Fleet Transport Sept/Oct 21

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

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

INSIDE

APPRAISED & APPROVED: Renault Trucks’ Range D Wide 320 6x2 CNG

REVIEW

ON TEST: Volvo FM 420 8x4 with Wilcox Body & Edbro Gear LAUNCH PAD: New Generation DAF XF & XGs AWARDS: Candidates for Irish Truck of the Year 2022 Plus: Milestone Volvo Trucks, New Fleet, EcoViewpoint on H2, Safety Matters, Comment, Shipping & Freight, Legal, Opinion & Finance

SEPT/OCT21

€4.50 inc.V.A.T.

STG £3.75

Transport Manager CPC Qualification Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in Road Transport Operations Management Do you have a succession plan or CPD programme in place for your transport manager and planners? Good succession planning protects your business in the event of a key member’s retirement or untimely departure. Not only does it mean the business is prepared, it also gives employees a direction and goal to work towards. If employees know you are investing in their training and development within the company, then they will more likely buy into and commit to the long-term business objectives.

The course is designed for those who need to obtain the Transport Management CPC Qualification to act as transport manager for a road transport business (haulage and passenger). It is also beneficial for those who want to upskill and enhance their career opportunities. The course is delivered on a part-time basis to enable students sufficient time to study and review material between classes and work commitments.

Course duration

Training delivery

Training schedule in preparation for the November 2021 exam

Start time

October

Course cost

100 hours tuition

• Wednesday 6, Thursday 7, Friday 8 • Wednesday 13, Thursday 14, Friday 15 • Wednesday 20, Thursday 21, Friday 22

November

• Wednesday 3, Thursday 4, Friday 5 • Wednesday 10, Thursday 11, Friday 12

Exam date

Wednesday 24 November 2021 The exam is now an Open Book format allowing candidates to bring their CILT training manual to the exam.

The examinations are set and run by CILT (The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport).

This course is trainer-led and will be delivered online via Zoom.

Daily 9am-1pm and 2-5pm Price on application

Cost includes

• CILT training manual • FTA Ireland designed study workbooks & copies of past papers • Mock exams Exam Fee: €285 per person paid directly to CILT by trainee when registering for the exam (online registration & payment).

01 8447516 / 086 4133507 info@ftai.ie

T: 01 8447516 F: 01 8447801 www.ftai.ie Freight Transport Association Ireland Limited Registered office: Unit 1, Airport Business Park, Cloghran, County Dublin Registered in Ireland Number 487041

Correct at time of publishing but subject to change. ©FTA Ireland. All rights reserved. 06.21/BM

Contents SEPT / OCT 21

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:

Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Rob Van Dieten, Alan Nolan, Jonathan Lawton

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 4 NEWS Goodyear Sustainable survey underway MPM Special Vehicles acquired by Terberg Group Clean up with ElimiNOX

P 24

P4

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White,

Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott,

Harting, Rob Van Dieten Administration: Orla Sweeney

Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Advertising:

Mary Morrissey Email: mary@fleet.ie

Design:

Crackerjack Design House

8 MILESTONE Featuring ever lasting Volvo Trucks 10 COVER Running with Panda on Natural Gas

Printed in Ireland

32 AWARDS Appraisals of the Irish Truck of the Year contenders

12 NEW FLEET Sold! New trucks to proud owners!

36 FUEL PRICE Keeping an eye on fuel costs from various countries

P 12

37 COMMENT

by Howard Knott 38 LEGAL

by Jonathan Lawton

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.

40 SHIPPING & FREIGHT Maritime news 42 OPINION

by Sean Murtagh 44 Finance

by Donal Dempsey

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

18 TEST On the road and in the quarry with the Volvo FM 8x4 20 ECO-VIEWPOINT The merits of Hydrogen as a transport fuel source 22 ECO-FRIENDLY Gas Networks Ireland and Circle K open two new CNG stations Limerick and Dublin

FLEET TRAILER & BODY BUILDER 49 COVER New Irizar ie truck to sweep up!

50 NEWS Big move by Schmitz Cargobull 52 LAUNCH PAD New products from Kögel

24 LAUNCH PAD Highlighting the features on the New Generation DAF trucks

54 PREMIERE Latest from Gray & Adams & Carrier Transicold together!

26 SAFETY MATTERS From the Health & Safety Authority

55 PREVIEW Tip-Ex & Tank-Ex 2021, Harrogate, England

27 REVIEW Commercial Vehicle Show 2021, NEC, Birmingham

56 AWARDS Congrats to Thermo King & Schmitz Cargobull

44 | NEWS I

n Goodyear is investigating key actions taken by road transportation companies to lower CO2 emissions and support sustainable transport objectives. n Goodyear is planting a tree in collaboration with Tree-Nation to reward each fleet respondent that completes the survey.

Tyre manufacturer Goodyear is inviting European transport and logistics companies to share their insights and contribute to more sustainable transportation through a dedicated Sustainable Reality Survey.

Climate change and environmental sustainability are high on the agendas of both regulators and industry players. In

Goodyear to launch Sustainable Reality Survey in Europe 2019, the European Green Deal was introduced, targeting a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from transport, compared with 1990 levels.

Likewise, in 2020, the EU Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy included 82 initiatives for the next four years. The strategy is supporting the green and digital transformation of the transport ecosystem, while also becoming more resilient in order to cope with future disruptions.

In total, transportation accounts for 25% of the greenhouse gas emissions in Europe. The CO2 emissions of new heavy trucks aim to reduce this figure by 15% from 2025 onwards and 30% from 2030 onwards, as measured by VECTO. Moving to the top of the regulatory agenda, customers are including more ‘environmental focused’ requirements in their RFQ’s and end-consumers want to buy more from companies caring

for the planet. In the daily operations of commercial fleets, the shift towards greener mobility – while staying competitive and assuring on-time delivery – is requiring a clear strategy and smart action.

The Sustainable Reality Survey initiated by Goodyear is a straightforward inquiry into what transportation partners are currently doing to reduce their carbon footprint, as well as their future plans. It aims to reveal what truck fleets and transport companies are achieving in terms of sustainability – and the everyday commercial obstacles that are in their way. No greenwashing but a real-life look at sustainability in practice.

To recognise each fleet respondent completing the survey, Goodyear is planting a tree in collaboration with TreeNation, a non-profit organisation coordinating reforestation efforts worldwide in a unique platform.

For further details or to participate log on to: https://www.sustainablerealitysurvey.eu/

The Royal Terberg Group has acquired a majority shareholding in MPM Specialist Vehicles in Hillsborough, County Down to support further growth and expansion in Ireland and Northern Ireland Company founders Mark McCluskey and his wife Joanne will remain minority shareholders and Mark will continue as company director. Due to the shared trading history MPM is already partially integrated with Terberg Special Vehicles, so a smooth transition to the new structure is ensured.

MPM began business in 2010 as McCluskey Plant & Machinery, and has represented Terberg Special Vehicles since its inception. Following business growth, the company became registered and known as MPM Specialist Vehicles Limited. Through its close working relationship with Terberg DTS UK Ltd, MPM achieved increased sales in the Shunter truck business, supplying the specialist FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

vehicles to the distribution industry and ports throughout Ireland.

In addition to Terberg, MPM also represents other OEM brands across the fuel tank, Fire & Rescue, trailers and associated equipment sectors. MPM also offers sales of new and used trucks, provides rental vehicles, and has an active aftersales support team for parts and service.

Commenting on the acquisition, Alisdair Couper MD from Terberg DTS UK Ltd said: “This is an exciting time for the team at MPM which will trade as Terberg MPM Ireland. Strong growth and development plans are already well advanced and we look forward to expanding the team and operations in Ireland in the coming months.”

Pictured at the announcement are - left to right: Alisdair Couper (Terberg DTS UK), Joanne and Mark McCluskey (MPM Specialist Vehicles) For over 150 years, the Dutch headquartered Royal Terberg Group of companies have been driven to provide the best to the world’s specialist vehicle markets. With 38 operating companies in 13 countries, Terberg is a multinational independent supplier of (specialist) vehicles and vehicle systems. Among its best known in the transport sector are Dennis Eagle Refuse Collection Vehicles and Kingfisher truck mounted forklifts.

The evolving constant MAKING EVERY DAY EASIER For life lived out on the road, you’ll want a truck that keeps you safe and comfortable over the longest stretches.

The Volvo FH is a long haul icon that optimises your uptime and fuel efficiency, and offers an outstanding driver environment. The Volvo FH is, simply put, better in every way.

For more information visit volvotrucks.co.uk/fh

Search: VolvoTrucksUK

66 || NEWS NEWS II1

ElimiNOX - A new fuel conditioner on the market for Diesel Engines *Shortlisted for the UK & Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) Innovation Award at the recent UKIFDA EXPO

ElimINOX fuel conditioners and emulsifiers are proven to reduce soot and particulate matter, carbon and other emissions, while increasing fuel efficiency, removing free water and stabilising HFO emulsions.

ElimiNOX Eco Fuel Conditioner Free water within diesel poses a problem because it inevitably leads to incomplete combustion resulting in toxic emissions. It accelerates engine wear and can also cause irreparable damage. The presence of free water also encourages the growth of fungal/diesel bug which is another significant problem for users.

ElimiNOX Eco Fuel Conditioner is a Green Product, made with naturally occurring ingredients and is readily biodegradable.

When added to any fuel or storage tank, ElimiNOX Eco Fuel Conditioner scavenges free water from the system, combining it with the fuel to form a permanent emulsion. Treatment is based on one part fuel conditioner to two thousand parts of diesel. This provides for cleaner and more efficient combustion, with less resultant harmful pollution, thereby reducing corrosion and clearing residue. In turn, this improves efficiency, modifies flame characteristics and reduces emissions and wear. After the fuel/water is ‘conditioned’ through emulsification, it remains stable

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

indefinitely, all the while maintaining lubricity and viscosity.

These unparalleled achievements make ElimiNOX Eco Fuel Conditioner the best on the market. Furthermore, as diesel engines are used in a wide variety of different conditions, the emulsion can remain stable across a broad spectrum of temperatures, from -20 to +70 degrees Celsius. Simply add ElimiNOX Eco Fuel Conditioner to your fuel tank to receive the benefits of a product specifically formulated with ingredients to improve lubricity, reduce emissions and corrosion, and emulsify and stabilise water into the fuel.

Benefits of combustion with ElimiNOX Eco Fuel Conditioner include: n Improving the burn profile and more complete combustion of the diesel thereby significantly improving fuel economy. n Reducing corrosion and removing engine residue.

Along with significant extension to the life of engine lubricant oils, this leads to a substantial reduction in engine wear and maintenance costs. n When encountering and emulsifying water into the fuel it additionally improves the combustion profile reducing emissions through the secondary explosion mechanism.

n Conditioned diesel retains EN-590 compliance as verified by Bureau Veritas while also benefitting from improved lubricity. n ElimiNOX Eco Fuel Conditioner is compatible with all petrol, diesel and kerosene fuels and engines / boilers. n Conditioned petrol retains EN-228 compliance as verified by Bureau Veritas.

Eliminox Eco is now being used in haulage fleets, by agricultural/plant hire contractors, in oil tanker fleets, and in marine and home fuels around the U.K. and the E.U. ElimiNOX incorporates the technology of The SulNox Group Plc and is manufactured by a major global chemical Company, Nouryon.

RENAULT RANGE T HIGH 520

GOES T HIGH As a part of O’ Toole Transport’s fleet expansion in 2021, Shaw Commercials are proud to handover this new Renault T High 520 to the Galway based leading food logistics & transport company. Shaw Commercials wish the best of luck to all at O’Toole Transport with their new T high.

- Kevin O’Grady

Mullingar based BR Transport has expanded its fleet with this stunning Renault T High 520. All the best to Brendan and the team with this new addition from all of us at Shaw Commercials

- Kevin O’Grady

BR TRANSPORT MULLINGAR TAKES DELIVERY OF THIS NEW T HIGH 520

Now taking orders for 2022 www.shawcommercials.com Shaw Commercials,Breaffy Road Business Park, Breaffy Rd, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, F23 N996

Kevin O'Grady 0871006211

sales@shawcommercials.com

88 | MILESTONE

Classic Volvo Trucks ‘keep on runnin’

*True Blue 50th Anniversary campaign draws to a conclusion

As the campaign to find the ‘True Blue’ Volvo Trucks customer and driver comes to a close, it is time to feature a few stand out ‘classic’ Volvo Trucks that are still running in the West of Ireland, many decades after rolling off the production line.

2021 marks Volvo Trucks 50th anniversary of the Swedish brands entry into the Irish market. Over the years, both the truck products and national dealer network has gone from strength to strength, sharing market leadership.

Almost ten years ago, Fleet Transport undertook an extensive nationwide exercise to seek out the Oldest Working Volvo Truck.

Pat Martyn’s 1974 Volvo F88 6x2 tractor unit works out of Glencorrib, Shrule, County Mayo and when contacted back then, he was delivering a load of hay bales to North Mayo. He FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

bought it from a vintage friend in Cork but before then it was in operation in Northern Ireland until 2007.

Originally, it was a 4x2 Day Cab when first put on the road in the UK, which included runs across the Continent with an extra steering axle added later in its life. To conform with the age of the unit, Pat pulls a 33 ft single axle ex-Military flat bed trailer.

On hearing that he owns the oldest working Volvo truck, Pat was surprised and delighted, wishing to know what other contenders were out there. His entry was run close by Brian Kelly from Borris, County Carlow who was a 1976 F88 tractor unit while Pat O’Shaughnessy operates an 1983 Volvo F6 4x2 tipper every day around Charleville, County Cork.

Powered by a 9.6 litre turbocharged 290 hp diesel mated to a 14 speed gearbox, Pat’s F88 enjoys icon status as today prime examples like his are deemed as ‘THE’ classic truck and acknowledged as the first of the modern generation of driver friendly trucks built in Europe.

Further north in Ballina, County Mayo, a 1985 Volvo F10 has been lovingly restored by Pat People’s. This 4x2 tractor-unit began its working life under the ownership of Banks Brothers Transport Ltd., in Durham and found its way to a like-minded classic truck admirer in Cork who had it stored undercover for a few years.

Pat took possession of the then green coloured truck, which he said was in poor condition. The restoration took him a full year of his spare time to turn it around to its former glory.

First introduced in 1983, the Volvo F10 was powered by a 10-litre, 300hp diesel, mated to a 16-speed manual gearbox.

Since the lockdown The two Pats meet up with a few fellow classic truck enthusiasts and together they venture around the West every fourth Sunday.

Look out for the cortège at a service station around Mayo and Galway in the weeks to come.

The announcement of the winners of the Volvo True Blues will be made before the year end.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

DELO 400 XSP-FA SAE 5W-30: NOW WITH VOLVO VDS-5 APPROVAL At Texaco® our philosophy is simple, to constantly develop new technologies and products that will help reduce the costs and carbon footprint of the transport industry, without compromising reliability or performance.

This is demonstrated by our most recent Delo 400 XSP-FA SAE 5W-30 product which is now approved to the latest Volvo VDS-5 specification, showing that low viscosity products can provide fuel economy benefits as well as durability, whilst fully supported by our Delo Warranty.

We've got your world covered.

To find out more about Delo 400 XSP-FA SAE 5W-30 and other products in the Delo range, visit our website or contact your Authorised Texaco Lubricants Distributor at info@cclubricants.ie or call us on 057 8684500 A Chevron company product

texacolubricants.com/Delo

© 2020-2021 Chevron. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of Chevron Intellectual Property LLC or their respective owners. DEL275_FleetTransport-0 [07/21]

10 | COVER 10

10 | COVER

Renault Trucks Range D Wide 320 CNG - ‘Doing it under pressure naturally’

As a country, we are being told regularly that Ireland is falling behind on its agreed commitments to tackling climate change. When academics are invited onto the radio talk shows they point the finger at what they see as the biggest contributors, usually agriculture and transport. They often offer simple solutions to the effect that if we can force farmers and transport operators to eliminate their emissions all will be ok. However, few seem to realise the major steps that many in the transport sector in particular, have already taken without any financial support.

One such company is Panda Waste & Recycling which is a member of the Beauparc Group of companies. Panda has invested intensively in its fleet with a range of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks and is already making the move to electric. The investment goes beyond the acquisition of vehicles as Panda is also in the process of installing a CNG filling point at its Ballymount premises. When completed FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

the site will be open to other operators, greatly assisting the move to CNG. Fleet Transport took one of these recent investments out for a drive – a CNG powered Renault Range D Wide 320 6x2 rear-steer, rear-end loader (REL).

The Renault Trucks Range D Wide is a truck purpose-built for either the light or heavy distribution sector. It has a pleasant profile that sits well in the urban environment, coming with all the attributes necessary to make it a success in that market segment. Easy access with a low two step entry and a wide opening door makes the constant in and out daily life of the distribution driver that bit easier. While this may not be an issue for the driver of an REL, it is important for any working crew members on board.

Although no one will be sleeping in the truck and overnights are not a consideration, most trucks operating in this sector require a myriad of control boxes and monitors to operate the necessary ancillary equipment.

These control units must be fitted without encroaching too much into the space for at least two operatives and occasionally more. The cab must also be able to safely store other equipment such as PPE and certain tools, and the Range D Wide caters well to these needs.

In addition, this test unit came with a sturdy coat rack mounted on the rear wall, a vital component for hanging wet gear on the all too frequent rainy days.

Due to the nature of the work and the area of operation, it is important to maximise any possibility to increase the driver’s area of vision. Here the Range D Wide scores well by featuring a see-through vision door on the near-side, which, when combined with the low sloping line of the window, makes the door almost a complete glass panel.

Thankfully the door has an electrically operated sliding window to provide adequate ventilation. One small issue

noted regarding vision relates to the size of the mirrors, the mirror arm assembly and their positioning. These components in certain situations can combine to create a significant blind spot particularly on the left side and is something the driver needs to be highly conscious of.

This Range D was powered by Renault Truck’s six-cylinder NGT9 diesel.

The 9-litre gas unit develops 239 kW (325 hp) at 2,100 rpm, and delivers its max torque of 1,360 Nm over a short-range from 1,300 to 1,400 rpm. The test unit was fitted with a 6.18:1 rear axle which meant that running at 90 km/h. the tachometer sits at 1,836 rpm.

STORY | 11 11

This power is fed through a 6-speed fully automatic Allison torque converter transmission with optional ‘eco and dynamic’ driving modes. Importantly this is combined with an Allison Hydraulic Retarder developing 400 kW retardation.

In our opinion, the fully automatic Allison is the right transmission for this driveline and it gets the best from the natural gas engine. In addition, for the nature of the work which places significant demands

on man and machine, a torque convertor has the flexibility needed rather than a standard AMT. Also, its simple push-button operation is driver-friendly and the Allison Transmission brand is well proven and robust.

As mentioned, the Range D Wide CNG is designed for the urban workplace and this is especially true of the 6x2 chassis with the rear-steer. During the drive, the unit was taken into its natural environment, around some housing estates in Dublin. It is here that one can really see the truck come into its own where it needs to be as manoeuvrable as possible, as many modern housing estates are somewhat tight to get around, even without the increased number of cars parked outside. The rear-steer is almost essential to negotiate some of the areas these trucks are expected to collect from. At this type of

work, the driver has a lot to be conscious of as well the driving.

Therefore, the driving should be as easy as possible and with the Range D, Renault Trucks has achieved this, benefitting the operator from improved efficiencies and safer working practices.

With alternative fuels, there is always an element of the chicken and egg scenario. The natural gas infrastructure has been slow to develop and grow because there were too few trucks, and operators wouldn’t buy a gas truck because there were sparse refill options. Nevertheless, companies such as Beauparc are forging ahead and making it work. It makes sense for Beauparc because the company is large enough, has enough vehicles, and importantly the majority of its fleet returns to base after each shift.

Nevertheless it should also be noted that the move to CNG has required significant investment. While there is

the possibility of significant savings in the longer term, the company should be lauded for taking such a highly proactive position on addressing the carbon and climate issue.

Equally, Renault Trucks also deserves recognition for being to the fore in the development of alternative fuel options for operators. The Range D model line has always been a popular distribution truck and having the option of CNG allows operators to choose a truck

that can work easily at mid-distance or national distribution.

Renault Trucks is also offering the Range D (ZE) Zero Emission electric for city centre and last-mile transport. All in all, Renault Trucks Range D, powered by diesel, CNG, or Battery Electric options works well, meet the transport demands of customers across a wide scope of applications.

Spec Check Make / Model Renault Trucks Range D Wide 320 CNG Chassis / Cab 6x2 Rear Steer / Range D Wide Engine / Euro Rating Renault Trucks NGT 9 / 8.9 litre Euro 6 Step D Rated Power/Torque 320 hp (239 kW) @ 2,100 rpm / 1,360 Nm from

1,300 – 1,400 rpm Transmission 6-Speed Allison 3200V Fully Automatic Torque Converter Braking & Stability Discs all round - EBS - EBA - ASR - ESC - Hill Start.

Retardation Allison Hydraulic Retarder 400 kW Suspension Front: Parabolic Leaf Springs with Stabiliser Bar

Rear: Air Suspension with Stabiliser Bar Axle / Ratio P1361 with Double Reduction with integral

Diff locks / 6.18:1 Engine Speed 1,836 rpm@ 90 Km/h Fuel/AdBlue Capacity Eight 100-litre steel CNG tanks / N/A Wheels / Tyres Steel / Steer Axles: Goodyear KMAX-2 S - 315/80 R22.5

Steel / Drive Axle: Goodyear KMAX-2 D - 315/80 R22.5 Body/Trailer Rear End Loader (Dennis Eagle / Terberg) Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

12 12 | NEW FLEET I

Significant Renault Trucks Master Red Edition fleet sales at Shaw Commercials reverse camera, ply-lining and rear/side slam locks.

Shaw Commercials, the Renault Trucks and Renault Trucks Master Red Edition dealer in Castlebar, County Mayo, continues to conduct numerous fleet sales of the Master van, which is proving to be a most popular light commercial for the express delivery sector. Barry Molloy, Fleet & Commercial Sales Executive at Shaw Commercials sent on details of recent deals.

KJM Transport (Dunmore, County Galway) has taken delivery of 12 new Renault Master Red Editions comprising of 4 2.3 dCi 145hp L4 H3 versions and 8 2.3 dCi 150hp L3 H2s. This round dozen come well specified with reversing camera and sensors, speed limit control, 105-litre fuel tank and 270 degree rear doors, and are ply lined and finished in the UPS Pullman Brown livery.

