Fleet Transport Summer 2021

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

DAF’s X-Factor! -

REPORT:

I N S I D E

New XF, XG & XG+ Launched INTERVIEW: With Laurence Drake & Mike Atkinson - DAF Trucks UK LAUNCH PAD: New IVECO S-WAY & Daily, MAN Construction Trucks, Mercedes-Benz eActros & Actros Edition 2 FIRST DRIVES: IVECO Daily 4x4, Fiat Professional E-Ducato TESTED: New Volvo FMX, Ford Ranger Thunder, Theault Renault Master Red Edition, Mercedes-Benz eSprinter SPECIAL FEATURE: Telematics in Transport REPORT: UKIFDA EXPO 2021

augUST 21

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Contents AUGUST 2021

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, Cathal Doyle Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Jonathan Lawton

Photography:

Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott, F Gooden, DPPI, Continental, Clare Island, PJ Rankin, Motorsport Control Centre, Skoda UK

Administration: Orla Sweeney

Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Advertising:

Mary Morrissey Email: mary@fleet.ie

Design:

Crackerjack Design House

Printed in Ireland

www.fleet.ie | 3

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 6 NEWS Successful inaugural ITT Hub Top Global Award for Moffett E4

48 TEST III Grease Lightning in the Ford Ranger Thunder!

8 INTERVIEW With DAF Trucks UK execs

49 TEST IV Riding out with the Equijump Theault Renault Master

10 COVER STORY Prepare to be dazzled by new DAFs 12 NEW FLEET I Featuring new IVECO, Volvo Trucks & Renault LCV sales 14 NEW FLEET II New & Used deals by McElvaney Motors 16 NEW FLEET III Stand-out new Renault Trucks’ Range T Highs!

18 LAUNCH PAD I Introducing the latest IVECO S-WAY & Daily ranges

50 LAUNCH PAD II & III All-new Mercedes-Benz eActros & Actros Edition 2 52 TEST V Driving Mercedes-Benz eSprinter electric 53 SPECIAL FOCUS Telematics in Transport 58 TRAILER New TrailerStore opens Van Eck caters for Pharma sector

P6

22 TEST I On board the latest Volvo FMX 8x4 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.

24 SAFETY MATTERS Reversing dangers 26 TRUCK TEST SPECIAL With new MAN Construction trucks 28 REVIEW Full report and pictures from this new event 32 FLEETING SHOTS Very special editions from Hennessey & INEOS

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

33 TEST II Exclusive first drive in new Fiat E-Ducato

P 43

34 COMMENT We are, where we are…..

36 FLEET MARITIME Shipping & Freight Newsletter sponsored by Rosslare Europort 40 OPINION The Chronic Driver Shortage

P 46

42 LEGAL Alternative fuels 43 FIRST DRIVE I Off-Road in the IVECO Daily 4x4 44 FINANCE All together now!

46 REPORT UKIFDA Expo 2021 - Virtually!

www.fleet.ie

44 | NEWS I

ITT Hub makes successful debut to trailblaze the future of transport

The inaugural Innovation & Technology in Transport (ITT Hub) event made a successful debut over two days from 30 June to 1 July 2021. The new show delivered on its ambitions to spearhead the future of transport and help to revolutionise the commercial vehicle market as the industry transitions to net zero emissions and strives to reach maximum efficiency.

Held at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, the exhibition was attended by 4,000 industry professionals working within the transport industry, including engineers, managing directors, Government and major influencers.

Over 150 exhibitors packed out the significant 45,000 sqm indoor and outdoor venue space, showcasing a broad range of high-tech products and services, while a UK Government Hub was attended by several Departments and Agencies. The Ride & Drive experiences on offer proved a popular attraction with visitors. More than 20 manufacturers, including Fiat Professional, Ford, IVECO and DAF Trucks, showcased their latest vehicles, infrastructure and technology. Volta Trucks debuted the Volta Zero, the world’s first purpose-built full-electric 16-tonne commercial vehicle created specifically for city centre logistics, and Wrightbus premiered the launch of its first hydrogen fuelled double deck bus.

British Astronaut Major Tim Peake CMG, was one of 30 speakers at Logistics UK’s Future Logistics Conference which ran alongside the exhibition. He stressed the importance of prioritising the decarFLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

bonisation of transport to protect the future health of our planet.

Commenting on the success of the event, Mark Griffin, CEO at ITT Hub, said: “What a brilliant inauguration for ITT Hub. We were thrilled to welcome thousands of visitors, exhibitors and speakers to the event to explore the future of transport and tackle the challenges we face together as an industry. We have been overwhelmed with the positive response from the show and, after just one event, ITT Hub has already been established as a vital platform for anyone working in transport. As part of our growth strategy, we are curating a portfolio of recycling and waste management, cold chain storage and distribution, plus even more of the energy and charging technology infrastructure experts for next year’s event. These additions to our exhibition and programme are the next logical step in the development of the all year round ITT Hub activity and I can’t wait to show the industry what we are going to do next.”

Gareth Rogers, CEO of Farnborough International, added: “This was a remarkable debut for ITT Hub and we are thrilled we could partner with the team at Binswood Media to deliver an event of such resounding success. ITT Hub is a pioneering platform for the

transport industry, which will see the launch of revolutionary innovations, landmark government announcements and invaluable relationship building amongst industry leaders. The future of the event is bright and, as the new owners of ITT Hub, we are looking forward to continuing our collaboration with Mark Griffin and utilising our exceptional expertise and resources to grow ITT Hub into the leading event and news channel in the sector.”

Renault Trucks, one of the exhibitors will be back next year according to Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director of Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, who stated: “ITT Hub was a great show – I will certainly be looking forward to coming back next year. We had more than 60 or 70 customers take part in the Ride & Drive so that has been a great experience. Thank you to all the people that make the show happen.”

ITT Hub 2022 will be returning to Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, with dates confirmed of 11 - 12 May 2022.

5

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66 || NEWS NEWS II1

Cargotec Engineering Ireland Ltd, based in Dundalk, has won a prestigious IFOY Award in the Special Vehicle category with the latest evolution of its electric MOFFETT E4-25.3NX truck mounted forklift. In the same week, the Hiab brand secured a significant fleet order for its M8 NXs machines.

In the opinion of the IFOY (International Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year) jury, the MOFFETT E4-25.3NX offers an excellent alternative to diesel-powered truck mounted forklifts from an ecological as well as an economic point of view. The vehicle itself is of a modern efficient design and offers the driver a spacious workplace.

The safety equipment is also of a high standard, with the testers noting that ‘the ability to operate in both semi-open and enclosed environments greatly expands the possibilities of this truck’.

The IFOY testers and the jury, (which includes Fleet Transport & Handling Network magazines) see the E4-NX as setting new standards in its field. The all-electric version could be compared with other already electrified in-plant industrial trucks in terms of operating comfort and control sensitivity. The overall concept, with its robust and high-quality design, was also judged to be sophisticated. The significantly lower noise emission of the truck also opens up a much wider time window for deliveries. In terms of economic efficiency, the testers concluded that the lower operating costs lead to a positive cost-benefit balance after a manageable operating time.

FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

Dundalk built electric MOFFETT E4-25.3 NX wins IFOY AWARD 2021 and secures major US order “We’re extremely proud and grateful that our new electric MOFFETT has been recognised as 2021’s best Special Vehicle by IFOY. It is the industry’s most prestigious award and the vehicle has undergone stringent tests throughout the spring before the jury reached its result.

Now, we look forward to launching more new electric models in the MOFFETT eSeries made to the same high standard,” said Jann Hansen, Vice President, Sales & Product Management, Truck Mounted Forklift, Hiab (pictured).

The MOFFETT E4 NX, Hiab’s next generation eSeries of electric forklifts and the world’s first all-electric 3-wheel drive truck mounted forklift, was launched in December 2020. The zero-emission truck is virtually silent, which means it can be operated without earplugs so drivers can see and hear dangers. The total cost of ownership is lower than the equivalent diesel model as it can be electrically charged and has reduced service costs.

“I would like to thank the development and manufacturing teams at Dundalk in Ireland who have designed and produced the world’s best electric truck mounted forklift. Thank you for keeping everyday life moving. We will continue our electrification journey ensuring that all of our customers can get an electric truck mounted forklift that suits their needs,” added Rogier van der Linde, Senior Vice President, Truck Mounted Forklift, Hiab.

The honour was a proud moment for Michael O’Reilly, Global Product Manager, Moffett Truck Mounted Forklifts, Cargotec Engineering Ireland Ltd, who has spent over two decades with the company: “We are all delighted at Moffett Dundalk to receive this prestigious award. It’s a culmination of the efforts and dedication from the teams involved - R&D, Engineering, Sourcing, Production and our front line sales personnel. Without the complete

team involvement, awards like the IFOY would not be possible.”

With this announcement came news that Moffett received an order for its M8 55 NX truck mounted forklifts worth €14.5 million from one of the leading home improvement companies in the USA, which will be delivered between October 2021 and February 2022.

Speaking on the major deal, Bob Bobroski, Director, Strategic Accounts & Dealer Management, Hiab, said: “MOFFETT’s continued commitment to product development and advancements in the digital space helped to secure this order and strengthen our long standing partnership with one of the US’ leading home improvement companies. They deliver both heavy and high value products to customers across the US in challenging job sites and ever changing conditions. We’re very proud that MOFFETT makes it possible to fulfill their delivery promises to customers.”

MOFFETT M8 NX truck mounted forklifts can transfer heavy loads quickly and safely, even across challenging terrain. While the M8 NX is incredibly powerful, it is still compact enough to be carried on a wide variety of truck and trailer classes. All MOFFETTs are compliant with Tier 4 emission standards in North America & Canada and European Stage V regulations.

“MOFFETT is the original and the global leading truck mounted forklift brand. This repeat order is further proof that MOFFETT delivers productivity and reliability to our customers that keep everyday life moving,” added Jann Hansen.

7

The face of evolution in shape for your business A busy schedule demands the right tools to make your everyday life run even smoother.

The Volvo FM is the professional driver’s workplace and combines excellent comfort with agility, convenience and outstanding visibility.

For more information visit volvotrucks.co.uk/fm

Search: VolvoTrucksUK www.fleet.ie

88 | INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW with Laurence Drake, Managing Director, DAF Trucks UK and Mike Atkinson, General Manager Ireland, DAF Trucks UK With Jarlath Sweeney – jarlath@fleet.ie

The recent launch of the New Generation DAF trucks may have been a well kept secret, but there was also a lot of other business going on behind the scenes at DAF Trucks, mainly to improve customer services and satisfaction.

The launch of the new trucks meant that DAF Trucks’ plants in Eindhoven and Leyland had to be upgraded, assembly employees trained and the dealer network prepared, while technicians had to be updated on the new technologies on board the new truck family.

In addition, an expansion of DAF’s TRP parts and components sales outlets was undertaken together with an ongoing rollout of the TRP Service network. All these topics and more were discussed with the two senior DAF Trucks representatives while attending the recent ITT Hub event in Farnborough.

With the introduction of the New Generation DAF Trucks, many areas and aspects were focussed on – fuel efficiency, driver comfort and appeal, safety, and above all, future proofing.

For instance, the 10% reduction on fuel consumption has been achieved through a wind-cheating, streamlined cab design and modifications to the whole drivetrain, from engine tweaks to axle ratio changes. With three new models introduced - the XF, XG & XG+ - road transport companies, fleet operators and owner drivers now have a great selection to choose the most suitable version to meet their particular needs. Indeed, DAF Trucks enters a new dimension, literally, with the new XG+. Meeting the new EU truck design regulations with additional space for the driver will be appreciated by drivers, especially for long haul operations.

“The XF name was retained and expanded on, as it is identified globally as a DAF Truck,” explained Laurence (pictured right).

“There are three distinct sections FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

with the new cab design; the driver’s area, rest area and mobile office, with plenty of space and storage all round.”

DAF Trucks had the Brexit issue well covered with production plants in both territories – UK and Europe. The Leyland factory, inherited by DAF from the merger with Leyland Trucks has benefited from substantial investment over the decades. “At the Lancashire facility, the LF series is produced for all markets and over the years, right hand drive versions of the CF and XF have rolled off the production line also. Our home market (Britain) is DAF’s biggest customer, topping the truck sales charts consistently, year on year,” said Laurence.

The whole question of new and used truck sales were discussed. The extended waiting list for new trucks has led to increased residual values for fresh used units. Traditionally many hundreds of used units headed across to Ireland each year, but Brexit has halted this convenient market for now at least, as its now loaded with additional and paperwork. Laurence stated that 50% of all used trucks sold in Ireland over 7.5 tonnes came from the UK. Otherwise, Brexit issues have not affected trade all that much, mentioned Mike, apart from lengthy Customs processes required for the distribution and delivery of its overnight spare parts service. “Additional costs have had to be implemented as a result. Despite these implications DAF and TRP managed to maintain a 97% offthe-shelf availability for next day delivery into its dealer and service network, which includes Ireland. TRP is continuing to grow and is an important element for DAF’s overall business,” he said. Through TRP Parts, TRP Service & TRP Service+ networks, the DAF Truck owner, be it of a new vehicle or one on its second or third ownership, is guaranteed top quality repair and maintenance, expertly carried out by highly trained technicians.

The plaudits and positivity generated towards the transport fraternity during the early Coronavirus lockdown periods was not capitalised upon, according to Laurence. “We need to look at how the drivers’ job is viewed and how a better work-life balance can be achieved, with less focus on driver regulation.” As Mike pointed out, the introduction of in-cab cameras, telematics systems and driver CPC requirements has made the plight of the driver ever more difficult, more so than any other occupation. “There is no easy solution, but there needs to be more proactive engagement from all sides, to highlight the benefits of the sector to the economy and let everyone know about the value involved.

For example, 85% of goods produced are carried by a truck from source to consumer.”

The general viewpoint from the DAF executives was that more could be done and should be done to alleviate the chronic driver shortage. The various State bodies, trade organisations and media should combine their collective efforts and energies to address the situation. For example, the truck brands can promote the high levels of technical engagement between the truck and the driver, while the authorities should look at improving facilities for the driver’s daily activities, something that could be promoted through the dedicated press.

Laurence made a valid point and suggestion which would be a wake-up call for internet consumers. To highlight the carbon footprint involved in sourcing and delivering web-based shopping, he said introducing a pence (or cent) per mile/km on the product ordered that is calculated from source may be required to somewhat stem the eCommerce tide that is rising every day. “The increased demands by customers for instant delivery is putting enormous and un-necessary pressure on the logistical aspect of the process, which could be slowed down if brought back to the retail outlets,” he concluded.

9

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10 | cover story 10

10 | COVER

The Plus Factor!

DAF dazzles with new XF, XG & XG+

When DAF Trucks introduced the 95 Series in 1987, little did we know that its SuperSpace cab would serve the Dutch brand and its broad customer base so well into the next century. From the various incarnations and evolutions that followed, from the 95XF, XF105 and XF, the basic cab structure from the ‘95’ remained. In fact, the 95 cab was jointly developed with ENASA in Spain which supplied local manufacturer Pegaso with the same framework and panelling. British based Seddon Atkinson also used the cab for its Strato model. There was even a special military version, successfully sold in Europe and North America. No less than 650,000 XF trucks have been sold in total across 50 countries worldwide.

Not only did the 95 and XF series win over the popularity of the long distance truck driver, it was widely recognised and honoured by the International Truck

of the Year Award jury on numerous occasions (1988, 1998, 2007 & 2018) and also received many accolades from various trade magazines and other transport related organisations.

While the XF and its siblings proved most successful and stood the test of time like no other production series truck of its generation, the new range of heavy-duty trucks from DAF is setting FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

the standards in truck design, safety and comfort features as well as instant driver appeal.

In developing the New Generation, DAF Trucks took a number of steps forward and created three variants based on the newly designed XF – the XF itself, the new XG and the ultimate flagship model, the XG+.

From an operational viewpoint, a further 10% in fuel savings have been achieved.

DAF Trucks is the first manufacturer to create a truck line up that takes advantage of the new European masses and dimensions regulations.

Class-leading quality, efficiency, safety and driver comfort come together in the game-changing New Generation DAF. A 160 mm front elongation enables industry-leading aerodynamics and safety. Only the finest materials have been used in the new DAF. Lightweight, high strength steel is used for the cab structure, and premium soft touch materials and leather are used extensively throughout the interior.

‘New Generation DAF underwent over 20 million kilometres of functional, durability, reliability and customer testing to ensure the new trucks meet DAF Truck’s exacting quality standards’

At the web-based launch, DAF Trucks NV Executives proudly stated the new XF Series achieved a further 10% gain in fuel efficiency and an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions due to a number

of measures taken. Thanks to sleek, slippery aerodynamics of the shapely cab, together with a curved windscreen, digital cameras (instead of exterior mirrors), improved under cab air-flow and engine modifications, this ambitious objective was met.

Further advances include tweaks to the well-proven PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines, smart exhaust-after-treatment systems, low vehicle weights, standard TraXon automated transmission, and sophisticated driver assistance systems. The advanced DAF Connect fleet management system provides for time saving over-the-air software updates. And service intervals have increased to an industry first 200,000 kilometres or once a year. The new DAF XF/XG line-up has been designed for the latest bio and renewable e-fuels to further decarbonise road transport, and the trucks are a ready platform for future zero emissions powertrains, such as battery electric and hydrogen.

COVER STORY | 11 11

‘With the New Generation XF, XG and XG+, a new dimension of driver comfort is introduced.

Driving position, interior space, sleeping comfort, fit and finish – everything is top class’ Drivers will be impressed by the interior space.

Next to the 160 mm elongated front, both of the XG range-topping models feature no less than 330 mm extra length at the rear of the cab for unmatched space to work, live and sleep. The cab height level of the XG and XG+ is 125 mm higher than the New Generation XF. The semi-flat floor provides the optimal combination of an easy access with only 3 steps and a great seating position for excellent direct vision. The DAF XG cab interior offers a standing height from no less than 1,980 to 2,105 mm, with the elongation at the rear lending itself to impressive interior spaciousness. According to the DAF design team, the new XG+ outperforms every truck on the market when it comes to interior space. The height of the roof is increased even more to offer a standing height of up to an impressive 2,220 mm. With a volume of 12.5 m3, the DAF XG+ has even 14% more volume than the industry-benchmark, the current DAF XF SuperSpace Cab. The new cab features multi-adjustment seat arrangements with both driver and co-driver seats rotatable to a relaxing position.

The new digital dashboard can be customised to the driver’s personal preferences, while an optional second touch screen display is available for operating the DAF Navigation and Infotainment System.

‘This XG+ is DAF’s true top-ofthe-range model, offering a dazzling level of living comfort and spaciousness which are unique in the entire industry’

pedestrians and cyclists next to the truck on the passenger’s side. Also new is the DAF Digital Camera system that can replace the main and wide-angle mirrors. The DAF Corner View system offers maximum view on the area around the cab’s A-pillar on the co-driver side.

All vehicle lighting now includes full LED technology for optimal view and visibility.

DAF Truck’s philosophy of ‘Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road’ continues, resulting in class-leading ergonomics.

All driving related functions are operated from the steering wheel and

DAF Trucks builds on its heritage as the provider of the best bunks in the industry. The new bed length is 2,220 mm in all models, with 800 mm of width over the complete length in the XG and XG+ models. A mechanical or electrically adjustable DAF Relax Bed with a separate topper is available for optimal head, back and leg support while resting.

Significantly contributing to the outstanding comfort, is the improved ride and handling, enhanced by the new front-end design of the chassis, the new cab suspension and the new design of the rear axle suspension.

One of the many safety elements considered and developed is that the new cab design also features a large windscreen and large side windows with ultra-low belt lines for unequalled direct vision. Indeed, as an option, a kerb view window is available which – in combination with the foldable co-driver seat – offers an unobstructed view of

the steering column stalks. Secondary driving functions are operated from physical switches, well positioned on the dashboard, within easy reach of the driver.

Following the reveal, Simon Teevan, Managing Director, DAF Trucks Ireland commented: “DAF Trucks Ireland are very excited to introduce the New Generation DAF (NGD) line-up to Ireland. The new XF, XG and XG+ are the first trucks to make use of the new EU masses and dimensions regulations. Combined with an up to 10% fuel efficiency gain, these new DAF trucks are an absolute game changer in terms of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), driver comfort and safety as well as pedestrian safety.

Alongside the NGD models the current line-up of DAF models LF, CF and XF will continue in production. We expect to see the first NGD models arrive in Ireland at the end of the summer.”

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

12 12 | NEW FLEET I

First impressions S-Way’d N McCormack!

Following a test drive at the launch event, one of the first orders for two new 510hp IVECO S-WAYs to be registered in Longford were delivered to N McCormack, Kenagh, County Longford. John Keogh, Sales Manager at Longhaul Commercials, who conducted the deal explained: “After test driving the new demo S-Way at our launch event, here in Tullamore, Niall McCormack

Tommy on track with new IVECO Trakker tipper!

Having operated and driven many different truck makes and models over his thirty-five plus years in the sand and gravel supply business, Tommy Graham is really impressed with his new IVECO Trakker, recently purchased from Clive Gethings, Gethings Garage Ltd., Enniscorthy, County Wexford. The

One becomes four new Volvo Trucks at Sweeney Oil

Prosperous, County Kildare based operator who currently runs a mixed fleet of Volvo, Scania and Renault trucks, said that the new Trakker 410hp 8x4 with Thompson tipper body is ‘something different to add to the fleet’.

In the past Tommy was a loyal fan of Hino and always admired Magirus Deutz 8-wheelers with which the Trakker has strong heritage links. It is powered by Iveco sister company FPT’s 13-litre Cursor 13 Euro 6 diesel engine and mated to ZF’s AS-Tronic transmission.

Tommy added that a big thanks must recently bought from Volvo Trucks dealer Murphy Commercials (Galway) and join a similar model purchased last year. The specification of the new models to the expanded fleet includes two Cobo 20,000 litre tanks built in Spain and an RTN tank fitted by Fitzgerald’s (Cork) and equipped

Sweeney Oil, the award-winning family-owned independent oil supplier, established in Clifden, County Galway by John Sweeney in 1987, has continued its recent truck fleet renewal programme.

Three new Volvo FE trucks were

Sales of new Renault Master Red Editions continue at Shaw Commercials FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

and his crew were so impressed that they decided to order two 510hp top-spec tractor-units on full air. These are among the first orders for the new S-WAY and the first two units to be registered in Longford. We thank Niall for his faith, patience and trust in us to deliver these two spectacular trucks. To say we’re proud of how they turned out is an understatement. We look forward to meeting them on the road.

go to David and Frank from Mayfield Body Paint & Graphics, Paul and Sean from Kildare Auto Electrical and also Clive Gethings for doing a great deal. with a hi-tech metering system.

John Sweeney, Managing Director at Sweeney Oil said that he would like to take this opportunity with New Fleet to thank Des Murphy for the outstanding work in preparing the company’s new trucks for the roads in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon, as well as to Ronan Mitchell Spray Painting in Claremorris, County Mayo for a superb job done. “We look forward to driving our new trucks on the road and delivering our award-winning customer service and fuel to our customers.”

Barry Molloy, LCV Sales Executives at Shaw Commercials, Main Renault Trucks Dealer in Castlebar, County Mayo has sent on details of Renault Master Red Edition sales conducted recently.

Pictured is the new high-spec Renault Master Red Edition L3 H2, sold to Madden Landscaping & Training Services, Castlebar, powered by Renault’s 2.3-litre 150hp diesel. Barry also mentioned the delivery to County Clare of two similar new Renault Master Red Edition models to Neville Civil Works.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

13

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14 14 | NEW FLEET II

New and Used Scania Truck Deals Done by McElvaney Motors B.D. Flood (Oldcastle, County Meath)

Belview Eggs (Drogheda, County Louth)

B.D. Flood Ltd, headquartered in Oldcastle, supplies a range of readymix concrete, stone, aggregate products and blocks to the building trade, the farming industry and the housing sector. The company recently purchased this new Scania XT P410 10x4*6 block truck from Scania dealers McElvaney Motors (Monaghan & Dublin). Its 5-axle configuration has a lift and steer axle behind the two double-drive rear axles. The extra axle allows the truck to gross up to 36,000kgs when loaded, and because it is a rear steering axle it shortens the turning radius to less than a normal 8x4 truck – making it even more manoeuvrable and comfortable, thanks to its Opticruise gearbox and rear air suspension.

Belview Eggs recently took delivery of this new Scania P360 6x2 rigid and it certainly looks the part with its eye-catching livery. Interesting to note that the company started with a mere 5,000 hens and a table top grader. It has now expanded almost ten-fold to deal with the increasing demand for sales and has invested heavy in top of the plant and range equipment. The company now has 21 production houses, 11 in Louth and 10 in Monaghan, with a total of 288,000 hens that are all approved by Bord Bia under the Sustainable Egg Assurance Scheme.

