The Sprinter remains a strong performer in the large van segment.

Looking to 2024, Commercial Vehicle Sales Manager, Fergus Conheady says Mercedes-Benz Vans does not see any reason to doubt the market will remain static this year. “The challenge for us will be the introduction of newly aligned spec offerings which are based on European standards that will push the price of our vans up further, however this the next step on the Mercedes-Benz Vans Premium journey.

Fergus adds that there is some disappointment at the level of adoption for eVans. “Aside from Government bodies, the uptake for eVans is dreadfully low so there really needs to be some grant support for electric LCVs similar to the taxi incentives to encourage these vehicles to the road.”

Fiat Professional The benefits of Fiat Professional being part of the Stellantis Group, as well as a fresh focus on the brand in Ireland,

LCV MARKETPLACE | 55

now distributed through the Gowan Group, were keenly highlighted with sales jumping from 1.5% in 2022 to 4.23% in 2023.

Managing Director John Saunders explained: “The Fiat Professional business benefited from the introduction of a number of new Dealers which were added to the network in 2023 to support the brand’s sales, delivering more than 250% growth, albeit from a low base.

We re-engaged with our Fleet and Lease customers, and we were in a position to deliver greater levels of certainty than previously experienced. We focussed our Fiat Professional brand directly at resolving customers business needs.

Vans are a business solution not a luxury, and as such ensuring our customers felt supported was foremost in our strategy.”

John is cautious about the year ahead. “It is hard to predict the market at the moment, although YTD, as we close out January, the market is ahead by more than 20%. There is a latent demand for new vehicles unfulfilled in the last number of years, and although private and fleet operators may have serviced and retested fleets for an additional year when the supply wasn’t there to replace, we believe they will come back to market as the year progresses.” He doesn’t force immediate delivery challenges. “Supply is good at the moment with no obvious interruptions foreseen. However, manufacturers are much more focussed on stock levels and more dynamic stock management, ensuring that markets receive priority for sold units over stock in production allocations.”

John sees that more needs to be done to encourage electric LCV uptake.

“Unlike other countries with large urban centres and cities, Ireland is unique.

It does not have the large “Last Mile” dynamic at play in its cities to the same extent as other European countries.

However, we are also a geographically small country which will suit EV vehicles well. The governments, local councils and other stakeholders really need to collec-

tively address the charging infrastructure shortcomings, before mass adaption can be realised. Like passenger cars, LCV customers will have to deliver a mindset change towards route planning and logistics.”

MaXus Mark Barrett, General Manager of Maxus UK & Ireland oversaw very strong growth for the Chinese brand in Ireland in 2023, climbing from a negligible 0.09% market share in 2022 to 1.11%. He attributes that to the brand’s broad electric offerings.

“EV sales were instrumental to our success last year and resulted in a strong finish to 2023 having overcome supply chain challenges which hampered sales in Q1. Our BEVs sales performed well over the past 12 months with a 19.8% uptick in the UK market. Ireland saw a 109% increase, albeit from a lower base.

He highlights though continuing issues with expanding the commercial EV market. “While demand for EV is strong, it’s nowhere near where it should be. eLCVs in Ireland account for just over 3% of overall LCV sales. The key challenge for the EV sector, particularly in Ireland, is the appalling EV infrastructure, particularly outside of major cities. There’s a growing gap between the number of electric vehicles on Irish roads and the number of available public chargers.

More action is needed by government, with focus needed not only on the quantity of chargers available, but also the type of chargers and their location.

But infrastructure is not the only issue, with a lack of grants, incentives and supports for drivers and businesses causing frustration in the market.”

Mark says Maxus is looking forward with confidence. “We are moving into 2024 with real confidence, underpinned by the strength and growth of the MAXUS brand and are looking forward

to introducing even more new products to the market over the coming months.

We’re anticipating a 60-70% rise in MAXUS sales over the next 12 months.”

Of challenges he adds: “The issues that we are monitoring are largely the same as every other business in Ireland and indeed, around the globe. Geopolitical unrest, inflation and the cost of doing business, for manufacturers, distributors, retailers and our customers are of course on our radar. But we have a robust strategy in place for what we can control and have devised a transformational programme for growth supported by the appointment of a strengthened senior leadership team under the stewardship of Harris Group Chairperson and CEO, Denise Harris.”

ssangYong /KgM Motors Ssangyong was another brand that recorded a good recovery in 2023 compared to 2022, with the Musso and Rexton Commercial spearheading its sales drives. Country Manager Mark Creevy is expecting further growth in 2024, but says that delivery times remain challenging. “We have seen strong dealer orders for 2024 and taking into account supply chain difficulties experienced in January we expect to double our LCV sales in 2024. With 90-120 days from order to delivery without any shipping delays, we are always under pressure to meet dealer demands for stock.”

As a provider of primarily diesel products, Mark says that there isn’t a huge demand for electric vehicles from potential SsangYong customers.

“Currently I have seen little or no interest from our core demographic (farming, construction, equestrian) for EV light commercial vehicles. This is primarily due to the need for reasonable costs, towing capacity and no range constraints as currently offered by ICE Variants.”

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

56 | | NEWS WHAT’S 1 NEW - LCV

New Vans - what to expect in 2024 After a relatively quiet 2023 for new van launches, 2024 is set to bring a number of new and refreshed light commercial vehicles to market across all of the various segment sizes. Here, in brand alphabetical order, is a look at what we can expect to arrive during the year.

fOrd John Manning, Market Lead for Ford in Ireland says that the Blue Oval is set for an exciting time on the LCV front.

“It will be a very busy year for Ford CV launches – new Transit Custom (winner of the 2024 International Van of the Year title) is just arriving in numbers into the market this month. We will see new versions of Transit Courier (our smallest member of the Transit family) and Transit Connect – all of which will feature electrified versions. In addition, the latest versions of Ranger (winner of the International Pick Up award for 2024) will be joined later this year by a PHEV model. So, all in all, it will be our busiest year in a number of years.”

Maxus The MAXUS eDELIVER 7, which we premiered at the 2023 Commercial Vehicle Show, is now available to order and will play a pivotal role in driving our sales over the next two years, says Maxus UK & Ireland Country Manager, Mark Barrett. “Harris MAXUS is also gearing up for the launch of a new premium electric panel van, the eDELIVER 5 and another high-tech MPV the MAXUS MIFA 7, a little sister to the current MIFA 9 model.”

Mercedes-BenZ It’s set to be a busy year for the three-pointed star brand in 2024 as well, with Commercial Vehicle Sales Manger fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

Fegus Conheady anticipating the arrival of three new models. Due in Quarter 2 are a new Vito (as well as V-Class & EQV passenger variants) and a facelift to the Sprinter, while the new T-Class - a passenger version of the Citan expected in the summer.

nissan Expect to see the Townstar small van go on sale in the early part of the year, while the new Interstar is also anticipated before the end of the year see our feature on page 62.

renauLT The all-new Master will headline Renault LCV launches in 2024. Harry Nash, Managing Director of Setanta Vehicle Sales which distributes Renault ‘Red Edition’ LCVs in Ireland says: “We have new models in both Trafic and Master coming this year with the new Trafic arriving in the Spring and the new Master in September. Both will have diesel and electric powertrains.”

sTeLLanTis grOup - ciTrOËn, fiaT prOfessiOnaL, OpeL and peugeOT Sharing products across the various brands (as well as with Toyota), all of the brands within Stellantis’ Pro-One division will be introducing face-lifted versions of their entire ranges in the first half of 2024. The updates include updated designs, improved technology, advanced safety features and more efficient electric motors with a range of up to 420 kms.

ssangyOng It’s a fresh start for the Korean brand now known as KGM Motors with a new commercial SUV on the way according to Ireland Country Manager Mark Creevy.

“Mid 2024 we will introduce the Torres EVX 2 seat N1 SUV. This will be a factory produced fully homologated N1 version of our soon to be released Torres EVX SUV.”

TOyOTa 2024 sees the arrival of the next generation of an iconic model says Cathal Ryan, responsible for Fleet Sales at Toyota Ireland. “2024 is an exciting year for Toyota with regard to commercial vehicles. We will be re-introducing the Corolla van in mid 2024. This iconic model is based on Corolla Touring Sport/5dr and will come with a 1.8 hybrid electric engine. September will also see the introduction of new generation Land Cruiser, a brand new model with class leading on-road refinement, coupled with legendary off-road capability.”

Toyota has also announced that it will introduce a large van, the Proace Max based on the the Stellanis Group model, which should go on sale in 2024.

VOLkswagen “2024 will see the launch of the New Transporter and New Crafter along with the introduction of the all new Volkswagen California,” says Kim Kilduff, Head of Sales & Marketing for VWCVI. “The next generation Transporter offers significantly expanded standard equipment compared with its predecessors – including a digital cockpit, central display and the latest assist systems – as well as a completely redesigned range of highly efficient drive systems.”