Monart Express, (Enniscorthy, County Wexford) purchased eight Renault Master 2.3DCi, 135hp L3 H2 vans. Sporting the UPS Pullman Brown livery, they come complete with 270 degree rear doors,

GDP Transport (The Neale, County Mayo) is currently operating five new Renault Master 2.3 dCi 135hp L3 H2 panel vans with 270 degree rear doors, three of which are contracted with UPS.

Holiday Inn residents travel in style to and from Dublin Airport in new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter In a move designed to ensure airline passengers get off to the best possible start, the Holiday Inn Dublin Airport hotel recently took delivery of a new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516/43 bus, finished in the company’s eye-catching white and green livery.

Supplied by Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Dealer, Kinahan Commercials, Moate and converted by EVM Bus conversions of Kilbeggan, the

new midi-bus has entered service shuttling guests to and from the departure and arrival stops at Dublin Airport.

Conveniently located less than 3km from the Airport, and 15 minutes from the City Centre, the popular Holiday Inn Dublin Airport is situated in 85 acres of lush and mature parkland. Coupled with some of the best rates available, the contem-

porary and stylish hotel offers complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, air conditioning, blackout window shades and interactive smart TVs.

Blue, Grey and Black Raptors for Evolution Metal Recycling Ltd. Pictured are two of three new Ford Raptor Rangers purchased

by Evolution Metal Recycling Ltd., from Bright Ford Rialto through Dave Carroll, Commercial Vehicle Senior Sales Consultant.

Based at Bluebell Industrial Estate, Bluebell Ave, Bluebell, Dublin 12, the fledgling company, formerly known as O’Reilly FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

Recycling, specialises in recycling metals from data centres and construction sites.

The new Raptors, powered by a 2.0-litre 213hp/500Nm Bi-Turbo Euro6 EcoBlue diesel, will be used by company representatives, calling on commercial and industrial clients across Ireland.

Mark O’Reilly and Stephen O’Reilly collected the new vehicles along with David O’Reilly recently.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

XF NEW GENERATION DAF

Start the Future The New Generation XF sets amazing new standards for long distance road transport.

Outstanding fuel efficiency, exceptional safety, and superb driver comfort all add up to fabulous performance at every level. Step inside and experience the future of long-haul trucks.

WWW.STARTTHEFUTURE.COM *Depending on the road traffic conditions, cargo and type of vehicle.

A PACCAR COMPANY DRIVEN BY QUALITY

10%* LOWER FUEL CONSUMPTION + SUPERIOR SAFETY + THE MOST COMFORTABLE TRUCK

14 14 | NEW FLEET II

Recent Scania Sales at McElvaneys (Monaghan & Dublin)

New Generation Scania flagship models were collected by three generations of the McArdle family. Pictured from left to right are: Thomas, Grainne, Arianna, David and Gerard.

David Stephenson of Stephenson Transport has added another new Scania R500 6x2 (tag) to his fleet. The Wicklow based company provides an array of services, including site clearance and general haulage as well as the supply of sand, aggregates, woodchip, sawdust and shavings. This R500 features full air suspension, retarder, LED lighting package, extra work lights, ventilated prestige leather interior, kitchen pack and Durabrite alloy wheels – finished off with a fresh and distinctive livery.

Established in 1993, DG McArdle International Ltd is a leading name in transport and logistics services throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe. The Dundalk firm recently collected two models from a total order of twelve new Scania S500 with Highline cabs, which will make great additions to the already impressive fleet of 140 tractor units and more than 200 trailers. This

John Power & Sons Transport Ltd., Kingscourt, County Meath has purchased this new Scania R650 6x2 (Tag).

DAF LF – A truck of substance for Nourish Pictured at the handover at DAF Trucks Ireland HQ of this new DAF LF 180 to Nourish, the Irish family owned health food retailers are l/r: Derek Kelly, Managing Director, Nourish; Anthony Cullen, Operational Driver, Nourish and John McCann, DAF Trucks Ireland Regional Sales Manager.

The new DAF LF 4x2 rigid with Day cab is fitted with a new 18 foot box body with double cargo rear doors supplied and fitted by Monread Truck Bodies (Dublin) and a new 1,000kg Dhollandia tail lift, fitted by Ballinlough

Refrigeration (Dublin).

Nourish company founder, Derek Kelly started selling wholefoods in 1986 from a bustling shop called The General Health Food Store on Marlborough Street, near the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. From humble beginnings the business grew as more and more people became interested in eating simple, healthy and wholesome organic food. Over the

next 20 years, Derek opened more shops across the city and changed the trading name to Nourish. In 2004, his eldest son Odhran joined the team and together they run the business today with support from daughter Sarah.

First of two new DAF XF Ultimates as part of CBM Transport’s fleet replenishment

Following on from a satisfactory purchase of a new DAF XF 530 from DAF Ireland in 2019, CBM Transport (Rathcoole, Dublin) has made the ‘Ultimate’ decision to return to the FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

Baldonnell based sales representatives for the Dutch brand and buy two more units!

This time however, company directors Christy Bates and Mick Mooney chose to add the Ultimate spec to the DAF XF 530 4x2 tractor-units with SuperSpace cabs.

Both Christy and Mick boast a wealth of experience in the logistics industry spanning two decades. Their company CBM has grown significantly over the last few years, from a small fleet of four trucks to an impressive well maintained modern fleet of fourteen tractor-units and trailers. CBM’s main work is as a service partner with one of Europe’s leading logistics companies, covering Ireland, UK and Europe.

Contract Hire I Rental I Refrigeration

Specialists in Contract Hire of Commercial Vehicles. We can tailor packages from one car van to a fleet of refrigerated trucks.

Tailored solutions to keep your fleet moving

Ireland’s CNG refuelling network is growing Paving the way for sustainable renewable gas in transport

Clonshaugh Dublin

Ballysimon Road Limerick Cashel Tipperary

Progress Naturally Co-financed by the Connecting Europe Facility of the European Union

Dublin Port Dublin

16 | NEW FLEET III 16

Recent Renault Truck Sales at Dennehy Commercials, Limerick

This new truck is the first new Renault Range C440 8x4 Tipper to enter the fleet of George Savage Tipping Ltd., from Kielduff, near Tralee in County Kerry. It was sold by Martin Hough, Sales Executive at Dennehy Commercials, Limerick and features a Thompson insulated body.

George’s business mainly operates Scania and Volvo trucks.

Martin also sold two Renault Range C440 8x4 to Arkil Quarries Ltd., Rathangan, County Kildare, both equipped with Gleeson Truck Bodies.

Dennehy Commercials Ltd Riverside Park, Dock Road, Limerick Tel: 061 229900 Web: www.dennehycommercials.com

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New Renault Trucks 8x4 Mixers & Tippers in stock New MAN TGS.430, 8x4 c/w Thompson Insulated Tipper All vehicles sold with peace of mind warranty, fully serviced, with CVRT For more information please contact the Sales Team: Martin Hough 087 6601648 or Paul Hynan 086 4669333 For Service: John Kiely 061 229900

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18 18 | TEST

Volvo FM 420 8x4 ‘Not a soft option – it’s a smooth operator’

One constant challenge for road transport operators in Ireland as well as elsewhere is specifying the right equipment, be it trucks, trailers or ancillaries. In the construction sector it is not unusual to load out from a chassis-bending quarry in the morning and deliver topsoil for garden landscaping in the afternoon. A super tough quarry truck like Volvo Truck’s FMX is one option but may not be necessary for a lot of operators. Thankfully there is also a more standard option available, suitable for distribution and for off-road work at quarries or sites with poor access. It’s the Volvo Trucks FM series, which has been refreshed lately.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

This new version maintains Volvo Trucks’ preference for gradual evolution across its model lineup. With FM, the Swedish brand’s familiar features are easily identifiable. The profile is softer than the FMX, making it more appealing when viewed in traffic, with a slightly lower stance. The sloping side-window and vision panel in the near-side door improves the driver’s area of vision, as do the lower windscreen and narrow slimmer mirror frames. These factors are becoming increasingly important, especially for trucks that operate in the urban environment where close contact with vulnerable road users is almost unavoidable. All-round visibility is further enhanced with a practical camera system that does not overload the driver with too many irrelevant screen options.

FM has a two step climb to access the cab compared to the FMX’s three. This suits the area of operation as it does not need the same ground clearance as the heavier duty models. Once inside, the FM is unmistakably Volvo. There is a distinct sense of refinement and a build quality some OEMs would do well to copy. The well-designed layout and functionality of the driving position, switchgear and all controls have

progressed to become class-leading. It is easy to see why the new Volvo FM was a deserved recipient of the prestigious ‘Red Dot’ Design Awards. The driver can select a choice of data displays on the digital dashboard with more choices offered on the 9” infotainment display screen. While we sometimes question the value of these screens, Volvo Trucks has put this technology to good use by making the complete owners/drivers’ manual available for the driver to access whenever needed. Importantly, the information displayed is specifically related to that particular chassis number.

This means, if the truck was not specified with (for example) Air Suspension or Volvo Dynamic Steering - you won’t find it in the manual.

This test model was fitted with a sleeper cab and was more than well

TEST | 19 19

equipped for the overnighting driver (or when resting in the motorway works queue!), thanks especially to the full-width storage unit mounted across the rear wall. The standard roof hatch allows ample light into the cab and helps to brighten the interior even with dark coloured trims. Apart from our long-running gripe that there is no button to dump air from the driver’s seat, we could find little fault with the cab.

Possibly the best word to describe a drive in the new FM is ‘smooth’. For a tipper, this could be a term to be slightly cautious of, however the 8x4 drives more like a distribution truck. At the start of the test, the truck was unloaded and the gears changed quickly up through the direct drive 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission, as expected. After loading 20 tonnes of stone at a nearby quarry, it was time to take to the road again in earnest. Being loaded up seemed to make little, if any, difference to the 420hp FM. Apart from being marginally smoother on the road and gear selection timings being altered, the 12.8 litre diesel cruised with the load.

The FM is geared in such a way that the 2,100 Nm of torque comes in at a remarkably low 860 rpm and holds through to 1,400 rpm. This gives a sense that the DK13 engine is hardly working.

When combined with improvements to soundproofing that achieve a 20% reduction in noise levels, the drive is exceptionally quiet. Volvo’s latest version of the I-Shift transmission is now changing ratios almost as smoothly as its I-Shift Dual Clutch. Volvo offers a

choice of two engines for the FM, and some operators may prefer the lighter DK11 engine which is available in three power ratings from 330 to 460 hp. This option can achieve a weight saving of around 150 kgs. Although unable to measure the FM’s fuel consumption on the day, we believe that this FM 8x4 with the drivetrain presented could deliver valuable fuel savings for an operator.

The latest FM 8x4 as said, is a smooth truck to drive and has received the full Volvo Truck treatment that may have been somewhat missing for the tipper fraternity. The FM is now as wellequipped and finished with quality as any of the models from the marque’s catalogue. The truck is highly versatile and adaptable, making it well suited for Irish operators. While the majority of work here does not generally require the real heavyweight off-roaders, nevertheless drivers are often expected to deliver to some bizarre places and this is where a flexible and versatile truck like the FM comes into its own. In addition, the truck must also be able to tackle the rougher sites, especially when the bad weather sets in and conditions get more challenging.

Volvo’s FM 8x4 twin-steer is strong and smooth on the road and comes with a full range of the latest safety devices,

driver aids and efficiency systems.

Systems such as Cruise and Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist and Volvo Dynamic Steering are all included in the Volvo Safety Packages. Once back in the quarry, we couldn’t find anywhere that posed a serious difficulty for the FM. This we found interesting as the unit came with a 2.83:1 rear-axle configuration - not that typical for an 8x4. That said, all differential and inter-axle locks operated with ease and a light touch.

This light touch extends to the remote controls for tipping and sheeting. In fact, the whole truck operates best with a gentle touch for all controls as it is truly a – ‘smooth operator’.

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

Spec Check Make Model / Chassis / Cab Engine Rated Power Rated Torque Transmission Braking Suspension Drive Axle / Ratio Tyres & Wheels

Endurance Brake Safety Systems

Fuel / Ad Blue Capacities Body Gross weight as Tested

Volvo Truck Corporation FM / 8x4 Twin-Steer – 5,100mm WB / Sleeper Cab DK13K420 (12.8 litre) - 6-Cylinder, Euro 6 Step D 309 kW (420 hp) 1,400 – 1,800 r/min 2,100 Nm @ 860 – 1,400 r/min Volvo I-Shift (12-Speed AMT) AT2612F Discs all round - ABS, EBS, EBA, Front / Rear Parabolic - Remote Control RTS2370A / 2.83:1 Steer Axle/s: Michelin Multi 3D XZE - 295/80 R22.5 Drive Axles: Michelin Multi 3D XDE - 295/80 R22.5 Alcoa Brushed Aluminium Volvo Engine Brake + 375 kW @ 2300 r/min (Active Safety Package Safe-VE+) EBS, EBA, EBL, ESC, Hill Start, ACC, ASR, ESP, FCW, LCS, LKS, DAS, VDS 255 litres / 57 litres Wilcox Aluminium Body/ Edbro Single Tipping Ram 31,000 Kgs www.fleet.ie

20 20 | ECO VIEWPOINT

Hydrogen trucks: An opportunity for the decarbonisation of heavy vehicles

by Alan Nolan, Hydrogen Mobility Ireland Hydrogen Mobility Ireland (HMI) is a Not-for Profit organisation with members across the Power Generation, Fuel, Gas, Vehicle and Transport Sectors that is focused on the roll-out of Hydrogen as a viable Zero-emissions Transport fuel, particularly for the Heavy Vehicle Sector. HMI has been actively engaged in direct consultations with significant operators in the Transport Sector through its Vehicle End-user Group, giving us input into the potential needs of Transport Operators on the ground and seeking their views on Hydrogen as an option for the sector.

Emissions from Transport are the second largest after Agriculture, and the second largest energy related emissions after industry. But that shouldn’t be surprising – Transport includes leisure driving, but also commuting to work in each of the other sectors as well as deliveries and collections for them. While these emissions fall under the Transport Sector, there are other factors: n Transport emissions result directly from the level of activity in other sectors - in 2017, the greatest share of freight activity was carriage of foodstuffs (25%). n Responsibility for reducing Freight Transport emissions at least partly rests with enterprises for which Transport is provided. n Transport users may need to be incentivised to demand Zero emissions logistics and see a downside to not making that transition. At present cheaper options may be more rewarding.

The challenge for the State is to support a transition in Transport that delivers for the Environment yet ensures a vibrant commercial economy into the FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

future. Freight Transport in Ireland is amongst the most road-based in Europe.

Only 0.9% of freight is carried by rail.

As of the end of 2019, 99.7% of goods vehicles were diesel powered.

Ireland has set ambitious emissions targets to achieve an average 7% annual reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over the years 2021-2030, a projected reduction of 51% over the decade. It’s hard to see how a reduction of that scale can be achieved in Heavy Transport without good progress in the roll-out of Zero Emission vehicles early and over the period up to 2030. For the heavier high mileage vehicles that means Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (HFCEV).

With a target of having 1 million BEVs by 2030, Ireland had only 8,500 BEV cars on the road at the end of 2019 and around 17,000 up to the end of May 2021. In a fleet of 2.2 m cars those BEVs give an annual saving of around 30,000 Tonnes of CO2. One could estimate a similar level of saving from about 350 high mileage HGVs and Coaches, a sector in which we have made no progress yet, but Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles can deliver a significant part of the required 51% saving before 2030.

If we are to seriously reduce emissions from the highest polluting vehicles on the road then we need to have a specific strategy for heavy duty vehicles that travel long distances.

Furthermore, it needs us to start now if we are to get anywhere close to meeting those targets.

That’s the space where HMI is working: Members in Energy Production, Distribution, Vehicles and Transport have brought a particular focus on HGVs as part of Project HMI. It has developed a Roadmap required to deliver a Hydrogen Fuel Cell solution for Ireland focused on Renewable Energy, but more of that later.

There are many opinions about whether HFCEVs or BEVs provide the better solution. In our view they are com-

plimentary, supporting solutions rather than competing ones - we need both. And while we take the view that distance travelled is not the only benchmark, it is a good place to start.

The Independent Energy Agency and Transport & Environment believe that daily distances driven are the likely deciding factor and by 2050 they see two-thirds EV and one-third HFCEV, with Fuel Cell vehicles dominating on the longer journeys. Their current projections based on cost etc. suggest that FCEVs take over at around 480 kms a day.

Much of the data on HGVs shows average mileage isn’t enough to calculate potential take-up or emissions savings. The Central Statistics Office shows an annual average of 22,407 kms for combined Heavy and Light Goods vehicles. Mileage recorded at Roadworthiness Test intervals gives more detail, indicating an average of over 48,000 km for 2-Axle HGVs and over 73,000 km for 3-Axle HGVs. Among vehicles that have recorded over 100,000 kms per year are around 5,000 HGVs, 700 LGVs and 700 Buses/ Coaches. But of course there are many more vehicles below that annual mileage that are regularly required to travel more than 480 kms in a day, that’s roughly Dublin-Cork return.

HMI established an end-user Group of Vehicle Operators to consult about sustainable solutions, and to make decisions on which zero-emitting vehicles are most suited to their needs. The Group includes significant Freight Operators covering National and International routes, as well as Bus/Coach and Taxi Groups including representatives from their National Representative Bodies.

ECO VIEWPOINT | 21 21 This isn’t an easy time for the Transport Sector with Covid-19, Brexit and facing the need to decarbonise, combined with huge pressures on price from their customers and the urgency of just-in-time deliveries. With few ZEV options yet available to them in the marketplace, there are concerns amongst operators looking to renew their fleets; will newly-purchased cleaner diesel trucks be penalised at some point between now and 2030? Will other lower emissions (but not zero) options be similarly disadvantaged and how will their future vehicle values stack-up?

While this won’t stop necessary fleet renewal it may act to slow it at a time when we urgently need to reduce emissions. To look at what’s happening out there, new HGV registrations have fallen by 31% from 2016 to 2020, while used HGVs imported from the UK have increased by 66% over the same period.

So far this year, new HVGs have increased by 23%, while used vehicles increased by 77%.

The challenge to decarbonise the HGV fleet is a big one: according to Department of Transport data, there are 40,000 HGVs and no ZEVs listed.

Sustainable Energy Agency Ireland (SEAI) states that the HGV fleet is ageing, with vehicles 10 years or older accounting for 45% of all vehicles. If a transition to cleaner ones doesn’t occur there is a considerable risk of ‘locking-in’ a large cohort of HGVs to diesel for years to come. At the same time, it projects that HGV activity is expected to treble between 2015 and 2050.

The speed of replacement of vehicles in the National Fleet is driven by Annual New Registration levels. Between 2016 and 2020, first-time registrations in Ireland have added an average of 6,000 HGV vehicles per year, which would suggest that the fleet could be replaced in 7 to 8 years. But on average only 2,500 of those are new HGVs, and last year it was just 2,000 new HGVs. With 2,000 new HGVs per annum, replacing the fleet would take 20 years.

The speed of replacement by ZEVs depends on the percentage of ZEVs sold each year in that annual figure of 2,000 (or the 6,000 figure!). At an annual rate for ZEVs of 6.5% of the 2,500 new HGVs, it would take over 200 years to replace the fleet. We need to start higher – 33% of 2,500 would still take almost 50 years.

33% of the 6,000 combined new and used registrations would do it in 20 years and half of the fleet could be replaced in

10 years (remember that 51% reduction by 2030). In reality the progress of ZEVs won’t be a linear average but will start low and move more quickly once the benefits and usability are experienced and will eventually hit very high percentages. But averages over a period give an idea of numbers so if it was possible to average 50% ZEVs (out of 6,000 registrations) over 13 or 14 years you could in theory replace the entire fleet by 2035.

SEAI also highlighted that for HGVs, their greater size and weight substantially increases the barriers to batteries serving as a substitute for diesel.

Emissions from Transport are the second largest after Agriculture, and the second largest energy related emissions after industry The deployment of alternative fuels and the vehicles that use them requires support in market uptake of vehicles; adequate access to refuelling infrastructure, and availability of fuel.

The production of Green Hydrogen from renewable energy is going to see rapid development over the next two years, with two plants in the West of Ireland close to planning submission, others on the way and ESB’s announcement of a 1.4 GigaWatt offshore wind farm with excess energy used to produce hydrogen. For these producers, the availability of Hydrogen Vehicles is crucial in order to have customers using their product. This is particularly so at the early stages of production, as larger potential Industrial and Energy customers are likely to take some time after production has started to change-over their systems to Hydrogen.

In relation to HGVs, positive feedback from end-users, who are the potential buyers and users of ZEVs, has been supported by early indications from a Survey by DCU of Transport Operators, showing that there is significant interest in Hydrogen (the greatest interest among respondents), as a HGV solution. 49% of respondents were interested in being directly involved in a potential shared project to aggregate orders to enable a significant number of hydrogen trucks to be brought to Ireland as early as possible.

That’s a key message understood by the sector; the earlier we start the sooner we can see emissions reducing, and the sooner vehicle replacement can become

more stable and certain.

For transport operators, cost and reliability are key issues: yet they are interested in an unknown technology, perhaps from a not previously known manufacturer with no previous service and support presence in HGVs in Ireland.

Obviously they are hard-nosed business people and will want to be reassured on many issues, but key among them are the available range, and the ease and speed of refuelling so that concerns about the potential for major delay problems with the double challenge of Driver Statutory Rest Periods and recharging times can be allayed. On paper these might fit neatly together at the same time: the reality on the road is unlikely to be that consistently generous.

Is Ireland a potential market for Hydrogen Trucks? Absolutely and we hope to begin work now with our Vehicle-End-user Group, engaging with OEMs on vehicles and, hopefully with State support, start to build a project and by aggregating demand of various users see how many HFCEV vehicles we can bring here. This is a chance to make a significant start on decarbonising HGVs and a relatively speedy delivery of emissions savings. If we can replace even 400 high mileage HGVs in our focused project the emissions saved would be equivalent to about 20,000 BEV cars. The cost in likely State supports would be significantly lower and would also be delivering a viable infrastructure to support far greater emissions saving into the future.