Jupiter Transport (Coothill, County Cavan)

A&T Transport (Swords, County Dublin)

Congratulations to Kenneth and the team at Jupiter Transport on the purchase of this eye-catching New Generation Scania R540 6x2/2 Highline. The paintwork on this 540 horsepower 6 cylinder truck looks stunning in the Manor Farm colours and compliments the trailer beautifully. This stunning truck has everything from leather interior, LED lighting pack, storage pack, premium infotainment system, Durabrite alloys and much more.

From its quality line-up of used trucks, McElvaneys sold this 191-reg Scania P250 to A&T Transport. Founded in 2011 by Trevor Roy and Andrew Bruton, Swords, County Dublin based A&T Transport is a dynamic and progressive Irish owned transportation company. This curtainsider bodied 4x2 rigid truck is going straight into service at its European Airfreight Division.

Liam & William O’Reilly (Shercock, County Cavan) Liam and William O’Reilly purchased this impressive New Generation Scania R540 6x2 tag, sporting Lakeland Dairies colours. Liam chose a 540hp powered tractor-unit with rear-lift axle (tag) with a 3.15m wheelbase on front and rear air suspension. The addition of full air suspension and rear-lift makes this truck exceptionally versatile for collecting milk in tight farmyard spaces. This truck also has Clutch On Demand (COD), an Opticruise gearbox which changes seamlessly up and down through the gears without the use of the clutch pedal, but yet the pedal is there if you need it for that awkward manoeuvre.

FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

15

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16 16 | NEW FLEET III

Out on the Range (T)! – More new Renault Range T Sales

by Setanta Vehicle Sales (Dublin) Virginia International Logistics (Cavan) has put into operation this new Range T-High 520 tractor-unit, the first of a 20-strong Renault Trucks order for delivery in 2021.

While the other 19 trucks will be specified with numerous extras including front air suspension, alloy wheels, side skirts, driver comfort pack and leather pack, this one features a factory painted black finish to mark the Cavan company’s 30th flat floored T-High order. This truck definitely stands out with the subtle extras including painted wheel trims and hubs, a distinctive livery supplied by ABR Signs and a colour coded black lightbar with LED Lamps.

A new Renault T-High 520 has been delivered to Dundalk-based International road transport operator Kieran McKay Ltd. This 4x2 tractor-unit features front air suspension, alloy wheels, aircon pod, leather seats, sat-nav, plus other optional extras. Kieran McKay Ltd was established in 2006, providing continental transport, specialising in ambient and refrigeration road freight services. Currently operating approximately 20 units, at the heart of the business is Kieran, with over 20 years of experience and expertise built-up over these decades.

Dundalk-based haulier Trinity Transport has taken to the road with three new T-High 520 6x2 tractor-units.

They come equipped with lots of extras including leather and comfort pack, front air suspension, Dura-Bright alloy wheels and side skirts and air-con pods, to name just a few. Other unique elements are the additional Black light bars with LED spots and a new-look livery supplied by ABR Signs. The new trucks will work on UK based contracts.

FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

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18 18 | Launch Pad I

Latest modifications to S-WAY and Daily models unveiled by IVECO Live!

In the 60-minute show, IVECO invited guests to “Go Smart!” with the new vehicles, which take innovation, connectivity, TCO improvement and sustainability to the next level.

IVECO appropriately chose a digital format to reveal the latest product phase of its Daily and S-WAY commercial vehicles, as it highlighted the new van and heavy-duty truck ranges ‘as smart vehicles’ that take connectivity and sustainability to the next level.

The format of the virtual launch event reflected the high innovation content of the new ranges and outlined details of the high level of interaction now available through its new IVECO Driver Pal system. IVECO’s new vocal driver companion participated in the presentations, interacting with Thomas Hilse, IVECO Brand President, via Amazon Alexa throughout the event.

Commenting on the initiative Thomas said: “We wanted a launch event capable of bringing across clearly and in an engaging format the unique strengths of the new Daily and S-WAY, demonstrating how we are revolutionising the way our customers communicate with our vehicles. We showed how we put them centre-stage when we develop our products and services, with one idea driving us: making their life and work smarter, easier, more enjoyable and much more productive.”

New IVECO S-WAY Evo II: 100% connected truck The new IVECO S-WAY range has been engineered to deliver even more outstanding value and productivity for the fleet owner. It has further increased its fuel efficiency, which was already among the best, with a new engine line-up and next generation rear axle, advanced technologies and innovative services tailored to the customers’ needs.

FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

It takes connectivity and driver-centricity to a new level with the unique IVECO Driver Pal voice companion, new advanced functionalities and connected services.

The new IVECO S-WAY builds on the success this range has achieved since its launch in 2019. Overall, sales have exceeded all expectations, leading to significant gains in market share. IVECO S- WAY natural gas models are the strong leaders in Europe, and today account for more than a quarter of units sold.

According to Giuliano Giovannini, Head of Medium & Heavy Line Product Management, the new engine line-up meets Euro 6/E emissions standards and is type-approved for 100% second-generation bio-diesel, such as HVO. The FTP Cursor 13 range has been extended with two new power ratings, 490 hp and 530 hp. This 13-litre engines have been coupled with new, high-efficiency single-reduction rear axles, and longer rear axle ratios down to 2.31:1 are available with standard profile tyres. This enables substantial down-speeding, resulting in greater efficiency when cruising on long-distance routes. These features make the new Cursor 13 490 hp version a true TCO Champion and the perfect vehicle for long haulage.

A reduction in fuel consumption of up to 3% has been gained by the new Eco Mode for the automatic air conditioning system, which eliminates unnecessary energy absorption, and the new A-pillar aerodynamic covers that further improve air flow around the cab.

“The IVECO S-WAY transforms the way drivers interact with their vehicle, making life on board easier and more productive

with the unique IVECO Driver Pal vocal driver companion, new advanced functionalities and connected services. It enables the driver to interact with the vehicle, its control systems, the IVECO Control Room and all fleet management functions using voice commands via Amazon Alexa. With the unique MYIVECO skill, they can not only activate in-cab controls and use the infotainment, but also use the navigation system to plan their route, and check the vehicle’s health status and their Driving Style Evaluation score. IVECO Driver Pal also puts them in contact with the driver community through the MYCOMMUNITY skill, making it possible to exchange messages with other drivers on their route or near their destination. They can share useful travel information and support each other,” he said.

IVECO is introducing a ground breaking new service that offers complete peace of mind to the driver and the fleet owner, in case of accident or other issue with the vehicle. The driver can activate IVECO Top Care through IVECO Driver Pal. The nearest IVECO workshop will be alerted and resolution will be fast-tracked. The service offers an innovative driver hospitality package if the vehicle is not back on the road within six hours. It includes free transfer, accommodation and, if needed, medical assistance.

“It is unusual for a manufacturer to make a substantial product update just two years after launching a brand-new model. However, this is exactly what we

LAUNCH PAD I | 19 are doing with the IVECO S-WAY – and we are improving a vehicle that was already among the best in its category.

Today, with the new IVECO S-WAY we move to the next level, with a level of innovation that has no equivalent on the market. We offer our customers a vehicle that anticipates their needs and will exceed their expectations,” concluded Giuliano.

New IVECO Daily: Gets Smart(er)!

The latest evolution of the IVECO Daily family of light commercial vehicles breaks new ground, introducing interaction and collaboration with the driver and owner, turning the vehicle into a true in-business companion.

Today’s key trends in the commercial vehicle industry have driven the latest evolutionary push of the new Daily, with the developers at IVECO introducing innovative, customer-centred solutions that make it an adaptive, interactive, collaborative and connected vehicle.

The new Daily anticipates customer demands in a commercial vehicle industry that is changing fast, with the Covid-19 pandemic having amplified and accelerated existing trends. The last-mile delivery sector has experienced

a boom, as consumers dramatically increased their reliance on e-commerce and delivery services during lockdowns.

This shift in shopping habits is expected to be permanent to some degree with the easing of restrictions – with a consequent growth in the demand for light commercial vehicles. Connectivity has become a necessity in every area of everyday life – personal and professional – and vehicles must meet this requirement. Sustainability and clean air have acquired even more urgency, leading to increasingly challenging vehicle emissions standards.

Another significant development on the new Daily is the AIR-PRO pneumatic suspension, which will cover many applications within LCV segments such as utilities, bus and motorhome. The new system continuously adapts to the condition of usage to deliver a uniquely smooth and safe ride for driver and load, as the AIR-PRO Continuous Damping Control (CDC) unit reacts almost instantly to road disturbances, calculating every 10 milliseconds the ideal pressure on each shock absorber to deliver the best dynamic reaction. The lower vibrations, reduced by 25%, contribute further to a supremely comfortable driving experience.

The AIR-PRO intelligent system also adapts to the driver’s requirements and puts them in control of the suspension’s behaviour. They can choose to prioritise comfort with the Soft setting; select Load to optimise handling and roll control in full load conditions; or leave it to the system’s self-adapting parameters with the Auto setting.

The AIR-PRO suspension adapts to the vehicle load, reducing the roll angle by 30% in bends, enhancing the driver’s safety and protecting the load.

The AIR-PRO suspension makes loading and unloading operations easy and efficient, adjusting the height of the vehicle chassis in less than 10 seconds. A memory function also enables the operator to memorise the alignment with usual loading bays, making it even easier to get the vehicle ready.

The New Daily introduces a new more precise 6-speed manual transmission.

Coupled to the 2.3-litre engine and with the same clutch as the 3.0-litre engine, it is more durable - by up to 18%. As the new transmission will require no oil change, a reduction in maintenance and repair costs of up to 4% can be achieved.

For further driver comfort, the new Daily features new seats with central pads of the cushion and backrest, and the headrest in memory foam – an industry first for Light Commercial

Vehicles.

Again, three engines are offered – diesel and natural gas, with the 2.3- litre coming with power ranging from 116 hp to 156 hp (available in light- and heavy-duty homologation), and the

3.0-litre with power ratings from 160 hp to 207 hp. The 2.3-litre engine is said to achieve up to 6% in fuel savings in WLTP cycle compared to the previous model.

With the 3.0-litre CNG engine, powerful and responsive performance is delivered with 136 hp and 350 Nm torque.

Commenting on these latest developments, Thomas Hilse, IVECO Brand President, said: “With the New Daily we move to the next level and go smart.

It offers a level of innovation with no equivalent on the market. It brings on board best-in-class comfort and safety, extraordinary flexibility and mission focus, together with a substantial TCO reduction and a constantly expanding portfolio of IVECO ON services. For us at IVECO, improvement is a never-ending process – when we reach one goal, we immediately start working on the next one. We never stop.”

Also at the event, Davide Diana, IVECO Light Business Line Director, stated: “Every Daily generation has set new standards, and this has made of Daily ‘a Brand within the IVECO Brand’ with enduring success. Today, the Daily leads the European chassis cab sector and, with the Daily 7-ton version, the high-payload sub-segment. It is true to its sustainability vocation, being the point of reference in alternative-fuel LCVs. The New Daily enters the LCV market in a year where it is expected to rise to the highest level in history.

Registrations have consistently grown over the last 3 quarters, with IVECO following the same trend.”

20 20 | Launch Pad I

IVECO Driver Pal: On-board vocal driver companion built on Amazon Web Services with Amazon Alexa features IVECO Driver Pal, available on its new Daily and S-WAY ranges, has been developed with the support of Amazon Web Services’ (AWS) Professional Services and is powered by AWS Machine Learning, voice, security and server-less technologies, including Amazon Comprehend, Amazon DynamoDB, AWS Lambda, Amazon Translate, using Amazon’s Alexa cloud-based voice service to enhance the driver’s experience.

The solution provides drivers with a helpful voice Artificial Intelligence experience on the road, enabling them to bring their digital life on board and interact with their truck through voice commands.

IVECO Driver Pal is designed to help the driver optimise their route and stops, adapting to events on the way by relying on real-time information from the IVECO driver community, IVECO support services and the web. This enables the driver keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.

Driver Pal also offers features that enable drivers to bring their digital life on board and facilitate their personal and work life: through voice commands they can perform all sorts of tasks whilst minimising distractions – manage their calendar, play music or their favourite podcasts, call other Alexa-enabled devices, check the news, weather and traffic reports, and even access their Alexa-enabled home automation devices.

FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

Two new modules developed with AWS Professional Services and Alexa Auto team, called MYIVECO and MYCOMMUNITY, enable the driver to interact with the vehicle in an entirely new way.

With MYIVECO drivers can use vocal commands to manage their journey and plan their route: set up their destination, find parking places and service stations on the way with their navigation system, change route to avoid heavy traffic and search for restaurants and hotels. They can check their Driver Style Evaluation score and ask for tips to drive more safely and efficiently. On long-distance missions, IVECO Driver Pal will even tell them when they need to stop for their statutory breaks based on tachograph information.

The MYIVECO skill also enables drivers to launch a vehicle check list before their trip and be informed about

maintenance and health status of their vehicle’s main components such as tyres, batteries, filter, clutch and brake pads.

They can access information about the truck’s efficiency, view tips on how to improve it, or book a service stop at the dealership of their choice. If they have a technical issue, they can ask IVECO’s Control Room for help and, if necessary, activate the Assistance Non-Stop service and access the Remote Assistance Service and Over-The-Air updates.

Drivers can also use the MYIVECO skill to activate several in-cab functions, such as setting the air conditioning and heating systems, switching lights on and off, turning on media and many more.

This means they remain focused on the road.

Remember the days of the CB radio?

(Good Buddy!). Well, the second module; MYCOMMUNITY acts like a digital CB radio, allowing the users to be part of a driver community. They can exchange voice messages with other drivers and search for messages along their route or in the area near their destination, for example. They can share and listen to information about traffic conditions or queues at border controls, which will help to avoid unexpected delays, or get tips about the best parking areas or restaurants and other useful information. Language is no barrier, as MYCOMMUNITY will translate to and from English, German, French, Italian and Spanish – and more languages will follow.

The MYCOMMUNITY skill will be open to all drivers (not only the IVECO ones), enabling the creation of a wider driver community where they exchange advice, hints and keep in touch with other drivers on their route.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

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22 22 | TEST I

NEW Volvo FMX – On & Off-Road Test!

The concept behind Volvo Trucks’ launch of the FMX in 2010 was to provide operators with a dedicated truck that could be sent straight to work in any area of the construction and allied industries. The unit came with many features suggested by those involved within the sector and this no doubt helped to make FMX a success from day one. Fleet Transport had the opportunity to try out the latest incarnation of FMX to see how it has developed over the decade since its launch.

Across its model range, Volvo Trucks has completed a full revamp of its line-up including FMX. The new cab’s updated profile offers a more futuristic styling to the truck while managing to leave no doubt regarding its potential to do the job. FMX retains the yellow exterior

markings which have always distinguished the model from its stablemates and highlight the close links to the world-renowned Volvo Construction FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

Equipment which was always the intention. This has worked well for Volvo Group when a large contractor can buy construction plant/machinery and construction trucks from one manufacturer with much of the equipment sharing many common parts and components.

Three well-spaced non-slip steps, the lowest of which is flexible, all help to bring the driver to a roomy cab. Even though this is a day cab the new FMX delivers a sense of space that will please any driver. The centre roof hatch allows plenty of light to enter the cab and this is further enhanced by the vision window in the near-side door. Once there is no passenger aboard, this window improves the driver’s area of visibility, which from the driver’s seat is first class through either the redesigned and lowered side windows or to the rear in the mirrors.

Volvo’s clever semi-circular storage unit mounted on the rear wall makes good use of what would be under normal circumstances wasted space, and adds to the already abundant level of bins and lockers.

The steering column, adjusted by the familiar foot pedal offers a wide range of adjustments. When combined with the multi-adjustable seat, all drivers should have no difficulty finding their preferred position. As one would expect from Volvo, the ergonomic layout of the switchgear on the semi-curved dashboard is excellent, as are the new high-resolution screens. Though as we keep alluding to, a few minutes spent getting familiar with the truck is time well spent. This is especially true of our test unit which came with a handheld remote control that allows the driver to operate a wide range of functions including the tailgate locks, tipping gear, and load-cover remotely. This device is a requirement on an increasing number of quarries and sites that insist the driver is

out of the cab while loading and tipping operations are ongoing.

The build quality, materials used, and the finish of the interior is exemplary and more in keeping with an executive class passenger car. This includes the infotainment system which automatically transforms to display images from the multitude of cameras mounted on all sides and the rear. It is worth noting that we found this system to be one of the better units as it did not try to be too clever, it just displayed a relevant clear image at the appropriate time. This compares favourably to more recent versions which display a multitude of images at once and serve only to create confusion.

Once familiar with the general controls we headed off to the quarry to get loaded and for a little play in the sandpit. Around the quarry loaded or empty there was no area of ground we found that the FMX could not take in its stride. Using the previously mentioned hand-held control we could get out of the cab to oversee the loading and sheeting, and once sorted we set off for the on-road section.

Once loaded the only slight difference we found was that the 8x4 was a little less bouncy than when empty. The full load of stone made

TEST I | 23

little impact on the performance of the FMX’s 460hp D13 in-line six engine.

The Euro 6 D13 is a competent, wellproven, and widely used engine that offers 2,300 Nm of torque from 900 r/ min. This level of pulling power at low revs is well suited to off-road and quarry work and ensured the FMX unit had no difficulty with the load. Although for the extremely weight-conscious operator there is always the option of Volvo’s 11 litre offered with power ratings of at 430 or 460hp. Nevertheless, the D13 is well matched to Volvo’s long-serving I-Shift transmission and delivers a smooth easy drive. I-Shift automated gearbox has benefitted again from a further software update and is now arguably the leading heavy-duty transmission available to operators today. The I-Shift selector remains to the left of the driver’s seat and the newly redesigned selector is the epitome of good functional design especially when selecting ratios manually, when necessary or when the mood takes. Updates to the transmission include I-Shift Off-Road Mode, a crawler gear and a facility to change the direction of travel at speeds below 15k/ ph.

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 FMX / 8x4 – 5,100mm Wheelbase - Day Cab DK13K460 (12.8 litre) - 6-Cylinder, Euro 6 Step D 338 kW (460 Hp) 1,400 – 1,800 rpm 2,300 Nm @ 900 – 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 XZY 3 - 385/65 R22.5 Drive Axles: Michelin X Works - 315/80 R22.5 Alcoa Brushed Aluminium Volvo Engine Brake + 375 kW @ 2300 rpm (Active Safety Package ‘Safe-VE+) EBS, EBA, EBL, ESC, Hill Start, ACC, ASR, ESP, FCW, LCS, LKS, DAS 255 litres / 57 litres Thompsons Steel Body/ Edbro Single Tipping Ram 31,000 Kgs

The test run covered all types of roads from narrow rough quarry tracks to national roads and motorways, and on all sections, the FMX behaved flawlessly.

The drive was helped by Volvo’s Dynamic Steering (VDS), and while not all drivers

are fans of VDS it is one that we are generally in favour of. FMX is as solid and assured on the road as it is off-roading at slow speeds where the benefits of VDS can be appreciated to a greater extent. Unlike many other vehicles, FMX is designed and built as a construction truck which means it comes equipped with the specific tools to do the job. Tools such as extra ground clearance, simple to use and engage-able while driving, diff and inter-axle locks, 25-tonne towing pin, headlight protectors and robust easily replaceable bumper are all welcome additions to make the driver’s life easier.

Originally FMX was a good idea and a good addition to the Volvo Trucks line-up in 2010. Nevertheless, over the past decade, FMX has developed its own identity wherein has become almost a stand-alone brand itself, well regarded for its robust no-nonsense performance.

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

24 24 | SAFETY MATTERS

Going backwards must be managed too Reversing Vehicles key points

Reversing is one of those slow speed manoeuvres that crop up time and time again in vehicles-atwork incident statistics. Reversing and slow speed manoeuvre incidents happen because vehicles all too often engage in multiple or lengthy vehicular movements that could have been avoided if yard managers and drivers gave consideration to the tasks that commonly occur at a premises. The driver should think about putting the vehicle in the required position for the safest and most efficient manoeuvre.

Drivers need to think about where the manoeuvre should start and finish to minimise risk and undue complication. By simply doing this the amount of reversing manoeuvres can be greatly reduced, and therefore the risk of something bad happening will also be greatly reduced. In summary, reversing is a high-risk vehicle manoeuvre, and in order to reduce risks drivers should be given instructions on the issues outlined below.

If responsible for managing the safety of vehicle operations one should control the risks inherent in reversing by: n implementing a reversing policy for the organisation n

eliminating reversing, wherever possible. This can be done, for example, by laying out a one-way system if the premises allows for this.

If this can’t be done, it might be possible to set up designated reversing areas, which should be marked as such. All non-essential personnel should then be excluded from such areas.

n minimising it when it can’t be eliminated – both the amount of reversing and distances n using reversing aids – reversing cameras, mirrors, sensor alarms n Installing stop blocks or buffers to prevent vehicles reversing onto people/structures n Adopting a “reverse in – drive out” policy for parking of all vehicles using trained reversing assistants or signallers.

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

only trained reversing assistants are used to help reverse a vehicle, and both driver and assistant are trained in the use of hand signals.

n

all reversing assistants are provided with clear instructions on where to stand when giving direction to the driver to make sure the driver can see them. Similarly, reversing assistants must be able to see the driver in the mirror at all times.

Some simple driver tips for safe reversing and manoeuvring your vehicle Before setting off, make sure vehicle mirrors are clean and adjusted, reversing lights and siren are working, reversing cameras, where fitted, are working and no items are obscuring vision.

FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

On arrival and before reversing: STOP AND THINK! Can reversing be avoided? If not: n Try to reduce the length of reversing as much as possible. n Observe surroundings, and avoid blindside reversing, if possible. n

No person should be in between the rear or sides of the vehicle and fixed objects such as walls, lamp posts or cars.

n Walk around the vehicle to look for obstacles or hazards if safe to do so. n

Ask questions. If possible, ask for help, but make sure reversing assistants are trained and remain in a safe area and in view at all times.

n

Think and plan the path you will be taking when you are reversing. Where you are going to start and where you will finish.

n

Check again that all safety features, such as reversing cameras and mirrors, are correctly positioned and that they are working properly.

n

Turn your head to view everything around you, use mirrors, check both sides before reversing and continue to do so throughout the procedure.

n When safe to do so, reverse as planned. n If there is any doubt at all, STOP, GET OUT and CHECK AGAIN. n Reverse slowly at all times and allow for overhang at the rear of the vehicle. n Do not overcorrect or panic, return to original position if needed. n If you lose sight of someone or catch a glimpse of something not right, STOP IMMEDIATELY! It is vitally important to consider the vehicle risks in your workplace, and implement a workplace traffic management plan, part of which should address reversing. For more information on managing vehicle safety go to the Health & Safety Authority’s website at www.vehiclesatwork.ie

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26 26 | TRUCK TEST SPECIAL

MAN Trucks Off-Road Test Drive at Kallinchen (Berlin) At a former military vehicle testing site not far from Berlin, MAN Truck & Bus presented its latest range of construction and municipal-configured TGL, TGM, TGS & TGX models with a variety of chassis configurations and body types, from skip and hook-loaders to crew cabs, tippers, cranes and even a solo tractor-unit.

While the exterior of the new MAN Truck Generation has not changed radically, the recent updates made bring a more contemporary styling to the brand. Admittedly more updates can be found inside the well-designed interior.

Many of the new features are common to all models in the range with certain variations depending on work applications. One of the more dynamic new features is the MAN SmartSelect rotary control that gathers several functions on one switch. This is generally a good idea, although not all manufacturers manage to do it well. However, MAN’s SmartSelect does work and the new dashboard layout and finish would easily compare with many models from the parent company’s (VW Group) high-end passenger car division.

TGM 13.290 4x4

TMG & TGS 4x4 From the selection of trucks on offer, the first option presented was the TGM 13.290 4x4. This DO8 powered unit is typically aimed at the municipal sector and can also be an attractive unit for land management and farms, especially with a wheelbase of 3050 mm making it highly manoeuvrable. Already it comes equipped with front working lights, mounting plate and hydraulic system for all manner of work attachments from snow-plough to hedge cutting and drainage work.

Around the forest course with AWD engaged, there was little to trouble this TGM. Therefore, if operating within an urban environment this all-wheeldrive unit could cover the duties of a number of different vehicles. If needed there is the TGS 18.470 version for heavier applications, especially for the forestry and larger land management sectors. This 470 hp TGS is powered

by MAN’s D26 and delivers 2,400 Nm of torque from 930 rpm.

Both trucks are fitted with a 12-speed MAN TipMatic/ZF transmission and easy shift axle/lock engagements.