“The new Crafter will arrive equipped with the latest generation of infotainment systems, multifunction steering wheel and numerous assistance systems, along with a wide range of body types, weight classes and overall lengths. As before, the Crafter will offer four roof heights and will be available with frontwheel, rear-wheel and all-wheel drive; a new eight-speed automatic gearbox will be used for the variants with rear-wheel drive.”

“Later this year the next addition of the iconic Volkswagen California will also land on Irish shores.”

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

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58 | | NEWS COMPARISION 1

Two Practical People Movers go Head-to-Head: Ford Tourneo Custom versus Volkswagen Multivan Passenger versions of mid-sized vans tend to get short thrift. although by far the most practical way to transport small groups of people around, and despite many being as well fitted out and equipped as upmarket family cars, their appeal is largely limited to public transport operators…and even in that market a lot will opt for larger vans or minibuses.

Look at it logically and there’s a lot to recommend these mid-sized passenger vans. Often they don’t occupy a larger footprint than many of the SUVs on our roads, they’re comparably priced and have similar operating costs, yet are infinitesimally more practical than even the largest seven seater SUV. For larger families or taxi operators they are a much better solution to transporting a number of passengers and their belongings than a family car.

Of course one major drawback is their van origins - many people won’t consider them simply because of their shape and close association with commercial vehicles. It probably doesn’t help too that some manufacturers produce quite different versions, a basic model aimed squarely at the minicab/taxi market, and more luxurious and higher-specced models geared more at the corporate transport market and private usage.

That’s why Volkswagen’s Multivan is one of the more interesting products to arrive on the market in recent years.

Unlike most passenger vehicles of this type it’s not derived from a van, rather it is built on the same MQB platform that forms the basis for everything for the Golf and Tiguan to the Audi Q6 and Cupra Formentor. fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

So, ironically given its name, dismissing the Multivan as a van is an injustice as this is a completely separate vehicle to Volkswagen’s Transporter range from where previous passenger Caravelle models were derived. It’s firmly an MPV, arguably the most practical one since Renault created the genre with the original Espace in the mid-eighties, and as such is a replacement for the Sharan and Touran MPVs. Ford’s Tourneo Custom is a well regarded product in this segment of the market. While the current version is due for replacement later this year in line with the introduction of the new Transit Custom, it remains a popular choice for customers. We’ve put it against the Multivan to see how both shape up as practical day to day vehicles.

Custom L2 has a longer wheelbase than the L1 version, whereas Volkswagen’s Standard and Long versions of the Multivan have the same wheelbase, but the Long model has an extended rear overhang.

Comparing the equivalent model dimensions, in the shorter versions, the two vehicles have exactly the same length - 4973mm, though the Ford is 167mm longer in the stretched variants. The Ford is 45mm wider though (excluding mirrors), and 72mm higher.

That manifests itself on the road where the Transit Custom feels like a bigger vehicle than the Multivan.

Certainly in its L2 version it’s noticeable how much space it takes up in a carpark compared to the shorter Volkswagen.

There’s a good reason for opting for

siZe and diMensiOns

the longer versions of these vehicles though, and that’s in boot space. While that in our test Tourneo Custom is cavernous at 1900 litres, boot capacity in the short version of the Multivan is just 469 litres, and a lot of that is achieved by loading upwards as the gap between the rear seat and door is very narrow. The L1 version of the Ford trumps this considerably with 1200 litres of space, while the

First up it should be noted that we’re not strictly comparing like for like with these two vehicles driven here.

While both vehicles are offered in two length options, our test Volkswagen is the shorter model, while the Ford is the extended version. There’s another difference here too which is how they achieve their extra lengths…the Tourneo

COMPARISION | 59

Long version of the Volkswagen is still relatively limited at 763 litres. Of course lowering the third row of seats extends load volumes considerably, but for anyone needing to carry a full passenger complement and their luggage, the Tourneo Custom is the more capacious. inTeriOr While the Multivan is offered as an six or seven seater (tested here with seven seats in a 2+2+3 layout), the Tourneo Custom can be specified with anything from six to nine seats (eight in the case of our test vehicle). Whatever the layout though, both demonstrate the real advantages of choosing this kind of vehicle over a seven seater MPV. You get full sized seats with enough headroom and legroom for the largest adult, while access to the third row of seats is straightforward for even the most mobility challenged.

Both vehicles offer very flexible seating layouts, making it possible to slide, recline and spin around individual seats or even remove them completely.

Both vehicles offer plenty of sound deadening materials, so road and vehicle noise are up to the standard you would expect in a decent passenger car.

From the driver’s perspective there’s a lot to like too. In both vehicles you have a commanding driving position… anyone who likes SUVs for their elevated height will love driving these with their Captain’s Chair seating..though the Tourneo Custom only offered an armrest on the driver’s left side. Both offer good all-round visibility, aided by features such as the split A-pillar on the Volkswagen and excellent blind spot mirrors on the Ford. Both are comfortable over long distances, though I did experience a bit of right foot ache on longer trips in the Tourneo Custom.

Neither of these are sporty vehicles, so neutral ride and handling is a praise rather than criticism. The Ford Transit Custom has a well won reputation as one of the better handling vans on the market, and in its passenger guise it’s

easy to place exactly where you want, even if the steering is a little lacking in feel by Ford standards. Although it’s built on a car platform, the height of the Multivan means it doesn’t have the dynamism you’d find in lower slung vehicles. That said, it’s comfortable and a pleasant place to spend extended time.

Both vehicles are well equipped, though the Multivan edges it for the quality of materials….a lot of the plastics in the Tourneo Custom are shared with its more humble Transit sibling. There’s good storage in both, though the Ford has more overall useable space. Both come with touchscreens including smartphone connectivity, though the Multivan features Volkswagen’s by now much maligned touch sensitive controls. engines These are vans so they must be diesel, right? Actually no. While our test Tourneo Custom was fitted with a 130PS 2.0 litre EcoBlue diesel unit (there’s also 105 and 170PS choices), Ford also offers an EcoBlue Mild Hybrid diesel as well as a Plug-in Hybrid version using a 13.6kWh battery matched to a 1.0 litre Ecoboost petrol engine.

The Multivan meanwhile is offered purely as a petrol hybrid, using a 10.4kWh battery that works with a 1.4 litre petrol engine giving a total power output of 218hp.

Considering their respective sizes and bulk, both vehicles proved pleasingly fuel efficient during our week with them. The diesel powered Tourneo Connect, with six speed manual gearbox, averaged 7.2 l/100km, while the automatic transmission Multivan returned 5.9l/100km on longer journeys when starting with a fully charged battery, and around 6.6l/100km when running solely on petrol. We found we could get in the region of 40km on electric power from a full battery charge. Both vehicles offer adequate power though the Ford has to be worked a little hard if needing to overtake, whereas the Volkswagen offers more instant grunt.

VerdicT Look beyond the van like shape, and both of these vehicles make a lot of sense for anyone who has to carry a number of passengers and/or bulky loads on any kind of regular basis. The Volkswagen Multivan in particular offers a fresh take on the practical MPV concept. Both offer levels of practicality and passenger space that SUVs can only dream of, yet are as comfortable and well equipped as any car on the road, and won’t cost a fortune to run.

Their bulk and size may put off some, but particularly in their shortened form they are not much bigger than a lot of SUVs. Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

spec cHeck fOrd TOurneO cusTOM

VOLkswagen MuLTiVan

price as tested

€77,100

€73,700

Trim / spec

Titanium

Style

Body

L2 (Long)

Short

number of seats

8 (2+3+3 layout)

7 (2+2+3 layout)

dimensions

Length: 5340mm Width: 1986mm (ex-mirrors) Height: 1977mm

Length: 4973mm Width: 1941mm (ex-mirrors) Height: 1,909mm

Boot capacity (seats in place)

1900 litres

469 litres

engine

2.0 litre EcoBlue diesel

1.4 litre petrol PHEV with 10.4 kWh battery

power

130 PS

218PS combined

Torque

385 Nm

350Nm combined WWW.Fleet.ie

60 | | NEWS PROTOTYPE 1

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles gets ready to launch new Transporter van family

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) is set to launch the successors to the current transporter 6.1 and Caravelle 6.1 in 2025. this new generation of the light commercial product line has been significantly improved in all areas.

This next generation is a collaboration between VWCV and Ford Pro, the second jointly designed and produced commercial vehicle since both brands formed an alliance a few year ago. The first was the new VW Amarok and new Ford Ranger.

The new so-called T7 is said to offer a significantly expanded standard equipment specification compared to its predecessors – including a digital cockpit, central display and the latest assist systems – as well as a completely redesigned range of highly efficient drive systems. With the new models, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has for the first time included in a product line that’s available with turbodiesel, plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains.

While it features the Ford Transit Custom body shell, the T7 bears distinctive Volkswagen DNA: with its clean front and rear design, clearly recognisable as part of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles model range. LED headlights are equipped at the front as standard and are defining elements of the highly aerodynamic design for commercial vehicles of this size. LED tail light clusters are also used at the rear fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

as standard. Like its predecessors, the new Transporter models can be configured either with a boot lid or wide-opening wing doors.