A refuelling infrastructure necessary to support enough Hydrogen HGVs to deliver a significant emissions reduction is crucial. It is planned to start with a hub around Dublin to support initial vehicles but in order to make this a viable alternative to diesel in the HGV Sector, we must have a plan to deliver a national level of coverage so that zero emissions trucks can work and deliver on time. Refuelling at depots may be possible at high transport locations (such as dairy plants or ports) but if we are to normalise a zero emissions fuel for the sector as we go forward, we need a network accessible to all users.

Refuelling locations on the network need to be strategically located near large use areas, larger cities but also giving coverage in regions so that no areas are disadvantaged. The Ten-T Network is likely to require Hydrogen availability for EU trucks so it possibly may be the backbone of the network. www.fleet.ie

22 22 | ECO-FRIENDLY

Pictured at the opening of Ireland’s fourth publicly accessible CNG refuelling station at Circle K’s forecourt on the Ballysimon Road in Limerick are Declan O’Sullivan, Programme Delivery Manager, Gas Networks Ireland; Brian Connolly, Senior Pricing Manager; Roy Kavanagh, SME Sales Representative; Anda Bejenariu, Manager Circle K Ballysimon Rd; Mark Holohan, CNG Manager, Virginia International Logistics; Jonathan Diver, Senior Fuels Director, Circle K; Damien Corr, Project Manager, Gas Networks Ireland.

Gas Networks Ireland and Circle K open two new CNG stations in Limerick and Dublin Ireland is two steps closer to decarbonising the nation’s heavy vehicle transport sector, with the country’s third and fourth publicly-accessible, fast-fill Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, now open at Circle K’s forecourt at Clonshaugh in Dublin and Ballysimon Road in Limerick City.

Strategically located to support prominent transport operator routes, the state-of-the-art stations have the capacity to fill 50 Heavy Good Vehicles (HGVs) a day, with each fill taking no more than five minutes.

The new stations allow hauliers and fleet operators in the region to begin the journey to sustainable transport by switching their fuel from conventional diesel to CNG today and ultimately transition to networked renewable gases, including biomethane and hydrogen, in the future.

Renewable gases are the only deployable at scale, ultra-low carbon alternative fuel for use in HGVs, where electric solutions are not currently viable options, for long distance applications.

Commenting on the ongoing developments and investments Jonathan Diver, Senior Director Fuels at Circle FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

K said: “We are delighted to unveil the latest CNG stations at Circle K Clonshaugh and Circle K Ballysimon Road, further strengthening our natural gas capabilities alongside our Dublin Port and Cashel stations.

“Circle K has longstanding ties to the commercial transport and freight industry and a key priority of ours is supporting this sector as it endeavours to reduce its carbon emissions. Expanding

CNG – A vital part of Ireland’s transition to a low carbon commercial fleet our network of CNG refuelling stations and continuing to develop our EV charging facilities are both key elements within our overall sustainability agenda.”

Transport currently accounts for 42% of Ireland’s energy use, making it the country’s largest source of energy demand. It is also one of the most

difficult sectors to decarbonise. In particular, HGVs and buses generate 30% of road transport emissions despite accounting for just 4% of vehicles on Irish roads.

Proven global technologies, such as CNG, and renewable gases, including biomethane and hydrogen, can all play a part in helping decarbonise Ireland’s transport sector.

Studies show that switching from diesel to natural gas can reduce wellto-wheel CO2 emissions by up to 23% compared to diesel (CENEX, 2019) and nitrous oxide (NOx) by up to 50% (UK Department of Transport, 2018).

The highest emissions savings were achieved under specific conditions, loads and vehicles – in particular, long-haul and regional drive cycles – making natural and renewable gases the ideal fuels for decarbonising Ireland’s HGV and bus fleets.

Furthermore, as the volume of renewable gas on the network increases, vehicles refuelling from the national gas network will increasingly reduce their carbon footprint without needing to change a thing.

Irish companies are now developing

ECO-FRIENDLY | 23 23 One of Virginia International Logistics’ 25 CNG fuelled HGVs leaving Circle K Ballysimon Road. The ability to refuel in Limerick opens another transport corridor for the haulier’s fleet of CNG trucks and allows them to help even more of their customers to continue reducing the impact of their supply chain on the environment.

sustainable circular economies by purchasing renewable gas made from their own waste to power their operations and vehicles.

Virginia International Logistics became the first haulier in Ireland to complete a zero-carbon HGV delivery to Europe, using a truck fuelled by renewable gas for the 1,000km round-trip to Caen in northern France.

The opening of the new CNG station in Ballysimon Road will open another important transport corridor for their 25 CNG trucks.

Transport Director at Virginia International Logistics, Ray Cole said: “As part of our ‘Green Logistics’ policy, introducing CNG fuelled vehicles is one of the ways we are reducing our carbon footprint. The customer demand for alternate fuel transport is also increasing as companies focus even more on having a lower carbon supply chain.

“The ability to refuel in Limerick opens another transport corridor for our fleet of CNG trucks and allows us to help even more of our customers to continue reducing the impact of their supply chain on the environment.”

In 2020, VisionGreen Logistics Solutions Ltd, became the first logistics company in Ireland to make carbon neutral retail deliveries with trucks fuelled by renewable gas made from farm and food waste while Kerry County Council became the first local authority in Ireland to trial a carbon neutral HGV powered by renewable gas, sustainably transporting road salt from Co. Tipperary.

Vision Green co-founder, Ronan Murphy said: “VisionGreen customers tend to be businesses that are conscious of their impact on the environment. CNG enables our clients to reduce emissions in their value-chains and meet some of their long-term sustainability goals,

CNG vehicles, Gas Networks Ireland has a CNG Vehicle Grant Scheme which provides grants of up to €5,000 for new CNG vehicles, up to a maximum of €60,000 per business.

The CNG Vehicle Grant Scheme is co-financed by the European Union’s TEN-T Programme under the Connecting Europe Facility as part of the Green Connect Project. Applications are now being accepted at www.gasnetworks.ie/cngvehiclegrant.

The Department of Transport has also launched a €3m Alternatively Fuelled Heavy Duty Vehicle (AFHDV) Purchase Grant Scheme, which will cover between 40% and 60% of the price differential, with a maximum 20 vehicles or €500,000 available to any one applicant. Grants can be used towards the future purchase of more sustainable vehicles, including gas and electric vehicles.

The development of the CNG network via the Causeway Study is supported by a grant from the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility Transport Fund and the Gas Innovation Fund, approved by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). Research is co-funded and conducted by project partner, the National University of Ireland, Galway.

which is something we are really proud of.

“With corporate and social responsibility becoming more and more important for large companies, their customers and investors, being able to offer a lower-carbon transport solution is a strong differentiator for any business.”

A proven, reliable and affordable alternative to diesel, Ireland’s CNG vehicle numbers grew more than 50% in 2020, as the number in Europe passed two million and the number worldwide exceeded 28 million.

Gas Networks Ireland’s Head of Commercial and Corporate Affairs, Ian O’Flynn, said: “Ireland’s commercial transport sector is one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise, but we’re on a journey with hauliers and forecourt operators to reduce emissions through natural gas today and renewable gas down the road.

“CNG stations are directly connected to the national gas network and Anda Bejenariu, Manager Circle K Ballysimon Road in Limerick where CNG vehicles are Ireland’s fourth publicly-accessible, fast-fill CNG station is located. The CNG future-proofed for station has the capacity to fill 50 HGVs a day, with each fill taking no more biomethane, which than five minutes and allows hauliers and fleet operators in the region to is already available in begin the journey to sustainable transport by switching their fuel from Ireland. By delivering diesel to CNG today and ultimately transition to networked renewable gases, including biomethane and hydrogen, in the future. a network of CNG refuelling stations, To learn more about the many we are supporting hauliers and fleet benefits of CNG for fleet operators and operators to make a sustainable switch hauliers and the future of renewable gas to gas-powered vehicles.” in transport, visit To help Ireland’s fleet operators and www.gasnetworks.ie/cng. hauliers transition to cleaner, affordable

www.fleet.ie

24 24 | LAUNCH PAD

New Generation DAF XF, XG & XG+ - Efficiency, Safety and Driver Comfort Guaranteed

DAF doesn’t do daft! The Americanowned Dutch based truck brand built its highly regarded reputation on steady and gradual developments of its drivetrains and cabs. Rather it’s approach could be described as strategic. A case in point is the evolution of the original 95/XF heavy duty model. When launched back in 1997, it was both statement making and futuristic. Above all, it has stood the test of time.

So, how do you completely replace an iconic cab while including multiple elements necessary to meet today’s and tomorrow’s technical innovations and

legal requirements? Best start with a clean sheet of paper, as verified by Bart van Lotingen, Design Director at DAF Trucks N.V. Bart, who has enjoyed a long career at the Eindhoven headquartered company, is particularly pleased with the creation of not only a replacement of the XF but the addition of two other models, namely the XG & XG+ to extend and top the range.

When asked about coming up with the XG name, Bart admitted: “It doesn’t have any real significance, just that G follows F in the alphabet!” There goes my theory that it meant ‘grande’!

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

Nonetheless, what Bart and his design team have come up with is indeed very impressive and interesting. As Ron Borsboom, Executive Director Product Development at DAF Trucks acclaimed: “We are very proud of our new series of trucks, not only because they deliver industry leading efficiency, safety and driver comfort but also these fantastic new vehicles pave the way to the future of road transport.”

Designing, developing and eventually manufacturing a new truck takes time, patience and much consultation. In this case, the new XF & XG ranges involved much discussion with the powers-thatbe in the European Commission.

Changes to cab dimensions were being regulated for as far back as 2015, with the ‘aim of improving energy efficiency’, particularly with regards to the aerodynamic performance of cabs, as well as road safety, vehicles or vehicle combinations, ‘which fulfil the requirements laid down and which comply with Directive 2007/46/EC, and may exceed the maximum length laid down: Article 9a; New M&D Regulartion 2015/719’.

“The new 2015/719 regulation allow elongated cabs for increasing efficiency, safety and driver comfort” In essence, the new cab is more aerodynamic and provides more internal

space for the driver. While the frontal area has been elongated, scope for extending the back wall of the new cab was provided for. There was no overall opportunity to lengthen the tractor-unit and trailer combination load space which remains at 12 metres. The regulation implemented in September 2020 is similar for rigid truck and trailer combination.

In adapting to these new regulations for masses and dimensions, the overall length extension allows for ‘a significant reduction of air-drag’, while taking ‘a significant step in safety, not least for vulnerable road users, and also offering a significant step in driver comfort’.

‘The success story of the 95/XF includes three ITOY Awards; 600,000 units made: Sold in 69 countries’ In addition, future direct vision standards had to be met.

Ron explained that there were three main pillars or strategic drivers behind the development of the ‘New Generation DAF XF, XG & XG+ - Efficiency, Safety and Driver Comfort (now and for the future).

Additionally, the new models are ‘ready for further adaption’, in that they are suitable for the installation of alternative powertrains, i.e., HVO and Biodiesel, Battery Electric, Hybrid drives and

LAUNCH PAD | 25 25

Hydrogen/Fuel Cell. “So, in other words, the truck reinvented,” stated Ron. Never before has there been so much emphasis on aerodynamics in truck design. Thanks to the design requirements from the EC, the cab’s vertical brick shape has become somewhat smoother. Through streamlining, tapering, curving and deflecting, the wind drag has been reduced substantially, aided by the sealing of any gaps between body parts. Together with modified airflow and recirculation in and around the cab (for cooling purposes), the overall effect is a 19% aerodynamic gain, resulting in a 6.3% reduction in fuel consumption. (This includes the optional fitting of digital mirrors or cameras to replace the standard exterior mirrors).

DAF Trucks has an exemplary pedigree when it comes to drivetrains, continuously innovating and tweaking its diesel engines for ultimate performance.

Well, the New Generation DAFs feature

further technological developments, with more torque (at lower revs) and enhanced engine brake performance.

Further engine and after-treatment systems modifications have been

engineered to include weight reductions and longer service intervals. On the transmission side, DAF in collaboration with XF, has added a new feature to the TraXon automated gearbox with smoother drive-off selection and improved predictive cruise control. Add a changed rear axle and cooling system together with new air management, and an overall 3% fuel efficiency gain has been achieved.

Notable too is the 175kg weight reduction between the new XF and its predecessor. For instance, the XF SpaceCab comes in at 7,087kg, compared to the new version at 6,912kg. Even with the SuperSpace Cab at 7,095kg, the New Generation XF is at 7,053kg. Kilo for kilo, the New Generation DAFs consume 10.2% less fuel than the current edition (that will continue to be made and sold alongside the New Gen models.

To summarise, the total fuel efficiency gains come from: Aerodynamics 4.9%, Engine and Aftertreatment 2.6%, Additional aerodynamics (Digi-mirrors) 1.4%, Smart controls 0.4%, Driveline & Brakes 0.4%, Weight 0.3%, Cooling & Air-intake 0.2%.

To meet the new Direct Vision requirements (already in place in London), the new XF & XGs feature increased glazed areas and the lowest possible window line (over the grille). As an option, a kerbside window can be fitted (with a cinema

type passenger seat to accommodate same). When it comes to night vision, full LED lights ensure superior visibility straight ahead and when cornering/ manoeuvring.

The robust cab structure ensure driver safety, further aided by a host of active systems such as brake assist, lane detection, AEBS, City Turn Assist, Electronic Parking Brake and Low speed trailer brake, to mention a few.

‘Combustion of the 10.8-litre PACCAR MX-11 & 12.9-litre PACCAR MX-13 Euro 6D engines have been further optimised. The result is extremely efficient engines with excellent performances’

Then there’s the new class leading ergonomics to ensure that the driver keeps ‘Hands on the Wheel – Eyes on the Road’ through intuitive steering wheel and stalk controls. To differentiate the cab sizes from an interior space viewpoint: the XF has a 17cm engine tunnel, while the XG & XG+ have an extra 5cm inside. A short hop onto the bunk will surprise the driver with its extra dimensions and comfort and with the control pods on the rear panel and ample storage underneath, convenience is no further than an arm’s length away. The large storage areas provided guarantee that the driver’s time away from home is well catered for.

Assessing what the New Gen DAFs are like to drive, not least the new rear and cab suspensions, will feature in the next edition of Fleet Transport.

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

26 26 | SAFETY MATTERS

Safe loading, unloading and load securing Some vehicle operations can be categorised as high-risk activities because of the volume of known bad-outcome incidents that have occurred when these activities are being carried out. The aim of this article is to highlight good practice with regard to one of those - loading and unloading, and to highlight practices that are necessary in performing these activities safely.

Unsafe loading and unloading can cause: n a vehicle to be unsafe as a result of overloading n a vehicle to be unstable as a result of load shift n injury to loaders or unloaders, or n injury to other road users.

Failure to secure loads properly may lead to load shift, or load collapse, which can cause danger to road users as well as to loaders and unloaders. Safe loading procedures should be in place to ensure that loads do not exceed the rated load capacity of the vehicle.

Procedures should also be in place to ensure that customer vehicles are loaded safely, with the cooperation of those involved. These procedures should be documented in a loading plan.

Workplace procedures should clearly FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

state the role of the driver in loading, securing and unloading operations. If the driver is not involved in loading, he or she must remain at a safe location away from the activity.

The consignor should give the driver a signed copy of the loading plan detailing how the consignment has been loaded, stowed and secured on the vehicle. If drivers are involved in loading or unloading, they should sign the loading plan. Loading and unloading should only be carried out by trained authorised people. Where practical, loading and unloading should be carried out in a designated area away from passing traffic, pedestrians and others not involved in loading or unloading vehicles. Where this is not practical, risks to pedestrians and passing traffic must be minimised. Only trained, authorised persons should be permitted to access the loading area.

Three-way co-operation between the consignor, the person in control of the delivery site, and the driver is essential to ensure that loads can be delivered or collected safely and efficiently.

In addition, equipment provided for loading and unloading must be compatible with the vehicle. Drivers must familiarise themselves with loading and unloading procedures for their own and for customer or supplier premises. They should report to the person in charge of the site for any relevant instructions before loading and unloading the vehicle. Drivers and loaders should wear high-visibility clothing when they work around other moving vehicles, and vehicles should be braked, stabilised and immobilised as appropriate, to prevent unsafe or unexpected movement during

loading and unloading.

Drivers, loaders and supervisors must ensure that the vehicle is suitable for the load to be transported, and they should know the load capacity and configuration of the vehicle being used so that loading and unloading can be done correctly and safely. They must also make sure that vehicles are loaded in a manner so that they are safe for transport. Every item of cargo has the potential to shift in transit, so the load should be stowed, secured and restrained so that it will not move. The load should be placed against the headboard if possible. If there is a gap, an intermediate bulkhead should be fitted, or blocking or dunnage used to fill the gap to prevent the load moving forward. Loading and unloading should be carried out so that, as far as possible, the weight of the load is spread evenly across the vehicle or trailer at all times, to prevent instability. The load should be secured and arranged in a manner that prevents sliding or toppling. Equipment used to restrain the load, such as bars, chains and straps, must be in good condition. Additional measures will be required to secure a load which is to be transported by sea.

When loading is complete, supervisors and those involved in the loading operation should check that the load is properly secured. Supervisors should give signed approval as part of the handover to the driver.

For further, more detailed, information on loading and unloading and the safe securing of loads, go to the Health & Safety Authority’s website at https://www.hsa.ie/ eng/Vehicles_at_Work/.

PREVIEW | 27 27

Electric Vans in charge at the Commercial Vehicle Show 2021! on vans, Ford’s Telematics Essentials are designed to increase productivity, which includes maintenance and real time vehicle health data.

Vauxhall/Opel (Stellantis)

After a year absence, the 2021 Commercial Vehicle Show took place at the NEC, Birmingham, a few months later than its usual late Spring date. The letter ‘V’ within the CV Show title demonstrated the broad Van element of this year’s

Due to the low footfall on Day 1, many exhibitors and visitors wondered whether it should have gone ahead at all, with suggestions that it would be best to hold off until next year. The best proposal overheard was that the event should move to an Autumn date, run every two years, and fall in line with the biennial IAA Commercial Vehicles fair in Hannover, Germany. Maybe then too, the truck and trailer manufacturers would return to the big halls at the NEC. Day 2 & 3 were somewhat busier, much to the relief of the exhibitors. All in all, there was plenty of interesting launches and stories to be discovered by the dedicated trade press attending. Jarlath Sweeney and Sean Murtagh were there for Fleet Transport and Fleet Van & Utility.

Ford Motor Company

exhibition and at that, the primary examples were electrically propelled. Hence, an idea for next year’s event in that it should be renamed the eCV Show 2022!

Future proofing and meeting market trends is what Ford Commercial Vehicles is about these times. With the focus on electromobility, Ford is to the fore here, having introduced its award winning EcoBlue hybrid version in the Transit range, the next step is with the development of the fully electronic eTransit, showcased here. In line with an uptake on fleet management systems

Stellantis brand Vauxhall premiered the latest additions to its award-winning electric van range – the Combo-e and Movano-e, as well as the new Vivaro-e Hydrogen powered variant.

The Movano-e delivers class-leading space, with a cargo volume of up to 17m3, while its zero-emission powertrain offers up to 225km of range (WLTP), while the Combo-e has a 50kWh battery providing a range of 273km (WLTP) combined with a load volume of 4.4m3.

The new Vivaro-e Hydrogen will be available in LHD markets from the end of 2021 and in RHD from early 2023. The Hydrogen-powered van features a fuel cell system located in the engine bay for a 402km range and refuelling in as little as three minutes. It has an uncompromised cargo volume of up to 6.1m3.

Maxus Following the success of the LDV EV80 electric van, the Harris Group has not got one better but two better with the recent launch of the all new Maxus eDeliver3 and eDeliver9 electric medium to large LCV range, impressively displayed at the event. eDeliver3 has a payload capacity of over 1 tonne while the eDeliver9 is a full 3.5 tonne gross weight model. Both www.fleet.ie

28 | REVIEW 28

This particular Japanese pick-up truck manufacturer enjoy a wide customer base from business users, utilities, farmers and outdoor pursuits enthusiasts. Show visitors were treated to numerous versions of the all-new Isuzu D-Max, including the awesome Arctic Trucks AT35 version. Not only that but they could also avail of the opportunity to ride and drive the new model range.

Over the past two seasons Isuzu were the shirt sponsors to Rugby Wales.

versions co-incidentally can be specified either in panel van, chassis-cab or platform. To ensure top class aftermarket back up, the Harris Group has invested in establishing a British base at Warrington.

Toyota Motors Europe

This Japanese brand’s move towards electrification continues within its light commercial vehicle range. Premiered at the NEC in Hall 4 was the new Corolla Commercial Hybrid EV van and the new Proace City Electric, sitting in silently along with the other members of the Proace family. Proace City Electric comes with a 50kW lithium-ion battery pack, which along with the 100kW electric motor delivers 134 bhp. Van payloads reach 800 kg and towing capacity is rated at 750 kg. WLTP range distance covers from 250-280 km. Corolla Commercial will be sold in Ireland in due course.

technology, VN5 makes no compromises, offering true zero-emissions capability and fee-free driving in city centres – all without range-anxiety. With a total flexible range of 304 miles and 60 miles pure EV range, operators can go anywhere with confidence.”

Innovation Automation

Jaguar Land Rover

Mention Defender or Discovery and everyone knows they are from the Land Rover pedigree. Both new models come in commercial form; the Defender Hard Top & Discovery Commercial, to best suit any application, occupation or operation.

Apart from good loadspace, they have a 3.5 tonne towing capacity to serve their masters ‘Above and Beyond’ the call of duty!

The Chinese DFSK compact panel van, first introduced on these shores a few years ago, has received a new lease of life, thanks to Innovation Automation, which pledges to make the switch to electric vehicles accessible, simple and sustainable for business operators. To follow the DFSK EC31 is the larger Skyline range of EV LCVs. More details in the next edition.

SsangYong

Isuzu

LEVC In the flesh! Yes, it’s the all-new award winning LEVC VN5 electric light commercial. According to company CEO Joerg Hoffman, the VN5 demonstrates that now is the right time to switch to an electric van: “VN5 demonstrates that now is the right time to switch to an electric van. Thanks to its range-extender FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

Founded in 1954, SsangYong is the longest running automotive brand.

Regular exhibitors at trade and motor shows, the big news from its stand at

REVIEW | 29 29

the NEC was the arrival of the refreshed Musso Pick-up range. Sporting a strong and dominant grille the standard Musso and Musso Grand stands out from the multi-purpose and off-road crowd.

SsangYong is now supporting Gloucester Rugby.