TGL 4x4 8.220

TGS 18.470 4x4 FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

Any of the trucks available could be driven on or off-road, although there was one that was restricted to on-road only - the

TGL 8.220 4x2

TGL 8.220. This 4x2 rigid was fitted with a Meiller three-way tipping body-mounted behind a large crew cab, which has seating for six or seven and is finished to an exceptional high quality. The model is well suited to a wide range of applications including landscaping, horticulture, construction, emergency services and recovery.

Powered by a four-cylinder version of MAN’s DO8 engine driving through a 6-speed TipMatic transmission, the truck is exceptionally easy to drive. Significant, because often with trucks of this type bringing workers and tools to and from work locations is the main purpose. The crew-cabbed TGL manages to do this in some style. The spacious well-equipped cab offers the driver excellent visibility, is quiet, comfortable and more like a van to drive.

TGS 8x4 35.400 & 35.470 MAN made two 8x4 versions of its mid-range TGM 35 available. However, there was more than just the badge stating a 70 hp difference between the trucks. The TGS 35.470 is powered by the 12-litre D26 engine offering 2,400 Nm of torque, while the 35.400 is powered by the 9-litre D15 engine developing 1,800 Nm of torque. Both came with MAN’s 12-speed TipMatic transmission through different axle ratios of 3.70:1 for the 35.470 as against 4.00:1 for the 35.400.

Aimed squarely at payload sensitive operators the D15 engine in the 35.400 allows a weight advantage of 230 kgs over the heavier D26 powering the 35.470. Both managed the more severe sections of the forest and deep sand

TRUCK TEST SPECIAL | 27 27

TGS 35.400 8x4

TGS 35.470 8x4

track admirably, especially later in the day when the tracks became deeply rutted. The 35.470 certainly had the advantage and easily powered its way around the challenging track. Both trucks benefitted greatly from MAN’s ‘turning brake’ which brakes the inner wheels when turning to allow a tighter turning circle. In fact, the turning circle on the 35.470 was found to be exceptional.

Additional features also included the MAN paving brake for tipping tar into a road paver.

TGS 6x6 26.470 If we had to pick one truck to go home in, it would have been the 470 hp

6x6 TGS. This unusual configuration may only be needed by certain groups to access work zones when little else can.

This truck will travel anywhere with ease. In addition, as with all the other units, the simplicity with which axles and locks can be activated greatly adds to the truck’s usability which is an important factor when working in remote and sometimes hazardous locations.

One area MAN has addressed is the driveability across the range of its models. When taking any vehicle off-road one does not expect to travel on a cushion of air. What is needed is to be in full control of the truck, and MAN has managed to achieve this. Its products are most comfortable when driven off-road thanks to the superior design of the seating and driving position so that the driver feels part of the truck rather than being a loose object in a tin box being thrown around.

The benefit of the refined ergonomics is better control, which allows better driving and less fatigue, which in turn reduces the potential for damage and delivers better journey times resulting in greater operating efficiencies.

TGS 26.470 6x6

The sandy tracks through the forest deteriorated throughout the day as the test trucks continued to traverse around them. This meant that by late afternoon the tracks were deeply rutted, presenting a greater challenge for all concerned.

When some of the earlier units used these routes again, despite being faced with this more difficult terrain, they performed equally as well.

As the day progressed particular features became apparent across the range of trucks tested whether on or off-road. The trucks are easy to drive, quiet, competent and efficient at completing the task they were designed for, be that a tipper, machine carrier or hook-loader. In fact, MAN’s new truck range all go to make the job a little easier for the - ‘Working MAN.’ Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie

Spec Check Model

TGL 8.220

TGM 13.290

TGS 26.470

TGS 35.400

TGX 18.510

Cab Type

Crew Cab

Day Cab

Day Cab

Day Cab

Sleeper

Chassis 4x2 4x4 6x6 8x4 4x4 Engine

DO8 DO8 D26 D15 D26

Capacity

4-Cyl / 5 L

6-Cyl / 7 L

6-Cyl / 12 L

6-Cyl / 9 L

6-Cyl / 12 L

Power Hp / kW

220 / 162

290 / 213

470 / 346

470 / 346

510 / 375

Torque Nm

850 Nm

1150 Nm

2400 Nm

2400 Nm

2600 Nm

MAN TipMatic

6-Speed

12-Speed

12-Speed

12-Speed

12-Speed

Axle Ratio

3.7:1

4.59:1

4.00:1

4.00:1

3.63:1

Body Type

3-way tipper

3-way tipper

3-way tipper

3-way tipper

Tractor unit www.fleet.ie

28 28 | REVIEW

ITT HUB 2021 – Providing a fresh start for the transport industry *Inaugural event held from 30th June to 1st July at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre

ITT Hub 2021, the Innovation & Technology in transport event showcasing the latest hardware and software technology, provided a new beginnings platform for the commercial vehicle industry. Located at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre within the grounds of Farnborough International Airport, the inaugural exhibition, featuring indoor and outdoor exhibitions bringing the commercial vehicle world of trucks, buses, vans and trailers together, may have been years in the making, but was well worth the long wait. Organisers Binswood Media put in place a broad line-up of exhibitors and a series of topical seminar series.

A very relieved and pleased Mark Griffin, CEO, Binswood Media Ltd., commented at the end of the two-day

event: “ITT Hub 2021 has closed its doors after a truly successful event. We hosted over 160 exhibitors across indoor and outdoor displays and welcomed commercial and passenger fleet operators, government agencies, and policy makers at the first opportunity for more than a year for the industry to convene face-to-face. Thank you to all those who attended this year’s event we hope you enjoyed it. ITT Hub is back from 11 - 12 May 2022, set your date saver now!”

Among the numerous exhibits, demonstrations and displays were a number of show premieres. To add to the attraction, many of the commercial FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

vehicle brands provided test drive opportunities of their latest models, some of which are just to market. The networking opportunities presented were much appreciated by the show visitors, as face-to-face meetings (although behind protective masks) cannot be matched by virtual meetings.

DAF Trucks UK took centre stage with the first reveal of its range topping XG+ from the Dutch brand’s New Generation

parties. As Phil Moon, DAF Trucks’ Marketing Manager, suitably stated: “We were especially excited to be at ITT Hub…. It was a return to a proper bootson-the-ground exhibition and we had some amazing new products to present to operators for the first time.”

Undoubtedly the star attraction for truck operators was the New Generation DAF XG+ 6x2 flagship tractor unit in ‘FTG’ axle configuration, with maximum rated 13-litre 530bhp engine and cavernous, ultra-high specification new cab – it’s available to order now. Production of the New Generation DAF will commence in October with right-hand-drive trucks for the UK & Irish markets being built at Leyland Trucks in Lancashire.

From the also recently unveiled new Daily featuring IVECO Driver Pal connectivity, game-changing adaptive Air-Pro suspension and memory-foam seating, to the fresh-faced, more aerodynamic and fully connected IVECO WAY-range of heavy trucks, visitors were able to get up close and personal with IVECO’s

series, recently launched on-line. In addition, the zero-emission variants of the LF & CF series were also present, while the new CF 410 ‘tridem’ multi-axle rigid also caught the eyes of interested

latest range of technologically advanced commercial vehicles.

The IVECO S-WAY, at the heavy end of the scale, has been enhanced further with the imminent arrival of the IVECO Driver Pal and diversified engine line-up. With as much as 12% lower drag coefficient compared to its predecessor, IVECO S-WAY is capable of an up to 4% improvement in fuel economy.

Complementing the new IVECO WAY

REVIEW | 29 29 in production and available to order.

Joining the Range D Z.E. was a 3.1 tonne Renault Trucks Master Red EDITION panel van which offers a range of up to 120km real world autonomy. Powered by a 57kW Z.E. 100% electric engine, the 33kWh Lithium-ion battery is mounted under the floor, so there is no intrusion into the load space.

From the French brands’ long-distance range, a fleet-friendly T480 6x2 TML was featured. It comes with the latest fuel efficient and environmentally friendly DTi 13 Euro 6D engine, coupled to a Schmitz Cargobull trailer, and interestingly is powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) renewable diesel, a drop-in alternative to conventional derv that is usually considered to offer a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Also on view was the state-offamily is IVECO X-WAY, a crossover truck combining on-road driveability and off-road durability. A long-time favourite with urban fleets, Eurocargo was the first mid-weight truck to offer an automated transmission as standard, boasting superb manoeuvrability with enhanced driver comfort. IVECO’s innovative and patented HI-SCR exhaust after treatment system does away with the need for high-stress, high-temperature filter regenerations and completely negates the need for enforced stops.

“We were very pleased to attend the ITT Hub after over a year of uncertainty and unbalanced social interaction”, commented IVECO UK Managing Director, Sascha Kaehne. “This was a superb opportunity to showcase our incredible product collective and give people the opportunity to examine and properly experience what we strongly believe is the most complete range of sustainable and innovative commercial vehicles on the market in a safe, but welcoming environment.”

The big draw at the Renault Trucks’ stand was another debutant, the 100% electric 26-tonne Renault Trucks Range D Wide Z.E. Low Entry Cab for urban applications, including waste and distribution. Offering a range of up to 200km in a city distribution application, powered by a 260kW 100% electric engine, this versatile vehicle provides easier access and excellent direct vision to allow customers to operate more cleanly, more safely and more productively, while meeting the highest environmental ambitions. Due for fitting with a refuse collection body, it is already

Euro 6 Step D engine. This compact tractor unit’s low fuel consumption, manoeuvrability and easy cab access make it ideal for urban distribution operations. From its construction range, a C460 8x4 Tipper Tridem with PPG tipping body, powered by an 11 litre Euro 6 Step D engine delivering 453 hp and 2200 Nm torque comes equipped with CLOCS-compliant safety systems.

Commenting on taking such an active role at this event, Renault Trucks UK MD Carlos Rodrigues said: “The ITT Hub was the perfect showcase for Renault Trucks: we share its commitment to Innovation & Technology in Transport.

As a manufacturer, our fully electric Z.E. range already provides zero tail-pipe emission solutions to customers now, but we also recognise our own responsibilities to act.”

At one end of the Exhibition hall was the Volta Zero, the world’s first purpose-built full-electric 16-tonne truck designed for inner-city logistics, with an operating pure-electric range

of 150 - 200 kms. Safety is also at the heart of Volta Trucks, with its ambition of producing the safest trucks for city operations. Thanks to the removal of the internal combustion engine, the operator of a Volta Zero sits in a central driving position, with a much lower seat height than a conventional truck. This combination, plus a glass house-style cab design, gives the driver a wide 220-degrees of visibility, minimising dangerous blind spots. The prototype Volta Zero was launched in September 2020, with the first vehicles expected to be operating with customers in late 2021.

the-art Optifuel Lab 3, a concept vehicle dedicated to improving energy efficiency of trucks, Optifuel Lab 3 has recorded a 12.5% reduction in fuel consumption compared to a complete heavy-duty tractor-trailer combination.

Also highlighted was a range D19 Wide 4x2 Urban Artic with DTI11 430

Mercedes-Benz Trucks & Vans used the stand of its southern dealer Marshall Truck & Van at ITT Hub to promote the new eActros rigid battery electric truck that has a range up to 400kms from its 420kWh battery packs. On exhibit and available to test drive was the much-anticipated battery electric eSprinter which provides a 731kg payload and a range of www.fleet.ie

30 30 | REVIEW

up to 355kms. The batteries can also be rapid charged to 80% of capacity in 30 to 120 mins. Alongside was the popular and ultimate city delivery or collection vehicle, the Econic as well as rigid Arocs and an Actros tractor-unit.

The Fiat Professional van range is designed to keep business professionals on the move, allowing them to focus on getting the job done. For forty years now, the Fiat Ducato has been the best-seller in its large LCV segment in the EMEA region.

Another first at the ITT Hub was the reveal of the fully electric E-Ducato - plus it was also available to test drive! As the brand slogan goes: ‘E-Ducato. 100% Electric. 100% Ducato.’ Depending on which battery pack options is selected, its driving range is between 113 and 230 miles (WLTP City). With the 50kW DC charger both the 47kWh & 79kWh batteries can be charged to 80% capacity in 30 minutes. E-Ducato offers best in class payload of up to 1,885kg and the same best-in-class load volumes as ICE Ducato – from 10m3 to 17m3.

It will initially be introduced in goods van, chassis cab and passenger configurations. (See First Drive Report in this edition).

Ford Motor Company promoted its selection of hybrid powered light FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

commercials with its petrol-electric drivetrains in both Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and Mild Hybrid (MiHEV) on the Transit range. For example, the Transit EcoBlue Hybrid and Transit Custom EcoBlue Hybrid use mild-hybrid technology to reduce running costs for van owners and operators, while the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid – equipped with an advanced electric powertrain uses Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine as a range extender. Also included on the stand was the Mustang Mach E electric SUV, just launched in the marketplace.

The Harris Group company brought along its latest range of MAXUS eDELIVER 9 and eDELIVER 3 light commercial vehicles, showcased on a large outdoor display supported by a selection of vehicles available for a ride and drive experience. The occasion presented the Chinese brand’s first opportunity to take part in a public-facing event following its rebrand from LDV and the virtual launch of the new platform e DELIVER 9 in June, last year.

Commenting on the inaugural

outing, Mark Barrett, GM of Harris MAXUS added: “It was great to be back showcasing our range of new platform vehicles. The eDELIVER 9 exemplifies MAXUS’ focus on innovation, customisation and reputation and everything about this van is of a superior quality. At MAXUS, we truly want to go the extra mile for our customers.”

Visitors were able to talk to the team about the e DELIVER 9 or e DELIVER 3 which are getting positive reviews and strong recommendations from those in the EV Van sector.

‘End-to-end’ security solutions for the logistics sector is now the expanded offering from Locks4Vans (L4V), offering

a Fleet Manager added security. In addition to its renowned LCV product portfolio, it offers high security locking systems for HGV trailer doors and box body vehicles. This enables protection against theft of goods in transit for safe deliveries to van hubs. To complete the final leg of the logistics journey, L4V can also offer security solutions for electric cargo bikes to enable zero-emission last mile deliveries.

Wheely-Safe launched its intelligent tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), wheel loss and brake temperature sensing technologies available for connection to commercial vehicle telematics and CAN bus for the first

time, with a new range of open platform connected devices available alongside its standalone products.

The launch forms part of the biggest series of upgrades by Wheely-Safe to-date, enhancing its offer to fleets, telematics providers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). It includes the introduction of the world’s first auto-calibrating internal TPMS sensor, eliminating the need for external valve sensors if fleets prefer.

Speaking with Fleet Transport, Steve Jackson, Managing Director of WheelySafe, commented: “Truck and bus fleets increasingly want everything running through their telematics and that brings huge advantages for the Wheely-Safe product. It means we can provide access to real-time pressure and temperature data remotely, which can help to prevent breakdowns and takes the guesswork out of organising tyre maintenance.”

Video-based safety programme provider Smart Drive Systems had its

REVIEW | 31 31 team demonstrating to fleet operators how they can reduce road risk, protect their drivers and cut costs on stand C3. Led by Penny Randall and Nicola Burgess, SmartDrive took the visitors on a journey, explaining to operators how they can use its video safety programme to dramatically reduce road risk. Unlike most camera systems,

which are typically reactive in nature, SmartDrive footage is analysed by highly experienced professionals who equip the fleet manager with driver-specific coaching insights. Commenting on the visitor education experience, Penny said: “We met with fleet operators and outlined the latest video safety technology that can reduce collisions by over 50%, and introduced the new SmartSense for Inattentive Driving+ which can extend this still further.”

As the company motto goes: ‘We capture, we review, we report, and you coach’ - This is a formula which has allowed thousands of fleets to progressively lower road risk, with an easy to use on-line portal and workflow.

Leading global trailer manufacturer Schmitz Cargobull supported ITT Hub 2021 as a Truck Demo Partner. Its UK & Ireland division attended the event to showcase four different trailers – two curtainsiders, a reefer and a tipper – which were used by truck manufacturers as part of an on-road truck demonstration around the site.

JCB is leading the way in clean technology and reducing harmful emissions. The all-new 525-60E compact telehandler is part of JCB’s pioneering 100% electric E-TECH range, with zero emissions, less noise and zero compromise on performance. This opens up the possibilities to operate wherever and whenever needed. Its specification includes: Max. Lift Capacity; 2,500kg, Max. Lift Height; 6.0m & Battery Capacity; 24kWh. BYD is the first and only materials handling equipment firm that manufactures both forklifts and its own batteries, ensuring high levels of compatibility and innovation. Furthermore, with a dealer network covering the whole of UK and Ireland, over 50 dealers in 11 European countries and a modern well-stocked parts distribution facility in Rotterdam, BYD can assure its customers not only of a local sales team, but also compre-

r2c Online showcased a complete range of connected digital solutions. Its vehicle compliance and maintenance software programmes currently connect 24,000 fleets and over 1,400 workshops.

Among the digital solutions offered are online scheduling, defect management, electronic service sheets, invoicing, pre-use driver checks.

Live demo sessions were carried out over the two days test its award-winning fleet/workshop management solutions.

hensive after-sales and service support.

With a range of trucks optimised to offer the greatest performance with the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO), the Chinese company has a model suitable for most requirements. On exhibit were: BYD ECB25 four-wheel counterbalance forklift truck, an ECB16 three-wheel counterbalance forklift truck, a PTP20S ride-on powered pallet truck and the PTW20S powered pallet truck.

Wherever your journey may take you, VARTA batteries provide all the power to take you there. VARTA batteries are original equipment in commercial

Managing Director of Schmitz Cargobull UK & ROI, Alan Hunt, said: “The ITT Hub concept was indeed refreshing with its emphasis on technology and the future, and this inaugural event was the perfect opportunity for us to reconnect with customers and industry colleagues in person again.”

vehicles built by DAF Trucks, Daimler/ Mercedes-Benz, Iveco, MAN, Scania and Volvo among others, plus 80 percent of the new car and light commercial market. VARTA batteries are also the driving force behind fuel-saving innovations like start-stop engines.

The company, which has its UK HQ in Watford has recently produced a new information booklet on ‘Routine Preventative Maintenance Program for Bus & Commercial Vehicles. “It all starts with VARTA” is its tag-line!

“The first ITT Hub was a brilliant few days: we were so pleased to welcome thousands of visitors, exhibitors and speakers to the venue to explore the future of transport as we face the challenges of the future together as an industry. After just one event, ITT Hub has established itself already as the essential show for anyone working in transport; we are looking forward to 2022 and building on this phenomenal success. In response to feedback last week we are delighted to announce that next year as part of our growth strategy, we are adding recycling and waste management, cold chain storage and distribution plus even more of the energy and charging technology infrastructure to the exhibitor profile. The hugely positive response to our first outing has been overwhelming and these additions are the next logical step in the development of the all year round ITT Hub activity. I can guarantee more exciting announcements soon once the dust has settled.” Mark Griffin, CEO, ITT Hub. Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

32 32 | FLEETING SHOTS

Hennessey starts build of MAMMOTH 1000 TRX truck with 6.2-litre supercharged V8!

Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE), the Texas-based hypercar manufacturer and high-performance vehicle builder, has started production of the world’s most powerful Pick-up truck, the Hennessey MAMMOTH 1000 TRX. It features an upgraded 6.2-litre supercharged Hellcat V8 boasting no less than 1,012 hp.

Based on the 702 hp Dodge Ram 1500 TRX truck, the high-performance-focused enhancements by Hennessey cut the 0-60 mph time to just

3.2 seconds – the quickest in the world.

With modifications including a high-flow 2.65L supercharger, fuel injectors and high-flow induction system alongside performance-boosting calibration, the 6.2-liter V8 Pick-up can achieve an 11.4-second quarter mile at over 120 mph.

Measuring 228.9 inches (5.81 metres) long, 82.1 inches (2.09 metres) wide and 77.6 inches (1.97 metres) high, the imposing hypertruck makes an enormous statement on the road.

Capable of carrying six adults in comfort, carrying a payload exceeding 1,000kg and towing more than 3.5 tonnes, the MAMMOTH is the most comprehensive and capable performance truck on the market.

Hennessey will ensure exclusivity for its customers by limiting production volumes of the MAMMOTH 1000, with each truck fitted with a special chassis plate recording its build number. Just 200 will be produced in 2021 for customers across the US and around the world.

INEOS Automotive confirms role of The HALO Trust in developing its Grenadier 4x4 INEOS Automotive confirms The HALO Trust as a development partner for its uncompromising Grenadier 4x4 INEOS is aiming to develop a fleet of bespoke Grenadiers suitable for HALO operations, capable of supporting its lifesaving work in 25 post-war countries.

The HALO Trust is the world’s largest humanitarian mine clearance and weapons disposal organisation. With a worldwide fleet of over 600 4x4 vehicles, the joint British and American charity operates off-roaders in some of the most remote and inhospitable places on the planet.

“From mountain tracks to urban battlefields, HALO goes further to find and destroy landmines,” explained James Cowan, CEO of The HALO Trust. “This means that we need a vehicle fleet fit for war zones, rainforests and deserts. Our 9,000 deminers are some of the most resilient people on the planet – they need a vehicle they can rely on to keep them safe and get the job done. We want to share our experiences with INEOS to help build an off-roader ready for the FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

challenges of the 21st century.”

“I hugely admire the HALO Trust’s mission and the dedication of the HALO team. It is a real privilege to work with them. With decades of experience of running a large number of vehicles in extreme conditions, we could think of no better organisation on Earth for helping us to develop Grenadier,” said Dirk Heilmann, CEO of INEOS Automotive.

“All the knowledge and insight HALO is sharing with us is incredibly valuable to the engineering programme, and will ultimately help us create the toughest, most capable vehicle for all users.”

INEOS has been working with HALO since 2020, when it joined an active HALO operation in Angola and saw the charity’s vehicles negotiating pitted, rocky and sometimes un-drivable roads.

Seeing how drivers deal with the terrain and repair vehicles in challenging conditions and with only basic tools has helped shape the ongoing development of the Grenadier. HALO has worked in

Angola for 27 years.

Over the next 12 months, more than 130 second-phase prototypes are being deployed as part of the vehicle’s ongoing worldwide 1.8 million kilometre testing and development programme. Grenadier prototypes will join active HALO projects, including in Kosovo. These development activities will be used by INEOS and HALO to assess the vehicle’s on- and off-road capabilities, as well as the ease of service, maintenance and repair in the field.

In future, INEOS aims to develop a fleet of bespoke Grenadiers for The HALO Trust, with features specific to its operational needs. These include anchor points to fit protective mine-proof belly armour and safe storage for mine-clearance tools. They will also need to be easily convertible into ambulances for the safe evacuation of potential casualties.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

TEST II | 33 33

Tested: First Drive - New Fiat Professional E-Ducato

Since first laying eyes over two years ago on the new E-Ducato, the new all-electric version of one of Europe’s best selling large vans, much has happened at the model’s owners Fiat Professional. Notably, the introduction of the emission-free panel van, chassis platform and passenger carrier with a choice of power/range options coincided with its parent company’s tie-up with Groupe PSA, but also occurred when the global pandemic was at its peak early this year.

That meant delays in delivering to markets across Europe were inevitable, but the good news is that E-Ducato is now here. Presented at the recent ITT Hub event in Farnborough, Fleet Transport was among the very first to get to drive the new electric van.To look at, E-Ducato’s size and shape remains as normal, similar to the standard diesel version. Best in class payload and load volume are offered, up to 1,950 kg and from 10m3 to 17m3, making it the perfect tool for businesses in both urban and suburban environments.

2021 is a significant year for Fiat Professional as it marks the 40th year of the Ducato. First launched in 1981 and now in its third generation, more than 2.6 million Ducatos have been produced – all at Fiat Professional’s state-of-the-art Sevel Atessa plant in South-East Italy.

New E-Ducato comes at a time that more than one third of 2,000 of van owners surveyed in the UK stated that they are considering the switch to electric, while 90% of van drivers consider that it is vital to be as environmentally friendly as possible. E-Ducato’s

development was totally independent from the business supply arrangement with Groupe PSA, whereby the Sevel plant manufactures the Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Relay/Jumpy & Opel/Vauxhall Movano.

E-Ducato provides a choice between two battery sizes - 47kWh or 79kWh. The 47kWh battery, alongside a 90kW motor, provides a range of up to 200 KM (WLTP City), a maximum power of 90kW (equivalent to 122hp) and maximum torque of 280Nm at 12,000rpm. E-Ducato is capable of a top speed of 100 km/h.

Its impressive charging time of zero to fully charged takes just 2 hours and 25 minutes, enabling businesses to recharge and get back on the road in the quickest time possible. The 47kWh battery is available with AC or DC charging capability.

The 79kWh battery is fused to the same 90kW motor and receives the same power and torque outputs as the 47kWh battery, however it provides a longer range of up to 370 km (WLTP City).