In addition, the new Transporter will come as standard with features such as an electronic parking brake plus Auto Hold function, a 12-inch digital instrument cluster (Digital Cockpit), infotainment system (including DAB+, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, online services and 13-inch touchscreen), multifunction steering wheel, rain sensor, the lane keeping system Lane Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking Front Assist and Dynamic Road Sign Display with wrong-way warning.

As with previous editions,Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will offer the new Transporter as a panel van, Kombi (with windows in the rear) and a long dropside vehicle (with double cab), as well as a Caravelle (interior trim) becoming available at a later date. The Kombi and panel van models will also be optionally available with a high roof and an extended wheelbase.

New Transporter is 5,050 mm long – representing an increase of 146 mm compared with the predecessor. The wheelbase has been extended by 97 mm to 3,100 mm, and there will be an optional 400 mm-longer wheelbase (total length: 5,450 mm). At 2,032 mm, its exterior width is 128 mm more than the predecessors (without exterior mirrors).

The larger exterior dimensions enhance the interior spaciousness, allowing more cargo to be carried or passengers to be transported even more comfortably. Also, the values for the maximum payload and maximum trailer weight have been further improved. The load volume of the T7 with standard wheelbase and standard roof has grown to 5.8 m3. The maximum width between the wheel housings has been significantly increased by 148 mm to 1,392 mm,

and the payload of the van with standard wheelbase and TDI drive has risen from 1.2 to 1.3 tonnes.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has increased the maximum trailer weight (braked with 12% gradient) of this version from 2.5 to 2.8 tonnes for the diesel panel van with power outputs of 110 kW and 125 kW. Last, but not least, the maximum dynamic roof load has grown from 150 kg to 170 kg.

As mentioned, for the first time Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will also be launching the new Transporter with a plug-in hybrid drive (eHybrid) and all-electric drives (eTransporter) as an alternative to the turbodiesel engines (TDI) at a later date.

The new TDI engines are available in three output variants: 81 kW (110 PS), 110 kW (150 PS) and 125 kW (170 PS). These will be followed by a plug-in hybrid drive with a system power of 171 kW (233 PS) and by four electric drives with 85 kW (116 PS), 100 kW (136 PS), 160 kW (218 PS) and 210 kW (286 PS).

The batteries of the electric models will have an energy content (gross) of 83 kWh. The base version with the 85 kW electric drive motor will be offered with a 54 kWh battery (gross). The TDI and eHybrid models come with front-wheel drive. The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system is available as an option for the TDI versions from 110 kW. The all-electric models have rear-wheel drive; an all-wheel drive version is also planned here for a later date.

One thing is for sure: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will offer a wider and more innovative range of drives for the new Transporter than ever before.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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62 | LAUNCH PAD

Interstar III Nissan’s Rising Star

At a secret location south of Barcelona, Nissan Europe revealed a teaser video on what is going to be the totally new Interstar large light commercial range. It’s a firm declaration that Nissan Commercial Vehicles is back in business.

Nicholas Tschann, who now heads up Nissan’s LCV Division, said that the brand is to become more personal with the customer, and be more SME oriented, backed up by top level products and services. “We are serious about making Nissan a stronger LCV brand,” he said.

Choosing Spain as a location for this dealer and press event was an acknowledgment by the Japanese auto company of its strong presence in the country, through manufacturing cars and commercials and at one time, trucks.

Nicholas recalled the Nissan Atleon, latterly called NT500 and the Cabstar light trucks that ‘starred’ up until 2016 or so. Now it’s the turn of the third generation Interstar to shine, offering a broader range of models, drivetrains, body types, configurations and higher payloads.

From 2014 to 2023, more than 115,000 units of Interstar have been sold (some wearing the NV400 badge which was used for ten years from 2011-2021 fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

at which point the Interstar label was restored). Nicholas’ ambition is to double its 2% market share with immediate effect and have Nissan punch above its weight. The new Interstar is the key to reaching this objective.

Benefiting from the recent product development at Renault Pro, its Alliance partners, the new Nissan Interstar is based on the recently premiered 4th generation Renault Master.

While being supplied by Renault and produced alongside the Master in France, the Nissan Design team in Paddington, London reworked the van’s frontal area, to blend it in with the company’s current corporate look. New Nissan badging has been placed on the rear doors and the steering wheel. What really stands out is the ‘Interstar’ lettering across the top of the grille - a first for a van, often seen with certain SUVs. Nicholas is pleased also with the performance of the Townstar (based on

the Renault Kangoo), which has gained up to 7% market share since its launch last year. It offers Nissan a fresh product in the small van segment after the Kubistar was discontinued and replaced by the slightly larger NV200 (on sale from 2012-2021).

The Primastar mid-sized van was refreshed last year and is anticipated to continue to carry on for another two years.

Nicholas confirmed that by 2026 all of Nissan’s van range will feature electrified versions. Currently, the Heavy Van market is 90% diesel fuel powered, with the remainder BEV - battery electric.

That latter figure is set to double in three years, driven by changes to regulations, legislation, national and city restrictions, taxation, higher fuel costs, and green policies. where’s the market for nissan with the interstar iii?

Nicholas sees an opportunity and

LAUNCH PAD | 63 small-to-medium sized businesses across Europe. Nissan has been there to support these unsung heroes for years, catering for every need through our diverse light commercial vehicle (LCV) range of vans and trucks. With that in mind, we’re preparing an electrifying new update to our LCV line-up to equip society’s everyday heroes with the sidekick that will supercharge their business to the next level”

potential for the new Interstar with the buoyant campervan conversion market, as well as offering an ideal vehicle for tradespeople, service providers, grocery deliveries, passenger transport, and to a lesser degree, the ultra-competitive fleet sector, particularly express delivery. He also mentioned the construction and municipal sectors, which he said are ‘in a slow decline’. He also cited that the parcel delivery companies are moving towards BEV but need longer range distance to make the investment viable. He anxiously awaits the arrival of solid state batteries that can provide up to 800km range, are lighter and quicker to charge. “Solid state batteries will best suit the campervan also, into the future,” he added.

“Calling the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep society running smoothly – from construction workers and tradespeople to delivery drivers, pop-up market stall owners and

Andrew Limbert, Product Planning & Marketing Manager · Nissan Motor Corporation, outlined the various attributes of the new Interstar from a number of aspects including product concept, efficiency, capabilities, and wellbeing. The product concept covers the integration of the ‘V-Motion’ design elements and other embellishments of the brand into and on the Renault Master body shell. The efficiency stems from the new 2.0-litre Euro6 diesel with its four power outputs and two transmission offerings. The slick aerodynamic shape lends itself to improved fuel economy. Regarding capability, the Interstar’s turning circle has been cut by 1.5-metres, while it will have up to 4.5 tonne GVW, along with a 4.0 tonne and a standard 3.5 tonne variant.

for the driver, enhanced by increased comfort and features.

Then there are the electric versions, which bring instant acceleration, smoothness and silent operational aspects to the daily chores. On offer will be a choice of kilowatt hour battery packs - 40kWh and 87kWh, both having 300 Nm of torque and providing an estimated 180km and 410km respectively. Thanks to 130 kW fast charging, up to 230 km can be generated in 30 minutes. A 22kW AC on board charging system facilitates 10-100% charging in an around four hours.

Nicholas admitted that for SMEs the infrastructure issue is their biggest challenge and Nissan LCV is coming up with a number of solutions from an ‘Air B&B’ type location charging point system, to instantly available plug-in stations at drivers’ homes (as well as operators premises), as well as plug/surf options, providing locations, usage data and costs of charging.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

Capability will also be delivered through diversity with the broader range and variety of models available, ranging from panel vans to chassis cabs and platforms to front wheel drive and rear wheel drive options.

Powered by either diesel or electric, it will be into the Summer before new Interstar arrives in Irish dealerships. There will be 20 models in fact, with up to 520 options on the spec sheets. Like the Master, the wheelbase modifications lends itself to a better driving position and improved ride and handling, while with its more straight up bulkhead more load space is offered. The side loading doors are wider too. All this helps to maintain positive wellbeing WWW.Fleet.ie

64 | | NEWS CONCEPT 1

Kia opens doors to new and diverse platforms

Kia’s presence at Ces 2024 in las Vegas marked a return to the industry-leading electronics show after a five-year absence, but more significantly, the Korean auto manufacturer revealed a new business strategy to broaden its customer base.

Its multi-faceted exhibition showcased the diverse ways in which its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBVs) concept aims to inspire and shape individuals’ lives through a range of lifestyle and experiences, with featuring five concept vehicles, including three variations of the Concept PV5, as well as the Concept PV7 and Concept PV1.

Featuring a futuristic Kia connected home, the other display premiered the Kia Concept EV3, Concept EV4 and the EV6 and EV9 production models, in addition to a Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) power supply and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) campervan.

Kia PBVs are a total mobility solution that combine fit-for-purpose EVs with advanced software solutions based on the Hyundai Motor Group’s software-toeverything, or SDx, strategy. The launch of Kia’s PBV business will see the brand commit to providing a varied range of customised vehicle types to meet customers’ individual requirements.