Harris Group/CAS

the addition to the SmartWork series catering for regional on/off road construction/utility vehicles. Displayed alongside was a selection from its Laufeen budget brand tyre line up that has a quality second life through retreadability. Also on show was its Vantra multi performance van tyres. More details in the next edition.

and is more environmentally friendly, reducing fuel consumption and related emissions.

Trailar

Locks4Vans

The Harris Group has had a strong presence in the British market over any decades and more recently invested further with the establishment of its new headquarters in Warrington. Here, the successful Maxus range are distributed, along with a well-stocked parts centre.

The company’s Commercial Autospares (CAS) division promoted this aspect of the business. Pictured on the stand were; from left to right: Zak Hollcroft, Sales Representative CAS;, Mariarosaria Frenna, XXL Marmitte Italia; John Davitt, Harris Group & Ben Wallin, CAS UK PDC Manager.

Did you know that Locks4Vans supply security systems to HGVs and trailers as well as light commercials of all shapes and sizes. Among the applications for the heavy duty side includes roller shutters and narrow slats for buton van box bodies. With trailer security a big ongoing issue, Lock4Vans has the solution to the problem.

Having premiered at the recent ITT Hub event, Trailar exhibited four scaled down versions of its solar panel units for truck, trailer, van and bus models. Stand visitors were keen to see and feel how the solar system work and their capability. A full explanation by the well-informed personnel on duty with ongoing demonstrations provided.

Sailun Tyre

Petronas

Hankook Tyres

Korean tyre producer Hankook exhibited a broad range of its truck, trailer and bus tyres. Within the truck range is

Prominent in Formula 1, MotoGP and Cross-Country Truck Racing, Petronas, the global lubricants brand which has IVECO and the other Case New Holland companies within its OEM partners has a new range of Urania engine oils that boasts extended oil change intervals

Sailun Tyre Europe in conjunction with its UK truck tyre distributor, Kirkby Tyres, had a 125sqm stand in Hall 4. Attendees had a chance to view new products, patterns, and technology. Speaking prior to the event, Stephan Cimbal, Sailun Tyre European Marketing Director, said: “We view this as a very smart initiative – we are committed to advancing the current success of our partnership with Kirkby, and view the CV Show as an important element of increasing Sailun brand awareness, developing relationships, and www.fleet.ie

30 | REVIEW 30

ultimately, improving our already-impressive tyre market share.”

Sortimo

VB Airsuspension

DKV EuroService

Neil White, Ross Dunkley, Jessica Hill & Nick Holt were all on hand to inform visitors of the many service available for national and international road transport and fleet operators, covering all aspects of motoring. Covering truck, bus, van and car sectors, DKV provides programmes for refuelling and toll charges, among other services. Recently DKV signed up with two additional service station providers, in the Irish Republic and in Northern Ireland. More information soon.

Interesting developments at Sortimo, the leading manufactures of van racking and commercial vehicle work place interior systems. The German company, renowned for its high quality and innovative designs and fittings are moving forward with future trends with electomobility becoming more to the fore in the industry. As the focus is on payload, Sortimo is coming up with lighter weight systems to compensate for the battery packs being carried on the vehicles, without, of course, compromising on safety.

SmartWitness

Truckman

Even though the light commercial vehicle may be within the permissible payload, the springs underneath could be under severe stress and be fully compressed. This can make the vehicle unstable and uncomfortable, according to Oliver Drinkwater, Managing Director, VB UK. The addition of a VB-Airsuspension System to the vehicle or fleet, can bring huge benefits, he said.

Dutch headquartered VB is Europe’s largest manufacturer of suspension systems, serving the LCV and mobile leisure vehicle markets.

CargoStop

Video telematics solutions provider SmartWitness showcased its latest camera technology with company Managing Director Fearghal MacGowan, and his team on stand to demonstrate and explain all to show visitors. With more than 400,000 devices deployed globally, the SmartWitness real time data capture provides vital and critical support to transport operators to reduce risk, improve driver and driving behaviour.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

Truckman is the UK’s largest hardtop manufacturer for Pick-up trucks, for over 35 years. Catering for both leisure and commercial customers, Truckman hardtops are renowned for their robust, secure and stylish features, and the West Midlands firm is the OEM Approved accessory supplier for Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen. At the Show, 8 essential Isuzu D-Max accessories were showcase as well as the unveiling of two new versions of its Classic and Utility hardtops.

Back in the 1970’s CargoStop set up in business hiring equipment and selling load control products. Over the years the company has become more specialised, and now 100% focussed on load securement products for road, rail, sea and air transport. the company is constantly developing new methods of restraint and safe loading. “We listen carefully and provide solutions to save time and money without compromising on quality, which infuses a sense of safety, confidence and protection, giving ‘peace of mind’ to all our customers,” explained Billy Napthine, Director, CargoStop.

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32 32 | AWARDS

Appraisals underway for Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 2022 Contenders for the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards Flagship Tractor-units A galaxy of flagship trucks, worthy of inclusion in the ‘Star Ship Enterprise’ fleet head the bill at this year’s Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 2022. After a short sabbatical last year due to the Covid pandemic, seven range toppers currently on sale in Ireland from leading truck brands Iveco, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, Renault Trucks, Scania and Volvo Trucks are in contention for this prestigious honour.

Iveco S-WAY 570 6x2

Examples of these contenders in the Flagship Tractorunit class participated in a group test trial session held at The Johnstown Estate Hotel, Enfield, County Meath. They were joined by five rigid trucks competing in the Distribution categories.

There was also a selection of eco-friendly trucks and vans powered by either Natural Gas or Battery Electric shortlisted in the Green Commercial of the Year Awards categories.

Each vehicle was scrutinised by an expert jury panel consisting of experienced trade journalists, technicians, driver trainers and professional drivers. As well as driving and appraising each vehicle, they attended product presentations by each commercial vehicle brand during the busy three day exercise.

MAN TGX 18.470 4x2

Due to the Coronavirus restrictions, the annual competition to find the most efficient, comfortable and safe trucks on offer to Irish customers, took a year out in 2020. The restored campaign has been welcomed by the industry, according to Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor Fleet Publications, organisers of the 17th running of the event. “Yes, it is good to be back with another great line-up of high-spec commercial vehicles for this year’s awards programme. Thanks to the truck and van brands, as usual, for their participation and continuous support for the awards which remain as competitive as ever.”

The announcement of the winners of the Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards and Green Commercial of the Year Awards will be made later in the year.

Fleet Transport

Irish Truck of the Year 2022

Mercedes-Benz Actros Edition 2 1863LS BigSpace 4x2

Associate Sponsor

In association with

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

Compiled by Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie

AWARDS | 33 33

Renault Range T High 520 6x2 Cú Chulainn

Renault Range T 440 6x2 OptiFuel

Scania S770 6x2

Volvo FH16.750 6x2

Distribution Rigids – Medium & Heavy

MAN TGM 18.250 4x2

Fleet Transport

Irish Truck of the Year 2022

Mercedes-Benz Actros 1824L 4x2

Associate Sponsor

In association with

www.fleet.ie

34 34 | AWARDS

Renault Range T High 440.26 6x2

Volvo FM 380 6x2

Fleet Transport Irish Green Commercial of the Year Awards Natural Gas Green CommercialS

Volvo FM 330 4x2

Iveco S-WAY NP 460 4x2 Renault D Wide 320.19 CNG 4x2

Iveco Daily NP Scania R410 CNG 6x2

Fleet Transport

Irish Truck of the Year 2022 In association with

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

Associate Sponsor

AWARDS | 35

Fleet Transport Irish Green Commercial of the Year Awards Green CommercialS

BATTERY ELECTRIC

Maxus eDeliver 9

Dennis Eagle Elite eCollect Mercedes-Benz eVito 111

Renault Range D16 Z.E. 4x2 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter 312

Maxus eDeliver 3 Renault Master Red Edition Z.E.

Fleet Transport

Irish Truck of the Year 2022 In association with

Associate Sponsor

36 PRICES - WEEK 37 FUEL Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Austria

EUR

1.320

1.500

1.240

Belarus

EUR

0.693

0.745

0.693

Belgium

EUR

1.553

1.643

1.566

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.266

2.340

2.154

Bulgaria

BGN

2.260

2.670

2.260

Croatia

HRK

10.600

11.306

10.320

Czech Republic

CZK

33.680

33.984

31.330

Denmark

DKK

11.990

12.990

10.190

Estonia

EUR

1.451

1.500

1.218

Finland

EUR

1.753

1.842

1.560

France

EUR

1.529

1.638

1.435

Georgia

GEL

3.070

3.190

2.970

Germany

EUR

1.546

1.912

1.377

Greece

EUR

1.703

1.880

1.405

Hungary

HUF

444.200

460.627

441.300

Ireland

EUR

1.540

-

1.429

Italy

EUR

1.695

-

1.548

Kazakhstan

KZT

189.900

-

188.900

Kosovo

EUR

1.050

-

1.000

Latvia

EUR

1.324

1.384

1.224

Lithuania

EUR

1.299

1.405

1.189

Luxemburg

EUR

1.323

1.407

1.221

Moldova

MDL

20.220

20.360

16.280

Montenegro

EUR

1.380

1.390

1.190

Netherlands

EUR

1.952

2.034

1.570

North Macedonia

MKD

70.500

72.043

61.500

Norway

NOK

17.710

17.107

15.940

Poland

PLN

5.730

5.990

5.420

Portugal

EUR

1.727

1.766

1.518

Romania

RON

5.040

5.690

5.490

Russia Federation

RUB

51.150

58.450

50.120

Serbia

RSD

161.400

171.559

161.900

Slovakia

EUR

1.396

1.555

1.250

Slovenia

EUR

1.228

1.283

1.268

Spain

EUR

1.423

1.577

1.265

Sweden

SEK

16.390

17.190

17.420

Switzerland

CHF

1.740

1.800

1.770

Turkey

TRY

7.760

8.384

7.270

Ukraine

UAH

30.220

32.167

28.220

UK

GBP

1.347

1.370

1.371

USA

USD

0.831

-

0.878

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

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COMMENT | 37 37

What is it about Dublin Port that upsets people so much?

From where I’m sitting – Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie As 2021 dawned, the big media story in Ireland was that Dublin Port would inevitably grind to a total halt as the new Brexit rules came into play.

Neither the Port nor the shipping lines operating through it would be ready for what might be called the regulatory onslaught. In reality nothing bad actually happened, exports continued to ship, supermarket shelves remained full. The only issue, and one that has not gone away, is that, though the Irish and other European Union Border Control facilities were well on top of things, their counterparts in Britain - at all levels - were all over the place.

Rosslare Europort did a hugely creditable job in absorbing a massive hike in business, but the increase in Ro-Ro business through Dublin in tonnage terms was similar. It was boosted in particular by CLdN pushing up sailings from Dublin to ten a week with ever larger vessels. Each of the container lines running direct services to continental ports have expanded their services even though some of these have had to deal with the added complication of feedering containers for Deep-Sea Lines for which COVID-19 has decimated schedules.

So, as far as the general public was concerned, nothing much happened, with the expectation that everyone should be happy with the way in which the Port, agents, Border Control personnel, shipping lines, and hauliers all met the challenges – but NO. Springtime brought its share of storms throughout Europe and locally and some ships were delayed. As the Port Company set to avoid things clogging up there was a media outcry. When the massive growth in trailer traffic moving through the Port’s Common User Terminal made it unsafe to run trains through the terminal while trucks were flying about everywhere, the papers had another go at the Port Company blaming it for pushing out this “green” mode of transport. Then, as the summer emerged David McWilliams, the high profile economist, kicked off

another ‘Bulldoze the Port’ campaign - develop lots of housing and let the ships go to another, yet to be built port somewhere else. The implication of his argument seemed to be that the Dublin Port Company stood in the way of a wonderful life for an ever-increasing population of the Capital.

Taking these two specifics, my own opinion is that insofar as the Port Company is one part of the argument in each case, it is not wrong on either.

The short-term solution of rail access to the Common User Terminal by adding a night shift to the operation there when trains can operate without danger is very sensible and sweats the Port assets better. The Port Company’s proposal made in anticipation of the issue being forced - that Iarnród Eireann should develop a proper rail freight terminal in the yard across the East Wall Road, from where containers and other freight can be transferred by road to all parts of the Port, seems perfectly sensible.

It is, in fact, the only way in which the Port, Iarnród Eireann and climate control activists can achieve their collective objective of significantly increasing the volumes of freight moving on the Irish

Rail network.

Some twenty or so years ago I was an active enthusiast for Drogheda Port’s Bremore Port project. The plan was to build a deep-water port at this location of the Fingal/Meath border. Such a port would enable shipowners to escape the draft limitations of the current Drogheda Port. It could also accommodate traffic diverted from Dublin Port as that port reached and exceeded capacity.

This is probably where the situation remains. In the series of papers published some months ago by Dublin Port, they came to a similar conclusion based on import and export traffic projections that indicate that the present port would be totally full by 2040. Within the last couple of months, even before any possible port land grab by housing developers, that crunch date has come forward substantially and Dublin may be completely full within the next seven or eight years.

Already a couple of new services have been refused by the port and there is great scepticism about the ability of Dublin Port to accept any significant return of cruise ship traffic.

I really don’t think that Dublin Port deserves all the grief sent its way.

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38 38 | LEGAL

Will living with Covid-19 become the norm?

The current European Council recommendation from October 2020, which was updated last June, has introduced a colour code system applied to a world map which may mean that, depending on which coloured area being travelled, one must have proof of a negative Coronavirus test.

If vaccinated, an EU Digital Covid-19 Certificate is available, which will of course make travel a great deal easier. However, before rushing for the door, one must take time to read the regulations which, in parts, are really not easy to follow.

Many European Member State Governments are still trying to develop a clear Covid-19 policy based on medical advice, which, thanks to the shifting patterns of the virus, is subject to constant change. Inevitably this results in modifications to border regulations which can throw a truck driver’s chosen route into total disaster, not least

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

because these changes can, and do, occur with minimal notice. Repeating advice given some time ago, a driver whose journey takes him across an international border should always check to see if there are any new regulations since he/she last travelled the route.

Those whose journey takes them into Northern Ireland should take particular care to check the regulations as the UK Government appears to have had particular difficulty with Covid-19.

Those road haulage companies whose work is entirely domestic should now be able to look to a future where there will be no new regulations.

Unhappily those hauliers whose work requires their vehicles to cross borders will undoubtedly have to face new regulations and will, more importantly, have to make absolutely certain that they don’t miss a regulation that immediately affects their business.

More worryingly indeed is that there has been a growing number of cases when individual drivers have been denied access to a country when it is considered that they are in breach of that country’s laws. Arguably an employer should not put an employee in that situation, and it is reasonable to expect employers to always check the proposed route when a national border is to be crossed to ensure that their driver will

be accepted and ensure that the driver understands that country’s Covid-19 legislation.

On another recent subject matter, the discussion about alternative fuels for transport continues, but it now seems that diesel will be with us for many years.

Do those who promote electro-mobility remember that electricity needs to be made and then stored before it can be used? Currently, it seems that electric motors and battery packs are not suitable for long distance heavy duty vehicles carrying heavy loads and it seems unlikely that road transport companies will want to run their business depending on the strength of the wind through the nearest wind turbines.

In the midst of all this uncertainty and confusion there is at least one certainty upon which we can all depend, that there will always be goods that need to be moved, and each country within the European Union depends upon its trade with its neighbours (not least the UK). Although the movement of particular goods may be restricted in one country, that restriction is unlikely to apply elsewhere. Best to listen to local news and read the local papers to avoid being caught by changed legislation.

Text: Jonathan Lawton – jonathan@fleet.ie

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40 40 | SHIPPING & FREIGHT

Freight by rail volumes begins to recover

On 16 August, the Ballina/Dublin container rail service operated by Irish Rail on behalf of Forwarder IWT, returned to a five-times weekly in each direction schedule. The congestion issues at Dublin Port that had led to a temporary suspension of the long-established service have been sidestepped by the introduction of a later evening shift at the Port’s Common User terminal.

XPO Logistics will now introduce its Ballina/Waterford container rail service in Week 40. General Manager, Kelvin Bulmer, advises that traffic commitments for the new service are already more than sufficient to meet the initial one train a week schedule. Samskip has enhanced its service through Waterford Port, initially adding a weekly Amsterdam call to the twice weekly Rotterdam service and now adding a Rotterdam call to the Amsterdam service.

Jerry Hallissey, Head of Business Development at Shannon Foynes Port has advised that the company is optimistic about the development shortly of the planned road and rail links to the European Core Port of Foynes. The company has recently been awarded a grant of €2.3 million under the European Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). The co-funding will support a feasibility study to prepare for the development of a further deep-water berth and associated infrastructure at the port.

Further takeover activity in the Freight Forwarding Sector The DHL Group has announced the takeover of liquids specialist, the J.F Hillebrand Group and its subsidiaries at a cost in the order of €1.5 billion.

Hillebrand is a global service provider specialising in ocean freight forwarding, transport and logistics of beverages, FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

non-hazardous bulk liquids and similar products, shipping over half a million TEU’s in 2021.

For DHL, the deal aims to include additional services within the comprehensive range of ocean freight products the company already offers its customers globally. It is expected that this transaction will generate healthy margins in a fast-growing business. Deutsche Post DHL Group will fund the transaction with available cash. The deal remains subject to regulatory consent in a number of countries.

Maersk Group has announced that it intends to acquire B2C Europe Holding B.V., a logistics company focused on B2C parcel delivery in Europe. The company offers its cross-border services to retailers, brands, and logistics operators.

The acquisition will allow Maersk to offer ‘Europewide’ last mile rates on one platform. The deal is expected to close in Q4.

DSV Panalpina A/S has completed the acquisition of Kuwait based, Agility’s Global Integrated Logistics (GIL) business. This takeover makes Copenhagen based DSV a global top-three player in the transport and logistics businesses. The combined workforce tops 75,000 employees with locations in more than 90 countries. This acquisition by DSV follows its takeover of Swiss based Panalpina in 2019 and the American Uti worldwide in 2016.

Stena Group’s e-Flexer ferry design and build wins further orders In January 2020, Stena Line introduced its first e-Flexer ferry, the

Stena Estrid into service, sailing on the Dublin/Holyhead route. Since then, the vessel owners, Stena Ro-Ro who had commissioned the design and building of the vessel at the AVIC Shipyard in China, has built and chartered a further six similar vessels to a mix of operators including Brittany Ferries and DFDS as well as Stena Line itself. A further two lengthened vessels which will be chartered to Stena Line for Baltic region service are presently under construction.

A tenth e-Flexer vessel has now been ordered, this one by the Canadian Marine Atlantic service operator, while Brittany Ferries will charter a further pair of these vessels, due for delivery in 2024/2025.

Each of the new order vessels will be powered by dual fuel/battery hybrid systems.

DHL orders battery powered cargo planes

DHL Express has ordered 12 battery powered small freighters, each capable of carrying 1179 kgs and with a range of 440 nautical miles, for delivery in 2024.

They will operate within California and batteries will be fully charged in the 30 minutes it takes to unload and re-load the aircraft. The initial design specification was for a nine-seater air taxi, but development of the cargo model has proven to be more practical.

Text: Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie

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42 42 | OPINION

HGV MARKETPLACE | 13

Driver Shortage will bite by Christmas

At the end of August it was reported in the British media that because of the shortage of truck drivers, some McDonalds restaurants could run out of milk shakes. The tone was a little humorous and light-hearted, almost with a suggestion of “imagine that”. Last month in this column, some of the issues and reasons why the industry is facing this crisis and shortage of drivers were mentioned. It now seems that the Irish Government and the trade representatives will try and get to the root of the problem. Presumably this will include the IRHA (Irish Road Haulage Association), the FTAI (Freight Transport Association Ireland), and the CILT (Chartered Institute of Transport & Logistics) and hopefully, the CTTC (Coach Tourism & Transport Council) will be included. Remember this shortage is not only confined to freight. As the bus and coach industry gets back into action there is a noticeable scarcity of drivers.

One of the dangers of this consultation is a hijacking of the process. This is a one item agenda - trucks and buses without drivers. The solution must fill these vacant seats. Of course, there are some parallel issues that may be contributing to the problem, but they should not be the main focus of any discussions.

One line of the communication from the Minster of State at the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton is curious. It says “recommendations would be aimed at ameliorating the supply FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

think anybody will go hungry. However, issue without undermining the health there is no doubt that it is biting already and safety of drivers or other road users”, as shippers prioritise on the importance possibly a reference that suggests no of what travels and what stays. It interference with driving hours will be would be interesting to know where tolerated or maybe a suggestion that the bottlenecks are starting to appear. it might be considered in a limited Wonder if containers are starting to stack way. Either way, I am not sure that it up in the ports? would have any positive effect on the On a positive note in relation to shortage problem or drivers’ conditions. delivery points in general, shrewd factory Interestingly some relaxing of driver’s managers will soon realise that if their hours has been proposed as a solution location becomes known as a place that in the UK. One UK driver’s comment discharge a truck fast and efficiently, they was interesting: “They used to fine us will get better service. The solutions are and park us up for being an hour over not hi-tech, implement staggered lunch our time, now they are giving us extra breaks, with no early closing on Friday, time to sit longer at RDC’s (Regional and no closing of the goods inwards Distribution Centres)”. system when everybody “disappears” It is difficult to know what level for meetings that seem to come out of of understanding Minister Naughton, the blue. These simple actions are part or indeed her officials, has of the of the solution also. Finally, remember problem and the issues that have led the telling question is to ask any driver to the driver shortage. Although I was “Would you like your son or daughter often impressed with the grasp some to follow your career path?” Therein lies Ministers and officials had in their brief most of the answer to the problem. on transport problem that arose over the years from my involvement with the IRHA, they may be struggling here Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie on this matter.

One simple and practical solution All-Star Transport Training the Minister could Company of the Year 2021 try would be to stop off at a few services areas on her way to Transport Manager CPC the Dáil and talk Weekend & Full-Time Courses available at: to drivers. She might get some Cork (Silver Springs Hotel) - Sat 4th Sept valuable insights, Limerick (Kilmurry Lodge Hotel) - Sat 11th Sept and this advice Dublin P/T (Green Isle Hotel) - Sat 18th Sept could be useful to individuals in the Dublin F/T (Green Isle Hotel) - Wed 6th Oct trade associations also.