E-Ducato with the 79kWh battery takes just 4 hours to charge from 0-100% and is also available with AC or DC charging capability.

Once in neutral and with foot on brake and handbrake up, a double twist of the key brings the motor to life and illuminates the dash area. Two main screens either side of the steering wheel provide all the information, entertainment and connectivity needed. The auxiliary touch screen keeps the driver informed of the power flow, driving history, charging schedules and charge setting with real time information on the range distance and percentage of battery power.

Engaged from the left-side of the gearstick, the E-Ducato has three driving mode options. Normal gives optimal balance between performance and economy, Eco provides for an increase in the available range by managing acceleration response in order to reduce energy consumption and deactivation of air conditioning. There is also the Power mode for facing full-load missions. A fourth,

‘Turtle mode’, is activated when battery power reaches near to 0% level. The vehicle alerts the user and activates a specific reduced driving mode to extend the remaining range.

On the test run, there were no

surprises. Acceleration is good, which was expected. As with all EVs (Electric Vehicles), the drive is smooth and silent.

Range is maximised through its regenerative braking system, with the van storing energy as it is driven downhill.

This ensures range isn’t wasted and is stored for when needed most.

For Ireland and the UK markets, E-Ducato is available in two trim levels, standard and eTecnico, with the goods van coming in three different heights, lengths and wheelbase sizes.

SPEC CHECK Make/Model: Fiat Professional E-Ducato Type/Trim: Panel Van 35 LH2 eTechnico Max Power: 122 bhp Max Torque: 280Nm Motor/Battery pack: 90 kW/79 kWh Top Speed: 100 kp/h Battery Range: 370 kms (5 module battery pack) Recharge: 80% capacity in 30 minutes (50 kW DC Rapid Charger) Nominal Payload: 765 kgs Dimensions: Wheelbase; 4035 mm Overall Length; 5998 mm Overall Height; 2569 mm Load Space Volume; 13m3 Features: 7” Touch screen with connectivity, Automatic Climate Control, Techno dash board display Aftersales: 5 years warranty, Roadside Assist/Servicing. Battery Pack; 10 years/220,000kms Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

34 MOTORSPORT 34 || COMMENT

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

Who would have thought that we would end up here?

Very often the biggest challenge in putting together these ‘Comment’ pieces for Fleet Transport is to come up with an appropriate title, to strike a balance between something that is too general or bland to one that forces the debate into a channel that is too narrow.

In this case I think that the heading about is on target for a discussion on how rapidly the world of work is changing, and with that, the way in which people are living their life.

We have said before that the three main drivers of any discussion taking place along the “where are we going?” lines, would focus on Brexit, Climate Action and COVID - 3 things that were nowhere near the top of the agenda ten years ago. Perhaps the two main tools that we now have to help us to handle the issues are education and IT - particularly in communications that were themselves quite different and less developed a decade ago.

One basic element of human organisation is that populations gather where the work is, be it manufacturing, administration, ports, or other services.

Think Manchester, Brussels or Silicon Valley. As the cities grow, they acquire

FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

elements of all of these functionalities and similar facets, further underlining their dominance. Will this no longer be the case in the future?

I was very struck by a recent YouTube video put together by residents of Clare Island, off the coast of County Mayo. The 4,000-acre island which is located at the entrance to Clew Bay, had a population of 850 in 1850, by 2000 this had dropped to 120, but by 2016 it had climbed back to 159. The purpose of the video was to enable members of the island community to personally make the case for an increase in the number of ferry crossing from two daily round trips from Louisburgh to four. Clearly, the case was well made as there was a subsequent Government announcement that PSO funding for the route would be increased to enable this expansion of services.

One key point being made was that such an increase in ferry services would enable children living on the island attend secondary school on the mainland on a day pupil basis, but another was that, in a move accelerated

by COVID-19 and facilitated by the introduction of high-speed broadband on the island, businesses could develop there provided goods could get to market, while staff who needed to could easily access Ireland West Airport and Irish towns and cities. It was clear from the video that there was a strong ambition on the island to to re-build the population there by grabbing the oppor-

tunities made available by Broadband and the global realisation that very many businesses can operate away from the congestion of large cities.

Even if you just look at the population statistics for Ireland’s offshore islands you quickly realise that the Clare Island example could be (and in many cases perhaps already is) repeated. Add to this the number of mainland localities that have lost so much population to the lure of cities and you must think that, rather than the map being a patchwork of deserted villages, it could become a patchwork of deserted cities.

Maybe that’s all a bit dramatic but the evidence is out there of significant population movement as people work from home, placing the importance of “work-life balance” above the appeal of the bright lights of the city. You begin to see job adverts stating that significant percentage of new jobs will be away from a central office but instead will be based at home.

What does all of this mean for the logistics industry? Regional Airports and Seaports, Distribution Centres west and south of the Shannon, will all become more important players. Smaller local distribution centres will have a key role; more island residents will generate more freight on ferries and, perhaps, on cargo drones.

It’s an exciting time for those whose task it is to plan for the future.

35

FUEL PRICES - WEEK 29 Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Austria

EUR

1.283

1.457

1.227

Belarus

EUR

0.655

0.709

0.655

Belgium

EUR

1.574

1.652

1.584

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.203

2.280

2.166

Bulgaria

BGN

2.160

2.570

2.160

Croatia

HRK

10.540

11.389

10.360

Czech Republic

CZK

33.080

34.746

30.990

Denmark

DKK

11.890

12.890

11.090

Estonia

EUR

1.451

1.497

1.225

Finland

EUR

1.683

1.766

1.507

France

EUR

1.596

1.634

1.449

Georgia

GEL

3.020

3.100

2.950

Germany

EUR

1.544

1.848

1.388

Greece

EUR

1.690

1.855

1.402

Hungary

HUF

442.600

462.112

444.000

Ireland

EUR

1.496

-

1.395

Italy

EUR

1.689

-

1.549

Kazakhstan

KZT

189.900

-

188.900

Kosovo

EUR

1.050

-

1.000

Latvia

EUR

1.324

1.384

1.224

Lithuania

EUR

1.249

1.398

1.149

Luxemburg

EUR

1.354

1.433

1.219

Moldova

MDL

20.050

20.363

16.380

Montenegro

EUR

1.3700

1.330

1.210

Netherlands

EUR

1.956

2.039

1.578

North Macedonia

MKD

71.000

73.538

63.000

Norway

NOK

15.970

16.891

15.049

Poland

PLN

5.560

5.870

5.420

Portugal

EUR

1.754

1.773

1.548

Romania

RON

5.640

5.040

5.560

Russia Federation

RUB

50.460

57.340

49.550

Serbia

RSD

157.900

170.529

161.900

Slovakia

EUR

1.410

1.546

1.253

Slovenia

EUR

1.243

1.392

1.285

Spain

EUR

1.408

1.565

1.266

Sweden

SEK

16.240

16.840

16.470

Switzerland

CHF

1.730

1.730

1.800

Turkey

TRY

7.760

7.310

7.240

Ukraine

UAH

30.080

32.221

28.360

UK

GBP

1.317

1.502

1.341

USA

USD

0.825

-

0.88

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36 36 | FLEET MARITIME

FLEET MARITIME

Vol 17, No. 2 – summer 2021

Shipping & Freight Newsletter – Compiled by Howard Knott – howard@fleet.ie Shipping Lines The Stobart family owned WS Transportation has purchased Mezeron Shipping. The Ramsey, Isle of Man, based company has been operating a single general cargo vessel, with 277 gross tonnes, built in 1968. The Silver River has been on a regular Belfast/ Ramsey service for many years. WS Transportation was founded in 2014 and operates a substantial freight business through locations throughout Britain and in Ireland.

Ports and Harbours Rosslare Port becomes a real “Europort” Wexford County Council has announced its decision on the preferred route for the Oilgate/Rosslare Europort link that will bring the complete route from Dublin to dual carriageway/ motorway standard. The 31 km link will utilise a mix of both the existing road corridor, which will be upgraded and a new corridor to bypass significant constraints on the existing corridor.

In announcing the final go-ahead for the project Wexford County Council’s Director of Service Eamonn Hore, said, “The impacts of Brexit have significantly intensified Rosslare Europort’s strategic importance as a gateway for Irish trade and tourism. Even in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, weekly continental ferry services at the Port have increased to 34 per week. Freight volumes with continental Europe increased by approximately 460% in the first half of 2021, and overall freight volumes, including Britain, have increased by 60%. The N11/ N25 Oilgate to Rosslare Harbour project aims to secure the future resilience of this critical international land-sea corridor by delivering a safe, sustainable, high-quality and cost-effective transport connection with Rosslare Europort”.

Regular ferry sailings each week

w w w. R o s s l a r e e u r o p o r t . i e FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

from Rosslare include, fourteen to South Wales, seven to Cherbourg, five to Dunkirk and two to Bilbao. In addition, the Trade Car business is served by Neptune Line. DFDS are planning to return the Dunkirk service to a daily frequency in the early autumn.

Following the introduction of the EU COVID certificate, passenger numbers through the port have begun to increase with more significant numbers expected to pass through in August. The Border Control Post at Rosslare enabling Customs, Agriculture, Phytosanitary and Health Checks is now fully operational ahead of the anticipated EU/UK Trade Deal requirements coming fully into operation over the coming months.

Killybegs Harbour is reported by ‘Coastal Shipping’ as having experienced a significant increase in reefer traffic during the early months of 2021. Prior to the entry into operation of the Brexit Trade Agreement would have added considerable costs to the business in which Danish, Faroese, Icelandic, and Norwegian trawlers landed their mackerel catches at Lerwick in the Shetland Islands from where the fish were shipped by reefer vessels to West Africa. Now these vessels are using the County Donegal port. Operation through Lerwick or another UK port would have involved importing and then exporting the fish through a ‘third country’.

Dun Laoghaire Harbour, now under the control of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, is being used by Belgian Beam Trawlers to land catches from

Stena Horizon, Stena Foreteller and Visby alongside at Rosslare

the Irish Sea. The fish are then taken to their home market by trailer. Pre-Brexit, this operation had been carried out at Liverpool.

Port of Cork and Cork and Harbour Chamber ran a workshop event on 15 July 15 to discuss how Cruise Tourism through Cobh could be re-started for the 2022 season. Conor Mowlds, the Port Commercial Manager told the meeting that vessel bookings for 2022 and succeeding seasons were strong and that the Port, along with all other partners in tourism development in the region, needed to develop a strong and very safe offering to entice Cruise tourists back. It is now likely that the Ringaskiddy Container port facility will not come into operation until early 2022 due to delays in completing building work there due to COVID-19.

It remains unclear how an already very busy Dublin Port will be able to cope with significant numbers of cruise ship calls within the next few years as the port’s development projects, along with the trade developments arising from Brexit and significant increases in freight moving through the port have already caused significant issues.

Fears have been expressed by Doug Bannister, CEO of Port of Dover, that the return of British Holiday Makers travelling through the Port could lead to a return of the delays for both tourists and hauliers at the port. In 2019 dover handled some 2.4 million trucks, 2 million tourist cars and 74,000 coaches. He told Reuters News Agency that, though Dover had so far managed to switch to operation of Custom checks efficiently following Britain leaving the EU, that was eased by the lack of tourist traffic to France during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This had allowed staff more time to process paperwork.

Mr. Bannister called on the UK Government to urgently

FLEET MARITIME| 37 reconsider their position on the provision of funding to redevelop the Port and prevent long-term damage. A further factor likely to cause disruption to traffic flow through the Kent Port will be the implementation in October 2021 and in January 2022 of an additional series of Border Control checks as the EU/UK Trade Agreement moves towards full implementation. The UK Government has, so far, proven to be reluctant to accede to the port’s request for funding to enable the building of improved Border Control facilities.

The Port of Le Havre is now the largest component of the Haropa Port combination. Haropa combines the management and operation of the River Seine ports including, Paris, Rouen and Radicatel. In addition to being a major hub for the deep-sea container business operated by CMA-CGM, MSC, Maersk and others, Le Havre has developed, in conjunction with Renault and other manufacturers, a significant and rapidly growing automotive transport and related services business.

Dunkirk Port, looking to reduce shore-side emissions, has funded and inaugurated quayside cold ironing facilities. These enable container vessels berthed alongside at the Terminal des Flandres to plug in to an onshore electricity supply. They can then shut down their auxiliary engines while still getting the power they need, particularly to maintain the controlled temperatures in refrigerated containers.

The technology has significant environmental benefits, including zero emissions of sulphur and nitrogen oxides along with fine particles while vessels are working on the berth. Noise pollution

CLdN Delphine

w w w. R o s s l a r e e u r o p o r t . i e

Rosslare Europort - DFDS; Brittany Ferries; Stena Line

is also significantly reduced. The Port’s initial partner in the project has been the CMA CGM Group. Welcoming their first vessel to inaugurate the service, Christine Cabau Woehrel, CMA-CGM VP in charge of industrial assets said: Given CMA-CGM’s steadfast commitment to installing more environmentally responsible solutions on board its vessels, the group supports cold ironing, and we will continue to equip our fleet accordingly”. Critically important to the whole concept of cold ironing is that all vessels seeking to make use of it are equipped with standardized equipment to make connections with the supply and Port based equipment is also standardized. Due to the very high-power requirements of large ferries and cruise liners it is unlikely that they can avail of such facilities in the near future.

Ferry service developments Irish Ferries has opened its Dover/ Calais route. The Isle of Inishmore operates up to five round trips daily with a sailing time each way of approximately 90 minutes. The line advises that it plans to add further capacity to the route as traffic develops. Prior to taking up service the vessel underwent a substantial refit at the Danish Fayard Shipyard.

There, considerable work was done to fit new stern doors and a ‘cow catcher’ ramp at the bow to enable the vessel to load and discharge quickly at the channel ports. The

Isle of Inishmore has freight capacity of 2,000 lane metres, can accommodate up to 855 cars and up to 2,200 passengers.

Ahead of the commencement of the Irish Ferries service P&O Ferries restored its Dover/Calais fleet number to five vessels and announced an agreement with DFDS Ferries under which freight vehicles can ship on the first available vessel irrespective of shipping line. This should reduce waiting time on quay to a minimum and give an effective service frequency for hauliers like that offered by the competing Eurotunnel. The new service pooling arrangement does not apply to tourist and other passenger traffic.

The start of the daily DFDS service operating from Sheerness on the Thames Estuary to Calais which had been scheduled for early June was deferred to later in July while, at the time of writing the e-Flexer vessel, Cote D’Opale, has yet to take up service on the DFDS, Dover/ Calais route.

DFDS has also advised Ports and hauliers of its intention to boost capacity and sailing frequency on the Rosslare/ Dunkirk route as soon as it can secure additional tonnage. The company has reported a high level of enquiries for tourist car and motorhome traffic on the route. Meanwhile, Brittany Ferries have resumed passenger operations on the Cork/Roscoff route and has dropped the St. Malo and Rosoff links from Rosslare.

The company reports good freight carryings on its Rosslare/Bilbao and Rosslare/Cherbourg services.

Grimaldi Lines has launched a twice weekly freight ferry route linking Ringaskiddy and Antwerp. This service, like the twice weekly Ringaskiddy/ Zeebrugge service operated by CLdN is planned to link in with the company’s

38 38 | FLEET MARITIME network services linking the Belgian Terminals with ports in Scandinavia, through to Iberia. Grimaldi also maintains its Mediterranean and Deep-Sea schedules from Ringaskiddy.

CLdN now operates ten services each week from Dublin Port, two to Santander and four each to Rotterdam and Zeebrugge. There has also been a significant increase in the vessel sizes being used on the Benelux services, meeting the demand arising a switch

by Irish manufacturers and traders away from sourcing and selling in Britain to doing so with other EU Member States.

While the mix of cargo being shipped in trailers and that in containers pre-Brexit had been quite even, it has now shifted strongly to trailer shipment. This has implications, not only for the shipping line operations as containers can be stacked two high on Mafi-trailers on board and trailers cannot, but the implications for the terminal operators are

Independent vision at Roches Point

also much more serious. In terminals containers can be stacked up to six high and this shift eats up space. Due to a shortage of available vessels CLdN has also suspended its Dublin/Liverpool/ Leixoes service. The company has a strong pipeline of new vessels under construction in South Korea.

Stena Line added capacity to its Britain/ Northern Ireland service during the month of July by taking the e-Flexer, Stena Estrid off the Dublin/Holyhead route for two days each weekend and using her for a Friday and Saturday night sailing from Holyhead to Belfast. At the same time Irish Ferries is operating Epsilon on a Dublin/Cherbourg rotation each weekend, giving nine round trip sailings each fortnight in combination with W.B. Yeats. The combined effect of these schedule changes is to reduce

w w w. R o s s l a r e e u r o p o r t . i e FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

weekend capacity on the Dublin/ Holyhead route by half.

Stena Line had previously announced an intention to switch the Stena Estrid to the Rosslare/ Cherbourg route should significant tourist traffic levels emerge on that route and to take the smaller Stena Horizon onto the Dublin/Holyhead route. Having worked at significantly reduced sailing schedules in Spring and early Summer on the Rosslare/Fishguard service, the firm has returned the Stena Europe to its full fourteen round-trip sailings weekly schedule.

Lo-Lo container service developments The DP World owned European feeder and door to door freight service operator Unifeeder, has opened a weekly Southampton/Belfast/Cork service. This is mainly focused on feeder traffic through Southampton. The Line has said that it hoped to be able to introduce a Dublin call within the service but that, due to the high levels of congestion in Dublin, has been unable to do so as yet.

Unifeeder has ben a leader in the introduction of carbon counting on its services planned to enable customers to choose the most suitable multimodal option for their transport.

DP World, which also owns ferry and multimodal operator P&O Ferries/ Ferrymasters, operates several ports in Britain (including Southampton), Europe and further afield. The company has also moved into the Forwarding and Supply Chain areas and among recent purchases in that area has been that of Syncreon. Syncreon, which has its origins in Forwarder Walsh Western, currently employs 200 staff in Dublin, Cork, and Limerick and 14,000 at more than 100 other global locations.

Independent Container Line (ICL) has, together with the Port of Cork, celebrated completion the first year of service on their weekly link between Cork and the US east coast ports of Chester and Richmond. The

Samskip Amsterdam

service schedule also includes the ports of Antwerp and Southampton.

The Line’s agents in Ireland, Johnson Stevens, reports very satisfactory traffic development both in full container loads and in the recently opened LCL (Less than Containerload) services.

Following the significant reduction of transatlantic airfreight capacity due the COVID-19 induced virtual cessation of passenger flights, many traditional airfreight users in the pharmaceutical and food product areas have switched to using the ICL service. The Line advises that it is in discussions with Port of Cork and the Revenue Commissioners about the establishment of a fully operational Border Control Post in Cork that would support shipping and airfreight services from non-EU countries.

Following the rapid growth of traffic on the Dublin/Amsterdam service, which was launched in January 2021, Samskip has introduced a significantly larger vessel onto the service and has added a Waterford call. The 750TEU vessel, Edith sails from Waterford to Amsterdam each Friday morning while a vessel on the company’s Ireland/Rotterdam service makes a call to the south-East port later in the day. There is also a Rotterdam connection sailing on Tuesday.

The combined schedules enable containers shipped out of Ballina on the Irish Rail train chartered by forwarders XPO, to be shipped to either destination.

The rail service will also be extended to link with the other Rotterdam service call at Waterford.

Welcoming the expansion of the Ireland/Amsterdam service, Thijs Goumans, Head of the Ireland Trade at Samskip said: “We have experienced

FLEET MARITIME | 39 strong uptake for the direct route into Amsterdam’s network of rail, road and barge connections to major European markets. As anticipated, customers linking to Ireland have been eager to avoid the post-Brexit hassles of UK distribution. Waterford can expect the same seamless connections.”

In addition to operation of a wide range of European rail-based distribution services, Samskip has developed a strong series of rail services out of Duisburg into Asian markets. In a further recent move, Samskip, has now established its own office in Finland further strengthening its Baltic and Nordic operations.

Deepsea services face ‘A Perfect Storm’ During 2019 and preceding years the global Deepsea container shipping services network operated relatively smoothly with minimal port delays and few container and shipping capacity constraints. The major issues of concern were the ‘greening’ of international supply chains and improving their efficiency based on the development and exploitation of IT resources.

From the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 problems began to emerge. The immediate closedown of many production facilities in Asia as the pandemic spread slowed the shipment of goods to Europe and North America and the discharge and delivery of containers laden with cargo at Asian Ports. Later, as Asia picked up, other economies slowed.

When an element of normality returned, ports were congested, containers were on the wrong side of the globe and shipping schedules were

China to Europe train

w w w. R o s s l a r e e u r o p o r t . i e

completely disrupted.

These difficulties persist, the major Chinese Port of Yantian has only in the last month returned to operation having been closed by a further COVID-19 outbreak and Lines have altered some schedules to skip out Ports which are subject to backing up of vessels. Ports being skipped include Rotterdam and Le Havre on either inbound or outbound voyages. Many inland ports and terminals are also facing major congestion and, for example, in the US train services bringing containers into Chicago faced a temporary halt as the discharging terminals could not cope with the volumes coming through.

In the case of Ports within Europe the Brexit ripples have added to the difficulties with ports, including Dublin, under significant space pressure leading, in that case, to the temporary suspension of the IWT container rail service feeding traffic to and from Ballina. The manufacturing of containers, which has been totally concentrated in China, ground to a halt in 2020 and is only now being ramped up again while small-scale production has commenced in Russia.

Add to this, examples of further disruption such as the grounding in the Suez Canal of the Ever Given with some 18,000TEU on board which took place in March, but the vessel has only been released to sail onward to Europe within the last couple of weeks. In this case, not only will the cargo owners face many months delay in goods reaching their final destination, but also, as ‘general average’ has been declared by the vessel owners the cargo owners will finish up sharing the costs arising from the incident.

All these factors have led to a huge increase in ‘spot’ container rates with rates reaching five times the 2019 rate on all traffics out of Asia as well as a huge

Evergreen

spike in vessel charter rates applying to not only the large Deepsea vessels but also the smaller feeder service vessels as owners scramble to meet an unprecedented demand for manufactured goods stimulated by enforced savings on the part of developed world customers. Throughout the Spring and early Summer, the conventional wisdom has been that these rates levels will drop back but this is far from happening and it now appears likely that the very high rates will apply well into 2022. In the case of containers loading temperature-controlled cargo the same pattern of rates has occurred, but not to such an extreme level.

Some positives It is worth pointing out, however, that the major cargo movements are done under contract rates agreed by the shipper or Forwarding Agent with the Carriers. The 2021/2022 rates revisions have shown increases but nothing like those for the ‘spot’ market. Also, a few Lines have been shifting away from being simply Deepsea quay to quay operators to offering contracted shippers’ door-to-door packages with certain rate and service guarantees.

While ocean freight rates have soared, the costs of operation for the Asia/Europe container rail services have, if anything, dropped with Shipping Lines, Forwarders and some manufacturers chartering complete trains to move significant cargo volumes. The development of services linking Ireland to ports such as Amsterdam and Dunkirk make accessing these rail services a more practical proposition.

40 40 | OPINION

Let’s be sure why we know there is a Driver Shortage!

For the past few years we have heard about the ongoing problem regarding a shortage of truck drivers. While there is no doubt that the problem is getting worse, it is not a new issue. On the subject, I heard one operator say recently that: “there were always bad drivers around, but you can’t even get one of them now”.

The big issue is that there isn’t an agreed point of view as to what the problem is and how it can be solved.

I remember one morning on a radio programme hosted by the late Marion Finucane, a discussion took place about how different America would look if and when Donald Trump would go for re-election. One of the panellist said that “for a start there would be 1,000.000 truck drivers unemployed, because of the introduction of autonomous (i,e, driverless) trucks” I was taken aback at this comment. From my experience, I knew that while technically possible,

FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

the chances of it happening were slim to nil. Well, Trump is long gone and we still need drivers.

Unfortunately, we still have people making comments about the driver situation.

Most of the opinions are from the upper end of the logistics supply chain, not directly involved in operations.

To find out why we are not getting a queue of people wanting to drive trucks, the simplest thing to ask the those driving trucks a simple question: “would you be proud to see and encourage your son or daughter to follow into the profession and become a truck driver”. Not so sure it might unlock this perceived mystery. In my case, after a 40 year career driving trucks and buses, my answer would likely be, preferably no.

While drivers’ pay is an issue and there is always some upward pressure on those rates, it is not all about money.

At a Belgian bus show some years ago, a group of social researchers set up a stand to ask drivers some questions about their lifestyle, how their job was and how things have changed over their lifetime as drivers. While the interviewers knew little or nothing about driving, they were good listeners. I was looking forward to their findings being published, unfortunately I never got to see it. This type of research is the best way to get to the root of the problem. On that day I saw drivers being interviewed, and although I could not understand them, I knew by

the expressions on their faces that they were giving a good account of their experience and what was turning them away from the profession.