Kia believes its new approach to PBVs can help solve the mobility challenges encountered by individuals and organisations with limited transportation options.

The brand’s PBV roadmap is divided into three distinct phases. The first will will see the introduction of the Kia PV5, a versatile EV optimised for major domains such as taxi, delivery and utilities that features conversion capability for a wide range of customer needs. Phase two will see the completion of the dedicated PBV model line-up, and PBVs will evolve into AI-based mobility platforms that use data to interact with users and ensure that the vehicles are always up to date. In phase three, Kia PBVs will evolve into highly customisable, bespoke mobility solutions by integrating with the future mobility ecosystem. fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

Utilising ‘Easy Swap’ technology, a single vehicle chassis can be used to fulfil multiple mobility needs. Behind a fixed cab, or ‘driver zone’, a variety of interchangeable upper bodies, or ‘life modules’, can be connected to the base vehicle via a hybrid electromagnetic and mechanical coupling technology, turning the PBV into a taxi during the day, to a delivery van at night, and a personal recreational vehicle on weekends.

Modularisation is further made possible thanks to ‘Dynamic Hybrid’ weldless body structure assembly, which enables the length of moveable members to be flexibly adjusted according to vehicle use purpose.

Comprised of high-strength tubular steel and engineered polymers, typical parts are reduced by 55 per cent with no loss in rigidity. Shipped in standardised, convenient kit form, Dynamic Hybrid technology will allow for the quick and simple in-field transformation of a Kia PV5.

Whether the purpose of the vehicle is to transport people, move goods, or meet logistics or personal mobility needs, each PBV shares a consistent quality of design that reflects its solid, robust nature and projects a dependable and highly capable attitude.

On each vehicle, large doors open out to reveal an exceptionally accommodating pillarless opening that provides effortless ingress and egress. Inside, the extended wheelbase and electric platform ensure wide, flat open spaces to offer near-endless storage and usage possibilities. The driver’s experience is also enhanced, as the cockpit provides a desk-like surface, and the steering wheel

can be folded to serve as a desk lamp, creating an office-like environment.

Sustainability sits at the core of Kia’s PBV design strategy. Extensive use of materials such as bio plastic, Post Consumer Material (PCM) plastic, bio paint, recycled PET fabric, felt and yarns, and bio-PU foam not only limits environmental impact today and tomorrow.

In line with Phase One, various versions of the PV5 will be available, including Basic, Van, High Roof, and Chassis Cab versions. In the future, Kia also plans to introduce a Robotaxi model developed with Motional (a joint venture between HMG and Aptiv), which aims to provide a revolutionary autonomous hailing experience for passengers.

During Phase Two, symbiosis of the PBV ecosystem will be complimented by two further models, the ‘PV7’ and ‘PV1’, utilising cabinet and frame systems to enhance interaction and connectivity among vehicles based on the modular concept.

PV7 — The largest product in the line-up, defined by more interior space, greater driving range, and enhanced functionalities.

PV1 — The smallest product in the line-up, PV1 is optimised for agile and short-distance logistics transportation, using driving modules to minimise turning radius even in narrow spaces.

PBV modularity — An integrated rail system on the vehicle’s ceiling, floor, and side panels, as well as on the exterior, enables effortless customisation of the vehicle to meet individual customer needs. This system enables seamless transfer of goods and items between vehicles, using cabinets and frames. The ‘rails’ within this ecosystem simplify the movement of items between vehicles, while the modular design of the ‘tiles’ and functional accessories, such as speakers and shelves, offer limitless flexibility for a wide range of scenarios.

Kia is constructing a PBV-dedicated EVO plant in Autoland Hwaseong, Korea, set to become operational in 2025 and have an annual capacity of 150,000 units.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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The Handling, Warehousing Warehousing&&Logistics LogisticsSectors Sectors Irish Magazine Magazine for the Materials Handling, The Irish www.handling-network.com Congress Centre Baden: Where once the Austrian emperors recovered from their efforts of ruling their subjects, the IFOY AWARD Night will take place on 14 June 2024. Photo: Congress Center Baden

described as the oscar night for logistics, the iFoY aWard night 2024 will once again take place in austria. the award ceremony will happen on 14 June in the imperial city of Baden near Vienna, where the iFoY (international intralogistics & Forklift truck of the Year) awards trophies will be ceremoniously presented to the winners in the ballroom of the Congress Center Baden. the iFoY organisation expects an attendance of more than 300 international guests from business, science and media.

In 2019, Hofburg in Vienna, was the host venue. Thanks to a cooperation with IFOY partner HERMES.Wirtschafts.

Forum, the Congress Center Baden will be the spectacular setting for the award ceremony next year, according to Anita Würmser, Executive Chairperson of the IFOY AWARDs jury: “Lower Austria has developed into one of the leading high-tech locations in Europe thanks to its clever location and investment policy and today perfectly combines tradition and modernity. It is the ideal place to honour excellent technologies and

outstanding innovations, because that is what the winners and finalists of the IFOY AWARDs stand for worldwide.”

The Congress Center in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Baden, 25 kilometres south of Vienna, has a long history: the building opened as a spa in 1886. The entire complex was built in the Neo-Renaissance style. After several renovations, it was reopened in 1995 as Europe’s largest casino, including a congress and event centre. Numerous personalities took the cure in Baden, among them Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Emperor Franz I. The IFOY AWARD has established itself as an indicator of cost-effectiveness and innovation and is regarded as a coveted innovation prize in intralogistics due to its professional expertise and outstanding marketing value.

The jury, made up of the editors-inchief of leading international logistics media, including Fleet Publication’s Fleet Transport/Handling Network/ Warehousing Ireland, makes its decisions independently, according to transparent criteria and on the basis of professional

expertise.

Those nominated by the jury will go through the three-stage IFOY audit at the IFOY Test Days, consisting of the IFOY test, the scientific IFOY Innovation Check and the jury test. The IFOY Test Days will again take place as part of the Test Camp Intralogistics event at Messe Dortmund, which will open its doors on 10 and 11 April. The IFOY Test Days will begin two days earlier – on the afternoon of 8 April with the first functional tests.

The IFOY Awards, which are under the patronage of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, is sponsored by the German Association for Materials Handling and Intralogistics and the Robotics + Automation Association within the German Engineering Federation (VDMA).

IFOY partners are Messe Dortmund and Cascade, the world’s leading manufacturer of forklift attachments. The IFOY Awards pallet partner is CHEP, the world market leader in pallet and container pooling. *See pages 72-74 for the list of IFOY Awards Finalists WWW.Fleet.ie

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

fleet publications, d’alton street, claremorris, co. Mayo, ireland f12 e7p2 editor: Jarlath sweeney – jarlath@fleet.ie contributors: Howard knott, rob van dieten, cathal doyle advertising: Mary Morrissey administration: Orla sweeney design & Layout: crackerjack design House contact details: Telephone: 00353 94 9372826 email: handlingnetwork@fleet.ie

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published by:

wHO geTs HandLing neTwOrk? Handling network - the magazine of the irish Handling & distribution industry - is produced bi-monthly by specialists in the materials handling sector, with contributions by experts on topics of special interest to its readership.

Handling network is distributed on controlled circulation; addressed to key personnel in ireland’s top companies and organisations. recipients include company directors, purchasing Managers, warehouse & Logistics Managers, plant & production engineers, Transport Managers, safety Officers and other relevant personnel. areas covered include forklift trucks, warehouse logistics, racking, storage & distribution, commercial vehicles, plant & equipment finance, lifting gear, loading bay and conveyor systems...together with information on health and safety issues.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in Handling Network, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for the veracity of claims made by advertisers, manufacturers or contributors or for opinions expressed.

Copyright for all material contained in this magazine remains with the publishers.

news IFOY Awards 2024 ceremony set for Austria Top honours for CHEP Nippon Express acquires cargo-partners

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case sTudy Makita relies on Mitsubishi Forklifts

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prOducT Latest news from Mitsubishi Forklifts

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awards Finalists announced for IFOY 2024 Awards

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siMuLaTiOn Train Driving Experience

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pin pics Photos of trucks from Morocco

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CHeP, a leader in logistics and supply chain management, has been certified as a 2024 top employer in the uK & ireland by the top employers institute, a global certifier recognising excellence in employee conditions. this marks the ninth consecutive year that CHeP uK & ireland have been recognised.

CHEP helps move more goods to more people in more places than any other organisation on earth. Its pallets, crates and containers form the invisible backbone of the global supply chain. and the world’s biggest brands trust CHEP to help them transport their goods more efficiently, sustainably and safely.

As pioneers of the sharing economy, CHEP created one of the world’s most sustainable logistics businesses through the share and reuse of its platforms under a model known as ‘pooling’.