Tutor: Tony Hynes - All-Star Transport Business Person of the Year 2021 “Supply chain 35 Years Successfully Delivering The Transport Management CPC snobbery” is sometimes evident “This course changed my life” Gary D. between the upper “Tony made this course very easy” John O’B. end of planning, purchasing and “Outstanding course” Laura C. the lower end of delivering service.

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44 44 | FINANCE

Addressing the Truck Driver Crisis

Working in the Irish Transport industry for many years, I have a very clear understanding of the responsibilities and hard work of all employees in the sector, especially drivers, whose wages do not reflect the effort, unsociable work environment, ongoing training and compliance requirements that are now an element of the job. From a career that had little pressure and had the ability to work extra hours to increase earnings, the modern driver is now monitored continuously, with constant communication to base, both verbally and by text. Increased road congestion and customer expectations make the occupation ever more difficult.

In addition, the status of the job has slipped further and further down the pecking order, and while it was recognised by some as crucial during the early months of the pandemic, it soon slipped from recognition again.

Other factors include an increased cost to enter the profession, while motorways have a lack of the basic rest/stop-over areas provided for the driver forced into overnight stops.

The biggest motivator for workers is money, One can sugar everything else up, but at the end of the day the wage in the pocket is what matters.

All employees expect a uniform wage for similar work done by others in the company, but paying wage rises without linking these increases to employee performance is unproductive and results in the best performers leaving long term FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPT-OCT 21

and others setting a lower performance norm.

Legal experts may state that one cannot create performance benchmarks such as kilometres driven in a period, but one can link wages and bonuses to productivity (such as units delivered), deliveries without damage, overall score of driver performance (fuel/braking etc), and link bonuses to driver communication and feedback. A standard wage sets the norm of performance at a mediocre level. Any wage increase does not materially effect this norm, it may attract good people into the business but quickly they fall into the groups routine. Getting and retaining even poor drivers is difficult but it’s still worthwhile creating a good work environment and a remuneration system based on rewarding the best to help to retain a good team.

A standard wage and a fair and well-constructed bonus scheme allows those who are motivated able to earn more for themselves and achieve more for their employers. Unproductive waiting time can be reduced by drivers liaising with office and customers in a manner that will speed up the process.

Better utilisation of assets is the responsibility of owners, transport managers and also drivers who see where issues arise in the actual performance of tasks. Along with substantial wage inflation, haulage firms are faced with the vast majority of other costs also increasing, but thanks to industry associations and additional in-cab telematics, the insurance cost spiral has been levelled. With the implementation of modern cameras, the level of road accidents where liability has

been found to rest with the haulier have dramatically decreased, demonstrating the skill and compliance of the professional driver. The driver has to have the common sense to undertake his/her work in a safe manner, reporting areas of concern, and the owner needs to review all aspects of safety within his/ her workplace.

The driver and loading staff have a huge job to play in risk assessment of loads carried. The attitude of ‘it should be okay’ will only result in short term gains but potential longer term insurance and legal claims. ‘Accidents do not happen by accident’, is a truism in that the majority of incidents are the result of human error or omission, which, when combined with speed/ road conditions/weather often result in accidents.

Drivers obviously have a crucial role to play in the business. Whether they are the biggest asset or biggest nightmare is a factor of management and the remuneration system. The most profitable hauliers pay their workers high wages but link it to productivity which means paying a staff a professional salary for a professional job done.

There is no doubt that the recruitment and retention of drivers will be an ongoing issue, but wage rates, driver conditions, job recognition, equipment and productivity plus team building have all significant effects on the overall job satisfaction of the professional driver. Finally, two simple old fashioned items, which are manners and common sense by other road users, would make the life of the HGV driver so much easier and safer.

Text: Donal Dempsey – donal@fleet.ie

Membership Be Compliant, Be Confident, Be Connected

FTA Ireland is a representative trade association for the freight distribution logistics and passenger sector.

Through representation and the provision of the highest standards of advice, services and training, our aim is to be the most admired and influential transport and logistics membership trade association in Ireland.

Benefits of Membership

Our membership package provides you with the tools to keep your operation safe, efficient and compliant. As an FTA Ireland member, we also champion your best interests when it comes to new transport policies. You’ll find membership benefits you in the following ways: Saves you time – expert advice and guidance from our MAC (Member Advice Centre) and Tachograph Support service Saves you money – up to 15% member discounts on training and consultancy services Vehicle Inspection Services – independent roadworthiness inspections and reporting Increases your operation’s efficiency – achievement of the TruckSafe Standard demonstrates compliance and sustainable operations Sustainability – sign up to the Enprova ECOFleet programme and avail of funding Gives you peace of mind – be confident in your compliance with our support and guidance services Keeps you informed of the latest industry developments

Membership of FTA Ireland has helped us identify and implement systems that improve compliance and safety standards throughout our fleet. What’s more, it affords us the opportunity to network with other members and keep up to date with legislation and technological advances impacting on our daily operations.

Barry Daly, SHEQ Manager & DGSA South Coast Logistics

Be Compliant

Keep ahead of new legislation, implement best practice and utilise extensive information and advice. Our position in, and depth of knowledge of the logistics industry allows us to inform, advise and support organisations across our diverse membership base.

Be Confident

Access extensive expertise and useful member tools to give your organisation the edge enabling you to surround yourself with industry leading information and guidance.

Be Connected

Forge new industry connections and help shape the future of logistics in Ireland. Our events, collaborative councils and working groups are made up of members and industry experts and cover a wide range of sectors and topics. By attending our quarterly Council meetings and getting involved in our Working Groups members can gain access to detailed information, networking opportunities and have their views heard and amplified at a regional, national and European level.

Your membership will also play a key role in raising the standards of excellence and in promoting best practice across all sectors of the transport and logistics sectors.

Achievement of the TruckSafe Green Standard at Silver and Gold levels will demonstrate to enforcement authorities, customers and the general public that you are compliant with minimum legal and operational standards.

Through the ‘Green Cert’ it also facilitates a path to achieve sustainable operations through efficient fuel management and continuous professional development.

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has achie ved the Gold TruckSaf reaching e Standard our minim um stand systems in ards of comp in recognition of place, whic liance and h include policies and with activ environm procedur e entally susta es. inable

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Signed

Aidan Flynn General Mana ger

Certified Green: an active mem to improve ber of FTAI its energy EC ECOfleet perfroman programm ce and redu e, committed ce emissions year on year.

Contact us today for further information. T: 01 8447516 E: info@ftai.ie W: www.ftai.ie

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cover | 49

49

New Irizar ie truck electric enters production

Energy efficiency, safety, accessibility, versatility and environmental benefits are some of the most significant attributes that define this vehicle.

Following successful urban field tests, interest in and take up of the all-new Irizar ie truck electric vehicle across Europe has led the Spanish coachbuilder to commence production of the innovative municipal specified truck earlier than expected.

Significant orders have come in from operators in Switzerland, Germany and Austria to date.

The Irizar ie truck is 100% electric, silent and environmentally friendly. It has been developed jointly with FCC Medio Ambiente, a company that has provided urban services for more than 110 years. It meets different market trends and needs, facilitating operators to circulate through cities and urban environments without generating air or noise pollution, which results in a cleaner city and a more sustainable environment for citizens. ie truck is a 100% electric truck with 26-tonne gross weight, 6x2 three-axle chassis configuration. As per Irizar’s coach range, it will be equipped with a lithium-ion battery pack, with a capacity of 340 kWh. It can be speed charged through a Combo 2 charging socket in 3.5 hours. Irizar’s ie truck can be used in unlimited applications, both for waste collection and for urban distribution tasks.

Equipped with technology developed by the Irizar Group, the ie truck has electronic stability control (ESP), adaptive suspension levelling and emergency braking assistance (AEBS) for optimum safety in operation. It also integrates a camera and a front radar sensor that allow lane departure detection (LDWS).

The low cab design, with single accessible step of 370 mm, provides a safe transit to the driver and

passengers. Similar to a coach build, the pneumatic tilting door fitted towards the interior of the vehicle, allows the transit of workers in the face of any type of obstacle on the streets. The cabin also has folding seats for the passengers, enabling an obstacle-free corridor.

One of the big advantages of the low cab is that it enables unsurpassed direct vision conditions thanks to the low seat position, wide frontal area, and side and door windows. Particularly so, in this case, instead of rear-view mirrors, the vehicle features twin digital cameras that will project their images on the screens located within the driving position, optimising driver visibility.

Without a doubt, the Irizar ie truck is one more example of the Irizar Group’s ability to adapt to market needs by providing new alternatives for cities with low-emission zones, which will contribute to sustainability and create more liveable cities.

Already an award winning concept, ie truck was the winner of the World Smart City Awards in the Innovative Idea category, at the Smart City Expo World Congress 2019. It also obtained an award in the Product and/or Service category at the 2019-2020 European Business Awards for the Environment (EBAE) for project Development of High Efficiency, Modular & Self-supporting Electric Traction Vehicular Platforms for Urban Services. And this year it has been awarded the Ecological Industrial Vehicle of the Year 2021 in Spain, an award granted by the Editec Group. www.fleet.ie

50 | NEWS

50

Schmitz Cargobull puts its trust in the UK & Ireland markets

There is no resting on its laurels at Schmitz Cargobull. As Europe’s leading manufacturer of semi-trailers, the German company is continuously investing further. The opening of a new factory in Manchester to build customised vehicles for UK and Irish operators has resulted in a number of key appointments having been made.

In addition, ‘Schmitz’ has been further recognised with additional awards, adding to its already bulging trophy cabinet.

Production at the 7,500 sq m facility in Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester commenced this summer with a capacity of 50 units per week including freepost curtainsiders and box van semi-trailers.

The site at the Southmoor Industrial Estate, will also contain a 1,000 sq.m. spare parts warehouse for local supply and by the end of this year will become the main base for the complete Schmitz Cargobull UK team. Managing Directors of Schmitz Cargobull UK are jointly Paul Avery for operations and Alan Hunt for the sales and service activities.

Andreas Schmitz, Chief Executive Officer at Schmitz Cargobull, commented on the restoration of trailer production in England: “The UK is a key transport and logistics market and an important semi-trailer and rigid truck market for us.

With the new plant we are moving closer to our customers and ensuring that we can address their needs offering the most reliable chassis and a proven local body.”

Up and until 2010, Schmitz Cargobull had a manufacturing facility located at Harelaw, County Durham. The new operation joins an extensive Schmitz Cargobull production network including German facilities in Vreden, Altenberge, FLEETTRAILER&BODYBUILDER | AUTUMN 2021

Gotha and Toddin, as well as bases in Lithuania, Russia, Spain, Turkey and Australia.

Boris Billich, Director of Sales at Schmitz Cargobull, added: “We want to support transport companies in the UK and Ireland in a best possible way with our comprehensive range of reliable and innovative transport solutions. This includes vehicles with market-specific features, shortest possible 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.”

With a network of highly flexible production plants, Schmitz Cargobull is able to quickly respond to local market requirements and currently produces around 46,000 trailers on an annual basis. The family-owned business is synonymous with reliability and innovation and guarantees consistently high quality standards across its global operations, from vehicle configuration to handover to the customer. Its aftercare sales support is based on an authorised network of 1,700 workshops located across the UK, Ireland and in Europe.

Following this announcement Schmitz Cargobull UK & Ireland made three strategic appointments to its sales team ahead of production starting at its new UK factory. Stephen Mallett, whose career with the manufacturer began

27 years ago and has included roles in production, engineering, operations and sales, has been promoted to Head of Sales with a remit to focus on business development. He is joined by two new sales managers, Lee Roberton, who is looking after customers in the South East of England, and Kevin Wynd whose role centres on Scotland, Northern Ireland and North East England.

Meanwhile, Schmitz Cargobull scored a double victory in the Image Awards ‘Best Brand’ accolades in the Trailer category and also achieved top rankings for its cooling units and tippers.

It won the “Best Brand” award in both the refrigerated box body and curtainsider semi-trailer categories, voted by almost 7,700 readers of the “Fernfahrer”, “lastauto omnibus” and “trans aktuell” trade publications in Germany.

“Winning the award in both categories is an outstanding result, and it fills us with pride. We would like to thank our customers for their trust in us

and see this as a clear signal to continue working on our portfolio of reliable and innovative products and services. The awards also acknowledge the dedication of our employees from research and development to production and sales.

We are very pleased to receive these awards”, stated Andreas Schmitz, at the award ceremony.

Schmitz Cargobull’s in-house development team took second place in the Cooling Units category, repeating the success of the previous years.

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52 | LAUNCH PAD

52

Kögel Trailers, the German manufacturer that currently ranks #3 in the European marketplace will be highlighting interesting new products from its portfolio at the 7th Nufam trade fair from 30th September to 3rd October 2021.

In recent years, Kögel established a market presence in the UK through Trans UK and is currently negotiating with interested parties to introduce the company’s product range to Ireland.

Examples such as the Kögel Euro Trailer from the NOVUM generation, the Kögel Cool - PurFerro quality and the advanced Kögel Telematics system will be promoted. Kögel will also present its attractive Full Service package, which offers an individually customisable portfolio of services for maximum flexibility and complete control over fleet management costs.

In addition, Kögel will feature its lightweight tipper trailer. Compared to its steel counterparts, this Kögel tipper that comes with a thermal tipper body, weighs significantly less, thanks to a clever mix of steel and aluminium, made possible by bolted technology, which enables a considerable reduction in tare weight. Low tare weight reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

High user-friendliness is also a key feature of the Kögel Cool - PurFerro FLEETTRAILER&BODYBUILDER | AUTUMN 2021

quality. The freezer box trailer has been adapted to the special market requirements of transporting fresh foods, frozen foods and pharmaceutical products, and can be further adapted to any customer requirement, thanks to numerous special equipment options. The Kögel Cool can be made even lighter and safer with optional lightweight construction elements, as well as with the three functional lights on the gantry and the LED strips on the interior. This provides increased protection for drivers and load, and the loading process is made easier and clearer.

A further benefit for the efficient use of Kögel Cool is provided by Kögel Telematics. Thanks to the CoolTrailer telematics package, which combines the PosControl, TrailerControl, EBSControl and TempControl services, the Kögel trailer telematics module sends data, such as the trailer’s position in real time, the coupling status, the EBS data, the room temperature, the refrigeration unit’s operating mode, and parametrised setpoints, to the Kögel Telematics web portal. What’s more, the Kögel Telematics Connectivity database not only allows forwarding companies to display all the data acquired in the Kögel Telematics web portal and other fleet management systems, but also to import it into existing processes and a host of software systems in real time.

In the outdoor area, Kögel will exhibit

two further innovations designed for sustainability in goods transport. These are the Port 45 Triplex container chassis, which won the “European Transport Award for Sustainability 2020”, and the Euro Trailer of the NOVUM generation.

While the lightweight Euro Trailer NOVUM consumes less fuel per trip, with 10% more loading volume and space for up to four additional pallets, depending on the body variant, the Kögel Port 45 Triplex is one of the lightest container chassis on the market. With a low tare weight of only 4,500 kg in the basic version and 4,360 kg with special equipment, it guarantees maximum cost-efficiency in intermodal transport and is suitable for transporting all conventional container types.

Finally, Kögel offers optional, flexible full-service solutions with its Full Service package. Road Transport operators can keep fixed costs under control, thanks to affordable monthly rates. Ongoing maintenance work is taken on by one of many Kögel contracted repair workshops in Europe. The Full Service package includes all service tasks required and recommended by Kögel, according to the maintenance check list, including any spares, wear parts and materials required to complete them. Additional individual Full Service offers are also available and in combination with Kögel’s attractive leasing and hire purchase contracts.

Text: Rob Van Dieten – rob@fleet.ie

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54 | PREMIERE

54

Leading specialist temperature controlled and bespoke trailer manufacturer Gray & Adams showcased its quality and commitment to sustainable innovation with the new Vector eCool at this year’s Temperature Controlled Storage & Distribution (TCS&D) Show in Peterborough. With sustainability and greener solutions as a strong focus across the whole automotive sector, this innovation offers an interesting carbon-beating solution to an industry-wide problem.

The carbon-reducing Vector eCool trailer has a range of impressive features and technology. Through close collaboration and a special partnership with Carrier Transicold, the businesses worked together to collectively bring the first ever fully electric trailer to the roads in 2021. The product has already been a big success story for the close partnership between Carrier Transicold and Gray FLEETTRAILER&BODYBUILDER | AUTUMN 2021

Gray & Adams showcases carbon-beating Vector eCool

& Adams, with many road transport operators across the UK having already trialed and tested the vehicle as part of a robust trailer demonstrator programme.

Built into a dual temperature, twin member trailer with a tail lift, the Vector eCool utilises a new energy recovery and storage system which converts kinetic energy generated by the trailer axle and brakes into electricity, which is then stored in a battery pack that powers the refrigeration unit. This loop creates a fully autonomous system which produces no direct carbon dioxide and doesn’t require any modification to the tractor unit or the fitting of expensive eco-drives and PTO’s.

Suitable for operation with the engineless versions of the Carrier Transicold Vector HE 19 and Vector 1550 E, the Vector eCool tri-axle trailer features aerodynamic cappings to reduce drag, while bespoke sideguards allow access to the battery system and offers protection to cyclists and other vulnerable road users. Even with the axle generator and battery pack, it is lighter than a standard diesel unit with a full tank of fuel.

Carrier Transicold has been working in close partnership with Gray & Adams on the design of the Vector eCool trailer to maximise the environmental benefits of the system. Where traditional belt-driven systems suffer a loss of up to 40% kilowatts cooling power when converting electrical energy into their

required mechanical drive, the Carrier E-Drive ensures the eCool has consistent, efficient cooling power and pull-down speeds whether operating on battery power or when plugged into the mains grid. The system has been designed to help customers improve fleet sustainability and future proof their operations – particularly when considering the tightening restrictions and regulations relating to Low Emission Zones and urban operations.

“We have a special relationship with Carrier; working so closely with them to bring the Vector eCool to the UK has been really exciting,” said Peter Gray, Joint Managing Director, Gray & Adams.

He continued: “Our design teams have seamlessly integrated the axle, braking and battery systems that make up the eCool into a trailer that has the potential to completely change the face of refrigerated transport and will help the industry to move forward into a more sustainable future.”

“As a family business with more almost 65 years’ experience in the industry, we work hard to attract and retain the best industry talent. Our specialist teams, from our design engineers to our sales professionals, are one of the reasons that our customers come back to work with us, time and again,” concluded Peter.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

PREVIEW | 55

55

2021

30 September - 2 October 2021

Harrogate Convention Centre

TANK-EX/TIP-EX 2021 - Rolls into Harrogate one more time

Harrogate, the North Yorkshire town best known for its local mineral water springs and health spas, once again extends a warm welcome to a more business oriented visitor for the regular Tip-Ex/Tank-Ex Show, held as usual at the Harrogate Convention Centre. Inside, its halls will be wall-to-wall full of exhibitors (100+), all demonstrating the latest in bulk road transport.

As well as the four busy halls, the areas around the Convention Centre will also be occupied by

VOLVO FMX

exhibitors within the adjacent Majestic Lawns and nearby street parking spots.

However, there will be a touch of nostalgia to the 2021 event, set for 30 September to 2 October, as it says farewell to Harrogate.

The Tip-Ex/Tank-Ex event is to be incorporated into the new Road Transport Expo 2022 (RTX), taking place at Stoneleigh Park from 30 June - 2 July 2022.

Among the application providers present at Tip-Ex/ Tank-Ex 2021 (at the time of going to press) include: Trucks:

DAF Trucks, Iveco, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, Renault Trucks, Volvo Trucks

VAN HOOL

Tipper Bodies: AliWeld, Abba Commercials, Marshall Truck

Bodies, Thompson Group, Wilcox Tankers:

Feldbinder, Tankquip, Sayers Road Tankers, Crossland Tankers, Van Hool, Just Tankers, Meller, Magyar

Trailers:

Crick Trailer Sales (Dennison), Laurence David ( Wielton), Stas, Martrans

Tyres & Wheels: Continental, Bandvulc, Alcoa Wheels,

Wheely-Safe, GiTi Tyres

STAS BULK Tipper www.fleet.ie

56 | AWARDS

56

Thermo King & Schmitz Cargobull win ‘Best Brand’ ETM Awards *Germany’s largest commercial vehicle readers’ choice awards Transport temperature control solutions provider Thermo King, and Europe’s #1 trailer manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull were among the winners of the ETM ‘Best Brand 2021’ Awards.

Thermo King has won this title in the ‘Refrigeration Units’ category for a record 17th consecutive year, while Schmitz Cargobull took both titles in the Trailer category and also achieved top rankings for cooling units and tipper.

Organized by the ETM Verlag publication house together with DEKRA, one of the world’s leading expert organisations, readers of lastauto omnibus, trans aktuell, FERNFAHRER and eurotransport.de voted in 25 categories for the “Best Brand” award, along with the “Best Truck”, “Best Van” and “Best Bus” awards.

“Since the onset of the pandemic, refrigerated fleets have proven their essential services repeatedly as they work to fill escalating demands for fresh and frozen perishables from supermarkets, distribution centres, convenience stores, pharmacies and more,” said Francesco Incalza, President of Thermo King Europe, Middle East & Africa on hearing the good news.

“Winning this award for a 17th consecutive year is astonishing and recognises that the great efforts of our teams during these times were impactful and uplifting. That ranged from the way that our people in our manufacturing plants managed to continue operating, to how all of our people and dealers continued to keep the customer front of mind.”

“This award proves that Thermo King remains true to who we are – a leader innovating for our customers and our FLEETTRAILER&BODYBUILDER | AUTUMN 2021

communities,” added Jorge Estelle Caro, Regional Director for Central & Northern Region at Thermo King. “Throughout the recent difficult times, we have stayed close to the customers, listened to their needs and helped them deal with many new challenges and demanding requirements brought by the pandemic on the cold chain logistics industry.”

“Our products and services have helped customers transporting COVID-19 blood plasma trials and vaccines, distributing critical products such as life-saving medicines and food to those in need,” continued Jorge Caro. “We also continued to innovate and introduce new and customised products, always keeping our sustainability commitments a priority, meeting customers’ needs with products that are having a positive impact on the climate.

We are truly thankful to the voters for their continuous trust and recognising Thermo King as the leading brand in our industry.”

The 7,700 readers’ decision was clear: Schmitz Cargobull won the ‘Best Brand’ award for both refrigerated box body and curtainsider semi-trailer categories.