Some people feel that the answer to the problem is more training and a career path. What an insult! Many people are happy to drive as a career and make it their profession. One can move from long distance to local work or shunting on a premises. Many truck drivers move to bus or coach driving as they get older.

Comments about career paths, although not intended to be, are unhelpful and condescending.

Drivers work in a much regulated environment, with above average levels of enforcement and oversight by the authorities and enforcement agencies.

With two sets of regulations around their working time, and in most companies a self-declaration of their guilt on a monthly basis by their employer to keep everybody out of court, it is indeed charming. Then there is the Driver CPC regime that was largely foisted on them by the EU, which continues to be a major opportunity missed to allow them be better informed about the industry.

So what about the solution? Talking about more training and regulation to improve the social part of their job is not the answer, drivers have been sold that pup before. By and large most of their employers know the problems drivers face, but they have little control over it.

During the early stages of the pandemic there was some respect shown …. it has evaporated fairly fast though.

Let’s start with finance and respect respect from the sites they visit, factories, RDCs, ports, enforcement checkpoints.

It’s not rocket science. If we want to “keep her lit” then we need to rethink a few things and that includes better facilities and work practices for drivers throughout their daily lives.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

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42 42 | LEGAL

Looking to the alternative fuel source the global public will accept a large number of nuclear power stations. Additionally, vehicles using electric power will need sufficient charging points. Already owners of electricity powered cars waiting at supermarket charging stations may have a wait of 15 minutes or more whilst the vehicle in front completes its charge.

Hydrogen presents problems both of handling and storage. The immediate problem would be the need to create roadside re-fuelling facilities designed to handle gas on the roads that are likely to be used. Additionally, the gas powered vehicles of course will need safe gas tight tanks to hold sufficient fuel. At the end of the day, we must also remember that hydrogen can be dangerous if it is not handled safely.

It is arguably time for the vehicle manufacturers to join together to support those who purchase their vehicles by persuading the public that, if they want to enjoy their present standard of living, the use of diesel fuel is a necessary evil even if the extreme toxicity of the exhaust fumes cannot be denied. Urgent research is being

The haulage customer, if sufficiently interested, can require vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel cell, electricity, or diesel engines, but at the present time the preferred fuel is likely to be diesel. Commercial vehicle manufacturers continue to try to improve the specifications of the vehicles they produce, improvements which may include the load carrying capacity, or the performance of the engine.

The haulier, when choosing the vehicle to buy for his/her fleet will certainly be concerned with the load carrying capacity and the fuel consumption figures. But choosing the fuel is a far more complex question and much more difficult to answer. In the first instance the engine in the vehicle must match the fuel, and changing the engines may be costly, and, if it is decided to change the engines, will the companies’ technicians need retraining? It is still very early in the development stage of these new engines and it may well be too soon for a haulier to make any decision.

The proposed new and alternative fuels, be it hydrogen or electricity, come with their own problems - in the context of the haulage industry at least. It is easy to forget that electricity needs to be made, and, however many wind-farms may be built there is likely to be a shortage. There is always the use of nuclear energy as a fallback but it is doubtful that FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

done into the possibility of changing the composition of diesel fuel so as to reduce the harmful effects of the exhaust emissions, the aim being to produce a product to ’Drop in’ a diesel tank which will have the effect of cleaning the fuel so that the exhaust fumes are harmless.

It seems logical that ‘Drop ins’ and the associated research would be advertised by the vehicle manufacturers, but the message must get to the public. It is the large heavy goods vehicle in the Main Street that causes most concern to the housewife regarding harmful emissions.

Her supermarket may use an electric delivery vehicle which is both quiet and clean but the fact that the commercial vehicle in the streets may be at the start of a 600 km journey with a 25-tonne load is a matter that would not cross the mind of anyone on the footpath at that time.

We need the public to at least be aware of some of the problems that face our industry and the changes that may be necessary and, more importantly, not to think that any of the alternative fuels presently being considered will provide a miracle solution. For the moment diesel and ‘Drop-ins’ may be the best way forward.

Text: Jonathan Lawton – jonathan@fleet.ie

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FIRST DRIVE I | 43

IVECO excels off-road with expanded Daily 4x4 range Daily 4x4 - Pointing in the right direction for Iveco – 4 All-tracks – 4 All-Conditions

Remember the Mercedes-Benz Vario?

In its various forms including panel van and chassis cab, its rugged 4x4 all-wheel drive systems redefined where a van could go. Well, the much missed Vario may never have been replaced by the German brand, but there is a very capable successor available from Italy courtesy of IVECO.

Although the CNH Industrial owned commercial vehicle marque already had a competent all-wheel-drive utility offering with the Daily range heretofore (albeit at 3.5 & 5.5 tonnes), the arrival of a 7.0 tonne GVW version in right hand drive means Irish customers can avail of the ultimate off-road (and on-road) all-purpose commercial vehicle.

Daily 4x4 is available in both chassis-cab and panel van forms. With its powerful 3.0-litre Euro 6D heavy-duty engine, mated to Iveco’s 8-speed Hi-Matic automated transmission, Daily 4x4 will trek to the most remote locations.

The 7.0 tonner offers a payload up to 4.300 kg, body lengths up to 5 metres and load volumes from 9 to 18m3.

Tested recently at Millbrook was the 70C18 All-Road panel van, which in essence is the 7.0 tonne, 180hp unit with the Hi-Matic ‘box. The All-Road branding identifies this Daily as a true dual purpose vehicle, designed primarily for road use, but more than capable for light off-road usage.

Around the Proving Ground’s Customer Driving Experience course, this well-built unit commanded the terrain. Steep hills with slippery gravel was no trouble to this vehicle, whether

in standard mode or, for ultimate traction, with diff-lock and traction control engaged.

Compared to the ‘normal’ model, the elevated chassis and suspension of the 70C18 All-Road van aids both ground clearance for the van and visibility for the driver. With the 8-speed Hi-Matic (co-developed with ZF), driving is effortless, with the driver only having to keep the acceleration alive and keep control of the steering.

Getting in and out of this higher up vehicle is not too challenging, thanks to an extra external step and grab handle on the A-pillar. Other than that, the spec is much the same as on the standard Daily, except for the traction control gismos. On that subject, the Hi-Matic transmission works as a splitter, with high and low ratios, with the transfer case ratio control operational through simply pressing a button on the dashboard, while in neutral.

Sporting a more rugged exterior look, one of the main features of the bumper is that it is assembled in three parts.

This provides for the fitment of a winch and or bull bar, while making it easy to replace.

The Daily 4x4 has Central, Front and Rear Differential Locks as standard.

The purpose of a central diff lock is to compensate for the different wheel speeds between the axles from different cornering radii. This prevents torsional stresses in the drive train and automatically distributes the driving forces.

Why is there a need to lock it?

Locking differentials allow both wheels to travel at the same speed, so when traction is lost for one wheel, both wheels will still keep spinning regardless of the amount of resistance. They can be added to either the front or rear axle, or even both axles if you’re planning on doing some hardcore off-roading.

Why is there a need for front and rear differentials? Generally, you will always have one front and one rear wheel firmly on the ground. So to a great extent, significant traction will be added by locking either axle. Therefore, if you tend to carry a lot more weight in the rear of the vehicle, more traction will be offered

by a rear Air Locker.

Another button of note is the Fording Adaptation. This functionality stops the engine fan when negotiating through deep water, to avoid causing damage to the fan due to water resistance. The activation is through a specific button placed on the dashboard below A/C controls.

Another model on site for driving was the Daily 4x4 Off-Road, a 70S18 tipper-bodied single-wheel chassis-cab for more challenging cross-country missions.

The extensive Daily 4x4 panel van and chassis cab range now covers from 3.5 to 5.5 and 7.0 tonnes GVW. There are single and crew cab options and the option of single or twin rear-wheel configurations. As mentioned, Off-Road and All-Road variants are available for both body types, while the panel van has a choice of roof heights, cargo volumes and wheelbases.

SPEC CHECK Make/Model: IVECO Daily 70C18 HA8V WX Body type: 7-tonne 4x4 twin-wheel panel van Engine/Power: 3.0-litre FIC 180hp Euro6D 4-cylinder Torque: 430Nm Gearbox: 8-speed Hi-Matic with high and low ratios Cubic capacity: 16m3 GVW: 7,000kg Dimensions: Wheelbase: 4,175mm, Roof height: 1,900mm, Width: 2,010mm, Length: 7,179mm, Overall Height: 2,811mm.

Suspension: Front: Torsion bar, Rear: Mechanical Wheels/Tyres: 225/75R16 Optional extras: Air-Con, Power take-off, Suspended seats, Passenger bench seat with table, Independent heater.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

44 44 | FINANCE

Team building makes financial sense

The financial reasoning of large businesses investing considerable sums of money in building and developing team development is often questioned. In transport is the secret of financial success not simply the ability to minimise costs and maximise revenue and then gain the financial surplus tax efficiently?

The captain of a good team, or the boss of an effectively operating business that is full of team spirit will pick a group with various talents and abilities. To do all jobs within the business, overall success is best achieved by delegating the work, either because of a time constraint on the skipper, or, because of the technical (or mundane) nature of the work, it is best done by others.

Most small to medium transport firms are family businesses, they operate a top down approach to management, and a proven belief that all workers must be supervised in order to get acceptable returns for wages paid. No outside party or employee will have a share in the FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

business, and it is preferable to own 100% of a small low margin entity than to be a stakeholder in a larger entity where control is diluted.

Financial gain is possible by building a team culture even in a medium sized Irish transport business whereby all employees have respect for one another (often it’s the employees who lack respect for employers who bear all the business risk). Having a team culture means the workload of surveillance and checking is replaced by a group ethos that the business’s results and survival are in the hands of all employees. These employees get feedback on how they are performing and how the business is doing, and then there is a culture of pride in the business. Imagine a business where pilferage and absenteeism is not tolerated by the workers and is effectively policed by the staff themselves?

The economic benefits of team building are lower maintenance and fuel costs, stronger customer retention, business leads, elimination of theft, lower staff turnover and agreed work practices and productivity that benefits hard work.

Multi-national companies take work groups and place them in an environment where they have to assist one another to overcome challenges and succeed. It can be very interesting to see five senior managers cast into a boat and sail under the instructions of a teenage girl who is stronger, quicker and more resourceful than these five heads, collectively they have to work together and

take instruction from an expert who will assist them to work better as a team.

Team leaders in business, as in sport, are determined, clear minded and assertive but not aggressive. Even in rugby, losing the head by the Captain shows weakness and ultimately can cost the match. Having a business operate as a team, with an assertive team leader (the boss) can provide the financial gain from 100% supervision without having the extra hours and the drain on any one individual. If a work environment can be created where bottom line is maximised and it’s not fully dependent on any one individual, there is a far more valuable entity established, a far more enjoyable work environment, and an entity that will weather financial difficulties far better.

The biggest single issue in creating a team environment in transport is changing the boss’s mentality on how the business should or could be run, and even how to interact with staff.

Dependent on what the future for the business is, and the ultimate size and value of it, the development of both a management team and workforce team are crucial in this process. A limited number of transport companies operate this team culture successfully. It’s interesting to see genuine pride in the company uniform, an open management style and feedback from drivers that will not tolerate poor performance as it impinges on their earnings and overall status of the business. Suppliers to the company are also part of the team, as are customers, so collectively, the business has a common goal that links all parties.

From a financial point of view team building improves the bottom line, it reduces the risks in the business and makes it more secure re business continuity or sale. There is something very rewarding to hear back from external sources that staff have pride and respect for the business they work in.

Text: Donal Dempsey – donal@fleet.ie

Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales New TRUCK AND TRAILER PARTS

45

Playing its ‘Part’ at Home & Abroad Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales, based at Williamstown, County Galway, continues to go from strength to strength.

Expert Truck Dismantlers supplies new truck and trailer parts and used truck parts to a broad customer base, all over Ireland. The past two years have seen the company expand with a dedicated new Truck and Trailer Parts Sales Department at its store. This addition has seen a dramatic increase in sales, with new customers added to the company’s portfolio.

Top trade brands’ products such as WABCO, Winnard, Hella, TRW, Mann-Filter, Meritor, Textar are always in stock, as are leading names in the truck industry like Volvo, Scania, Renault, DAF, Hino, MAN, Mercedes-Benz and Iveco.

With a large trailer parts selection also available such as ROR, SAF, BPW and Mercedes. In fact, thousands of product lines are available off the shelf to ensure a speedy dispatch.

Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales have just launched a new online store www.experttruckdismantlers.com - with the large selection of new truck and trailer parts and used parts selling fast and being added to on a daily basis. All of these new and used parts feature the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) number to make searching for the right part even easier for the customer. The time and effort spent developing the online store has paid off, along with its eBay Store is also keeping sales flowing and attracting customers from all over the world.

Right from the start, business owner Padraig Smyth has concentrated on offering superior customer service. As a result, a quick and efficient service is provided to all customer enquiries, sourcing parts and offering next day delivery nationwide. Expert have two delivery vans on the road full time, backed up by courier services to ensure all deliveries are carried out on time, be it pallet, box or parcel.

Concurrently, Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales have taken its business worldwide, exporting complete trucks and used truck parts to places as far away as Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and the Middle East. All makes and models are dismantled and prepared for export, with great care applied to packaging and loading for the long journeys ahead, an approach which has assured repeat orders. Whatever the export method required: CKD, RoRo, Open Top or Closed Containers, the overseas order is carefully dispatched.

Again, the superior customer service applied has played a major role in the successful business relationship with its overseas customers, leading to repeat orders.

Speaking about the ongoing progress of his business, Padraig said: “I am very grateful to all our customers for the success of our business to date. Our aim is to continue in what we are doing and grow the business even further. Thanks to our excellent team here, Expert Truck Dismantlers is becoming a force to be reckoned with.”

For further details contact Padraig and his team at Expert Truck Dismantlers & Sales through the hotline number +353 94 9643482 087-6556448 Email: parts@experttd.com www.experttruckdismantlers.com

www.fleet.ie

46 46 | REPORT

Most successful inaugural virtual UKIFDA EXPO 2021 & Future Fuels Conference The UK & Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) held a most successful virtual UKIFDA EXPO 2021 & Future Fuels Conference, with many exhibitors launching new products and services during the 2-day event.

Newly appointed Ken Cronin, UKIFDA Chief Executive, commented on hosting the first UKIFDA EXPO on line for the first time: “Visitors to the virtual exhibition hall were able to see over 45 exhibitors, where many great innovative, green and customer-focussed products were introduced along with highlighting latest technology and services during the virtual event. Some held live demonstrations at the EXPO and engaged positively with delegates, explaining the key features of their products and services and highlighting their benefits too.”

UKIFDA Membership & Events Manager, Dawn Shakespeare added: “Apart from the launches and demonstrations at UKIFDA EXPO this year there was also networking, knowledge sharing and business news, with key topics being debated and important information being relayed through keynote speaker presentations at the Future Fuels Conference – all via our virtual hub Whova.”

Dawn also thanked event sponsors AON Plc and Cobo Tankers & Services supporting each day of the conference together with the EXPO headline sponsor Phillips 66 Ltd. Ken Cronin concluded: “Visitors to the UKIFDA virtual booth were able to talk through UKIFDA membership packages, learn more about the training we offer including our comprehensive driver training packages, and discuss industry plans to introduce renewable liquid fuels and our Future Ready Fuel campaign.”

Selection of Irish and transport related virtual exhibitors Carbery Plastics/Davant www.carberyplastics.ie Well established oil tank brand Carbery Plastics and product distributor Davant have developed a flexible, responsive FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

to responsibly store, dispense and protect Diesel, AdBlue and Oil for the commercial, industrial and domestic markets. Its extensive range of plastic storage solutions range from 200 – 25,000 litres and provide dispensing and storage packages for a variety of applicadelivery service to satisfy the requirements of UK and Irish fuel distributors.

Cork based Carbery Plastics offers an industry leading 5 year guarantee on its single skin tanks and 10 years on its bunded range. And with a range of AdBlue, fuel, heating oil and waste oil tanks from 60 to over 6,000 litres to choose from, wherever the application and whatever the installation, there’s almost certainly a Carbery to suit.

Dunraven Systems Ltd www.dunravensystems.com

For over four decades, Dunraven Systems (Dundalk) has provided an unrivalled range of IoT remote tank monitoring solutions that drive superior value back to customers and partners while enhancing their business operations.

Some of the benefits customers experience include: enhancement of delivery efficiencies, an increase in customer loyalty, automated service with simple integrations to 3rd party back office systems, reradication of last minute emergency fills, providing customers with a “Peace of Mind” service.

Kingspan Water & Energy www.kingspan.com As a market-leading manufacturer of energy management solutions for over 40 years, Kingspan, headquartered in Cavan, offers innovative ways

tions. Its energy management solutions come with a choice of smart monitoring systems to ensure the control needed to effectively keep track of assets.

Cobo Tankers & Services www.cisternascobo.com

“We deliver so you can” is the motto of Cobo, a long standing supplier of semi-trailers, and the UK & Ireland’s fastest growing rigid tanker supplier.

The Spanish company specialises in producing aluminium tanks for the transport of hydrocarbons, while also manufacturing with materials such as stainless steel. Cobo combines design and homologation with an advanced manufacturing and marketing process.

Whether the semi-trailer tankers type or rigid, the COBO name is synonymous with experience, technology, quality and service.

Magyar - www.gmagyar.com Magyar is a builder of quality road tankers of all descriptions and has been

REPORT | 47 47 available on the UK & Irish fuel markets since 2000. The G. MAGYAR company (Dijon, France) designs, manufactures and markets tanks for the transport

Williams Tanker Services (WTS) is the UK & Ireland distributor for new LAG tankers, and has the largest fleet of rental tankers and is one of the main fuel tanker repair centres in the UK. With an 18-bay workshop that specialises in ADR repair and modifications, WTS are the experts in repairing tanker fleets. LAG manufactures some of the finest tankers in Europe and the LAG fuel tanker has been a trusted workhorse for hundreds of operators over the last 75 years.

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.

of all liquids products whether edible, chemical or petroleum. Its pan-EU teams are at customers’ disposal to build technical and economical optimised solutions for road transport including rigid tankers, drawbars tankers or tank semi-trailers. It also caters for intermodal transport with swap tanks or tank containers or for rail transport with tank wagons.

Nationwide Vehicle Recovery Assistance www.nationwidevehicleassistance.co.uk

Argent Energy www.argentenergy.com

Road Tanker Spares Ltd www.roadtankerspares.com

Road Tanker Spares (Markethill, Armagh) provides a full range of parts, equipment and accessories for all types of road tankers. It supplies UK & Ireland, European and International markets, with many parts in stock, and offering next-day delivery service.

Products & Services include Adapters & Couplings, Composite Hoses, Top & Bottom Loading Equipment, Safety and Signage Equipment and Clothing & PPE. Road Tanker Spares supply a full range of equipment for tanker manufacture including ADR-spec tank barrels and various types of metering systems.

When ADR Vehicle Recovery is required, Nationwide Vehicle Assistance is the first to call. With over 30 years of practical experience in Hazchem heavy vehicle recovery, Nationwide Chemical Assistance was established to provide vehicle recovery for HGV’s and LGV’s gas-fuelled or transporting ADR freight.

Nationwide Chemical Assistance is fully qualified and competent in the recovery of fuel tankers, chemical tankers and vehicles carrying ADR classified goods, including numerous UN Classes. Once notified, an experienced, qualified Incident Manager (IM) is appointed to oversee the ADR vehicle recovery.

For twenty years Argent has been the UK’s leading producer of high-quality distilled Biodiesel. Argent’s Biodiesel is produced using only waste-based feedstocks and therefore has no impact on either the food or the feed chain, and saves thousands of tonnes of waste ending up in landfill. Argent’s vision is to reduce the world’s carbon footprint and by using Argent’s High Blend Biodiesels as a drop in replacement for fossil fuel in truck, bus and off-road fleets, significant amounts of CO2 can be saved…..today!

Handsfree Group – www.handsfree.co.uk

Eliminox – www.eliminox.co.uk

Williams Tanker Services www.williamsts.com

ElimINOX fuel conditioners and emulsifiers are proven to reduce soot and particulate matter, carbon and other emissions, increase fuel efficiency, remove free water and stabilise HFO emulsions. ElimiNOX Eco

The Handsfree Group has helped transport, logistics and emergency service clients improve the way their employees drive, communicate and promote safety while significantly reducing their vehicle running costs. The team do this by supplying and installing the latest market leading vehicle technology innovations through their UK, Ireland and USA operations. Given this experience, Handsfree Group know precisely how to tailor vehicle communication, safety and security solutions on a case-by-case basis.

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

48 48 | TEST III

Tested: Ford Ranger Thunder limited edition

Really the marketeers got it wrong when they allocated the term ‘crossover’ to the breed of jacked-up superminis taking over the motoring world at present.

We get the idea - that these ‘all-rounders’ (I use the term advisedly) can be practical and economical suburban transport during the week, but can then magically transform into rugged off-roaders eager to tackle the toughest mountain trails at the weekend.

The reality of course is that the vast majority of these pseudo-SUVs would throw a hissy fit if confronted with the slightest bit of non-tarmac covered terrain.

No, the true crossovers of the motoring world are Pick-ups - machines that can do an honest day’s work toiling in the harshest environments, yet can also be stylish and respectable enough to double up as prestige family transport.

More than most brands, Ford has recognised the dual-nature of Pick-ups, offering a broad and disparate number of versions of its very popular Ranger.

These range (pardon the pun) from the pure workhorse-focused Ranger Single Cab which comes with a very useful load length of 2,317mm to the Ranger Raptor, a sporty derivative aimed at the leisure market that might not offer the maximum payload and towing capabilities, but has redefined just how much fun a Pick-up can be to drive.

Most customers will opt for one of the Double Cab versions of which there FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

are four regular trim levels - XL, XLT, Limited and Wildtrak. The latter two in particular come with specifications that would put many luxury cars to shame, including Ford’s SYNC 3 voice control and infotainment system, 8-way power adjustable driver seats, bi-xenon headlights and rear view cameras.

However if the Wildtrak doesn’t stand out from the crowd enough, Ford also offers a limited edition version called the Thunder. Just 4,500 examples will be produced, so owners can bask in the knowledge that few other Pick-ups will have quite the cachet of their special Ranger.

The Thunder’s calling card is its unique visual appearance. Sea Grey metallic paint, black 18” alloy wheels, red accents on the grille and sports hoop bar at the rear of the passenger area, and prominent ‘Thunder’ logos on the front passenger doors and at the rear enable it to stand out from regular Ranger models.

The interior also gets unique ‘Thunder’ red embroidery on the full Ebony leather seats, while the red theme is continued with matching stitching across the steering wheel, seats, instrument panel and other touch points in the cabin.

Eye-catching it might be, but the Ranger Thunder is no show pony. With the same mechanical specifications as the other mainstream double cabs, it can tow up to 3.5 tonnes and has a payload capacity of just over 1 tonne. It’s powered by the most powerful version of Ford’s 2.0 litre EcoBlue diesel engine, developing 213 PS and a useful 500 Nm of torque. That’s matched to a ten speed automatic transmission - the same one as in the Mustang. Ten gears might seem like overkill but in practice it’s all pretty seamless, with the Ranger Thunder invariably in the right gear for the circumstances.

On-road manners of Pick-ups generally have improved considerably in recent years, and the Ranger is

up with the best of them on the ride and handling fronts. I was particularly impressed on one particular stretch of badly surfaced road, which in practically every other vehicle I’ve driven invariably results in a jarring ride and harsh tyre noise. Clad in Continental CrossContact ATR rubber, the Ranger Thunder felt like it was riding on a velvet carpet in comparison. Its suspension is certainly one of the most composed in the Pick-up class.

The Ranger Thunder has a retail price of €49,772 ex-delivery charges (our test model was fitted with another €6k’s worth of extras including active park assist, adaptive cruise control, a load bed aluminium roller shutter with cargo management and load box divider, and a trailer tow pack amongst others).

That represents a price hike of just under €2.5k over the Wildtrak with similar auto transmission. A lot, some might argue, but for that you get a distinctive and stylish looking Pick-up that will turn heads while still able to get down and dirty when required. A proper crossover in other words.

SPEC CHECK MAKE/MODEL: Ford Ranger TYPE/TRIM: Double-cab/ Thunder ENGINE/POWER: 2.0-litre Ecoblue Diesel 213 PS TORQUE: 500 Nm@1,750 rpm DIMENSIONS: Length; 5,359mm, Height; 1,848mm, Width; 1,97mm, Wheelbase; 3,220mm KERB WEIGHT: 2,125 - 2,340kg GVW: 2,246kg FUEL CONSUMPTION: 9.1 litres/100km (WLTP) C02 COMBINED: 239 g/km (WLTP) Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie

TEST IV | 49

Equijump - Ireland’s distributor of Theault / Renault Trucks Master horse transporters

Ensuring goods arrive in prime condition is the first responsibility of every transporter. Especially so when that cargo is valuable race horses and show jumpers. It makes having the right equipment to transport such valuable livestock safely and in comfort not just desirable, but essential.