Alasdair Hamblin, General Manager,

Following the share transfer agreement concluded on 12 May, 2023, nippon express Holdings inc., has acquired the full shareholding of cargo-partner group Holding ag. the deal includes the many cargo-partner subsidiaries based mainly in Central and eastern europe and the usa that provide logistics services worldwide. a special purpose company that is a wholly-owned subsidiary of nippon

Northern Europe, commented on the acknowledgment: “We are proud to receive the Top Employer Award for the ninth year running, and for CHEP to be recognised as a truly fantastic place to work for all our colleagues.”

In 2024, CHEP was among only 17 companies to receive Global Top Employer certification, which is awarded to companies demonstrating outstanding HR policies and practices worldwide.

The Top Employers Institute programme certifies organisations based on the participation and results of their HR Best Practices Survey covering six domains across 20 topics.

Among the categories where CHEP excelled against the benchmark were People Strategy, Leadership, Work Environment, Wellbeing, Talent acquisition, Careers and Sustainability.

In 2023, CHEP surpassed its 2025 goal of 40% female representation

express europe gmbH, has been formed, and is a european holding subsidiary of nippon express Holdings inc.

Headquartered in Austria, cargo-partner, established in 1983, has an annual turnover in excess of €2 million (2022). It has continued to broaden its logistics business base across Europe, a region that is increasingly attracting attention as an industrial cluster. It is a highly reputable corporate group focused principally on air and ocean freight forwarding in Europe, Asia, and North America that also offers rail and truck transport and contract logistics services.

on its Board while achieving 36.3% of women in management roles globally.

It also continued to improve its safety performance, delivering its best year on record with a 31% reduction of injury rates based on FY20 levels. To better support its diverse workforce, it expanded its range of accessibility schemes and now offers employee resource groups across disability, neurodiversity, gender and LGBTIQ+.

Top Employers Institute CEO David Plink added: “Exceptional times bring out the best in people and organisations.

And we have witnessed this in our Top Employers Certification Programme this year: an exceptional performance from the certified Top Employers 2024. And amongst this community of outstanding organisations, CHEP has proven its commitment to their employees on a global scale. This consistency in people practices across the globe characterises an exclusive group of companies that have achieved a global certification through the Top Employers Programme. We are proud to announce and celebrate these companies and their achievement in 2024.”

“The takeover of cargo-partner complements Nippon Express Holdings’ logistics infrastructure and will enable further expansion of its global network and enhance the services it provides in the European region. The resultant expansion in the volume of air and ocean freight handled will also strengthen the Group’s competitiveness in the global market, enable it to respond to the diverse demands of its global customers, enhance its ability to meet logistics demand between Asia and Europe and elsewhere, and bolster its global account structure,” said a Nippon Express Holdings spokesperson.

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Warehouse space is always a premium, and no company understands that more than global manufacturer Makita. at its head office in Milton Keynes, Makita has a large warehouse with expansive racking.

However, due to the narrow width of the aisles measuring only 2.7 metres, the existing materials handling equipment had a challenging time manoeuvring, resulting in frequent damage to the racking system.

In search of a solution, Makita sought assistance from its Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks distributor, who offered the ideal solution through a fleet of narrow reach trucks, electric EDiA counterbalance forklifts, and order pickers. excessiVe racking daMage With so much racking installed, altering the aisles was not an option, so Makita needed new equipment that would fit the bill.

Patrick Ellis, Warehouse Manager at the Makita site explained: “We have a large area of racking but it’s narrow and our previous trucks used to hit the racking frequently. We were spending £18,000 a year on racking repairs. We contacted our Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks supplier, and they gave us a Mitsubishi

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RB reach truck to demo. It was fantastic.”

Josh Baxter, Territory Manager for the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks distributor said: “We spent a lot of time with Makita to understand the operations so we could provide the most suitable equipment.

The Mitsubishi RB16N3 reach truck was ideal as it has a shorter chassis and lifts to over 7 metres so could excel in the tight racking Makita uses.” rOOM TO ManOeuVre Makita now has a fleet comprising three 1.6-tonne Mitsubishi EDiA EM counterbalance forklifts, seven 2-tonne Mitsubishi VELiA ES order pickers, and seven 1.6-tonne Mitsubishi RB16N3 reach trucks.

Having previously used standard lead acid, Makita now uses next-generation lead acid with opportunity charging for greater flexibility and energy efficiency, as there is no need to swap batteries.

Josh said: “The EDiA is great for Makita as it is very compact. It has good manoeuvrability. The order pickers are strong and steady workhorses. But the stars of the show are the RB reach trucks. A lot of stock is moved day in and day out, and having a reach truck that will work efficiently and safely even in a confined space is exactly what Patrick and the team at Makita were looking for.”

Patrick added: “The EDiA trucks are used to load and unload from trucks. But the reach trucks were key for us. They are used over 14 hours a day taking pallets from racking to pickable locations.”

The RB16N3 reach truck has intelligent features including a stability support system that automatically

optimises hydraulic functions such as mast tilt for safer and quicker pallet retrieval.

“The trucks have the best ergonomics,” stated Patrick. “We have the mini steering wheel and joystick on the EDiA and RB reach trucks which allow for comfortable driving over long shifts.”

All trucks in the new fleet were fitted with blue spotlights to alert pedestrians to their presence. A fleet management system was added to ensure greater operator accountability as it records any incidents and who was driving.

sTrOng cOLLaBOraTiOn By taking the time to understand the challenges, the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks distributor was able to ensure that Makita had exactly the right equipment for the job and could reduce racking damage without compromising on productivity.

“Josh and the team were fantastic.

They looked at all our options and spent time assessing our environment to suggest the right solutions. They were very collaborative. The operators are very happy with the trucks and enjoy using them. We hadn’t used Mitsubishi forklifts previously, but the trucks and Josh’s hard work won us over.”

Text: Rob van Dieten – rob@fleet.ie

With the addition of new high-capacity models to sit alongside the award-winning EDiA range of trucks, the electric counterbalance series from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks is now an even more complete solution, covering capacities from 1.4 to 12 tonnes.

Offering huge power with no compromises to performance and precision, the 6 - 12-tonne FB60-120N(H) Series features best-in-class acceleration. A low overhead guard option is available on all models - even up to 12 tonnes - allowing the truck to be used in container applications for greater fleet flexibility. Single-tyre models are also available for a narrower profile, so it’s simple to specify one of these trucks to do heavy work in confined areas.

H models feature Four Wheel Steering (4WS) which grants exceptional manoeuvrability, even in narrow spaces.

With 4WS the front drive motors turn

independently, offering superior grip and precision handling. The rear axle boasts a full 101-degree steering capability, with dual drive motors for instantaneous and smooth turning on the spot. This helps to eliminate the initial ‘push’ found with conventional drive systems.

The load sensing hydraulic system ensures load handling functions react similarly to different weights. A high-lift traction control system ensures steadier and more controllable chassis movements in lifts above 2.5m.

Low Noise Lift - a Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks innovation that has been widely praised since it appeared on the EDiA line - offers the quietest hydraulic pump on the market at just 65 dB. It means users will be less fatigued from extended noise exposure compared to working in similar trucks in its class.

Operators will appreciate the spacious, open cabin, designed to comfortably accommodate drivers of all sizes. The cabin is rubber mounted to minimise vibrations and make for a more comfortable shift.

Advanced control options, including

dual joysticks for simultaneous lift and tilt functions, allow for customisation to meet customer requirements. Touchsensitive fingertip controls provide a natural, spring-loaded response for fine-tuned handling, even while wearing heavy gloves.

The ergonomic design extends to a fully adjustable driving position and self-centring steering wheel, positioned for exceptional control and comfort.

All-round visibility is excellent, with the rear camera providing an improved look behind the truck, while the mast’s free-lift cylinder structure has been optimised with hoses over chains so operators can see more of the load and fork tips.

With a low seat height comparable to many IC engine trucks, operators benefit from an easier entry and exit process, and it’s a much more familiar environment for those making the switch from IC to electric.

The design also takes into account easy maintenance, with the two 48v batteries accessible without the need for doors, making battery exchange quicker and simpler. Each battery can be easily moved with a counterbalance truck or even just a pallet truck.

The EDiA XL electric counterbalance from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has scooped up another honour, after being named winner of a Red Dot design award for 2023.

This latest accolade means the entire current EDiA range: the 1.4 to 2.0-tonne EDiA EM, the 2.5 to 3.5-tonne EDiA EX, and the 4.0 to 5.5-tonne EDiA XL, have all been granted use of the famous Red Dot. A much sought-after mark, it has become an internationally recognised symbol of outstanding design over its 60 year plus history, signifying excellence in aesthetics, functionality, or innovation.

A truly next-generation forklift, EDiA XL is a step forward for what is possible with electric trucks, offering performance and productivity beyond IC engine models thanks to cutting-edge

developments such as AutoBoost and Adaptive Lit Control, combined with the green, efficient benefits of electricity.

The Red Dot jury was highly impressed

by EDiA XL’s clean and modern design and outstanding ergonomics, creating an incredibly driver-focused truck.