According to Andreas Schmitz, Chairman of the Board of Schmitz Cargobull AG, speaking at the award ceremony, Europe’s leading trailer manufacturer has cemented its top ranking in terms of customer recognition: “Winning the award in both categories is an outstanding result, and it fills us with pride. We would like to thank our customers for their trust in us and

see this as a clear signal to continue working on our portfolio of reliable and innovative products and services. The awards also acknowledge the dedication of our employees from research and development to production and sales.

We are very pleased to receive these awards.”

Schmitz Cargobull’s in-house development team took second place in the Cooling Units category, repeating the success of the previous years. “The Schmitz Cargobull S.CU transport cooling unit is one of the best performing cooling units on the market, having already sold over 15,000 units. With its intelligent control system and data recording, combined with the web-based monitoring system and unique proactive service management, we can provide reliable temperature-controlled transport. We are also targeting first place with our transport cooling units,” continued Andreas.

Text: Rob Van Dieten – rob@fleet.ie

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AUTUMN 2021

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

Application phase underway for IFOY AWARDs 2022 *The search is on for the best intralogistics products and system solutions Which new products and solutions are among the best in intralogistics? As of now, suppliers of new products can once again apply for the International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year (IFOY AWARDs). There are a total of 13 categories to choose from for 2022, covering almost all areas of application in intralogistics.

For the tenth round of the worldwide competition, the VDMA’s (Mechanical Engineering Industry Association) Robotics + Automation Association (R + A) has joined as the sponsor for the “Robot” category. The VDMA Association for Materials Handling & Intralogistics has supported the IFOY AWARD since the beginning of the competition. “We are delighted about this new cooperation. The past rounds of the IFOY AWARD have shown that the importance of the Robot category has increased continuously. Robotics is considered one of the great pacemakers in the digitalisation of intralogistics,” emphasised jury chairwoman Anita Würmser.

“Robotics is the future. In the smart factory, production and logistics are growing ever closer together and robots are taking over more and more monotonous tasks - from container stacking, picking and palletising to goods transport. In addition to robots, forklifts, warehouse technology equipment and special vehicles, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), shuttles, cargo bicycles, drones, cranes, software and apps as well as successfully implemented, holistic warehouse concepts are also eligible to apply.”

In addition, outstanding technical details or components are awarded, such as ergonomic innovations, safety solutions or automation components. In the category “Start-up of the Year”, newly founded companies with innovative prototypes or functional developments can apply for an IFOY AWARD again this year.

The deadline for applications is October 30, 2021. Applications can only be submitted via the Internet at www.ifoy.org. The conditions of participation can be requested from the IFOY office.

The International Intralogistics and Forklift Truck of the Year (IFOY AWARD) has established itself as an indicator of cost-effectiveness and innovation and is considered the definitive innovation award in intralogistics due to its technical expertise.

The jury, which includes the editors-in-chief of leading international logistics media, with Fleet Transport & Handling Network representing Ireland, makes its decisions independently,

according to transparent criteria and on the basis of professional expertise. The basis of the decision is the three-stage audit.

The products and solutions nominated for the final undergo individually tailored driving or functional tests, including the IFOY test protocol comprising around 80 criteria as well as the scientific IFOY Innovation Check, on the occasion of the IFOY TEST DAYS in March 2022 at the Dortmund exhibition centre.

The decisive factor is that the nominees are not compared with each other, but with their competitive products on the market.

In addition, jurors and their teams of advisors from the business world travel to assess the finalists themselves before casting their vote.

At a glance: IFOY AWARD categories 2022 1. Counter Balanced Truck up to 3.5 tonnes 2. Counter Balanced Truck from 3.51 tonnes 3. Heavy Load Forklift: Container stackers, heavy-duty forklifts with more than 8 tonnes 4. Special Vehicle: Forklifts and vehicles for special tasks, special vehicle manufacturing, drones, cargobikes, truck-mounted forklifts 5. Warehouse Truck ‘highlifter’: Materials handling equipment from the 2nd rack level, such as high-bay trucks, VNA trucks or reach trucks, pedestrian-controlled highlift trucks, order-picking trucks, etc.

6. Warehouse Truck ‘lowlifter’: Materials handling equipment up to 1st rack level, such as pedestrian-controlled lowlift trucks, lift trucks, tow tractors, tugger trains, order-picking trucks, etc.

7. Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV): Shuttle (systems), driverless transport systems, automated/partially automated materials handling equipment in the context of the application options 8. Robot: Robots or robot-based solutions for intralogistic applications (picking robots, palletising and depalletising robots, cobots, robots for automatic unloading and loading of trucks, etc.)

9. Intralogistics Software: Apps and intralogistics system or software solutions in the context of the application options, such as warehouse management systems, truck guidance systems, advanced driver assistance systems, fleet management systems, etc.

10. Integrated Warehouse Solution: A warehouse concept that has been successfully implemented at the customer’s location 11. Special of the Year: Components or technical details that significantly improve economics or environment, the physical or psychological conditions of the user, such as ergonomic innovations, safety assistant solutions, automation solutions, drive technology, forklift attachments, etc.

12. Crane and Lifting Appliance: Cranes for various applications, like bridge and gantry cranes, wall travelling cranes, jib cranes, overhead monorail cranes, light cranes, etc. Lifting appliances like chain hoists and rope hoists, winches, magnet lifters, vacuum lifters, lifting platforms and mobile elevating work platforms etc 13. Start-up: The trophy is awarded to innovative prototypes or functional developments (intralogistics products, software, vehicles or components) of newly founded companies.

ADDING GREEN TO FUTURE LOGISTICS

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contents AUTUMN 2021

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

Volume MMXX Issue 1 59 COVER

Entries open for IFOY 2022 Awards

64 AWARDS

Presentations of the IFOY 2021 Awards

62 NEWS

TCS&D teams up with ITT Hub for 2022

Major contract for Momentum

66 LAUNCH PAD

New developments from Toyota Materials Handling

& Jungheinrich

63 WAREHOUSING

Beneficial advice from Combilift & Aisle Master

69 SUPPLY CHAIN

Looking back on 2021 to date

Safety Storage Efficiency Manage your logistics more safely and more productively using less space with Combilift’s materials handling solutions • • • • •

Safer product handling Optimised production space Improved storage capacity Increased productivity & output Enhanced profits

combilift.com WLN Liz Logistic heavy A5 rev 1.3.indd 1

Published by:

Fleet Publications, D’Alton Street,

Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland F12 E7P2

Editor:

Jarlath Sweeney – jarlath@fleet.ie

Contributors:

Howard Knott, Rob van Dieten

Advertising:

Mary Morrissey

Administration:

Orla Sweeney

Design & Layout: Crackerjack Design House Contact Details: Telephone: 00353 94 9372826

Email: handlingnetwork@fleet.ie

07/01/2021 12:53:24

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.

www.handling-network.com

61

AUTUMN 2021

news

TCS&D joins ITT Hub to launch the Cold Chain Hub for 2022 Following the resounding success of the first edition of ITT Hub, organiser Farnborough International has announced growth plans for 2022. With the addition of cold chain, storage, and distribution set to become an integral sector within the technology in commercial road transport event, the new plans will see the event grow by 20% and attract an additional 2,000 attendees and 50 expert exhibitors.

Taking place at the world-class Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, ITT Hub will utilise an additional 4,000 sqm of indoor exhibition space, which will be developed as the Cold Chain Hub. The newly branded area will be run by the TCS&D (Temperature Controlled Storage and Distribution) Event and will accommodate over 50 establis hed companies in this high value sector of the market.

Through the development of this collaboration, ITT Hub’s expanded positioning within the industry will target additional buyers from the frozen food and pharmaceutical sectors, together with storage and distribution buyers. Leading magazine TCS&D will be the key media title supporting the Cold Chain Hub, with Martyn Cogan, Director, TCS&D managing the stand sales and commercial activities with the

ITT Hub team.

To continue building its portfolio of internationally renowned transportation, aerospace and aviation events, Farnborough International acquired ITT Hub in June 2021 from Binswood Media with the aim to establish the event as the premier platform to spearhead the future of transport and revolutionise the commercial vehicle market. The exhibition will continue to connect businesses from across Europe as the industry transitions to net zero emissions and strives to reach maximum efficiency.

Gareth Rogers, CEO of Farnborough International said: “The entire distribution sector for trailers and cold chain is a hugely significant part of the transport piece. Refrigerated products and technology are advancing at pace, as part of the drive towards decarbonisation of transport. At Farnborough International, we have the space, the team, the expertise and above all, the commitment to bringing the entire commercial road-based transport sector to ITT Hub. “The inaugural ITT Hub was a fantastic success and this innovative partnership between ITT Hub and TCS&D is just the first step in our strategy to make it the number one event in the UK for this sector. Given the level of interest in exhibitor

re-bookings for next year, we know that the market will see this as a very positive move, as we support the industry to create a fantastic showcase to be proud of.”

Martyn Cogan, Director of TCS& D, added: “I am so excited about this opportunity. As an established family business, we have a long history in this market, and we look forward to hosting our companies, supporters and industry colleagues at this world-class venue. We will be able to use our expertise in the sector coupled with the much larger venue team to create a pioneering showcase for the industry.

“We are aiming to bring back the ever popular ‘TCS&D Trade Dinner’ to the first evening of the show, creating an event which takes us to another level. It’s a great opportunity for the entire industry to support this collaboration and I can’t wait to get started.”

Following the 2021 event, taking place at the East of England Arena near Peterborough on the 7-8 September 2021, the 2022 TCS&D Show will be integrated into ITT Hub, running on an annual basis. The first TCS&D event was established by Richard Cogan back in 1981 and has a strong reputation, attracting over 1500 visitors over two days.

Momentum Support secures significant cleaning service contract with St James’s Hospital

Momentum Support has worked with St James’s Hospital since 2003.

The company’s cleaning operatives are fully trained to provide high-quality daily cleaning services for a hospital environment. On a daily basis, Momentum Support staff liaise closely with the hospital’s Infection Prevention and Control team to receive a full briefing on the wards, theatres and waiting areas that require urgent attention.

Services that will be supplied by Momentum Support under the contract include comprehensive daily cleaning of the hospital, window cleaning, project works, grounds maintenance, as well as services relating to pest control and feminine hygiene.

Commenting on the new contract, Ian Anderson, Group Chief Operating Officer, Momentum Support, said: “It

is extremely gratifying to have renewed our contract with St James’s Hospital.

As one of the largest and busiest hospitals in the country, there is an ongoing requirement for specialised cleaning services across the hospital campus. I believe our success in winning this contract speaks to our expertise and excellent track record in the healthcare sector. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the hospital staff, as we work to maintain a clean and hygienic environment for them and their patients.”

Aidan Turley, Director of Facilities at St James’s Hospital added: “St James’s Hospital is pleased to continue its partnership with Momentum Support.

Now more than ever, hygiene is critical and it is important to have a trusted partner that can provide this service in a busy hospital environment.”

Soft services company, Momentum Support, has renewed its partnership with St James’s Hospital, Dublin to provide and deliver specialist cleaning services. The six-year contract is valued at approximately €6 million per annum and will create up to 20 full-time jobs.

The contract, regarded as one of the most prestigious healthcare cleaning contracts in the country, was secured following a stringent and competitive tendering process.

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www.handling-network.com

AUTUMN 2021

news I warehousing

‘Incorporating sustainable warehousing practices can reap many benefits’ The warehouse is more than just a place to store raw materials and finished products; it’s a competitive asset that can help meet long-term financial and environmental goals. Incorporating sustainable warehousing practices can reap many benefits, as outlined by Combilift.

sustainable goals, they usually favour purchasing and supporting businesses that are making a conscious effort to embrace purpose-driven initiatives.

Therefore, adopting a granular perspective of customer sustainability expectations and enforcing eco-friendly practices will not only help to attract new customers but will also help retain existing ones.

3 Improve Overall Productivity

Inefficient use of warehouse space can lead to unnecessary operational costs, land usage and labour expenses.

However, by investing in a sustainable design and maximising the warehouse’s interior capacity used to store raw materials or finished products, it can reduce operational costs over the lifetime of the warehouse.

Increasing cube utilisation by constructing narrower aisles and taller pallet racks is one of the most efficient ways to do this and to get the most out of warehouse space. As the business grows and develops, it also will help to avoid relocating or constructing a larger facility that would inevitably increase the warehouse footprint.

Going green in the workplace can also increase productivity as it provides a far more pleasant working environment for employees, enhancing their motivation and contentment. Staff are more likely to work diligently and improve efficiency when working for an organisation that share their ideals and values. Therefore, companies that invest in sustainable initiatives foster a culture that is desired by focusing on and offering value to society.

Giving employees a voice in presenting their ideas for how the organisation can become more environmentally friendly can also boost productivity by instilling a sense of belonging and responsibility to help and make a difference for the community. Not only will sustainable business practices empower current employees, but it can also help to attract the calibre of people to become part of the business.

2 Meet Customers’ Expectations

4 Maximise the Quality of Production & Products

Incorporating sustainable warehousing practices is more than an environmental gesture; customers expect businesses to operate in an ecologically and socially responsible manner, and it is often a deciding factor in their purchasing decisions. In addition, for customers to reach their own

Maximising the quality of production and products is a significant incentive to become a sustainable warehouse. One approach to do this is to adopt ‘Lean Manufacturing’. The quality of production and products is strengthened by eliminating non-value-added operations, detecting defects

1 Minimise the Warehouse Footprint

along with processes, resolving them, and preventing them in the future. This reduces waste which can be in the form of human effort, unnecessary materials, or any action that consumes time or space.

Eliminating operations that obstruct the process of maximising quality is of utmost importance. This aids in the development of environmentally sustainable practices by identifying adverse environmental impacts prior to them occurring. Implementing frequent check-ins and follow-ups is critical to maintaining the highest levels of quality. This would not only reduce costs by getting rid of needless materials, but it would also contribute to a cleaner and more environmentally responsible brand image.

5 Reduce Your Operational Costs Developing a more sustainable warehouse makes economic sense in reducing operational expenses. The costs may appear significant initially, however the payback is far greater in the long run. Take solar panels, for example; while they may be expensive at the time of purchase, they will save money on utility bills in the long term.

Harvesting rainwater for use in various areas of an organisation, such as the bathrooms, can also lower costs by reducing the amount of freshwater required.

Employing renewable energy sources can prove to be very worthwhile and a good investment.

Nonetheless, not all adjustments made to your warehouse must be costly; every small change can make a considerable difference in conserving energy and reducing pollutants. Saving paper by printing on both sides or switching off lights when they are not in use adds up and can make a difference in protecting the environment and saving money. www.handling-network.com

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AUTUMN 2021

awards

IFOY AWARDS 2021 honour winners in six categories Cargotec Ireland, the Dundalk based manufacturer of the MOFFETT truck-mounted forklift range, was among the six winners of the prestigious annual International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year.

The awards ceremony, which took place for the first time at the German Football Museum in Dortmund, honoured arculus, idealworks, Interroll Group, STILL, VOLUME Lagersysteme and Cargotec.

Deemed as the “Oscars of intralogistics” - the IFOY AWARD is the most important intralogistics awards programme in the world, as explained by the organisation’s Chairwoman Anita Würmser. “In 2021, fourteen international companies entered seventeen products and solutions in this the ninth round of the award.”

“The winners of the IFOY AWARDs 2021 have once again demonstrated that businesses can be innovative and forward-thinking even in persistent pandemic times and bring top products to the market that have a significant effect on the future of intralogistics,” she emphasised.

Cargotec Ireland won its first IFOY AWARD in the ‘Special Vehicle’ category with its second generation MOFFETT E4-25.3NX, the world’s first fully electric truck-mounted forklift.

According to the jury, the emission-free and low-noise truck is unique in its class. It has three-wheel drive as well as numerous safety features and convinced the jury in the IFOY test on multiple levels, including its economic efficiency and high performance.

64

www.handling-network.com

The winner in the ‘Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)’ category was the BMW subsidiary idealworks with its autonomous mobile robot (AMR) the iw.hub. Originally developed for in-house use, the AMR is now freely available on the market and can be implemented very easily in just two days without any structural adjustments. It set an example at the IFOY TEST DAYS with its flexibility and other features, also scoring points with its competitive price.

In the ‘Special of the Year’ category, the Smart Pallet Mover (SPM) from the Swiss Interroll Group took the honours. This is a new, mobile robot solution for the automation of pallet transport in the areas of production machines and order picking. It convinced testers and the jury not only with its high degree of innovation, but also with an outstanding cost-benefit advantage.

AUTUMN 2021

awards

Arculus won the ‘Intralogistics Software’ category. The independent manufacturer of a fleet management system called arculus Fleet impressed the jury, as it enables the operation of AGVs from different manufacturers in one area via a VDA5050 interface. It also opens up new possibilities for the mixed operation of automated warehouse vehicles, which were unthinkable in practice until not long ago.

In the ‘Integrated Warehouse Solutions’ category, this year’s award went to STILL. The Hamburg based intralogistics company made it to the top step with its Danfoss project. For Danfoss Power Electronics’ new production warehouse, STILL had implemented a perfectly coordinated solution consisting of three automated series industrial trucks, the smart iGo insights tool and the ELOshield safety system for its Danish customer. According to the jury, the project is an impressive example of how automated warehouses will be controlled, monitored and analysed in the future.

No less than five emerging companies qualified for the final round in the ‘Start-up of the Year’ category this year, each offering different innovative solutions. In the end, Volume WAVE from VOLUME Lagersysteme got most votes. The world’s first fully automated pallet shuttle warehouse with individual access to each storage location convinced the jury with its fundamentally new design principle as well as its professional implementation. The scientists and engineers on the adjudication panel described the extremely space-saving solution in the IFOY Innovation Check as ‘impressive’.

The International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year (IFOY) AWARD recognises the best intralogistics products and solutions of the year. It has established itself as an indicator

of cost effectiveness and innovation and is regarded as the leading innovation award in intralogistics due to its technical expertise. The basis for the decision is the three-stage audit consisting of the IFOY test protocol with around 80 criteria, the scientific IFOY Innovation Check and the jury test. The most important detail is that the nominees are not compared with each other, but with their competitors’ products on the market.

At the IFOY TEST DAYS held in March at the Messe Dortmund exhibition centre, all nominees went through the IFOY test series. For the second year in a row, around 100 potential buyers were also on site at the TEST CAMP Intralogistics. The winners of the IFOY AWARDs are chosen annually by an international jury of trade journalists, from countries all over the world, including Ireland, represented by Fleet Transport/Handling Network magazine.

The IFOY Award is sponsored by the Association for Materials Handling and Intralogistics within the VDMA. IFOY partners are Messe Dortmund and the world’s leading forklift attachment manufacturer Cascade. The IFOY AWARD’s pallet partner is CHEP, the global market leader in the pooling of pallets and containers. The logistics real estate partner is GARBE, the trailer partner is Kögel and the logistics partner is LTG. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

The application phase for the IFOY AWARD 2022 is now underway – log on to www.ifoy.org for more details.

IFOY AWARD: All winners 2021 at a glance: n MOFFETT E4-25.3NX, Cargotec Ireland n iw.hub, idealworks n Smart Pallet Mover (SPM), Interroll Group n arculus Fleet, arculus n Danfoss Project, STILL n Volume WAVE, VOLUME Storage Systems

www.handling-network.com

65

AUTUMN 2021

launch pad I

New reach truck models from Toyota optimise safety and performance levels

Toyota Material Handling Europe has launched the first three models in the new BT Reflex family of reach trucks. The latest models – the high-performance R-series, the E-series (which features Toyota’s iconic and unique tilting cab) and the flexible O-series for inside and outside use - set new standards in safety, efficiency and ergonomics.

The trucks, which are offered with load capacities of between 1.4 and 2.5 tonnes and lift heights of up to 13 metres, feature a host of innovations - including an updated ergonomic operator compartment that optimises safety, performance levels and operator comfort.

Within the operator’s cabin the steering unit with palm support has been refined for enhanced touch sensitivity and feel. Also, a new main control console, positioned to the right-hand side of the driver, helps to make the new BT Reflex models highly intuitive to control - which results in improved throughput speeds and safer working.

Another notable addition within the operator’s area is a new large colour touchscreen display which provides a clear view of critical information and direct access to the truck’s programmable features and functions. Like the main controls, the touchscreen has been designed with ease of operation in mind and its instinctive and interactive functionality guarantees a high level of efficiency.

Of course, driver comfort has not been forgotten and all the new models have the option of a high-quality air suspension seat.

With environmental issues a key design consideration, every model is lithium-ion ready and comes with a choice of three intelligent energy solutions to suit every customer’s application requirements. These solutions are based on Toyota’s own modular lithium-ion battery system and deliver a high degree of operational flexibility. With good charging discipline, even the smallest option will provide the consistent power levels required to allow the trucks to work around the clock – even within the most demanding environments.

All reach trucks from Toyota are connected smart trucks.

Factory-fitted with integrated telematics, they are easy to connect with Toyota’s I_Site fleet management tool. I_Site allows users to measure truck safety and performance and achieve considerable savings in their fleet’s overall running costs.

For the new machines the driver interface has also been improved, with the availability of I_Site features such as

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Smart Access - which allows only authorised operators to start a truck. In addition a Pre-Operational Check tool makes sure that an automated check is carried out by the driver before the beginning of every shift or day.

Toyota has been at the forefront of class-leading reach truck design for over 25 years, during which time the company has brought such innovative features as the iconic tilting cab, transitional lift control and 360° steering to the market.

The latest additions to the BT Reflex range continue the company’s proud history of reach truck innovation, as José María Gener, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Toyota Material Handling Europe, explains: “Providing businesses with high-quality, cost-effective and safe ways to power material handling equipment is of foremost importance, while keeping the environmental impact to a minimum. With these new products, we are reaching new levels in terms of safety, ergonomics and energy efficiency and we will continue to focus on bringing customers sustainable and efficient material handling solutions in the future.”

Safety Safety Storage Storage Efficiency Efficiency Whether you handle lawn & garden

supplies,your building supplies, palletized Manage warehouse logistics moregoods, safely engineered floor, wall and roof structural and more productively using less space with components, Aisle Master. Combilift has the solution with guaranteed improved storage capacity,

•saferSafer product handling product handling and increased productivity.

• Optimised production space • Improved storage capacity • Increased productivity & output • Enhanced profits combilift.com aisle-master.com

www.handling-network.com Aisle Master food and drink half page A5 Liz.indd 1

AUTUMN 2021

launch pad II

The EKS 215a - Innovative automated high lift solution from Jungheinrich

Jungheinrich presented its newest automated guided vehicle (AGV) at its recent virtual trade press INNOVATIONS & HIGHLIGHTS 2021 conference.