Good news for Irish horse movers is that renowned French equine transporter specialist Theault is now available in Ireland via a new distributor, Equijump Ltd. The Thurles, County Tipperary-based provider of products for

the horse industry is offering Theault’s Proteo Switch model, a compact one or two horse transporter. It’s available in a number of different variants based on a Renault Master chassis supplied

by Renault Trucks. Equijump also offers Theault’s more basic Firsteo model, built on a Peugeot Boxer chassis.

Founded in 2011, Equijump is a well established name within the Irish horse industry, supplying, mainly to the wholesale sector, a wide range of products, ranging from bits, spurs, bridles, and saddles to clothing and equine supplements. Taking on the franchise for Theault’s compact horse transporters is already proving a fruitful decision, according to company owner Reece St. John.

“We took on the role as sole distributor for the Irish market, north and south, last December, and already

have seen significant sales, and a huge amount of interest,” he explained, mentioning high-profile transporters such as Ballinroe International Horse Transport and Coolmore Stud as two who have recently acquired Theault products.

From Avranches in Normandy in northern France, Theault has nearly a century of expertise in the field of equine transport. Founded in 1924, it has built a reputation second to none for its products. Innovations include designing the first rear-facing truck in the 1960’s.

In the often glamorous worlds of showjumping and horse racing, image is important. The Proteo Switch will certainly create the right impression arriving into the paddock, featuring dynamic lines that are stylishly incorporated in the Renault Master cab, itself one of the best looking LCVs on sale now.

Other features such as unique rear LED lights and the high quality bodywork help it stand out further.

Offered in 3 and 5 seater layouts as well as a long version, the regular Proteo Switch models fall under the 3-tonne GVW category meaning they can be driven on a standard B-licence.

The 3-seat Proteo 3 boasts a 1.3 tonne payload meaning two horses can be transported, while the crew-cab Proteo 5 offers slightly less payload at 900kg, but provides sleeping accommodation for two and can transport up five people.

Heavier versions with GVWs up to 4.5 tonnes are available with air suspension.

Theault uses top specification Renault Master vehicles to build its horse boxes on, and customers will no doubt appreciate the customised options available including choice of seat upholstery and cabin finishes.

There should be no shortage of power either, as Renault Truck’s 170PS 2.3 Dci matched to a six speed manual gearbox is specified.

The Theault Proteo Switch comes with a number of features that make it stand out from the crowd, according to Reece. “It’s the only horse box that comes with a bulkhead that is UTAC approved,” he explained. It means it has been subjected to a series of crash

tests governed by European regulation and homologation to ensures horses and passengers are always kept apart, even in accidents. Another clever feature is the SWITCH modular system which gives a high degree of layout flexibility depending on the size and number of horses being transported.

Up to eight configurations are possible through easily adaptable sliding compartments. Glass ventilation skylights and a temperature gauge in the horse area ensure animal welfare is catered for, while the driver can keep a close eye on the horses when on the move via a camera surveillance system. Overall there are numerous features designed to make life as simple and comfortable as possible for both humans and horses.

The Renault Master forms an ideal basis for Theault’s Proteo Switch according to Reece. “Renault shares the same DNA as Theault, tried and tested over the last 100 years. In our experience it’s the ideal platform to build on.”

For potential customers looking to choose the ideal specification, Equijump holds a number of demos in stock.

“We are happy to bring demo models to potential customers’s stables or premises,” says Reece. Check out the Theault offerings at https://equijumpltd. com/collections/theault Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle – cathal@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

50 50 | LAUNCH PAD II

The new MercedesBenz eActros will change the industry for real

Launching the new Mercedes-Benz fully electric eActros, Karin Radstrom, Member of the Board of Daimler AG with responsibility for Mercedes-Benz Trucks said: “It will change the industry for real”. Ms. Radstrom also stated that: “Launching the eActros is an important step towards our long term target to offer only CO2 neutral vehicles in Europe by 2039. We are working on a full range of zero-emission trucks and already the next electric Mercedes-Benz truck is in the making - the eEconic which will be introduced later this year.”

Propelling the new eActros are two electric motors with a two-speed planetary gear-set integrated into the drive axle. The e-motors are powered by either three or four 105 kWh Li-ion battery packs that combine to provide 315 kWh or 420 kWh respectively.

Driving over its claimed range of 400 kms, eActros will deliver 330 kW (449 hp) constantly, and 400 kW (544 hp) peak power. The four-set battery pack weighs in at 740 kgs and can be recharged from 20% to 80% in approximately one hour using a 160 kW charge point. The truck will initially be available in 4x2, 6x2 and drawbar formats up to 40 tonnes (gross train weight).

However, this emission-free technology comes at a price, which FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

Mercedes-Benz estimate to be around three times that of a comparable diesel-powered Actros. In addition, this is not a case of dropping into the local dealer and signing on the dotted line as these vehicles need dedicated support.

This will be delivered by Mercedes-Benz eConsultants who will manage the integration of eActros and ensure “a fully transparent total cost of ownership (TCO) calculations.”

Despite being more expensive, it is the eActros’ TCO that MercedesBenz believes will provide the winning formula. This is due to the increasing number of low noise and zero-emission zones and the possible banning of diesel vehicles from many city centres. These factors along with Government supports and the cost of energy could combine to achieve TCO parity of a diesel and electric Actros in some countries as early as 2025 - and these considerations will greatly influence the take-up by operators.

Apart from the truck not being ADR compliant, eActros comes with all a driver would expect from the latest Actros, including the award-winning MirrorCam, Sideguard Assist, Active Brake Assist 5 and the Mercedes-Benz Multi-Media Cockpit. Following testing of over 500,000 kms with operators in the Netherlands and Germany, mainly on supermarket distribution, feedback from the companies and drivers was positive across all aspects of the truck.

With Electric Vehicle (EV) residual values are always a concern when it comes to investing, and for this reason, Mercedes-Benz is offering a lease option Mercedes-Benz eActros Summary Battery capacity of 315 or 420 kWh Range up to 400 kms Up to 160 kW charging with 400 A DC Silent running @ 60 dB Mercedes-Benz Multi-Media Cockpit

over the life of the truck. Head of Sales & Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Trucks Andreas von Wallfeld said: “We offer an operational lease, so, for example, customers can buy the truck or lease it for 5 or 6 years and return it to us for a guaranteed residual value.” He continued: “This shows our commitment to eActros, it is important we can offer operational lease so our customers can go out risk-free.”

This may also help with the move to creating a larger EVs truck park for used vehicles. Most electric trucks will not cover a vast number of kilometres and would be well able to continue once the battery can be reconditioned or replaced.

Mercedes-Benz is already investigating this option and a good supply of used electric trucks would certainly widen the potential customer base for a move to electric transport. Nevertheless, Karin Radstrom concluded: “We do not know where battery technology will be in six years.”

With series production set to begin in October, Mercedes-Benz expects to take orders after the summer, with deliveries to the first customers by the end of 2021.

Text: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie

e.Motors integrated into drive axle Power - Constant 330 kW/ Peak 400 kW Charge times 20% -80% approx 1 hour Mirror Cam, ABA5, Sideguard Assist, Two Speed Planetary Gear-Set

LAUNCH PAD III | 51 51

Mercedes-Benz Edition 2 Actros ready to rock n’ roll!

Polished to high gloss and ready for hand over – the first batch of only 400 (Special Limited) Edition 2 Actros trucks have been leaving Mercedes-Benz’ Wörth am Rhein factory in Germany over the past few weeks. Around 40 additional options for the interior and exterior as well as special design elements give the Edition 2 a desirable character.

A whole host of high level equipment features give a feeling of luxury in the Edition 2. These include the stylish interior, for example, an instrument panel and door handles covered in nappa leather and several interior parts in a carbon-fibre optic, as well as a roof hatch with ambient lighting. The new home screen featured in the multimedia primary display, as well as the Edition logo made out of polished and brushed aluminium on the co-driver’s side, are also real eye-catchers. The top bed comes complete with bedding and is 900 millimetres wide. An all-around curtain – almond beige on the inside, black on the outside – ensures privacy in a stylish way.

This equally applies to the curtain with the Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star in front of the bed.

The target group for the Actros Edition 2 special model are passionate professional drivers and owner driver hauliers whose truck is their home and who place great value on individual style and high comfort, as well as having a strong emotional tie to their vehicle.

Edition 2 is offered for all two- and three-axle variants of the current Actros generation with GigaSpace and BigSpace cabs as a left-hand or right-hand drive. The cab paint is freely selectable and can be tailored specifically to the customer’s company colours, while the vehicle front is always painted in moonstone grey metallic, which ensures a high recognition value. The Edition 2’s series equipment contains the following six packages: Safety Package with a number of active safety driver assistance systems Comfort Package with LED ambient lighting, driving and living, shaving mirror, refrigerator etc.

Driving Package with leather steering wheel, electric roller sunblind and more Sight Package with, among others, bi-xenon headlights, rain sensor and LED rear lamps Media Package with sound system, notebook holder, additional 12/15 V socket Extra Line with LED position lights in the MirrorCam, LED indicators and Welcome Light

Mercedes Benz Trucks’ target with the Edition 2 is the same as its goal with the current Actros generation: to contribute to accident-free traffic and advance toward the vision of fully accident-free driving by utilising active safety assistance systems. For this purpose, the Edition 2 is equipped with the emergency braking assistance system Active Brake Assist in its fifth generation (ABA 5), the optional Active Drive Assist (ADA) for partially

automated driving (SAE level 2), the standard award-winning MirrorCam that replaces main and wide-angle mirrors as well as Sideguard Assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection available ex-works.

In conjunction with these assistance systems, the further developed Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) is also impressive.

The system is not only able to save a lot of fuel, but is also a relief for the driver on rural routes.

The driver can manage and control the activities and functions of the assistance systems such as ABA 5, ADA or PPC in the user-friendly multimedia cockpit, with its two colour displays forming the centrepiece of the Human-Machine Interface (HMI). In addition, further HMI innovations such as the display of the next navigation event in the primary display or the total weight of the tractor unit and trailer are also included.

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

52 52 | TEST V

Mercedes-Benz eSprinter – Electric eSprinter - time to ‘Un-plug & Play’

It is said that the first person to drive a motor car was Bertha Benz, the wife of the engineer Karl Benz. The story goes that on her famous trip Bertha had difficulty sourcing fuel for the ‘Motorwagen’. This meant she had to visit several Pharmacies to buy Ligroin, a petroleum/solvent, because in 1888, there were no petrol stations, as there were no cars.

In some ways, history appears to be repeating itself. We have a lack of charging points because there are too few Electric Vehicles (EVs) to make it viable. As a result, some, particularly business operators, are hesitant to take the plunge because there are too few charging points.

Mercedes-Benz has been developing commercial EVs for well over a decade.

In fact ‘Fleet Transport’ was shown early prototype versions of eVito and eSprinter as far back as 2009/10. We mention this to highlight that an electric-powered Sprinter has not been developed overnight and operators can be confident that this is another version of Sprinter, which is one of the longest-serving models in the Mercedes-Benz line-up.

Currently, eSprinter is available in only one size - that is the medium length, hi-roof model, powered by a 41 kWh battery installed as standard. There is the option of a lighter 35 kWh battery which may interest some as it will reduce costs FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

and charge times for those not needing the distance. While that 35 kWh unit will reduce the range available, it will increase carrying capacity so the choice is determined by the nature of the work.

With the standard 41 kWh battery what one gets is a FWD model of Sprinter now powered by an 85 kW motor delivering 300 Nm of torque.

To offer a comparison Mercedes-Benz engineers stated that the eSprinter will provide similar performance to the diesel-powered 311 Sprinter, claiming also that the range is a comfortable 120 kms, and charging times from 0% to 100% will take 6 hours with a 7.4 kW AC charger. If required eSprinter can be fast-charged from a level of 10% to approximately 80% in about 70 minutes using a 20 kW DC charger.

Driving the eSprinter is as familiar as driving any other Sprinter except it is quieter, smoother, and arguably handles better, thanks to the lower centre of gravity provided by the added weight of the battery. As with all EVs, power is delivered instantly making the van’s performance equal to, or better than many passenger cars. Of course, regularly applying full power will reduce the range which in turn can shorten the working day. However, eSprinter has a clever regeneration paddle control behind the steering wheel to help manage the regeneration process.

By simply clicking this four-stage

control with the left or right hand fingers allows the driver to adjust the level of regeneration that occurs once the accelerator is released. Sensible use of this will (with a little practice) bring the van to a stop without using the footbrake and so to realise other savings.

There is also a driving mode switch

allowing three modes to be selected - Comfort, Economy, and Economy+, good use of these modes will greatly increase the practicality of eSprinter.

While the van comes with the classic Mercedes-Benz exterior, the interior, while managing to have all that is required is somewhat spartan. eSprinter has a respectable carrying capacity both in volume and payload, and within its immediate limitations is a realistic working LCV. Now that the long-serving MercedesBenz Sprinter has been electrified, the question must be asked whether, after years of development, the new eSprinter is a practical ‘un-plug and play’ electric light commercial. The answer, most definitely, is yes.

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

Spec Check Make Mercedes-Benz Model / Chassis / Cab eSprinter / 4x2 FWD / Panel Van Battery / Power / Torque 41 kWh / 85 kW / 300 Nm Range 120 km (WLTP) Charge Time/s 0 to 100% - 6 hours with a 7.4 kW AC charger

10% to 80% - 70 minutes with a 20 kW DC charger Dimensions (Length – 6,088 mm) (Weight – 2,455 kgs) (Volume 11 m3) Weights (kgs) GVW 3,500 / Empty Weight 2,455 / Payload 1,045

SPECIAL FEATURE | 53

Telematics in Road Transport delivers Return on Investment

According to a recent report, over 80% of fleet truck operators are now using telematics in their day-to-day activities, producing clear and definite benefits. The key factors are how the vehicle and driver performance data is accessed, downloaded and analysed. When telematics were introduced by truck manufactures and third-party developers, the technology was received with some scepticism, transport managers and fleet owners were cautious about investing, while it looked like ‘Spy in the Cab Part II’ by the concerned drivers. A turnaround in their collective minds happened once the truck manufacturers got serious about telematics creating viable programmes and packages, and with ongoing training and advice, return on investment was delivered. While the technology was led by truck manufacturers, the third-party providers also upped their game. Two leading truck brands, namely Volvo and MercedesBenz with their respective Dynafleet and FleetBoard were to the fore with broad customer acceptance, which also helped to retain loyalty, with the third-party’s offering, best suited for mixed vehicle fleet operations. In recent years, the drivers have grown to appreciate the resulting data and the feedback works both ways to the overall benefit of the transport

company.

Another welcome addition to the telematics platform is the emergence of trailer manufacturers to the table, with either independent or full integration with the truck fleet’s system.

Somewhat surprisingly, the bus and coach fraternity have been slow in taking up telematics but that is not the case currently in the light commercial vehicle sector.

The emergence of ecommerce and the resulting huge increase in the sales and movements of vans in the express delivery segment is causing some anxiety among legislators, safety organisations and city authorities. As consumer demands almost instant delivery from internet shopping, this additional pressure on the delivery service is making the working day of the driver most arduous and in some cases dangerous, due to the long hours endured. Some forms of regulation in terms of working and driving hours, rest periods and even a speed limiter on the vehicles are currently being considered by the European Union. There is even talk about reducing the overall weight limit involving the mandatory instillation of a tachograph on an LCV from 3.5 tonnes GVW to 2.8 tonnes.

Again it’s a mix between OEMs and major private developers presently involved in the introduction of telematics in light commercials. Led by Ford, Fiat Professional, IVECO and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, their systems provide all the information required by the operator to monitor and improve on the performance of the driver.

TruTac, the tachograph analysis experts has introduced its TruFleet system,

increasing efficiencies for operators.

This fleet management control software comes with EPMI - electronic document control which increases HGV and PSV vehicle management and compliance control even easier. The approved programme enables transport managers to plan, organise and control all aspects of day-to-day fleet and Operator Licence management. TruFleet is fully compatible with TruTac’s modular suite of TruControl software to provide full visibility and control over every vehicle and driver. In addition, TruTac’s innovative solutions help HGV and PSV fleet managers easily monitor and manage the potential risk their drivers can pose to compliance levels.

Another interesting and related development, that extends the scope of telematics is the new intelligent tyre pressure monitoring system from Wheely-Safe. Premiered at the recent ITT Hub exhibition at Farnborough, Wheely-Safe is making its intelligent tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), wheel loss and brake temperature sensing technologies available for connection to commercial vehicle telematics and CAN bus for the first time, with a new range of open platform connected devices available alongside its standalone products.

The launch forms part of the biggest series of upgrades by Wheely-Safe to-date, enhancing its offer to fleets, telematics providers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). It includes the introduction of the world’s first auto-calibrating internal TPMS sensor, eliminating the need for external valve sensors if fleets prefer. www.fleet.ie

54 54 | SPECIAL FEATURE

Seven Tips for Better Fleet Management Adam Fletcher, Partner Account Manager, UK & Ireland, at Geotab, the world’s largest commercial telematics company, provides seven areas of focus for fleet managers to get the very best out of their fleet - from monitoring fuel usage and ensuring compliance, to incorporating and operating electric vehicles.

Understanding best practices in fleet management can help every company optimise their fleet performance and unlock the full potential of each commercial vehicle under management. While every business and its fleet is unique, many aspects of fleet management affect businesses equally. These seven tips on core focus areas for commercial fleet managers will benefit organisations seeking to improve efficiency, reduce costs and ensure compliance across all aspects of their fleet operation.

Monitor fuel usage As we continue to return to ‘normal’, the price of petrol and diesel has steadily risen month over month in 2021. Any additional cost quickly adds up across a commercial fleet line. With the cost of an oil barrel generally predicted to further increase over the course of the year, this FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

price hike comes at a difficult time for businesses seeking to bounce back from the pandemic.

Unfortunately, no business can control the price at the pumps.

However, by implementing a fleet telematics solution, organisations can more efficiently manage their vehicles and save an average of 14% on fuel costs per annum.

Reduce air pollution with AdBlue AdBlue is a great way to make diesel vehicles much less harmful to our health by working to reduce the amount of CO2 and NOx within diesel engines. AdBlue alone can reduce the amount of NOx by up to 90% and is an essential additional cost for fleet managers given that diesel fumes alone are attributed to being responsible for thousands of deaths each year. Fleet operators need to replenish AdBlue for each vehicle roughly every 8,000 kms driven or risk the vehicle failing to start or more costly, failing to comply with strict EU legislation. A telematics solution can help fleet operators better monitor and track AdBlue levels to avoid both of these risks.

Reduce idling While the cost of vehicle idling varies depending on make and model, the wasted fuel being burned can cost businesses on average €840 per vehicle, per annum. While some idling is necessary or unavoidable - be it normal road traffic or use of additional machinery on the vehicle, like a crane or cement mixer - other instances can be reduced. Unnecessary idling occurs every day, from using vehicle heaters or air conditioning to heat up or cool down, to defrosting windows before starting the vehicle or simply sitting idle while on the phone. A vehicle produces 20 times more pollution when idle compared to travelling at 50k/ph, so it’s in both the business and society’s best interests to

cut down on these practices. Through policies advising staff to turn off their vehicle when stationary combined with technology to monitor driver habits and building progress reports, fleet managers can help to reduce running costs and operate a cleaner fleet.

Maintain compliance standards For those with HGVs in their fleet, maintaining compliance goes beyond ensuring that your drivers have safe vehicles on the road. A fleet operator has to monitor the following data to remain compliant with all regulation: Tachograph Modern vehicles over 3.5 tonnes are required to have a digital tachograph installed to record the drivers’ working time and rest periods alongside the

vehicles’ speed and distance travelled.

Operators must be able to analyse this data to identify potential infringements and produce clear infringement reports as required.

Driver hours Operators have legal obligations to have their drivers observe and abide by the laws on driver hours. Failure to comply leaves them at risk if infringements are identified by an enforcement officer, with the potential outcome being criminal prosecution.

Data analysis Operators can leverage new, real-time tachograph solutions with automatic remote downloading to routinely capture data and easily perform data analysis for compliance and efficiency purposes.

Walkaround checks Drivers have a responsibility to complete daily walk-around checks before they drive a vehicle, from which any defects must be reported in writing within the organisation.

SPECIAL FEATURE | 55

Transition to electric With the Irish Government banning the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, continuing to ignore electric vehicles (EVs) could prove a costly or fatal mistake for your business. Over this decade, it is likely we will see an increasing number of areas introduce electric only or clean air zones in which the use of petrol and diesel vehicles is prohibited or charged heavily. This represents another looming cost which large fleets travelling through these zones may be penalised heavily for.

Staying ahead of the curve by transitioning to electric vehicles now may lead to significant savings in the long term.

Operate electric When you already have EVs in your fleet, it’s important to keep on top of the various metrics associated with them to keep your fleet costs low. Just because you don’t have to pay for emissions or fuel, doesn’t mean they operate completely without cost. Telematics solutions can provide operators with rich insights pulled directly from EVs in their fleet to help them answer questions such as: n n n

n

How are my EVs performing?

Are my drivers plugging in?

How can I make sure the EVs are fully charged and ready to drive in the morning?

Where are my vehicles charging?

n n n

n n

How much does it cost me?

Who needs to charge?

What are the ranges I can expect under different conditions?

Who drives efficiently?

Who doesn’t?

Evaluate total cost of ownership Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is another key factor in relation to fleet management. Many fleet managers may assume that the upfront costs of an EV are not worth it compared to the lower costs of petrol or diesel trucks.

However, even without subsidies from the Government, it has been found that electric vehicles could reach parity in terms of total cost of ownership in roughly four and a half years. From small passenger vehicles to large multi-ton lorries, EVs are predicted to be more cost effective than all diesel or petrol vehicles by the end of the decade. Taking a TCO approach can help inform businesses on whether it is worth investing in electric now, to realise long-term savings which can be used to fund the continual upgrading of their fleet.

Businesses and fleet managers have many factors to consider when it comes to optimally investing in and running their fleet. Adhering to best practices as outlined above will enable businesses to maximise the performance of their fleet. Key to much of these practices is a data rich and accessible telematics solution.

Fleet telematics can help businesses

control costs, stay agile and increase the productivity of their vehicles.

Driver Performance taken to the next level with ORBCOMM Scorecards Hard braking, harsh acceleration, speeding and hard cornering. For fleets, these are not just unsafe driving behaviours; they can also add to fuel costs through inefficient driving. To effectively address driver behaviour in organisations, fleets have turned to driver performance scoring to know exactly how each driver is performing, how they are driving from week to week and where improvements can be made.

Operators using the ORBCOMM’s Driver Performance Scoring system access data, assess its impact, analyse both vehicle and driver performance successfully – and provide insight to motivate both drivers and transport managers to improve. One example, A.F. Blakemore, last year set up a new driver performance scoring programme to effectively address driving habits in their 250-strong HGV fleet. By incorporating a programme of data capture, monitoring, reviewing and a straightforward scoring system, the family-run business has seen a cultural shift and significant improvements in driver safety and fuel economy. Each week, performance scoring monitors how each driver is operating the vehicle and identifies areas where improvements can be made.

Krone Trailer Telematics: the all-in-one open digital solution In order to be able to easily manage different telematics systems via a www.fleet.ie

56 56 | SPECIAL FEATURE

single portal solution, Krone Telematics relies on a manufacturer-independent platform. Here, the various stand-alone solutions are combined into an all-in-one solution. Regardless of the vehicle type, manufacturer or telematics box used, the user has individual, user-specific access and can access all the data provided.

With the Krone Telematics Portal, fleet operators always have an overview of their vehicles, and with the Krone Telematics App, the data is also always available on the move.

With its telematics functions, Krone Telematics ensures that fleet operators have online control over the position, condition or even temperature of their transports at all times. Thanks to the modular structure, they can put together their own customised package. For data-intensive temperature-controlled transport, there are suitable additional modules.

The flexible software architecture of Krone Telematics provides open interfaces through which the transport management systems of transport and logistics companies as well as partners - for example internet portals - can be easily connected.

Ford Telematics Essentials new Fleet Management tool

Ford has expanded its FORDLiive connected uptime system to European fleet operators with the introduction of Ford Telematics Essentials – a complimentary new fleet management tool designed to help increase the productivity of connected commercial vehicles. Delivered by Ford Pro – Ford’s new global vehicle services and FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

distribution business for commercial and government customers – FORDLiive is a key pillar of Ford’s always-on relationship with customers to help enhance their fleet operations.