EDiA EX was a winner in 2015 thanks to its pioneering features, such as the Sensitive Drive System, excellent all-round visibility, and fluid, intuitive operation.

360-degree steering on the EDiA EM and its outstanding

adaptation to different loads and driving conditions impressed the jury in 2019 when it gained a Red Dot of its own.

Text: Rob van Dieten – rob@fleet.ie

71

The International Forklift

the IFOY Audit will show who has the edge.” Ms. Würmser expects a tough debate in the jury sessions to decide the six winning trophies, which will be awarded in June in Baden near Vienna in Lower Austria.

by intralogistics specialist STILL as part of an integrated production and warehouse supply system. The mobile transport robots from SAFELOG in the MercedesBenz plant, are also in this category.

& Intralogistics Awards (IFOY) organisation has just announced the nominations for the IFOY AWARDs 2024 programme. From a field of 35 companies, 15 intral-

THree inTegraTed cusTOMer sOLuTiOns nOMinaTed

With the AGILOX swarm at BMW, the jury nominated a flagship project in terms of replenishment using mobile robots for the automotive sector. Since the end

ogistics providers from six

SAFELOG_Mobile-Robots-at-Mercedes-Factory

countries qualified for the

When converting the Sindelfingen assembly hall, the focus was on networking and transparency of intralogistics supply processes along the supply chain. Pick-by-light systems and a fleet of 350 AGVs from the Bavarian robotics specialists are used to pick and transport components to the production lines.

final with a total of 17 devices and solutions, including four start-ups.

Among the shortlisted companies include intralogistics specialists, such as AGILOX, Crown, GLOBE Fuel Cell Systems, HWArobotics, Innok Robotics, Jungheinrich, MEYSENS, RAVAS, SAFELOG, SSI SCHÄFER and STILL – all in with a shout to win one of the internationally coveted trophies.

In addition, BOX ID Systems, Brightpick, CIP Mobility and CYBRID are in the final of the “IFOY Start-up of the Year” spin-off award.

“The nomination round was exceptionally tough. More than half of the applicants did not make it to the final round on this occasion,” stated Anita Würmser, Chairperson of the IFOY jury. “All the more clearly the finalists reflect the megatrends of our time.

Starting with increasingly sophisticated warehouse technology and extending to the meanwhile impressive range of applications of mobile robotics and AI, through to highly innovative components and increasingly complex customer projects. Efficiency, scalability, and future readiness are in demand and

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AGILOX_AMR-fleet-at-BMW

of 2023, 27 AGILOX ONEs have been supplying the workstations at the BMW plant in Regensburg with components for the car body instead of tugger trains and manual loading of the buffer storage areas. Also competing is Beiersdorf AG’s ultra-modern production centre for cosmetic products, which was developed

TwO wareHOuse Trucks seLecTed

This year, the jury has selected two brand new highlifters from a traditionally wide range for the competition.

CROWN_ESR-1200

STILL_Beiersdorf-Automation-Project

The newly developed ESR 1200 from Crown with a load capacity of 2 tonnes and a lifting height of 14.2 metres

JUNGHEINRICH_EJC-112i

poor ground conditions and other obstacles. It couples and uncouples trailers autonomously. A modern web browser is all it takes to operate it. A green flag was given by the jury for the SOTO from Jungheinrich with a new gripper concept and the industrial communication standard VDA 5050 for use in mixed fleets. The fully autonomous mobile robot picks up small load carriers (SLCs) and places them in flow racks on production and assembly lines. Also chosen is the first automated STILL EXV iGo series truck. The option of using the truck either stand-alone or in mixed

impresses with its holistic approach to sustainability and productivity. EJC 112i from Jungheinrich, is a universally applicable lithium-ion electric pallet truck with a load capacity of up to 1.2 tonnes and a lifting height of 4.7 meters into the race.

SSI-SCHAEFEER_SSI-Piece-Picking

Three Mobile Robots in the mix

STILL_EXV-iGo

INNOK-ROBOTICS_INDUROS

The INDUROS autonomous transport robot from Innok Robotics which can carry loads of up to 700 kilograms can be used outdoors, indoors or in combination, regardless of the weather,

robots based in Singapore, offers its SLS600 3D shuttle robot system for loads of up to 50 kgs. Whether shuttles with variable or fixed sizes, bidirectional or 3D shuttle robots, all share the same rail, can change aisles or move to different levels using a lift. SSI Piece Picking from

operation in parallel with manually operating trucks, or switching to manual operation if necessary, makes the robust warehouse helper a smart door opener to the world of automated warehouse processes, particularly for companies with smaller fleets and little to no automation experience.

SSI SCHAEFER is a robotic cell for the previously costly and labour-intensive picking of single items. The versatile system solution, including software, is designed for maximum precision and offers advanced functions such as pickand-place, object recognition using artificial intelligence, patented gripping point determination and gentle product handling.

Three Specials of the Year

Two Stationary Robots

RAVAS_iCP

HWA-ROBOTICS_SLS600-shuttle-robot-system

JUNGHEINRICH_SOTO

HWArobotics, a manufacturer of high-quality warehouse and logistics

The advanced iCP Carriage Plate Scale with Weighing in Motion Technology from Dutch manufacturer RAVAS marks the end of weighing stops and interruptions while driving. When the driver picks up the pallet, the measuring process starts automatically. During the ride, the weight of the pallet is determined and,

73

if necessary, the data can be sent to the system for tracking and recording. The weight data can be transferred to any ERP or WMS and used for weight-based invoicing.

Four Start-Ups make it

CIP-MOBILITY_mocci-Smart-Pedal-Vehicle

B OX-ID-SYSTEMS_BOX-ID-ProcessGuard GLOBE-FUEL-CELL-SYSTEMS_GLOBE_XLP80

GLOBE Fuel Cell Systems’ hydrogen-powered GLOBE XLP80 fuel cell power pack is for use in counterbalance trucks from 2.5 to five tonnes. Numerous sensors send data to the GLOBE DataCore cloud, which is available to customers for comprehensive reports and services.

A nod has been given to the BOX ID ProcessGuard real-time scanning solution for shipping goods in distribution logistics from the start-up BOX ID Systems based in Garching near Munich.

Thanks to its innovative IoT approach, the system enables error-proof picking and optimises transport container cycles.

The solution can be connected to ERP/ EWM systems in real time for target-actual comparisons and promises massive savings for the target group of wholesale and retail, industry, and logistics service providers.

maintenance-free work and cargo bike made of synthetic material is ideal for commercial users who want to operate powerfully yet sustainably on the last mile as well as on company premises or in their intralogistics.

Carrying objects weighing up to 20 kgs weightlessly without using one’s own physical strength, the CYBRID

CYBRID_Exoskeleton

exoskeleton from the Hilden-based start-up CYBRID aims to be the first adaptive supportive suit for the entire upper body on the market. The clothing, which fits closely to the body, follows the user’s movements fully automatically and adapts in real time to the additional weight to be compensated, the user’s posture and actions.

MEYSENS_Toposens-ECHO-ONE

The world’s first 3D ultrasonic sensor, Toposens ECHO ONE from MEYSENS imitates the echolocation technology of a bat, promising nothing less than a revolution in collision avoidance for mobile robots. In contrast to sensor technologies such as lidar or cameras, which can be affected by lighting conditions, reflections and weather conditions, the acoustic ECHO ONE uses ultrasonic waves to precisely detect its environment even when optical sensors reach their limits.

74

BRIGHTPICK_Brightpick-Autopicker

The patented Brightpick Autopicker from the Bratislava-based start-up is an autonomous mobile robot that picks and consolidates orders directly in the aisles of the warehouse. Unlike other fulfilment robots, the AI-based Autopicker no longer needs to go back and forth to central picking stations, which enables higher throughput with fewer devices.

Munich-based start-up CIP Mobility has completely rethought micro mobility with its mocci Smart Pedal Vehicle. The

IFOY nominees at TEST CAMP INTRALOGISTICS

The products and solutions nominated for the final will next undergo detailed analysis testing at the IFOY test and scientific innovation checks, which take place at the TEST CAMP INTRALOGISTICS event (also open to B2B visitors) on April 10/11 in Dortmund.

The nominees are not compared directly with each other, but with their respective rivals on the market.

Quick. Safe.

Easy Side Loading.

The S.CS FREEPOST offers quick, safe and easy side loading without the need for sliding posts. Certified to DIN EN 12642 Code XL, the curtainsider semi-trailer incorporates a bolted galvanized steel cant rail and fixed aluminium roof sheet, as well as a reinforced chassis structure for ultimate stability.

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.

75

growing up near a railway line and with a station just up the town, a fascination with trains blossomed from an early age. as the limerick-ClaremorrisColooney (sligo) line became dormant in the mid-70s, the track was used as a lay-bye for the many Knock shrine Pilgrimage trains parked up each excursion weekend during the summer season. the loud, high powered diesel engines would be left running all day, just to keep the generators going.