The new EKS 215a can independently store loads weighing 700 kilograms at a height of up to six metres and is therefore the ideal solution for the automation of high lift deployment.

The truck is based on a completely new and especially compact AGV chassis and Jungheinrich has also succeeded in reducing the virtual footprint of the EKS 215a significantly thanks to its new protective field concept. This enables the integration of the truck into existing warehouse layouts.

Manual processes can be automated with the new EKS 215a that are currently mainly still carried out with counterbalance and reach trucks. A completely new human-machine interface ensures the particularly intuitive operation of the truck.

“The new EKS 215a is Jungheinrich’s response to numerous customer requests relating to space requirements and possible uses. The truck is more compact, powerful and user-friendly than all before it,” explained Manuela Schmidbauer, product manager responsible for the new EKS 215a at Jungheinrich.

“With a residual load capacity that is 40 percent higher than the previous truck, it is the ideal AGV for automating in-house transport and the storage of pallets in wide aisles.”

A special innovation in the new EKS 215a is its new AGV chassis with its extra compact dimensions. Security scanners are installed below the truck floor to prevent them from being damaged and to save space. At 131 millimetres in length and 85 millimetres in width, Jungheinrich has managed to reduce the physical floor space in the EKS 215a. Nine mast types enable individual solutions for each application and the self-supporting forks increase the versatility when it comes to handling.

The new EKS 215a uses 24-volt technology rather than 48-volt. This results in an energy cost saving of up to 30 percent. Charging processes are automated. A new human-machine interface with touch display offers additional options for interaction between the operator and AGV. The status of the new EKS 215a can be seen immediately at a single glance. In the event of faults, the truck offers a problem description in plain text and additional specific recommendations for action which also enables errors that could previously only be solved by a service technician to be eliminated easily. The human-machine interface may also be used to define or start manual driving orders, which was previously only possible centrally via the control station.

“Jungheinrich offers its customers an extensive and customised solution with its long-standing expertise in automated intralogistics,” added Ms. Schmidbauer. Despite all the new features and although the AGV was developed specifically on the basis of customer requirements, the new EKS 215a is made up of over 90 percent proven Jungheinrich standard components.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.handling-network.com

02/07/2021 15:13:07

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AUTUMN 2021

warehousing II

Forklifts and the Warehouse – Essential, Cost-Saving Advice

Anyone exploring the subject of returning the best possible results from a warehouse will soon discover how the right choice of forklift, combined with the ideal warehouse layout, are essential factors.

With advice from Aisle-Master, these topics are explored and explained further:Why? Simply because the perfect combination of both forklift and layout means maximising warehouse capacity, reducing damage to goods, faster transfer of items from storage to onward transport and – most of all – a workforce who have the right tools and set-up to work at their best.

As part of its broad customer service levels, Aisle-Master, through its sister brand Combilift, provides a warehouse design package that can enable up to 50% extra warehouse capacity through a specialist layout.

How important are forklifts to warehouse efficiency?

Using articulated forklifts in a warehouse increases storage and reduces aisle depth while enhancing efficiency. In particular, electric forklifts are particularly popular in warehouses

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as they help reduce emissions and lower the company’s carbon footprint.

An electric forklift can be utilised across 2-shifts operation by having a spare battery that is easily interchangeable, thus reducing downtime.

How wide are warehouse aisles for forklift use?

This varies on the brand of forklift and depth of load. But a standard counterbalance requires a 4m to 5m aisle, decreasing to a 3m to 3.5m aisle for a reach stalker. But an articulated forklift, for example an Aisle Master very narrow aisle forklift, reduces this to just 1.6m.

How wide should a drive pattern be for driving a forklift in a warehouse?

This will depend on the depth of the load but with an articulated forklift the intersecting aisle would be 2.7m.

What is the best way to control forklift damage in a warehouse?

Using safe, ergonomically-designed forklifts will help reduce product damage. In addition, safety barriers could be added to enhance safety even further.

How much does a forklift weigh?

This with depend on the brand of forklift and application the forklift would be working in, but typically if 4 tonnes are needed to be lifted, a 5 tonne forklift is required.

Creating Results from a warehouse – Proven method unlocks up to 50% increase Would increased warehouse storage capacity mean better bottom line results for your business? Many businesses in Ireland, the UK and worldwide have been using a tried and tested method to drive savings in their warehouse operation by pairing: 1 A Free Facility Planning Service: Provided by the warehousing equipment specialist Combilift, a free review includes racking layout proposals and storage density calculations to create the best possible performance from any warehouse.

Is a forklift manual?

2 The Aisle Master Very Narrow Aisles Articulated Forklift:

Most warehouse forklifts are electric as they are operating indoors with a simple forward and reverse motion – therefore no gears are required.

An ability to work in aisles as narrow as 1.6m and 15m tall means a single multi-purpose truck and faster ‘truck to rack’ operations.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

AUTUMN 2021

supply chain

What has 2021 taught us about our Supply Chains?

The familiar Supply Chain is facing an unprecedented level of shift that has the potential to dramatically alter the businesses involved, whether they are at the beginning or the end of the supply chain, and particularly if the business is a link within that chain.

COVID-19 and Climate Change play a significant role here, while in Europe, particularly in Ireland, Brexit is proving to be a major disrupter.

The Irish Exporters Association (IEA), along with other trade and interest associations is playing a major role in helping its members and, through interventions on the media, the broader business public to make some sense of the constantly changing picture. All these activities will have to be significantly stepped up through September as peak season looms for many businesses.

In a way the Brexit effect is the simplest one to get a handle on.

Exporters to Britain are scheduled to see the imposition by the Authorities

there of the import controls, most of which should have come into play when the Free Trade Agreement came into effect on 1 January last. The new controls could significantly disrupt the food and drink sectors, while British importers of all products will be forced to play ‘catch-up’ in meeting all the border control requirements that should have been put into place months ago.

While the EU customs code system is fully in play, the equivalent update of the UK systems is far from ready.

The first-half 2021 trade figures indicating an overall drop off in Ireland/ Britain commerce show that, even though there was some recovery in the late springtime, trade is not likely to reach the pre-Brexit levels. This has implications for the provision of shipping and trailer services in that trade lane. The acceleration noted in volumes shipped to and from continental Europe is likely to continue with the deployment of more and larger vessels in both Ro-Ro and Lo-Lo services. These developments, leading to higher frequencies to and from a wider range of ports, will improve the effectiveness of the services and enable the reduction of costs. They will also drive down road miles and the requirement, for many operators, for trailers to be driver accompanied. With EU policies preferring the development of shipment of freight by rail rather than by road, Hauliers and Forwarders will have to change their operating model to that of having a well dispersed network

of partners throughout the continent.

The COVID-19 effects continue to unfold. The assumptions at the beginning of the year that the pandemic was essentially beaten have proven to be completely wrong. Yes, in much of the developed world, lockdowns have eased and people can spend money on services and not only on manufactured goods. But outbreaks and lockdowns continue, particularly in Asia, and it is clear that global supply chains have been operating so close to capacity for the last number of years that any disruption has huge effects. Currently, it is unlikely that major volumes of goods ordered, whether from Asian suppliers for European markets or from Europe for Asian markets will fail to meet the Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other deadlines. It’s an indication as to how difficult things are, that, at the time of writing, oil producers are shifting significant volumes of diesel product from Asian to European markets to reduce stocks and maintain some level of profit. The diesel volumes have been further increased due to a lack of a market for aviation fuel anywhere.

There are many other COVID-19 effects which can be discussed at another time, but can the three headline disrupters be connected in any way? Yes, manufacturers and customers now realise that the notion of ‘Just in Time’ delivery needs to be thought out again. They have had to learn that 2019 delivery deadlines are no longer realistic and that they will have to build into their supply chains the use of slower but more stable delivery systems. This also involves a much greater degree of dialogue between sender and receiver than would ever have been the case before.

Such an approach should enable cost savings to be made and reduce the environmental damage involved.

Text: howard Knott howard@fleet.ie www.handling-network.com

69

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www.fleetcar.ie

Volume 18. No. 2 Autumn 2021

INSIDE

Reviewed: BMW 530e M Sport PHEV BUDGET 2021: VLAI calls for changes to the BEV Business model PREVIEW: Autostyle & Design Digital Edition 2021 LAUNCH PAD: New from Audi, Citroën, Kia, Renault, Skoda & Toyota PLUS: Reading Matters, Appointments, Test Drives etc

72 | JUNCTION BOX

New Audi Ireland Brand Director

Fleet Car Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISSN: 1649-9433 www.fleetcar.ie

Audi has appointed Damien O’Sullivan as new Audi Ireland Brand Director. It follows a successful six years working for Audi in Asia, initially in Taiwan as Aftersales Director and then for the last 3 years in China in the position of Vice President Dealer Development for the Audi Sales Division based in Changchun.

Prior to taking up his role abroad in 2015, O’Sullivan held various roles in Audi Ireland including Financial Controller, Sales Planning Manager and Head of Aftersales.

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie Deputy Editor: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie Contibutors: Rob Van Dieten Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle, Newspress, Administration: Orla Sweeney, Advertising: Mary Morrissey Design: Jackie Sheehan Crackerjack Design House

Contents Autumn 2021 73 NEWS I VLAI issue pre-Budget statement 74 INTERVIEW with Gerard O’Farrell, Director, Head of Car Division at OHM Group; Director Jaguar Land Rover Ireland; Director Spirit Motor Group 76 NEWS II Announcing the Autostyle & Design 2021 Digital Edition Plus Junction Box 77 LAUNCH PAD New cars introduced to the market recently 80 TEST II Camping out in the California 81 TEST I BMW 530e Hybrid 82 READING MATTERS Book reviews Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

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

Disclaimer: Fleet Car 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.

Michelin appoints new Communications Director Michelin Tyre PLC has appointed Cork native Conor Twomey as Communications Director for the UK & Ireland. The role encompasses press and public relations, social media, events and internal communications and covers the entire Michelin brand portfolio, including car, motorcycle, bicycle, truck, bus, agriculture and construction tyres, the world-renowned Michelin Guide as well as Michelin’s growing interests in sustainable industries such as hydrogen power and high-tech materials.

Conor brings more than 20 years’ experience, both in journalism and in public relations, to his new role at Michelin, having worked for numerous media outlets in Ireland and the US before beginning a new career in public relations in 2010 and relocating to the

UK in 2013. Since then he has worked in PR for Jaguar, FIAT, Alfa Romeo and, most recently Mitsubishi, where he also oversaw social media, events, internal communications, partnerships and Government affairs.

Older Drivers fit, healthy and determined New research from IAM RoadSmart, reveals that motorists over the age of 60 intend to drive for as long as they are safe to do so, and that the average age they would consider giving up their licence is 82.

From the 3,000 respondents aged 60 plus participating in the ‘Keeping Older Drivers Safe & Mobile: A Survey of Older Drivers’, highlighted that older drivers value their cars to maintain independence and want to stay mobile for as long as possible while they are able to do so.

NEWS I | 73 73

Vehicle Leasing Association of Ireland (VLAI) calls for changes to BEV business model for corporate sector in Budget 2021 submission

The Vehicle Leasing Association of Ireland (VLAI) is encouraging the transformation and transition from ICE (Internal Combustion Engine/diesel) vehicles to full Electric Vehicles (EV) among its business customers for both passenger and commercial vehicles. As the cost of an EV is substantially more expensive than a comparable ICE vehicle, the cost to business and individual company car drivers is far more expensive in terms of Benefit In Kind (BIK).

To achieve its emission reduction targets, the Government aims to have 181,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2025. The VLAI recently outlined a plan to Government in its pre-Budget submission to gain momentum towards achieving this target. The VLAI believes it can deliver an additional 25,000 electric vehicles in the next 3 years, if the supports to businesses are granted.

In support of this, VLAI has proposed the following regulatory changes for business to bring the cost of running EVs on their fleets closer to the traditional options:

Full VAT reclaim on Zero emission vehicles – (full Battery Electric Vehicles) or Zero VAT rate the lease of BEVs BIK clarity for 5 years and clear incentive for BEVs over ICE vehicles for drivers BIK is currently at 0% for EVs under €50,000 but from January 1, 2023, the rate changes up to 22.5%. The VLAI believes it should be at 8% for the next 5 years and then increased incrementally after that with a clear picture for drivers so they can make an informed decision. “The current BIK structure encourages company car drivers to do more kilometres in their diesel cars, in order to achieve a lower rate of BIK. A new BIK structure for EVs would rectify this and reduce our carbon emissions,” commented Morgan McAndrew, President of the VLAI. The pre-Budget submission, undertaken with Grant Thornton, has the full support of Climate Action (Department of Transport) with a letter of recommendation accompanying it to the Department of Finance. In a recent meeting with the VLAI, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said that his Department would give this submission some consideration in the upcoming Budget.

“If a lower BIK rate were to be adopted then almost 78% of VLAI members indicated a willingness to transition to BEV, based on a recent survey conducted,” added Morgan.

Survey findings: 72% would retain current ICE company vehicle over BEV BIK @22.5% 15.75% would opt to keep their BEV under BIK @22.5% 77.65% would opt for BEV under Proposed BIK @8% inc. change from ICE Barrier to choosing BEV in the Corporate sector: Range - 22.50% BIK (2023) structure - 0.25% Infrastructure - 12% Grant to Charger – 15.25% “The time for change is now. With the support of the leasing industry, the Government has a much better chance of reaching its climate change objectives by offering a VAT reclaim and a clear, consistent BIK taxation policy,” concluded Morgan. *Established in 1972, the Vehicle Leasing Association of Ireland (VLAI) is the Irish trade body for companies engaged in vehicle finance, leasing and fleet management. VLAI members are responsible for a combined fleet in excess of 75,000 cars and vans on Irish roads, The vehicle leasing industry supports the Irish retail motor industry and helps maintain jobs by purchasing over 13,000 new vehicles each year and spending over €50m in service departments throughout Ireland.

www.fleetcar.ie

74 74 | INTERVIEW

One-to-One with Gerard O’Farrell, Director, Head of Car Division at OHM Group; Director, Jaguar Land Rover Ireland; Director Spirit Motor Group

Being involved in the motor industry for many years, how did it all begin and how has your career evolved and progressed?

I studied for a Diploma in motor management at college before starting to work in the industry in 1985. My first job was with the OHM Group based in West Dublin, working largely on the import side. Over the course of the following decade, I went on to work in several roles in the Group to include starting our first retail dealership with six other colleagues, which was a great success for us. We grew the enterprise very quickly employing 18 staff and selling hundreds of cars each year.

In 2004, the retail business relocated to Sandyford with the formation of Spirit Motor Group and from there, it grew significantly. Initially, we secured the franchise for Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo, but we soon acquired Ford, Ford Commercial, Skoda, Seat, Cupra (part of Volkswagen), Spirit Premium (used), and we then established Spirit Lillis O’Donnell Transit Centre and Spirit Burton (premium 4x4).

Sandyford Business District was an ideal location for us as our customer base grew - we now had close to half a million residents within 10km of the business. Given the affluence of the area, it was a natural fit - we were able to match our premium products and fleets with corporate businesses. We are also fortunate to be in close proximity to both LeasePlan and ALD Automotive Leasing - two of the largest European vehicle fleet leasing companies, both of whom have been located in the District for over twenty years, and with whom we have a very good working relationship.

Over the years, the business has FLEETCAR | AUTUMN 2021

grown from a relatively small dealership which employed thirty-five people, had ten workshop bays and sold two-hundred cars a year, to one which employs two-hundred people, selling more than eight-thousand cars per year, with seventy workshop bays. We have developed state-of-the-art-facilities, and we have crafted a premium home in which to do business. Agility has also been a key feature of our business. While we had already established a strong website presence prior to the onset of the Covid-19 crisis, the transition to online selling was undoubtedly accelerated as a result of our showrooms being closed for six months during the worst of the pandemic. Through selling online, we were able to meet customers’ needs and requirements, while also developing and honing our own ecommerce capabilities, including multi-site car searches and on-line reservation capabilities.

With Jaguar & Land Rover (JLR) being two main brands you look after, how is the marketplace currently?

Land Rover and Jaguar are two of the several brands that we deal with, including others I have previously mentioned such as Ford, Cupra and Seat.

Uniquely, however, we are importers for Land Rover and Jaguar as well as retailers - making us responsible for marketing the brands across the country.

Across all the brands we offer, the market is buoyant, partially as a result of Brexit, partially due to the global shortage of semiconductors caused by pandemic disruptions, and partially due to previously suppressed demand.

Specifically regarding our Land Rover and Jaguar offering, we are currently

experiencing a 50/50 split between the business we do with private customers and corporate clients.

Was JLR affected much by the used import market, which seems to have decreased with the Brexit changes?

The Irish market has been traditionally reliant on second-hand UK imports to satisfy the increased demand for used cars. With Brexit changes meaning that VAT paid in the UK is not recognised in Ireland, the price of many used cars coming from the UK has been pushed up with Irish VAT. That is without taking into account import tariffs which apply in some cases. This situation has affected the supply of used cars at a time of high demand, driving up the price to the consumer. The solution is to sell more new cars - which in itself is needed to accelerate the transition to reduced vehicle emissions on the Irish market.

JLR has experienced some subtleties but the situation is largely the same as for all other brands. Demand has risen across all brands and JLR has been affected by this too.

How are you catering for the fleet/ corporate car market presently and into the future with electric drivetrains coming to the fore?

For all our brands we have a range of financial products tailored to specific needs. For our corporate clients we can provide our bespoke contract leasing, which can be tailored to include vehicle maintenance and service costs as part of a deal. However, we also work with all banks and leasing companies when our clients choose that avenue.

As mentioned, globally we are of course also in the midst of a massive

INTERVIEW | 75 75 migration - in response to climate change and corporate concerns on sustainability. Already across all the brands we have a full range of options of vehicles that are more environmentally-friendly; from high- efficiency mild-hybrid diesel, plug-in hybrid petrol, and increasingly reaching full electric models with most brands. For instance, since 2018, we offer the Jaguar I-Pace full electric, which won a string of awards in 2019. The Jaguar I-Pace is finding take-up both in the corporate market and in private use sales, all benefitting from substantial savings in annual fuel costs. In addition, other brands in our range are moving into this space with Ford launching the Mustang-E, Skoda introducing the Enyaq, and Cupra are about to introduce its full electric model which will be named the Cupra Born.

We have already seen a major change in customer preferences. Previously, 95% of leases and sales of Land Rovers were diesel vehicles, now 85% of both corporate and private customers are choosing plug-in hybrid. I expect the plug-in hybrid to be the primary fuel of choice for our corporate clients for the coming 3 years until there is a further rollout of full- electric vehicles and expansion of appropriate infrastructure.

What input does your dealer network have with your fleet business?

Our dealer network - which is specific to Jaguar Land Rover - offers the full range of financing products with service and maintenance available to customers through all dealers. In Sandyford, our corporate fleet packages are further tailored with the availability of packages that encompass multiple brands. For instance, a package may include JLR and Volvo cars for senior executives, others models from Ford, Skoda and SEAT for corporate fleet needs and then Ford Transit commercial vehicles all going to one customer. The fundamental building block is the financing element - bank, leasing company or Spirit, we can deal with all permutations. We build a package, can finance it and offer one point of contact taking care of anything, with the customer having one relationship with Spirit despite leasing multiple brands of vehicle.

Will there be any further changes to the JLR dealer network in the near future?

We do not anticipate any changes in terms of the number dealerships.

We conducted a review of the network in 2017, and have since rolled- out the iconic ARCH design at all six Jaguar Land Rover dealer locations in Ireland, with a substantial multi-million investment at each site in 2018. The new design was built to exacting global JLR standards.

With dealerships in Dublin, Kildare, Waterford, Cork and Limerick, we have full geographic coverage based on the motorway network - all of the Jaguar Land Rover showrooms are within a 45 minute drive range for most customers.

However, we are investing on an ongoing basis in the human capital of the Jaguar Land Rover dealer network through training and upskilling. The Jaguar Land Rover Training Academy is based here in Sandyford Business District from which we have been running a national training system for all sales and aftersales people in Ireland. As with so many things, the Academy pivoted online during the pandemic. This change widened the reach of the highly-talented staff conducting these training programmes. We are now providing training online for Jaguar Land Rover sales staff across Europe from our base in Sandyford Business District.

Predict where the Irish automotive marketplace will be in 5-10 years time!

It is clear that change in the Irish automotive marketplace will take place right across the industry. We are certainly going through a transformative period, with changes in energy fuelling vehicles to the way we interact with customers.

In terms of the customer purchase experience, the transition towards digital sales has been really striking! Every step of the way from research, selection and payment means customers can go through the A-Z of the buying process remotely.

That said, we are seeing that things are starting to regularise following the worst of the Covid-19 emergency, as 85% of customers elect to visit our showrooms at some stage in the buying process. People like to carry out the mundanity of the process remotely such as researching the car, conducting zoom calls with dealers, e-signing documents but before finalising the sale they will want to visit the showroom.

Having a blended experience will be crucial for discerning businesses and I expect this to continue to develop over the next 5 years.

On a different point, Irish motorists

have a sizeable journey to go in terms of the carbon neutral transition. However, we are well on our way with key legislative milestones to be reached by 2030. The industry is developing and rolling-out alternatives, most electrically-driven, with a lot of development of battery technology and energy storage. Within five years I expect to see significant advances in battery energy storage technology, with a breakthrough in the key areas of battery capacity, cost and charging time. Within ten years I anticipate that hydrogen fuelcell vehicles will be commercialised, especially in the case of heavy goods vehicles, but also potentially passenger cars and LCVs. Adoption of hydrogen, however, will require substantial infrastructure investment in refueling stations.

Personally, I am a real fan of electric vehicles and I have been regularly driving EVs for the last couple of years. They are very pleasant, quieter, smoother, cheaper to run, more responsive and, most importantly, do not emit any exhaust!

I anticipate also a significant change in how we use cars - there will still be a continued need for the use of personal cars but a modal shift will take place, with more use of public transport, walking and cycling where feasible and appropriate. The future will be a blend of all modes of transport rather that one solution fits all.