Ford Telematics Essentials underpins the FORDLiive system for fleet users, delivering Smart Maintenance alerts based on real-time vehicle health data. The alerts help businesses to maximise uptime by reducing the number of breakdowns and achieving quicker servicing and repair times.

Harnessing connected vehicle data from the fleet, FORDLiive also links businesses to the support available from the Transit Centre network through Smart Diagnostics so that the productivity of each individual vehicle can be optimised.

Webfleet Solutions to offer an integrated video-based solution

insight into critical events, helping them to prevent accidents, increase safety for the driver, enhance fleet efficiency and reduce the frequency

The combination of video and telematics data offers a number of opportunities to help safeguard drivers and fleets. WEBFLEET, for example, provides actionable driving behaviour insights and real-time feedback for events such as idling or harsh braking, promoting safer and more sustainable standards.

With the addition of Lytx’ video technology, fleet managers now have a better understanding of why these events occur. They can protect their drivers from non-fault claims and coach them to achieve road safety improvements.

Webfleet Solutions, one of the world’s leading telematics providers and part of Bridgestone, is collaborating with Lytx, a leading global provider of video telematics solutions for fleets, to offer an integrated video-based solution.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie WEBFLEET Video is a seamless All-Star Transport Training integration of Lytx’s camera Company of the Year 2021 technology with Webfleet Solutions’ fleet management system. Users will be Transport Manager CPC able to access and Weekend & Full-Time Courses available at: manage both their Cork (Silver Springs Hotel) - Sat 4th Sept vehicles and their in-vehicle cameras (Online) - Mon 6th Sept via WEBFLEET, the Limerick (Kilmurry Lodge Hotel) - Sat 11th Sept award-winning Galway (Connacht Hotel) - Sat 18th Sept fleet management Dublin P/T (Green Isle Hotel) - Sat 18th Sept platform, offering Dublin F/T (Green Isle Hotel) - Wed 6th Oct a single interface Tutor: Tony Hynes MBS, B.Comm, FCIPD, FCILT, FIITD experience.

35 Years Successfully Delivering The Transport Management CPC WEBFLEET Video combines Webfleet “This course changed my life” Gary D. Solutions’ vehicle “Tony made this course very easy” John O’B. and driving data with Lytx’s advanced “Outstanding course” Laura C. machine vision (MV) and artificial intelliAll Modules Driver CPC Available Weekends - Weekdays - Evenings gence (AI) powered camera technology Book Online: 24/7 - www.cpc.ie to give users the full context of how their fleet is operating on the road.

Users gain more

Now offering On-Line Courses

57

www.fleet.ie

58 58 | TRAILER

TrailerStore - New MultiFranchise Trailer Sales Outlet opening in Naas

Serving every road transport operator’s needs, TrailerStore Ltd, based in Newhall, Naas, County Kildare is a newly established independent commercial trailer retail outlet.

TrailerStore offers a full range of trailers including alloy bulk tippers, Moving Floor, PSK Platforms, dry freight and refrigerated trailers and all manufactured by reputable brands.

The new facility, conveniently located in the heartland of haulage, is only a short distance away from Junction 10

of the M7, and is on the R445, towards Tougher’s Truck stop.

One of the key benefits of TrailerStore Ltd is that it will have new trailers in stock, ready to go. “Pre-ordering will be possible, but with a varied stock holding of high-spec vehicles, this should not be necessary, and with immediate delivery, it’s the perfect one-stop-shop for customers requiring something they can drive away the same day. Finance options are available on request,” said a

company spokesman.

The new outlet will offer a forecourt of multiple brands of UK and European trailers as well as specialist trailers, and will be backed by a well-established national service network of which OKM Trailers is a key partner.

TrailerStore is currently recruiting for a Sales Manager to head up this exciting new venture. “We would be interested to hear from anyone capable of developing this excellent opportunity and challenge.”

If interested, please send the CV to sales@trailer-store.net For more information or to see the current stock, please give the TrailerStore team a call on 045 571 879 or email sales@trailer-store.net

Van Eck FRC Aircargo Vehicles for safer pharmaceutical delivery Dutch trailer manufacturer Van Eck is now offering high quality and reliable air cargo temperature-controlled vehicles under Eckspress Series catering for time sensitive vaccines and pharmaceuticals.

Since manufacturing its first air cargo vehicles in 1983, Van Eck boasts extensive engineering experience, enabling it to offer multiple main deck aircargo pallet loading options. Today, Van Eck air cargo semi-trailers are produced with the latest technology and highest precision to enable safe, reliable and fast air cargo transportation.

These fully certified air cargo vehicles in the Eckpress series stand out, with their superior floor construction suitable for forklift operations. They come with full chassis construction with steel king-pin plate, innovative and state of the art Van Eck Roller Conveyor System with stainless steel rollers and automated driving system, high quality wet-in-wet FLEETTRANSPORT | AUG 21

panels with high insulation value, and thermal sensors embodied in the body to avoid any risk of damage.

Van Eck is the only trailer manufacturer to design and produce its own roller beds with reliability and lifespan in mind and is in full compliance with Lufthansa Technical Specifications.

Van Eck produced its first air-cargo semi-trailer in 1983 and the company’s extensive experience in air-freight transportation results in a unique box construction with wet-in-wet panels that provide high quality isolation performance. Wet-in-wet panels are produced with polyurethane which has high insulation value and with the latest technology and highest precision to

minimize Total Cost of Ownership.

Van Eck also provides versatile main deck air cargo pallet loading options including 4 x 3.000 mm for FNA certified vehicles. Van Eck’s engineering team can also adjust the internal height of the vehicle according to the load and operational needs in accordance with regulations. To reduce empty trips, hence reducing operational costs as well as the impact on the environment, Van Eck Eckpress Series are also offered with double deck and roller conveyor system cover plate options to enable to carry various loads per trip.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie

10248

The new EcoGeneration: Save up to 5% fuel and reduce CO2 emissions for efficient and sustainable transportation

The aerodynamic shape of the EcoGeneration trailers reduces drag, while the adjustable rear roof of the EcoFLEX and EcoVARIOS models can be flexibly adapted to the load volume.

The EcoGeneration concept offers fuel savings of up to 5%.

More information on www.cargobull.com

60

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FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2021

OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUS/COACH AWARDS

61

www.fleetbusandcoach.ie Volume 17. No. 2. Summer 2021

PREMIERED at ITT Hub New MercedesBenz eCitaro EV RANGE TEST: Higer AZURE REPORT & PICTURES

undergoes successful ‘Compass Challenge’ www.fleet.ie

62

EXPANDING THE HYDROGEN ECOSPHERE Cummins is delivering net zero carbon solutions with an unrivalled range of hydrogen technologies extending from fuel production to storage and vehicle power.

It’s a unique capability that builds on Cummins’ long experience in powering buses and trucks worldwide.

Fuel cell power systems Storage tanks for vehicles & refueling stations Green hydrogen electrolyzer installations Developing hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines

To find out how our integrated technologies can help put you on the road to a sustainable, zero emissions future visit: cummins.com/new-power

©2021 Cummins Inc.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Spring 2021

www.fleet.ie | 63

Contents Summer 2021 64 NEWS n UNVI appoints Paramount Conversions

Fleet Bus & Coach Magazine D’Alton Street, Claremorris,

n Aircoach takes in Galway

Co. Mayo, Ireland.

n Toyota branding on CaetanoBus

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826

n GTL fuels ADLs for London

Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571

n Expressway to get 30 VDL Futuras

Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISSN: 1649-9433 Managing Editor: Jarlath Sweeney Editor: Sean Murtagh Contributors: Donal Dempsey Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh, Paul White Administration: Orla Sweeney Advertising: Mary Morrissey Design: Crackerjack Design House Printed in Ireland

Fleet Bus & Coach

- the official Irish journal of the International Bus/Coach of the Year Awards.

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime & Caravan Cruise Ireland are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Disclaimer: Fleet Bus & Coach 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 Bus & Coach 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.

n New Merc Sprinter for Irish Wheelchair Association n Best wishes to Volvo Bus boss Nick Page n BYD ADL to supply 200 battery-electric single deck buses for NTA

P 64

n Big News from Harris Bus & Coach with ‘The Big Lemon’ 70 REPORT Direct from ITT Hub, Farnborough 74 COVER STORY Mercedes-Benz eCitaro now in RHD 76 TEST Higer AZURE takes the Compass Challenge 78 PROFILE Feature on O’Shea’s of Kerry

P 70

80 EMISSION FREE ZONE Wrightbus Hydrogen powered buses for NTA 82 CONDUCTORS’ STAND Love thy Insurer!

Keep up to date with all the latest news and developments from the passenger transport industry by logging on to

P 76

Look out for our regular Bus & Coach ezines in your mailbox.

If you wish to receive the newsletter, please email enquiries@fleet.ie

P 78

www.fleetbusandcoach.ie

www.fleet.ie

64 | NEWS I

64

Paramount Conversions appointed UNVI Sales & Service Agents

UNVI, the Spanish bus and coach manufacturer has appointed Paramount Conversions as its sales and after-sales support agent for Ireland. Founded in Tullamore, County Offaly in 2009, Paramount Conversions is one of Ireland’s leading bus conversion and manufacturing specialists and the team there have welcomed the addition of this premium brand to its portfolio.

“We’re pleased to announce the partnership between Paramount Conversions and UNVI,” began Aidan Farrell, Managing Director, Paramount Conversions. “UNVI is a brand we have wanted to work with since we started our business over twelve years ago. At

Paramount Conversions we strive for growth and always look for ways to improve our competitive edge. Having worked with the UNVI brand previously, we feel this is the ideal partnership opportunity for both organisations to expand in the Irish market.”

UNVI CEO Eloy Pérez is also delighted to begin the collaboration with Paramount Conversions in Ireland and looks forward to a committed relationship between the two brands. “A strong alliance has been forged in preparation for the post-Covid-19 era,” he said. “This is a perfect synergy between two reliable, trustworthy, professional, committed manufacturers which both have vast

experience of passenger carrying vehicles, and together add up to 35 years in Ireland,” he added.

This collaboration will see the continued promotion, sales and aftersales support of UNVI’s already established range, including MercedesBenz Sprinter based Touring GT, Voyager GT and Vega EX as well as IVECO Daily based Compa and M20. A full range of UNVI products are already available to test drive at Paramount’s headquarters.

With vast knowledge and experience of the bus passenger vehicle manufacturing industry Paramount Conversions can assure the customer that a Paramount experience is one where the customer is always to the fore. The company has a team of highly skilled vehicle building engineers at its 20,000 sq. ft. premises and a sales team that will talk customers through every particular requirement.

Aircoach is en route to Galway

Private coach operator Aircoach has announced the expansion of its network across Ireland with the introduction of its first Galway to Dublin route from July 29th. Currently, Aircoach’s intercity routes include Cork, Belfast, Dublin City, Dublin Airport and its suburbs.

The launch of Aircoach’s new Galway route will see increased connectivity between Galway City and Dublin City and Airport, offering 10 services per day, Monday to Sunday. Pick up points will include Galway City, GMIT and Athlone, with a number of service stops en route also including pick up points in Ballinasloe and Maynooth.

Founded in 2001, Aircoach has been transporting the nation of Ireland over the past 21 years. The announcement of its new route follows a challenging year for the public transport industry, but as domestic travel increases and with international travel imminent, Aircoach is optimistic for the road ahead according to Dervla McKay, MD of Aircoach.

FLEETBUS&COACH| SUMMER 2021

Commenting on the announcement of Aircoach’s new Galway route, McKay said: “We are delighted to expand our services to Galway and to commence this new route on July 29th. Connectivity between our cities is hugely important and we are proud to now offer our services to even more customers. Establishing a Galway - Dublin route was an important next step for us here at Aircoach and we look forward to the months ahead.”

Dervla continued: “A large number of the public rely on public transport services and we are seeing passenger numbers continue to build back up with the reopening of the country. Prepandemic in 2019, Aircoach facilitated over 2.7 million passenger journeys alone and as we look ahead, public transport has an important role to play in the coming years in contributing to Ireland’s

Climate Action Plan. We look forward to welcoming our new customers from Galway at this exciting time.”

The announcement of Aircoach’s new Galway route follows the recent unveiling of its brand new look, creating a fresh and modern style in line with its ongoing evolution into a hybrid operator.

Galwegians travelling with Aircoach can now enjoy its safe, reliable and convenient journeys to Dublin Airport and beyond.

At the time of launch, in line with Government regulations, Aircoach’s Galway route will operate at 75% capacity. Customers will still be required to wear face masks onboard each service.

Customers will have the option to pre-book their tickets up to two hours in advance of their journey.

65

EV

+

- POWER

100% BUS ELECTRIC

DC FAST CHARGING CHARGER INCLUDED

41 SEATED PASSENGERS

370KM RANGE

BATTERIES

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

THE HIGER AZURE 12 METER ELECTRIC BUS IS AVAILABLE NOW FROM HARRIS BUS AND COACH

12M

zero emissions

The range is an average for real world driving and based on average conditions and route types. Under controlled conditions the vehcile has recorded ranges of 400Km + on a single charge.

HARRIS BUS & COACH SHOWROOMS NAAS ROAD DUBLIN 12

www.harrisgroup.ie +353 (0) 1 419 4500 www.fleet.ie

66 || NEWS II 66 LCV MARKETPLACE

Toyota co-brands zero-emission buses with CaetanoBus Toyota Motor Europe, which has had a long association with CaetanoBus, is to feature on the branding of the Portuguese bus manufacturer’s battery electric city bus, the e.City Gold, and its fuel cell electric bus, the H2.City Gold.

Since 2019, TME has integrated Toyota’s fuel cell technology, including fuel cell stacks, hydrogen tanks and other key components, into the hydrogen city buses manufactured by CaetanoBus. More recently, in December 2020, Toyota Caetano Portugal (TCAP) became the direct shareholder of CaetanoBus to support rapid expansion from its core bus business into the development and sales of zero-emission buses.

Over the past year, the Portuguese bus company has strengthened its international presence with increased interest and sales of its zero emission buses throughout Europe. This growth reflects the increasing recognition of CaetanoBus’ engineering capability and cutting-edge technology of its zero emission products in the competitive European bus market.

Commenting on this latest development, José Ramos, President of CaetanoBus, said: “With this co-branding, we reinforce the longstanding partnership with Toyota to the whole zero-emission buses business. This allows us both to demonstrate, on the one hand, technical capability and complementary technology, and on the other hand, a true alignment towards decarbonisation.”

The H2.City Gold is the CaetanoBus’ hydrogen powered electric bus using Toyota’s fuel cell system. The city bus has a range of 400km and can be refuelled in under 9 minutes. This vehicle showcases both companies’ complementary technologies and engineering capabilities. It represents the first step in the co-branding strategy, which also includes the e.City Gold 100% electric bus. At the heart of the co-branding is a change of the vehicle badging to include both “Caetano” and “Toyota” logos, acknowledging Toyota’s strong visual recognition amongst European customers.

Matt Harrison, President &

CEO of Toyota Motor Europe, also commented: “The co-branding of CaetanoBus zero-emission buses shows the confidence we have in our latest investment and our longstanding partnership with Caetano. It also underlines the importance that Toyota places on developing zero-emission mobility beyond cars, on our path to carbon-neutrality.”

CaetanoBus, part of Toyota Caetano Portugal and Mitsui & Co, a bus and chassis manufacturer is also the manufacturer of COBUS, the world’s market leader in airport bus transportation. The company has been focusing on electric mobility since 1980.

Gas-to-liquid fuel powers London Borough of Haverings’ ADL Enviro200

Four new low-emission 10.8m Enviro200 single deck buses have been supplied by Alexander Dennis Limited to the London Borough of Havering.

Available for contract hire, the new FLEETBUS&COACH| SUMMER 2021

units have 39 comfortable ADL SmartSeats and are fully fitted with seatbelts and an audio system to suit their use on school contracts, sports trips and rail replacement work.

Like all of London Borough of Havering’s vehicles, the new buses run on gas-to-liquid (GTL) fuel which is virtually free of impurities such as sulphur, metals, nitrogen and aromatics, making it less harmful to the environment and allowing the engine to run more smoothly and quietly.

Commenting on the deal, Simon Blake from the London Borough of

Havering said: “We’re very pleased to take delivery of these vehicles which have been made specifically to complement our existing fleet and offer the kind of transport options we know our customers want. Alongside the three PSVAR Plaxton Leopard coaches supplied in January, our move to Euro 6 compliance gathers pace.”

ADL Sales Account Manager Mark Taylor added: “The London Borough of Havering has an extensive range of vehicle options and we’re delighted to have added to that with the delivery of these four high-quality, multi-use vehicles which we know will be well received by their customers and drivers.”

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30 VDL Futuras FHD2-139 in public transport as Bus Éireann invests in Expressway fleet Bus Éireann has commenced operation of 30 new Futuras FHD2-139 from VDL Bus & Coach on its commercial intercity service. Sporting the Expressway livery, they service inter-regional schedules including Waterford, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Stranorlar and Sligo, connecting communities right along the western seaboard on some of Expressway’s busiest routes.

“Our co-operation with Bus Éireann goes back almost 30 years,” stated Marcel Jacobs, Commercial Director of

VDL Bus & Coach on announcing the supply deal: “We are extremely proud of this relationship. It is also another good example of the diverse use of our Futura range, in this case for high-quality public transport on longer routes in Ireland.

Bus Eíreann also published its first sustainability strategy last month and aims to halve greenhouse gas emissions. This ties in perfectly with VDL Bus & Coach’s ambitions for the Futura range, which is known for its low vehicle weight and effective and fuel-efficient powertrain.”

The coaches for Bus Éireann are built in a public transport version with route indicators, TFT screens, charging points, camera system and WiFi. The 30 Futuras have 59 luxury Class 500 seats with leather upholstery and adjustable headrests. All coaches are equipped with a lift, making them accessible to wheelchairs. In addition, there is an advanced payment system on board which enables contactless payment via Android and Apple Pay.

Irish Wheelchair Association extends Mercedes-Benz Sprinter minibus fleet The Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) has expanded its fleet of light commercial vehicles by taking delivery of a specially converted Mercedes-Benz Sprinter minibus. The new unit has entered service at the IWA’s Clontarf centre, and is the fourth Sprinter to be delivered to the Association this year.

Specially converted by Paramount Conversions in Tullamore, the new Sprinter 516 comes complete with an extra-long wheelbase, extra-high

roof, reverse camera and rear electric wheelchair lift. Automatic transmission and an MBUX multi-media system are also included.

As Ireland’s main organisation for people with physical disabilities, the Irish Wheelchair Association provides 1.3 million hours of Assisted Living Service to 2,246 adults and children throughout the country. Other supports include a nationwide assisted living service, community centres in every county,

a fleet of accessible buses, a national parking permit and driving school service and wheelchair accessible social houses.

Volvo Bus UK & Ireland MD Nick Page to ‘pass on the baton’

Long serving Volvo Bus UK & Ireland Managing Director, Nick Page, is to retire later this year.

Nick joined Volvo Financial Services in 1995 from HSBC, served as Retail Coach Director between 2006 and 2012 before being appointed as MD, succeeding Steve Dewhurst.

During his tenure, he oversaw the introduction of Volvo Electromobility to the British Isles & Ireland, as well as the launch of the new generation Volvo 9900 and 9700 premium coaches. He also continued Volvo Buses’ support for the Teenage Cancer Trust charity, which has raised over £260,000 since 2009.

Commenting on his pending retirement, Nick said: “I have had 26 incredible years within the Volvo family, with my nine years leading the team at Volvo Bus being particularly memorable.

I have been extremely fortunate to work in a very special industry that plays an important - yet often unsung- role in

society and the wider economy. It is an industry where innovation and change are part of its DNA, and I am proud of the role that Volvo continues to play in shaping and delivering positive change for our customers and passengers alike.

“With a talented and experienced team at Warwick, a great dealer network and some very exciting product and service developments in the wings, I feel that now is the right time to pass on the baton to the next leadership generation.

I will naturally also be staying on to the end of the year to ensure that the handover process will be as smooth as possible.” www.fleet.ie

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BYD ADL to supply 200 battery-electric single deck buses for National Transport Authority In continuing the greening of the Irish public transport fleet, the National Transport Authority of Ireland (NTA) has signed a framework agreement for the delivery of up to 200 BYD ADL Enviro200EV zero emission battery-electric buses from Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) and BYD UK. An initial firm order for 45 buses was agreed at the same time, with delivery commencing in 2022 and designated for services in Athlone and the Dublin Metropolitan Area. ADL is a subsidiary of leading independent global bus manufacturer NFI Group Inc. (NFI), while BYD is a global leader in batteries, energy management and electric mobility.

The single supplier framework agreement with the NTA will run for up to five years and covers the delivery of single deck long length battery-electric buses. The BYD ADL partnership, represented by ADL as primary contractor, was selected in a comprehensive and rigorous procurement process in which the company provided the strongest offer. It is the BYD ADL partnership’s first contract in Ireland as well as the largest order for zero emission buses in the country to date.

FLEETBUS&COACH| SUMMER 2021

ADL’s body engineers have worked with their colleagues at BYD to tailor the BYD ADL Enviro200EV to the specific needs of the NTA and its operators. This has resulted in a vehicle that will be 12m long and can be specified in several configurations to suit different operational requirements, including a version with two doorways, a wheelchair space and a dedicated area for the accommodation of at least one unfolded pram, pushchair or buggy. All units will be built in ADL’s factories in the United Kingdom in the proven combination of BYD electric technology and batteries with stylish bodywork and passenger-centric interior

by ADL. Commenting on the announcement, Anne Graham, CEO of the National Transport Authority said: “The contract signed for the supply of these battery electric buses highlights the NTA’s commitment to a sustainable and accessible transport network. Over the next five years we are planning a major increase in the number of low- and zero-emission urban buses in operation on the Transport For Ireland (TFI) network across the country. The fleet ordered represents the best mix of cutting edge electric technology, proven

reliability, accessibility and comfort for all passengers who use TFI bus services.

I look forward to working with our bus operator partners, as well as ADL, in ensuring that the first of these buses are delivered and ready to operate in 2022.”

Paul Davies, ADL President and Managing Director, added: “This new agreement for up to 200 zero emission buses is further testament to our customer focus which is exemplified in our ability to tailor vehicle specifications to operational requirements. Together with our existing agreement for up to 600 zero emission capable Enviro400ER plug-in hybrid buses, we are honoured to be playing a key role in the roll-out of zero emission mobility in Ireland.”

“This agreement with Ireland’s NTA is one of the most significant commitments to eMobility we have ever seen in Europe,” stated BYD UK Managing Director, Frank Thorpe, “and it is the BYD ADL partnership that appears increasingly to be the preferred choice for Local Authorities and public transport operators. This framework agreement is a pledge to bringing about a sustainable future for public transport in Ireland and we are delighted to join the NTA for Ireland on its journey.”

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Big News from Harris Bus & Coach with ‘The Big Lemon”

The Harris Group has confirmed a significant deal with Brighton based The Big Lemon for the supply of four all-electric buses. The contract was signed between The Big Lemon and Harris Bus & Coach back in December and the vehicles have now been delivered to England.

The four vehicles are Higer STEED EVs, 8.5 meters long, with 175 kW battery power and a range of 275 kms. They have a seating capacity for 26 passengers, with additional wheelchair capacity and standing room for 22 people. The four vehicles were delivered with 74 kW chargers and each bus has a mobile defibrillator fitted as part of the standard equipment.

Tom Druitt, the inspiration behind The Big Lemon Bus Company has channelled his energy for many years into the community of Brighton. His accomplishments are numerous and range from providing environmentally-friendly bus services to involvement in local politics. Commenting on the deal with Harris Bus & Coach, Tom commented “Brighton, is the largest and best-known seaside resort on the English South Coast and these new buses are set to become our newest tourist attraction.

It seems fitting that Brighton should be the beneficiary of this initiative given that, it was home to the first electric railway in Great Britain - Volk’s Electric Railway, which opened in 1883, and is still functioning to this day, so electric transport has a real soft spot in the heart of the Brighton community”.

Tom’s investment represents the biggest eco-friendly transport project to hit Brighton and the new fleet of Electric buses is adorned in the now familiar bright yellow colour scheme of The Big Lemon Bus Company, which is leading the way in the Electric mass transportation sector in Brighton.

The fleet of four EV Midi-Buses have just been delivered to The Big Lemon and will enter into service very soon. In keeping with Tom’s community spirit, the vehicles will help to reduce congestion through the STEED’s compact size and of course, the zero emissions are helping to keep the air quality index as low as possible.

The Crusader range by Harris Bus & Coach has now added more models!