But the days of the big locomotives are gone for passenger transport as each rail car has its own engine, powered by Mercedes-Benz. That piece of information and a lot more were explained on a voyage of discovery in availing of a golden opportunity to drive a modern day train through a training simulator at Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail headquarters at the iconic Inchicore Works, in the heart of old Dublin.

Instructor Gareth demonstrated the various controls and the regular routine involved inside the full size cabin, with safety at the top of the agenda at all times. Sitting in the movement-sensory type suspended seat, the large screen in front of the trainee driver depicts ‘real-life’ railway lines - the one we tried out was the Kildare to Dublin Heuston route. Two levers to the left and right control the acceleration and brakes respectively, while the left foot must be kept pressed on the ‘dead-man’ pedal.

76

Release it for up to seven seconds and the braking system engages automatically. This ensures that the driver is alert.

Upon releasing the 5+1 stage brake lever, the power lever on the opposite side is engaged and after a quick toot of the hooter, the Korean built train simulator starts moving forward. Slowly but surely we get up to 90 mph, keeping an eye on the ‘mile-markers’, positioned on posts to the right along the track. As the journey progresses, the other eye remains focussed on the signal lights, located to the left on poles, which can change from green, yellow, double yellow and red. Similar indication is displayed on the centre dash area in front of the driver.

Our ever changing weather conditions means that the train driver must remain vigilant constantly.

High winds can blow debris onto the track, while winter time brings further challenges with low temperatures, an abundance of fallen leaves, not to mention wayward livestock and the odd wild animal such as deer, badgers etc.

“No journey is or can be duplicated,” explained Gareth. During the full driver training programme, the system can re-enact incidents that have happened or are likely to occur. This allows the driver to react on time, with a clear mind.

Use of mobile phones while at work is prohibited, a big ‘no, no’.

With various rail car and locomotives in operation, the driver is fully trained on all types, covering both passenger and freight trains.

Back on our simulated journey, and while keeping an eye on the mile markers, which count down the distance to the next station, the approach to Abbottstown was cautiously made.

Gareth instructed us to reduce acceleration and apply the brakes gently and guide the vehicle to the end of the platform - but not too far beyond as to do so will endanger passengers, nor will the doors open!

The smoothness of the running along the tracks was appreciated, helped in recent years by replacing timber sleepers with concrete versions, along with the continuous welding of the rails. As first timers, it was a surreal experience one that gave a sense of appreciation to the role of the train driver, a task that goes beyond a friendly wave from the cabin while arriving at the platform. appLicanT reQuireMenTs: The selection process to become a train driver, open to male and females, includes multiple phases, from online applications and assessments to in-person assessment centres, competency interviews, and medical and safety reference checks. Applicants must meet European Train Driver Licensing requirements, including 9 years of education and a minimum age of 20. candidaTes wiLL ideaLLy HaVe: ■ ■ ■ ■

High quality communication skills Good under pressure Customer oriented Goal driven

Responsibilities will include ensuring safe, customer-focused journeys, with opportunities for growth and progression into supervisory and management positions. While the role involves varying shift patterns, Iarnród Éireann offers competitive compensation, with the potential to earn up to €63,000 annually. Successful candidates will receive comprehensive operational training, which can last between 12 and 24 months as part of their Train Driver Training program.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Drive confidently with an Allison inside Dakar Rally truck racers know it’s critical to maintain maximum power to the wheels when driving through sand, mud and fesh fesh sand in isolated deserts. The same is true for heavy-duty trucks operating in demanding industrial conditions. With its fully hydraulic torque converter and Continuous Power Technology TM, an Allison fully automatic transmission delivers more power and control where you need it.

Contact Allison for more information on how to improve productivity, drivability, gradeability and manoeuvrability under the most demanding operating conditions.

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78

ireland’s ForeMost Fleet & CorPorate seCtor guide

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Volume 21. no. 1 spring 2024 Edited by Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

Circle K and IONITY increase number of EV Fast Charge points

Jonathan Diver, Fuels Director, Circle K Ireland and Sarah Bradshaw, Senior Manager E-Mobility & EV Products, Circle K Ireland.

Circle K and iontiY have announced an expansion of new ionitY high-power electric vehicle charges at six Circle K locations around ireland. the new ionitY eV charging points will be located at Circle K forecourts in athlone, Co. Westmeath; gorey, Co. Wexford; City north, Co. Meath; Cashel, Co. tipperary; and Kill north and Kill south in Co. Kildare. at least two additional high-power chargers are

being added at each site (four at City north), thereby increasing the number of chargers available at each location to six. installation of the new chargers will be completed by the first quarter of 2024 and will bring the total number of ionitY rapid eV chargers which have a charging capacity of up to 350kW at Circle K forecourts to 36.

Separately Circle K will be investing €7 million in expanding the rollout of its own branded EV chargers across 30 new sites over the next 18 months, joining the existing EV chargers already in place across 44 service stations. As part of this investment, Circle K EV chargers are now open at Circle K Fermoy Junction 14 M8, Circle K Carlow Junction 5 M9 and Circle K Athlone M6, while chargers in four new locations in Westview, Artane and Ashtown in Co Dublin and Gallowshill

in Co Waterford are currently awaiting power connection.

Jonathan Diver, Fuels Director with Circle K Ireland called for government support to help with the costs of installing an EV charging network.

“Despite the challenges posed by the high costs and lengthy lead times in securing a grid connection, our team is working hard to provide more high-power charging points for customers throughout the country.

We will continue to engage with the relevant stakeholders to try and bring these important services to the market quicker to meet the needs of our current and future EV customers, and call for the introduction of grant support for EV infrastructure developments, especially considering extremely high costs in securing a grid connection.”

Fastned EV App offers all-in-one solution to finding EV charge points With an increasing number of eV charging providers now in operation, most having their own dedicated apps to locate where their chargers are, finding the nearest public charging point for eV drivers on the move can be a challenge. Fastned, a european fast charging company isn’t operating in ireland yet, but has released a significant update to its Fastned app that makes it now also available for drivers in ireland. its new map not only shows Fastned fast charging stations but also includes fast and slow charging locations of other charging networks - including those in ireland. in fact over 400,000 chargers from various operators across 50 countries are featured, making it easy for eV drivers

to discover a charging spot near them The free-of-charge Fastned app, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store shows both fast and slow charging locations from various operators on its map, giving drivers the choice of what kind of charger they which to use.

“The update for the Fastned app wasn’t born in a boardroom; it came from the users, our incredible community of EV drivers,” said Robin Wouters, Director Product & Engineering at Fastned. “Our customers shared how overwhelmed they can be with several different apps on their phones. We want to make charging as simple as possible, so after first adding Apple Carplay and Android Auto support, now opening

up our app to include chargers of other operators was the next important step for delivering on our promise. We want to make EV drivers’ lives much easier by combining all information in one easy-to-use app. We also put a lot of effort into prioritising quality instead of overwhelming quantity. The deeper a user zooms in on the map, the more options are shown, while at a higher level, only the fastest chargers on the biggest sites are visible, not to overwhelm users with too many options”.

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80 | | NEWS LAUNCH 1 PAD

BYD Dolphin Right, Right, Right…

speaking at the launch of BYd’s dolphin, Ciaran allen, sales director Passenger Cars Business at Motor distributors ltd said the new car from the Chinese brand is the “right product, at the right price, at the right time.”

As EVs’ continue to gain market share the BYD Dolphin will have a wide appeal, especially for those making the move to their first BEV. The styling is attractive and the Dolphin comes with a list of standard features that would be hard to

find outside of the executive car segment. The car will be offered in four versions - Active, Boost, Comfort, and Design. Power is via BYD’s in-house produced LFP Blade Batteries, either a standard 44.9 kWh unit, or a 60.4 kWh range extender available for the Comfort and Design models. The range is 427 kms with a charging time of just under 30 minutes from 30% to 80%, and the batteries are guaranteed for 8 years or 200,000 kms.

The interior is well-finished and the electric seats provide a very good driving position. The 12.8” touchscreen and infotainment control rotates to a

landscape or portrait format. While the car may appear small it is surprisingly roomy both back and front. Behind the boot lid there is 345 litres of space and with the rear seats down this increases to an impressive 1310 litres. Dolphin also scores well on safety with many hi-tech features included as standard and Dolphin comes with a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating.

While the brand may be new to these shores. It is worth noting that to date BYD has built over six million EVs and is the third most valuable car company in the world. The price range for Dolphin is from €25,570 for the Active, to €31,192 for the Design.

Paul White

SsangYong’s successor KGM Motors to transform brand with batch of new models the best is yet to come from KgM Motors, formerly known as ssangYong. the Korean manufacturer has announced a revised model line-up as part of its recent corporate rebrand.

Featuring updated specifications, a simplified line-up will see two variants per vehicle while a new alpha / numeric nomenclature will see models branded K20, K30, K40 and K50. the award-winning Musso pick-up retains its established variant names.

Aligned to its brand transformation, KGM Motors has also confirmed a unified design approach and an expansive

future product line-up.

Initially unveiled in 2021, KGM Motors has reasserted the brand’s commitment to the design philosophy, defined by the ‘Powered by Toughness’ logo, and positioned to reinforce the brand’s identity as a distributor of robust, contemporary vehicles.