The big unknown this decade is autonomous driving - it is an achievable objective but there is a question over whether it is practicable for a small country like Ireland to build infrastructure for it. In my opinion it would be better to invest scarce public resources in improvements in our public transport infrastructure. Autonomous driving infrastructure may be justified in very big cities of 10-15 million of a population.

However, in the meantime the motor industry will continue to rollout more exciting partial-autonomous driving technologies at stage 1, 2 and 3 including safety aides, advance warnings and advance braking is more likely to be commercially viable in an Irish market context in the foreseeable future. The pace of change in this dynamic industry will continue to excite our customers with many innovative new vehicles over the next decade.

With Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleetcar.ie

76 76 | NEWS II

Programme announced for Autostyle Digital Edition 2021+ Design *Exclusive visits to Car Design Centres as well as top fashion houses and luxury goods brands

The programme for the 18th edition of the 2021 Autostyle Car Design event, where delegates meet annually to discuss and appreciate new proposals from Design Chiefs representing leading Style Centres from around the world, has been announced.

FLEETCAR | AUTUMN 2021

The Autostyle Digital Edition 2021+ Design, hosted once again by Berman, the Italian component maker, will for the second consecutive year be on a digital platform through Demio, following a successful presentation in 2020.

According to Roberto Artioli, Autostyle Car Design Competition founder and CEO Berman, the 2021 Autostyle Digital Edition programme features topics of great interest from the exclusive previews presented by Design Centres and other highly complex product development sectors.

“The event, now in its 18th year, was held on the previous sixteen occasions at the historic buildings and villas in the city of Mantua, in Northern Italy and attended by the public. This year, as in 2020, the event will be promoted in digital form, and will consist of ‘exclusive

visits’ to the Design Centres of the Brands for us all to learn about, discuss and appreciate the new proposals being set up in these Centres,” explained Roberto.

Top names in premium, luxury and sports cars such as Bentley, Volvo, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati feature in this year’s schedule, joined by Ford and Toyota as well as Bulgari, Luxottica and Alcantra from the world of fashion and high-end goods.

“The live interactive meetings, and subsequently the announcement and presentation of the results will be done once again through the dedicated website and social channels. Last year, there was great interaction with the professional public, not only within the automotive sector, but also from many other sectors,” he added.

“To register without any downloads or special devices, please refer to www. autostyledesigncompetition.it Here you will also find all the records of the 2020 edition webinars, as well as a photographic overview of the first sixteen editions in presence.

The first appointment will therefore start from 7 October, every Thursday to follow, at 16.00 CET,” concluded Roberto.

With Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

LAUNCH PAD I | 77 77

Q3 - Audi’s first plug-in hybrid

The Q3 45 TFSI e and the Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI e are the first plug-in hybrid models from Audi in the compact SUV class, priced from €46,305 and offering high efficiency and outstanding driving pleasure.

The plug-in hybrid drive installed in both models delivers an output of 180 kW (245 HP), and both cars can cover

a distance of 51 km for the Q3 45 TFSI e and 50 km for the Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI e in the WLTP cycle.

These two Q3 models both include a 1.4 TFSI as the combustion engine. This four-cylinder engine delivers 110 kW (150 HP). Both models are estimated to deliver approximately 710 km.

They can be charged using

alternating current (AC) at a 400 V socket with an output of 3.6 kW. An empty battery can be recharged in just 3 h 45 min using the standard power charging cable. The free myAudi app allows the customer to control the charging, the timer and the pre-entry climate control remotely from their smartphone.

Citroën extends new C4 line-up with Ë-C4 ëlectric!

Citroën Ireland, now under the Gowan Group, has introduced its new C4 range, to include the Ë-C4. New C4 sits offers best-in-class height, ground clearance, seat height position and interior legroom. Available in petrol, diesel and all electric; the new C4 is now on sale from €24,740. The Ë-C4 is the first fully electric passenger car available from Citroën with a 350km WLTP range distance. Customers can also avail of a free home charge point when they switch to Energia.

As with all Citroën vehicles, the Citroën Advanced Comfort programme features suspension with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions, Advanced Comfort seats and for the first time, Citroën Smart Pad Support, which includes a retractable media support and tablet holder on the dashboard enabling the passenger to make the most of the time while travelling. Four USB connections are also available as standard to support charging for additional devices.

C4 engine options include 4 petrols: a PureTech 100 S&S 6-speed manual

gearbox, a PureTech 130 S&S with a choice of 6-speed manual or EAT8and PureTech 155 S&S EAT8. There are also Diesels - the BlueHDi 110 S&S 6-speed manual and BlueHDi 130 S&S EAT8, with the Ë-C4 coming with a 50KWh lithium-ion battery pack and 100kw electric motor to offer 260 Nm torque and 0-100km/h in 9.7secs with sport mode engaged. Charging to 80% is possible in 30 minutes with a 100kw connection, while an 11kw 3-phase charger will charge to 100% in 5 hours.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleetcar.ie

78 78 | LAUNCH PAD II

Kia EV6 delivers class-leading safety and convenience

Class-leading levels of safety and convenience, including an advanced suite of driver assistance systems (ADAS) are strongly featured in the all-new Kia EV6 electric crossover just launched.

For added safety and to meet future needs, the EV6 features the latest Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) package. Using radars located around the vehicle, the system can help the

driver to maintain a set distance and speed from the vehicle ahead while Lane Following Assist (LFA) technology centres the vehicle in its lane. Using Navigationbased Smart Cruise Control with Curve Control (NSCC-C), the system can reduce the vehicle speed through curves and reset the speed once conditions allow.

In case of an adjacent vehicle driving in close proximity, HDA 2 assists by adjusting the EV6’s path, avoiding any

possible risk of collision. Changing lanes is also now easier than ever. With the driver’s hands on the steering wheel and above a certain speed, a click of the indicator stalk will automatically move the car into the corresponding lane. The HDA2 package will be available in Ireland on the GT model which will be launched in Quarter 3 next year.

EV6 also features Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) and Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA) systems to ensure lane changes are made safely every time.

Renault adds to SUV range with Arkana Renault’s all-new Arkana, its latest SUV model that sits alongside the Captur and Kadjar in the crossover range, is based on the French brand’s CMF-B modular platform.

Longer than the popular Kadjar it comes with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) ensuring the safest and most reassuring drive. The choice of powertrains includes E-Tech hybrid and TCe petrol mild-hybrid.

Inspired by Renault’s F1 experience and expertise, the Arkana’s E-Tech Hybrid 145 powertrain combines a strong, efficient 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 1.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors, delivering an economical, responsive and refined performance. This combination of petrol and electric power delivers 145hp, plus 148Nm of torque from the petrol engine and 250Nm from the electric motors.

The electric power is supplied by FLEETCAR | AUTUMN 2021

a small traction battery which recharges itself with energy that’s recuperated under deceleration and braking.

Also available is a 140hp TCe 1.3-litre petrol engine that utilises clever mild-hybrid technology which works with a 12-volt starter generator that ensures faster and more refined operation of the Stop & Start function when coming to a standstill, while also reducing emissions at the same time.

Available in Iconic, S Edition and R.S. Line trim levels, the Arkana features an

extensive list of standard equipment including EASY LINK touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, diamond-cut alloy wheels and full LED lighting technology.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

LAUNCH PAD III | 79 79

Toyota Updates Camry & RAV4 Hybrids Toyota Ireland, in preparation for MY2022, has upgraded two models, the Camry saloon and the RAV4, its midsized SUV.

Following a 14 year hiatus, the world’s best-selling saloon car, the Toyota Camry, returned to Irish shores in 2019. Now just a few short years later, the updated Camry Hybrid Platinum addition will be launched in Ireland in Q1 2022 and will be available in two grades (Sol and Platinum) with prices starting from €41,730.

According to Michael Gaynor, Marketing Director of Toyota Ireland, the Camry was beloved by drivers who favour premium quality and luxury in their car of choice. “The arrival of the 2019 Camry represented a major reassessment in the appreciation for Camry with its head turning TNGA platform design credentials, dynamic driving experience and sumptuous interiors.

Its arrival as a hybrid-only version also spoke volumes for the change that Irish drivers were taking in terms of seeking out cars with lower CO2 emissions, negligible NOx and the fuel consumption and lower running costs inherent in Toyota hybrids.”

With specific reference to the most popular Camry, the Camry Platinum, there are a multitude of new and highly desirable features which include: n 9” Display Audio & Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) n Reverse tilt mirrors with Memory n Ventilated front seats & Driver seat memory n Paddle shift & Power steering column with memory n Heated steering wheel n Dark wood effect insert on centre console box n Toyota Safety Sense 2

n Multimedia MM19 & Apple CarPlay / Android Auto n EV % Time Monitor

n Tyre Pressure Monitor with Auto Location & New design 18” alloy wheels Michael added: “The Iconic Camry has been a stalwart on Irish roads for decades, with its re-introduction back into the Irish market in 2019 exclusively as a self-charging hybrid. With the new improved updated model, we have further enhanced its premium credentials with new enhanced features and more refined comfort.”

Meanwhile, Ireland’s best-selling hybrid SUV, the Toyota RAV4, is updated with the arrival of a long-range All Wheel Drive Plug-In Hybrid during Q4 2021. Boasting a best in class range distance of up to 75km in zero emission EV mode (WLTP) on a full battery charge, it will be on sale in two grades (Sol & Sport) with prices starting from €48,275.

This newest version, now in its fifth generation, is more powerful, yet environmentally cleaner and more efficient.

Its introduction strengthens and extends the appeal of the RAV4, the model which created the market for recreational SUVs, and which has amassed more than 10 million worldwide sales.

The RAV4 PHEV operates as an authentic electric vehicle. EV running is its default mode, in which it can cover up to 98 km in urban driving (City WLTP cycle) on a full battery charge, comfortably more than the average European daily commute. Customers can use the RAV4 Plug-in as a pure electric car during the week, and then rely on the hybrid system (2.5-litre petrol and battery pack) for long drives, meaning still great fuel efficiency and no range anxiety. Battery charging is simple and safe and can be accomplished in 2.5 hours using a 230 V/32 A connection.

The new model shares the same

external dimensions as the RAV4 Hybrid.

Its powertrain is designed so that it does not intrude into the cabin. However, there is just a small decrease in the load space capacity to 520 litres, with the floor being raised by 35 mm. Towing capacity is a maximum 1.5 tonnes with a braked trailer, and there is no reduction in the size of the fuel tank at 55-litres.

Externally, only a few small details distinguish the RAV4 Plug-in from its hybrid sibling, such as a metal-look finish to the lower front moulding and rear section above the licence plate, plus dark chrome detailing in the headlight units and a dark plating finish for the front grille. The rear skid plate is painted black, with the charging point is concealed beneath a flap on the rear right-wing.

“Since its initial introduction RAV4 hybrid has been a game changer for Irish SUV fans, and it continues to be the best-selling hybrid SUV in the country.

With its multiple best in class features, the EV default driving experience coupled with the impressive 75km to 98km EV mode capabilities are a boon for those who are not quite ready, or are unable, to move to full EV driving at this juncture. We believe the new RAV4 Plug-in is the only credible offering on the market during the week for work and as an efficient self-charging hybrid on the weekends for longer journeys,” added Michael.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleetcar.ie

80 | TEST I 80

Volkswagen Caddy California Maxi – The Ultimate Car-a-Van!

California: Think sun, sand and sea! In the automotive world it means mobile leisure in the shape of three models within the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle (VWCV) range. At the top is the flagship Crafter Grand California, while the mid-sized market is catered for with the hugely successful Transporter California as its mid-sized campervan.

Now the Caddy California is the latest member to join the family. meaning VWCV now has a touring model for every budget, every journey and every adventure.

In essence, the Caddy ‘Cali’ is the ultimate compact camper and from its origins, is in principle, an innovative car-a-van. Up to now, the popular Caddy has existed as a small panel van and also as a highly practical MPV – Multi-Purpose Vehicle passenger car. The Cali version brings all these attributes together.

Based on the award-winning fifth-generation Caddy, it is a unique offering within the camping segment enabling variable living, sleeping and storage space for everyday life and travelling.

FLEETCAR | AUTUMN 2021

It features a new, foldable bed (1,980mm x 1,070mm), with cup springs and high-quality mattress, that is stored in the parcel shelf and opens out above the rear seats. There is seating for five, with the second row entirely removable for complete flexibility while a standalone tail-tent is available as an accessory, providing additional living space and sleeping area.

A retractable mini-kitchen is included as standard, extending from the rear with single-burner cooker and integrated gas bottle. Clever and practical storage drawers include compartments to house cutlery, while the ‘California’ camper chairs and camper table are stored in a zip underneath the rear seats. Interior blinds for the rear windows double up as window storage bags. Interior illumination is through integrated LED reading lights.

Both front seats feature manual height and lumbar adjustment.

Setting up the Caddy Cali for an overnight halt takes a little time. The first task is to stretch out the bed from its folded hibernation. To secure the front section requires moving both front seats as forward as possible so that the two stabilising legs fit snuggly in the two notches positioned half way down the B-Pillar. Next up is to fit the window covers, which have to be fitted inside the rear and front glass areas, as well as the windscreen and large panoramic sunroof.

Each cloth material type is shaped to suit each window and uses magnets for attachment. This exercise has to done carefully and correctly or else they fall off, defeating the purpose. Retractable window blinds would work better, especially on the roof section.

Has to be said that the bed/bunk is comfortable and with adequate dimensions for two adults to get a good night’s sleep.

When mobile, Caddy 5 drives more like a car than a van, such is the

refinement installed in the latest model, introduced last year. With a base price of €43,670, this vehicle covers a lot of ground, literally. It’s a car, a van and a campervan. Two distinct markets exist, young, carefree couples and the more age advanced, prudent pairings.

For additional family or friends joining the adventure, it is best to specify the tail-tent, which attaches onto the Caddy’s rear door. Unfortunately, this was not provided during this test trial. We supplied our own on this occasion, which coincidently blended in nicely with the copper bronze metallic colour of this camper.

In addition, the compact unit is packed with technology such as Lane Assist, Cruise Control including Speed limiter, colour touch screen, Bluetooth, USB points, DAB, and six audio speakers.

Standard specification also includes black roof rails and 16-inch alloy wheels, power latching on all doors to avoid waking your camping neighbours at night and LED rear combination lights.

Spec Check Make/Model: Volkswagen Caddy California Maxi Engine/Power: 2.0-litre TDI Diesel/122hp Transmission: 7-speed automatic (FWD) Wheelbase: 2,970mm Towing capacity: 1,500 kg Annual Road tax: €102 GVW: 2,450 kg CO2 Emissions: 142 g/km Price: €43,670 + Extras €13,433 Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

TEST II | 81 81

Why BMW’s 5-Series PHEV can make sense as a company car

Perhaps surprisingly, plug-in hybrids have been getting some bad press recently. Largely, it would seem, based on an assumption that owners only buy them for tax benefits and don’t regularly plug them in when they get home - thereby negating any advantages that a charged battery could offer. There’s also a school of thought that pandering to a halfway house solution that still uses fossil fuels is merely prolonging the inevitable, and we should be committing fully to all-electric cars here and now.

Whatever about the validity of the former argument, the reality is that where we are in the middle of 2021, all-electric vehicles are not fit for purpose for many company car drivers who cover large distances on a daily or weekly basis. Partly because of range issues with battery electric vehicles (BEV), though this is rapidly improving - but also because outside of the main metropolis areas, the public recharging network is still sadly wanting across the country.

Which is why, for the ecologically aware company car driver or business, a hybrid is probably the most realist solution right now to going green. And it’s cars like BMW’s 530e that many will

be looking to as an alternative to the traditional diesel version.

The 2021 5-Series has received some

minor restyling updates, with slimmer headlights and revised bumpers and wheels, while inside the infotainment system is a standard 1.025 inches with a 12.3 inch version as an option.

Connectivity services and safety systems also get improvements.

The 530e combines a four cylinder 2.0 petrol engine with a 12kWh battery powering an 80kW electric motor to give a total power output of 292bhp and 420Nm torque, enough to get to 100km/h from rest in 5.9 seconds. The battery, fully charged, will power the car for a stated 51km. In reality 40km, with a little prudence, is probably achievable.

So certainly not slow, but does it make sense for the corporate driver compared to a diesel? My time with the car was mainly covering long distance cross-country journeys - hardly the optimum territory to showcase the strengths of a hybrid, but revealing nonetheless. A direct comparison with a 520d Touring, driven on similar journeys a few weeks previously, showed that an average fuel consumption figure with the 530e of 5.2l/100km (45.2mpg), was achieved. That compared favourably with the 520d’s return of 6.0l/100km (39.2mpg).

Of course, there are other factors to consider, the higher price of petrol plus the fact that one can’t claim VAT back on petrol. Then there’s also the purchase price. Whereas a 520d in M Sport trim starts from €58,250, a 530e starts from over €64,000. (Let’s leave aside that the hi-spec press car

came with extras including Visibility, Technology & Comfort Packs (amongst others) ramping the price up to €84,600).

There’s also a smaller boot at 410 litres down from 530, thanks to the space needed for the batteries.

Otherwise BMW has made it as seamless as possible to make the switch from diesel to hybrid. There’s still a proper gearshift instead of a torque converter system. The controls and driver interface feature the addition of options to select electric or hybrid modes and subtle display differences to tell what the hybrid system is doing, but are largely similar to those found on any other 5-Series. Even on 20 inch rims, the ride is surprisingly pliable, and if the 530e is a bit big and heavy to be a true driver’s car, it still probably remains the benchmark amongst its peers for how it communicates what’s happening at the tyres back to the driver.

Ultimately - and invariably - whether the 530e makes sense over its diesel counterpart depends on how it will be used. If every day involves a long motorway trip, it won’t bring out its best, but kept regularly charged and doing shorter journeys, it could be a very economical - and a green driving companion indeed.

Text: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie www.fleetcar.ie

82 | READING MATTERS 82

Ford Cars - Ford UK cars 1945-1995 A Pictorial History

by David Rowe

PRICE: £16.99 UK ISBN: 978-1-787116-42-9 - www.veloce.co.uk

Ford Cars: Ford UK Cars 1945-1995, just released by Veloce Publishing Ltd.,

by David Rowe, provided a perfect opportunity to nominate my favourite and least favourite members of the ‘Blue Oval’ family. The MkIII Capri and Scorpio are top and bottom of the list.

The author David Rowe has put together a very interesting collection of 330 photographs within the 160-page A5 sized paperback. Accompanying the picture selection is detailed technical information, with a full history of each

Ford model made and sold in the UK over 50 years. Each version and its following evolution or replacement are recorded including code names and original brand names that subsequently changed. For instance, did you know that the Cortina was to be named the Consul Cortina? And that there was a plan to introduce a Ford Saxon, a forbearer to the Capri coupe based on the 2-door Cortina MkI? The difference and differentiation between certain Ford cars from the same era like the Zodiac and Zephyr, Consul and Corsair, are thankfully explained. Sporty spec versions, such as the Fiesta XR2, XR2i and the Sierra XR4i, XR 4x4 and Sapphire Cosworth were much sought-after badges in the latter decades, as were the Escort RS2000, Mexico & XR3i. Some readers will fondly remember the Lotus Cortina MkI, which almost instantly achieved iconic status.

On the luxury side, Italian design house Ghia provided the premium feel to flagship models.

Other little known but intriguing facts are that the Anglia, made famous subsequently by the Harry Potter book and movie series, featured white wall tyres, and that Crayford Conversions carried out the convertible transformation work on selected models? Also, that the MkIII Granada was a hatchback and that this range-topper can also claim to be one of the pioneers of the fully integrated bumper. Its eventual replacement, the Scorpio did not cut it for me, particularly when it came to the overall design stakes.

Incidentally, the MkII Capri was also designed as a three-door coupé hatch. Restored classic variants are still in demand from true aficionados and I expect that this book that explains all will be in demand too!

SAM’S SCRAPBOOK - My Motorsports Memories

By Sam Posey with John Posey Price: £30.00 + P&P EVRO Publishing - ISBN: 978-1-910505-65-6 What started with racing around his mother’s house on a farm in Connecticut against his friend led to a lifelong global motorsport adventure, since recorded. Sam Posey’s world tour took in racing and rallying on top tracks, on road and off-road in top notch race cars and against champion drivers.

Sam’s Scrapbook, a 160 page hardback, just issued by Evo Publishing, gives a first-hand account of a romantic FLEETCAR | AUTUMN 2021

era in racing, through 275 pictures not seen collectively before. Accompanying these images is Sam’s interesting and intriguing recollections told in an amusing way.

Sam Posey’s racing endeavours spanned 17 seasons between 1965–81, and included a famous victory in 1975 with BMW in the 12 Hours of Sebring. In Can-Am he raced against John Surtees, Bruce McLaren and Jim Hall. At Le Mans,

he finished third overall in a Ferrari 512 M with the North American Racing Team (NART) team in 1971. His second career as a TV commentator began at the 1974 Indy 500 and lasted for over 40 years, embracing spells with ABC, Speedvision and NBC. Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

NEW

BEST CORNERING & STRAIGHT LINE STABILITY 1) 2)

BEST DRY BRAKING 1) 3)

OUTSTANDING WET PERFORMANCE 4)

1) Tests carried out by TÜV SÜD on the request of Bridgestone in July-September 2020 at the facilities Bridgestone EUPG (Italy) for dry and wet tests with Audi S4 3.0 TFSI, on tyre size 245/40 R18. Potenza Sport compared to the performances of main competitors in the same segment: Continental Premium Contact 6, Michelin Pilot Sport 4, Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5, Pirelli P Zero PZ4. Annex Report No. [713190691-PS].

2) Maintain vehicle stability when travelling both in a straight line and through a curve. Straight stability, rating: Bridgestone Potenza Sport (9.33), Continental Premium Contact 6 (9.00), Michelin Pilot Sport 4 (8.67), Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 (8.67), Pirelli P Zero PZ4 (8.56). Cornering stability, rating: Bridgestone Potenza Sport (9.21), Continental Premium Contact 6 (8.13), Michelin Pilot Sport 4 (8.67), Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 (8.33), Pirelli P Zero PZ4 (8.58).

3) Shortest braking distance on dry surface. Dry braking distance (100 km/h to 0 km/h), metres: Bridgestone Potenza Sport (33.4), Continental Premium Contact 6 (35.4), Michelin Pilot Sport 4 (34.5), Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 (35.9), Pirelli P Zero PZ4 (34.8).

4) Awarded EU Label Grade “A” for Wet Grip Index.

For your nearest Bridgestone Authorised Dealer, visit our website www.bridgestone.ie

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