Future products will incorporate the brand’s original characteristics of a tough vehicle designed for adventure, and the line-up will also pay tribute to the heritage of the original Korando and Musso, which are regarded as symbols of

strength in Korean automobile history.

The latest designs from KGM are set to further establish the brand as an authentic supplier of SUVs and pick-up trucks, meeting the demands of customers while simultaneously staying attuned to the latest trends in the automotive industry. This will incorporate eco-friendly powertrains, a response to the increasing need for sustainable mobility that is shaping the future of driving.

Jarlath Sweeney

All-New Suzuki Swift On sale this Spring

as the trusted car brand for those who are proud to be different and with global swift sales now having exceeded 9 million units since 2004, suzuki will introduce its all-new swift Hybrid model in ireland this spring. new swift fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

will be powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine with enhanced fuel economy and even lower Co2 emissions. the all-new model is set to feature generous levels of technology as standard as well as optional CVt transmission.

2023 saw the Japanese brand record its biggest volume in Ireland in recent times, as it was the first year that Suzuki

passed the 2,000 units milestone since 2008. This was achieved well in advance of year end with the 24 strong Irish dealer network working even harder to finish the calendar year at 2,207 units.

This represents a remarkable growth of 82% versus 2022 and an overall Irish car market share of 1.7%. The most popular model in the range was the Vitara at 855 units, followed by S-Cross at 485 units.

Jarlath Sweeney

TEST DRIVE | 81

Audi e-tron GT flagship EV offers style and performance audi’s e-tron gt is an interesting addition to the eV market, a low slung sporty four door flagship saloon, offering eye catching looks, sportscar levels of performance and a decent driving range.

Like most cars these days, the e-tron GT shares its underpinnings with other models within the family. In this case though, the car within the wider Volkswagen Group that it is closely related to is the highly regarded Porsche Taycan. So it comes from good stock then.

Visually it’s quite a head turner with a wide low-slung stance and sculpted lines augmented by LED lighting that gives it a sporty look. Looking through the rear view mirrors from inside, the bulbous rear flanks give a feeling of power and performance.

Nonetheless it’s not an impractical two seater sports car, as the e-tron GT will comfortably seat four adults. Taller individuals in the rear seats may be slightly compromised for headroom, but overall this is a practical and comfortable saloon for long distance travelling.

Speaking of long distance, so often the bane of electric vehicles, the e-tron GT has a stated maximum range of 492 km offered from its 93.4 kWh battery and two electric motors that develops 470hp. In reality we found that charging to 100% gave us an available range of 430km, though on the positive side, this proved to be a realistically achievable figure….unlike some electric cars we’ve driven recently where the range shown on the dash was strictly a guesstimate.

When public fast-charging, the Audi can accept fast charge speeds of up to 270 kW. Regenerative braking is available through steering mounted paddle shifts, though unlike on some cars it will not bring the vehicle to a complete halt without having to use the brake pedal.

Unsurprisingly with 470hp (up to 530hp on boost) pumping to all four wheels, performance is impressive, with the e-tron GT accelerating to 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds. If that’s not enough for you, Audi can also sell you an RS version which pushes out 590hp (630hp under

boost). It does cost nearly one and a half times as much though, and frankly the regular model offers more than enough performance for most people.

A good sports car is more than just acceleration of course, therefore it’s pleasing that Audi has created one of the best handling EVs we have driven to date. A 50-50 front-rear weight distribution lends to neutral handling, and even though the e-tron GT weighs in at a hefty 2.35 tonnes the low down centre of gravity, responsive steering, supple suspension and the assurance of all wheel drive give the driver excellent feedback. That’s not at the expense of comfort - the e-tron GT handles poorer roads with aplomb and is a comfortable long distance cruiser.

Sit inside and you get the familiar Audi feeling of classy ambiance, ratcheted up a notch or two compared to lesser models in the brand line-up.

Perhaps surprisingly in light of recent Audis offering multiple touchscreens, there’s a single 10.1” MMI screen that controls most functions, but thankfully heating controls are separate physical knobs. Storage space is adequate rather than capacious, with relatively shallow door pockets and a couple of cup holders and small compartment in the middle.The boot offers a reasonably generous 405 litres, though this being a coupé styled saloon the aperture is relatively narrow. There’s also a ‘frunk’ compartment useful for storing charging cables and the like. Note the bonnet release is unusually located low down at the back of the driver’s door….it can take a while to find if you are not aware of this… spec cHeck - audi e-tron gT Price as tested Prices from Drivetrain Electric Motor Output Torque Battery Charging speed capabilities Maximum quoted range (WLTP) Quoted energy consumption

VerdicT Audi has come up trumps with the e-tron GT. While not cheap - prices start from €108,000 with our test car priced in excess of €120,000 - it’s a car that offers head-turning looks, decent practicality and space, sporty performance and a good electric range. Rivals include the BMW i7, Tesla Model S and MercedesBenz EQS as well as its sister Porsche Taycan, but for business executives looking to make a statement, the Audi is likely to be near the top of their list.

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

€120,193 RRP: €108,265, ROTR: €110,265 Four wheel drive, 1 speed automatic 470hp, extendable to 530hp 640 Nm 93.4kW, Useable: 85.0 kW Up to 270 kW DC 492 km 21.6 - 19.6 kWh/100km WWW.Fleet.ie

82 | | NEWS CONTEMPLATIONS 1

The challenges for women in male dominated sports and industries

rosemary smith, who passed away in december, was undoubtedly ireland’s greatest female rally and race driver.

Her successes included outright victory on the tulip rally and a top ten finish on the extremely gruelling london to Mexico World Cup rally of 1970. decades after her heyday in the sixties, she remained a household name up to her death, not least by becoming the oldest person ever to drive a modern Formula one car at the age of 79.

But her passing also highlighted how, in an era where women’s sport is rightfully gaining more and more prominence, just how few females have made it into the upper echelons of racing or rallying. Motorsport is one of the few sports, like sailing and horse-racing, where women should be able to compete equally against their male counterparts. So why is it that - with a few notable exceptions - motor racing remains dominated by men?

The stand out exception was Michèle Mouton, the French woman who won four rallies in the World Rally Championship and came so close to winning the driver’s world title in 1982.

This while driving an Audi Quattro, a physically challenging car, proving that physicality is not the limitation holding women back. Further proof of that can be found in the just concluded 2024 Dakar Rally - certainly the most arduous motorsport challenge today - where one woman, Cristina Gutiérrez won the Challenger class, and another, Sara Price competing on her first Dakar, was fourth in the SSV class.

Otherwise though, the role of honour of females at the upper end of motorsport is depressingly short. Only two women have graced a Formula One grid and it’s been nearly 50 years fLeeTTRANSPORT | feBruary 2024

since the last, Lella Lombardi, made history by scoring a point at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix.

But maybe, just maybe the tide is turning. A milestone was reached in the final round of the World Endurance Championship in Bahrain in November when the last ever race for GTE cars was won by the all-female Iron Dames team comprising Rahel Frey, Michelle Gatting and Sarah Bovy Competing in all-pink racing cars, the Iron Dames have become one of the most popular teams in sportscar paddocks and have consistently proven their ability to compete and beat with the best male drivers in the world.

Two other young women who are part of the wider Iron Dames squad, Lilou Wadoux and Dorianne Pin, have also made history by becoming respectively the first ever female Ferrari factory driver and a member of the MercedesAMG F1 Team Junior Programme.

Certainly having to overcome ingrained sexism in a male dominated sport means that women have to doubly prove themselves before they are fully accepted, Michelle Gatting spoke last year about the challenges female racing drivers face from men unwilling to accept being beaten by a woman.

“We had an episode not long ago at a race in Barcelona,” she said. “Fighting [on track] for half an hour. We are not in same category... a driver who would lose nothing by letting me past. They see our sister car behind them and let the guys past. As soon as they see my pink car again, they start to defend. It is pure ego.”.

Getting young girls to believe that motorsport is an arena they can excel in is one of the challenges, and many feel that raising the profile of women through dedicated racing series is an important stepping stone. F1 Academy, an all-female championship which has the support of F1 and races as a support series to it, offers a progression path to the F3 and F2 feeder series. Managing Director of F1 Academy, Susie Wolff is clear about the race series’ importance for female racers. “It’s much wider than getting a girl to F1, it’s changing the perceptions.”

A comparison can be made with another heavily male dominated sector - the road transport industry, and the importance of recognising the contribution of women through accolades such as the Women in Transport Award

presented at the annual Fleet Transport Awards ceremony. Its popularity - it’s easily the most subscribed award each year - demonstrates the appetite for women to be recognised for their important contributions to keeping the transport sector on the move.

Ultimately the goal would be that such female specific awards and competitions are unnecessary, that women would have equal opportunities to their male counterparts. But for now, whether in motorsport or transport, any steps that help women reach for the heights that Rosemary Smith achieved should be fully supported.

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

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