As those involved in the bus industry are aware the business model that existed within the core of the sector is now broken, and it is going to take a long time to get operators back to work in the tour sector. Harris Bus & Coach has seen a number of operators having to change from tour work to school contracts and local transport route contracts.

Diversification has become the new mantra and operators have now got to grips that change is required to stay in business.

Harris Bus & Coach has been watching what has been happening to the operators and have seen the real need for vehicles to meet this new business model. For example, the Harris Bus & Coach Crusader X33 Midi-Coach, based on the Iveco Daily chassis/ drivetrain has been a great seller since it hit the streets over eighteen months ago. As soon as the swing from tour work to local municipal and school contract work, the Bus division went to work to find a cost effective low floor solution.

Working with a number of operators and from the experience gained working with Higer Bus on the low floor EV range Harris Bus & Coach have now introduced a dedicated range from Mercedes-Benz and Iveco.

Mercedes-Benz 20 Seater The Crusader X20 Low Floor model has now landed in Ireland and the first six units have been sold and will enter service in August. With high quality finish all round, it is designed to meet local PSV rules and regulations along with Local Link rural transport. The drop-well boot and privacy glass, along with a unique seat trim and automatic transmission will make ensure a long service life.

Iveco 33 Seater The Crusader X 33 Low Floor model will be arriving into Harris Bus & Coach soon and with a very healthy order book. Already, 12 units have been sold to operators in Ireland. This vehicle is destined to become the number one selling Low Floor vehicle in its class.

With its 33 seat configuration, brings a USP to the X33. The interior is half-tour spec and half-municipal spec with a full sized boot and a roomy interior.

Operators and customers will enjoy the comfort and great visibility from this Crusader X 33 Low Floor bus.

www.fleet.ie

70 | REPORT

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ITT Hub, a new British exhibition, held at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre on 30th June and 1st July 2021, may be best remembered, in hindsight, as the first event where people could meet face-to-face, have real conversations and hopefully sealed some deals (or have at least started them).

Farnborough Airport is an ideal venue for a trade show, with lots of space, both inside and outside. In a somewhat relaxed and almost carnival like atmosphere, visitors and exhibitors could mingle freely, while obviously respecting the social distancing protocols in place.

Even though the Covid-19 crisis slowed down most activities, it did not stop product development. Visitors at

Advancements in Bus & Coach Industry highlighted at ITT HUB the show may have been surprised at the advancement in buses and coaches. While the new normal for commuting and touring will have changed somewhat, it will always be a big sector in the overall economy. Most of the major manufacturers were present with a good selection of proposals and products to improve sustainability and air quality.

Some highlights of the show included the launch of the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro, a Hydrogen bus from the Wrightbus group, and a new e-Cityline from EVM. Due to the success of the inaugural event, next year’s event is happening a little earlier, on the 11th & 12th of May. Here are some of the main happenings from the stands.

ADL (Alexander Dennis) ADL displayed a selection of its British-built buses and coaches at the outdoor exhibition area at Farnborough, including several zero emission buses that highlight how the manufacturer is leading the ZEvolution.

In addition, a zero emission capable Enviro400ER plug-in hybrid were on display. It operates for up to three miles at a time in electric mode and uses geofencing to cut out emissions in pollution hotspots. Two electric BYD ADL Enviro400EV double deckers were there for visitors to experience at the Ride & Drive area, as well as on the stand of ADL’s partner for electric buses in the UK and Ireland, BYD. The BYD ADL partnership is the leading supplier of zero emission buses in Britain, with over 1,000 delivered or currently on order.

Switch – Metrodecker Part of the Optare group, owned by Ashok-Leyland, Switch is the group’s brand for electric buses. Its top seller is the electric double decker, which it claims is the lightest in the market. Available in two variants, 10.5m & 11.14m, they come with seating for 63 and 84 passengers and can carry over 94 persons including standees, depending on the layout. Also available is the 8.74m single deck, which is recognisable as an Optare. Available in four variants, seating ranges from 35 to 58, depending on the chosen layout.

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Wrightbus Celebrating 75 years in business, Ballymena company Wrightbus, now under new ownership, continues to be a world leader in bus building. Notable is the Hydroliner - a Hydrogen powered bus which can be seen on the streets of Dublin, Aberdeen, London and Belfast. In Aberdeen, city officials claim to have stopped 170 tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere. One of the major selling points of Hydrogen power is the re-fuelling time, just 8 minutes. A big saving over electric.

Yutong - Pelican Bus & Coach Represented in Ireland and the UK by Pelican Bus & Coach, Yutong is one of the world’s largest bus builders. The Chinese manufacturer assembles 430 buses per day. Although electric coaches are not the main focus for operators or manufacturers yet, Pelican is one of the few that can - and has - supplied a number of emission free units. Some of these TCe-12 models are operating between Edinburgh and Dundee. Also on the electric bus side, a recent order of 55 E-12’s to Scottish operator Mc Gills was achieved. In Ireland, Pelican and Yutong are represented by Central Bus & Coach, Longford.

BYD (Build Your Dreams) BYD (Build Your Dreams), a major Chinese manufacturer, has been building electric buses for over ten years and is having a big impact on the market, especially in Europe. In the UK it has formed a powerful partnership with ADL, with combined orders giving them 60% of the electric bus market share in the UK and 80% of the market in London. The most popular model is referred to as BYD-ADL Enviro400EV, available in Transport for London (TfL) specification or operators’ spec. It has a range of 160 miles, depending on operating conditions.

www.fleet.ie

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Caetano The Portuguese bus builder recently finished a trial in Ireland with a 10 week test with its H2 City Gold hydrogen fuel cell powered bus with TFI (Transport for Ireland). Although no data has yet being released, the general opinion is that the trial operating to and from from Dublin Airport was successful. With a carrying capacity of up to 87 passengers, including standees, there is an option for two or three doors. One of the advantages of hydrogen over electric is the speed of fuelling, eight minutes approx., giving a range of 400 miles.

Daimler Bus – Mercedes-Benz Much anticipated, and arguably the star of the show was the launch of the eCitaro in right hand drive form. Already in service in Europe since 2018, it’s the electric version of the MercedesBenz Citaro of which there are over 55,000 diesel powered units on the roads worldwide. Parent company Daimler Bus always said it would prefer to be the best in the market rather than first. Although the Citaro has had some recent updates, the new eCitaro bears its own unique distinction. Also on the stand there were some Tourismo coaches, with 2 and 3 axle configurations and with wheel chair accessibility.

EVM EVM, the Kilbeggan, County Westmeath-headquartered midi-bus and coach specialist converter and importer, with sales outlets in the UK, spent the lockdown period of COVID-19 wisely indeed. Following the re-emergence of the company from lockdown it has made some of its buses available in electric power. At the show two new buses were launched - the eCityline and an interesting composite bodied accessibility Sprinter. EVM has been in the industry since 2009 and has established a sizeable market share in the low floor accessible and touring ranges on both sides of the Irish Sea.

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Ilesbus Based in Wales, Ilesbus was pleased and surprised with the levels of enquiries and sales that carried on during the COVID-19 crisis. On stage was the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter based low floor iCity bus, which can be specced as a coach or bus. Ilesbus units are available on Iveco and MAN chassis and drivelines, and can be built to accommodate up to 29 seats.

In Ireland, Ilesbus is represented by J.J. Kavanagh & Sons, Urlingford, County Kilkenny. They company is pleased with the growing interest in it buses in Ireland, and hopes that with the lifting of restrictions, this interest can be converted into sales.

Trailar Solar technology is something that will be a big part of the future. Trailar has designed solar panels that can be placed on the roofs of vehicles to give additional power to the bus, particularly those powered by electricity. At the moment it is talking to some distributors in Ireland with a view to making its products available here.

IVECO Two Daily mini-buses were displayed and demonstrated by IVECO UK, a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered variant and the latest diesel (Euro 6D). Iveco has decades of experience with CNG engines. Over the last 25 years there have been in excess of 25,000 gas engines manufactured and put in service. Iveco has also used this technology in the heavier end of the bus and truck market with great sales success. The IVECO Daily continues to be popular as a bus and van, seating up to 22 seats in the bus.

Text & Photos: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

74 | COVER STORY

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The first version of the electric MercedesBenz Citaro was officially launched at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show in Hannover in 2018. Parent company Daimler Bus chose another exhibition to introduce the RHD (right hand drive) version, this time at the recent ITT Hub event at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre. Fleet Bus & Coach was present for the reveal and inaugural drive.

Daimler Bus would be the first to acknowledge its Mercedes-Benz brand was not the first to the market with an electric bus, but it had always claimed that it would prefer to be the best, rather than before everyone else. The Citaro is already a well proven product with over 50,000 units in operation worldwide. Effectively, Mercedes-Benz’ engineers have electrified a successful model, one that is ready to compete head on with the best in the sector. While the technology within the bus is very different to the diesel version, it retains the style and sturdiness of the tried and tested original.

UK & Ireland distributor Evobus will start demonstrating the bus to Irish customers in the coming months, with orders being taken for deliveries expected in the early part of next year. Neil Gladstone of Evobus is confident that the eCitaro will be well received and being emission-free, help to retain the brand’s share of the market.

First Drive At Farnborough, Fleet Bus & Coach availed of the opportunity to drive the bus on the perimeter road around the Airport. The route was a mixture of paved areas, tarmac and concrete surfaces. Ideal terrain and a good snapshot of the environment and streetscape that the eCitaro will spend its working life in. In the drivers’ area the standard Citaro always seemed quiet, but the eCitaro brings a whole new level of quietness. The cab is individually climatised, and separated from the passenger compartment by a partition covering half the width of the rear door. The driver sits on a heated and climate-controlled seat. The cockpit is as per the conventional model except that the rev counter is replaced by a power meter that displays the energy flow of the vehicle. Drivers receive additional FLEETBUS&COACH| SUMMER 2021

Citaro Electrified! Mercedes-Benz eCitaro set to arrive in Ireland information from the central display between the speedometer and power meter. The windscreen and side windows on the right and left, are electrically heated and the glazed area remains largely mist-free as a result, increasing safety through better visibility. Included also are rain sensing wipers and automatic headlights, as well as an electrically adjustable inside rear-view mirror for monitoring the passenger compartment.

Passenger Area In the passenger area, the sound of silence takes some getting used to. Years of experience at Daimler Bus building the Citaro, means the engineers have managed to reduce body noise and movement to a point where it is almost non-existent.

Some of the features of the test vehicle included capacity for 80 passengers, 26 USB sockets, a range capability of over 150km (minimum) and a variety of safety items such as Sideguard Assist and active brake assist.

The roof-mounted battery pack is concealed behind an elegant roof-edge ridge, made from a multi-piece extruded aluminium section. The glossy black lower segment extends the generous side-window glazing of this urban or city bus. The upper segment is painted in the vehicle colour.

Safety Systems As mentioned, the eCitaro is equipped with all the assistance and safety systems that are currently available. For example, Sideguard Assist. Its radar sensors monitor the lane to the right of the vehicle throughout its full length and beyond.

Sideguard Assist initially informs the driver when an obstacle has been detected in the warning zone. Another warning is issued should the driver initiate or continue with a manoeuvre when pulling away or driving that could lead to a collision. If a moving object is in the monitoring zone to the side of the vehicle, a yellow LED lamp lights up at the driver’s eye level in the A pillar on the right-hand side. If there is a risk of collision, the LED flashes brightly several times in red.

It then remains permanently illuminated in red. There is also a haptic vibration in the drivers’ seat.

Citaro has always been popular and well received in Ireland. With the eCitaro, operators and their passengers will be well served with this zero-emission commuter bus.

Text & Photos: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

75

THE ALL NEW

VOLVO B11R 9700 PSVAR

Volvo Buses long standing support and commitment for the Irish market continues with the launch of the all new Volvo B11R 9700 PSVAR with 53/55 reclining seats!

Contact: Diarmaid Thompson Tel: +44 7704 536248 diarmaid.thompson@volvo.com Volvo Bus and Coach Sales Centre, Siskin Parkway East, Middlemarch Bus. Park, Coventry CV3 4PE www.volvobuses.co.uk

Service excellence since 1977

Specialists in Bus & Coach Insurance

Embassy Office Park, Kill Village, County Kildare.

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045 878500 7

045 876151 *

insure@jfd.ie

www.jfd.ie

J.F.Dunne Insurances Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. J.F.Dunne Insurances Ltd is part of the J.F.Dunne Group.

The J.F.Dunne Insurances Bus & Coach Programme is offered on a tied agency basis with AIG Europe Ltd

www.fleet.ie

76 | TEST

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Higer AZURE Electric undertakes successful East-South “Compass Challenge” Nationwide BEV Range Distance Demonstration Drives underway Earlier this month Fleet Bus & Coach, in association with Harris Bus & Coach, participated in a unique East-South battery electric vehicle (BEV) range distance test trial from Dublin to Cork in the new Higer AZURE 12m zero-emission commuter bus. Called the Compass

Challenge, the all-electric AZURE will travel to the four corners of Ireland to demonstrate its high levels of design, technology and range distance to customers. The inaugural trip headed down the N7 to Leeside and although this was not a normal test drive route for this type of vehicle, the experience proved beneficial with excellent results.

The Harris Group – Higer Partnership Higer is China’s leading producer and exporter of buses and coaches, established in 1998 and based in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. The company operates

FLEETBUS&COACH| SUMMER 2021

an 800,000 square metre manufacturing base and distributes to more than 100 countries and territories worldwide.

Higer buses and coaches are imported into Ireland by the Harris Group in Dublin and are optimised specifically for Irish and UK passenger transport operations. Using over 50 years of experience and expertise from truck assembly, the Harris Group, through its Bus & Coach division, puts its own stamp on the buses and coaches, adding optional extras, some of which are fitted at assembly, with more fitted on arrival in Dublin.

With Harris Bus & Coach there is a strong focus on customers and their particular fleet requirements and type of operation. One of the strengths of the now well-established relationship between Harris and Higer is the closeness between technicians in both countries with any issues addressed in a timely manner.

The Road to Cork One of the big challenges and concerns for drivers of electric buses is the so-called ‘range anxiety’. However, that shouldn’t be an issue with the Higer AZURE as, after extensive testing and ongoing development,

it can now achieve a range of up to 400km. This was validated on our non-stop 250km journey to Cork, where, upon arrival at the Dean Hotel, a 50% battery range still remained, which was impressive. Even on the non-electric friendly motorway route the AZURE still managed to achieve some re-generation of the battery pack along the journey.

On its arrival in Cork, local people and delegates were given the opportunity to

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have a good look around the bus, which is an attractive option for the future of public transport.

This 12m bus has seating for 42 passengers and can accommodate up to 70 people, depending on the layout selected. With Zero emissions, the AZURE is one of the most environmentally friendly public transport options available in Ireland.

With specifications ideal for open roads and city travel, the Higer AZURE is labelled a ‘smart’ bus, as it is fitted with technology that enables the vehicle to learn its routes and adapt accordingly, ensuring it is super-efficient and economical to run and maintain.

Charge times are short (1.5 hours to fully charge on max supply), and with charging costs and operating costs being exceptionally low, power is plentiful and noise levels extremely low, making it a most suitable offering for Irish and UK customers.

“With 400km range this vehicle can operate a standard working day and charge during driver rest period to allow an all-electric option for coach operators previously outside even the range of some EV cars” Driving the Bus Driving the AZURE is easy, thanks to a superb view from the driver’s seat.

On the bus driven, the traditional type mirrors were fitted, but it is a simple change to refit more suitable mirrors and

this can be done in Dublin or retrofitted by an operator if required. It has plenty of power and fast acceleration, very important to maintain schedules on urban routes.

According to John McEvoy, Chief Operating Officer at Harris Group, the new AZURE is the perfect antidote to ‘range anxiety’; “We’re delighted to launch the new AZURE to the Irish market and given its capability and efficiency, it’s the commercial transport option city travel has been calling out for. We have worked very closely with our partners at Higer to develop intelligent technologies specifically for our commercial fleet. The technology effectively learns the roads and routes that the bus is being driven on and adapts accordingly to ensure optimum use of power; something we’re very proud to have been involved in.”

He added: “Coupled with this is the incredible fast charging capability of the Azure, which helps to minimise the downtime that some operators associate with recharging electric vehicles. This trip to Cork shows the capability of this advanced electric vehicle. It shows that it can easily operate for long periods in a city environment and at the same time be clean, efficient and sustainable.”

The Harris Group’s Bus & Coach division currently has three Higer 8m STEED fully electric low-floor buses in operation in Ireland with a further four across the UK. It is expected that this bus will be in demand for some of the rural link type routes.

The addition of the Higer 12m larger option with an extended range is a true game-changer for

public transport. As John explained: “Government has been doing a lot of work to encourage the shift away from fossil fuels in Irish transport. And we know that Irish consumers are looking for more eco-conscious and sustainably-focused companies. We believe we have the ideal product to help support the sustainability agenda and we’re looking forward to showcasing the Higer AZURE and other electric commercial vehicles in our range over the coming weeks.”

It was timely that Harris chose Cork for the inaugural test trial as Bus Éireann is consulting with all stakeholders regarding new routes in and around the city following the announcement of the demise of petrol and diesel cars by 2035. As Irish operators move to invest in greener bus and coach options, the Harris Group have a choice of zero-emission buses available here and now.

Over the next months, Harris Bus & Coach will be taking the AZURE on further tours, visiting Limerick, Galway and other locations around the country.

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie Additional reporting by Donal Dempsey.

www.fleet.ie

78 PROFILE 878| | PSA LCV BUYERS’ GUIDE 2021

In the late 1970’s, Sean O’Shea from Ballyheigue, County Kerry bought an eight seater Ford Transit and started what is now the well-known, Tralee based O’Shea’s of Kerry. Sadly, Sean passed away in 2018, but not before he saw his son John and grandsons Jonathan and Cathal continue to develop a thriving operation.

As the O’Shea family grew the business, they knew that for the firm to make any real progress they needed population mass and therefore moved the operation to Tralee in the early 1990s.

Like all bus and coach operators, there is a need for steady work to keep the assets moving. Very few operators have become successful without relying on school runs, bingo trips and factory shuttles and O’Shea’s were no different, being heavily involved in these types of service. The moving to Tralee proved successful in this regard.

Although the local trips may not have ceased completely, the work now being carried out by O’Shea’s has evolved.

Tralee is known the world over for the annual ‘Rose of Tralee’ festival, which the locals refer to it as ‘The Festival’.

Working on events like this brings great profile to the company. For example, during the festival week, a coach bearing the O’Shea’s livery could appear on

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O’Shea’s of Kerry – Welcome Aboard!

a newspaper or TV station anywhere around the world. Tralee and County Kerry in general are destinations that nearly every tourist will visit during their time in Ireland. Over the years, O’Shea’s have built up an extensive tour business, with clients such as Kleemann Reisen and Abbey Tours, while many tour companies rely on their expertise and professionalism. Business relationships like these are built over time and on mutual trust.

Obviously, this international tour business is an important source of work, bring nationalities from all over the world on day trips and extended tours on O’Shea’s coaches, but tourism is of course seasonal, so a strong local business is also important. For O’Shea’s, one of the largest schools in Munster, the Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School, with 1,300 students, is a very important client during the school term, taking pupils to various sporting and social events.

‘Whether your passion is to golf, sight-see, or just simply relax, O’Shea’s of

Kerry private custom Irish tours provide the best way of experiencing all the beauty and splendour that Ireland has to offer from the comfort and safety of your own chauffeured vehicle’ Tralee is a large terminus for both Bus Éireann and Irish Rail and O’Shea’s provide a vital and efficient back-up service when breakdowns, line repairs and other busy periods occur for the national carrier at different times of the year. Other significant work undertaken came from one of their long term customers which organised a large conference in London some years ago. O’Shea’s supplied coaches with drivers for the event. Another example of the flexibility and high profile of the company, they were rewarded with a request to supply coaches for the G7 Summit, hosted by the British Government in Cornwall. Jonathan stated that it was a proud moment to be asked to source 30 vehicles from operators in the Munster area for the event. Seven units were supplied in-house, with others obtained from fellow operators around the province. There was a specific requirement for the vehicles, being less than 8m, due of the narrow roads at the venue and that only unbranded buses were allowed. Jonathan is confident that this exposure and experience will lead to more opportunities.

When operating a range of vehicles of different sizes and capacity, it is difficult to remain with one manufacturer. That said, O’Shea’s has selected VDL as its preferred option for its coach operations.

PROFILE | 79

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The first one was purchased in 2007, with four units now in its fleet, all with Paccar/ DAF running gear. Currently, the oldest unit is a 2016 model. The smaller vehicles in operation are a mixture of Iveco and Mercedes-Benz.

While most of the repairs and maintenance are carried out in-house in a newly constructed workshop, some repairs are out-sourced to Robert Reidy, who is well known and appreciated by operators around the country, especially if they encounter problems in the Kerry region. His experience in breakdown assistance and coach repair is second to none. As John recalled: “He first came here around 18 years ago to put in a clutch on a Volvo B10M and remains a key part of our back up team ever since.”

Most of the fleet put up small mileage and in general, the type of work does not put a big demand on the buses.

As a result, this work profile lends itself to high residual values on the units at fleet renewal time. Both John and Cathal are trained technicians and manage the planning of all the company’s vehicle repairs. It is seldom that they have the need to outsource, mainly only for warranty work.

As has been the case for all passenger transport operators, Covid-19 has been

a massive intrusion on O’Shea’s business.

John is hopeful that they might see some activity towards the end of the year. The announcement that the Rose of Tralee festival would not go ahead this year, while not unexpected, was nonetheless a disappointment. There is an underlining hope that 2022 will be a good year and the tourist industry will get back on its feet.

While the ongoing problem is Covid-19 and getting back on the road, Jonathan mentioned that some challenges that were present preCovid-19 still prevail. The bus industry is facing a challenge to get young people involved. With the age profile of drivers continues to increase, there is a fear that when business volumes start to return, some employees may not return to sit behind the wheel. Some have already gone truck driving while others have just simply retired. While fuel prices continue to rise and environmental issues are constantly raised, these matters are likely to go on, according to Jonathan, who feels that while the sector may be going electric, in the short term it will not be an option or requirement for their specific operations. For O’Shea’s the main issue is that operators compete on price rather than service. “This is detrimental to us

all,” Jonathan said, “Our costs keep going up and our rates are always under a downward pressure. Operators need to value themselves more and be able to invest in their business.”

In spite of Covid-19 and the other difficulties that face the business, O’Shea’s is confident about the future.

“Opportunities are always out there. Our customers were getting busier before the Covid-19 pandemic arrived, let’s hope everything will take up where it left off,” added Jonathan.

What started in Ballyheigue almost fifty years ago with Transit minibus has developed into a company that has an international profile in transporting generations of ‘Roses’ and providing

an ultra-professional service at World meetings such as the G7. O’Shea’s of Kerry’s appetite for success is real and ongoing.

What customers have to say...

“I have nothing but good things to say about O’Shea’s of Kerry, from our initial contacts right up until the time Seamus, our driver dropped us back at Shannon.

Everything ran smoothly and we had a terrific time. Seamus couldn’t do enough for us, and we totally enjoyed his wealth of knowledge and his humour. I am singing your praises and making it a point to tell everyone who asks how my vacation went.”

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

80 | Emission Free Zone 66 80 | LCV MARKETPLACE

NTA and Bus Éireann bring Wrightbus Hydrogen Buses to Dublin

Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for Transport, Climate, Environment & Communications; Chief Executive Officer, National Transport Authority and Stephen Kent, Chief Executive, Bus Éireann.

The Greening of Ireland’s public transport fleet continues with The National Transport Authority (NTA) in conjunction with Bus Éireann unveiling three new hydrogen-fuel-cell-electric double-deck buses built by Wrightbus in Ballymena.

Initially they will be used on commuter services in the Greater Dublin Area and have been in operation since the beginning of July. The three high capacity vehicles, went into service on Bus Éireann’s route 105X, which runs between Dublin and Ratoath, County Meath. The buses will be subject to in-service evaluation as part of an alternative fuels technology pilot being undertaken by the NTA in collaboration with Bus Éireann.

At the launch of the three buses in the Phoenix Park, Eamon Ryan, TD, the Transport Minister described the occasion as “an important and historic day for Ireland as we start to improve our air quality with these buses and reaching our climate goals”.

Anne Graham, NTA Chief Executive Officer stated that €2.4m was invested in these specific buses and gave details of some new fleet purchases that would be confirmed in the near future. “As these new hydrogen buses go into operation with Bus Éireann, we are setting out on a FLEETBUS&COACH| SUMMER 2021

journey towards a zero emission public transport fleet. Alongside these buses, we are also about to order 45 single-deck battery-electric buses for use in urban areas, with another 150 or so to come.

“And in the next month or so, we will be ordering the first 120 battery-electric double-deck buses for use in the large cities, with another 680 to follow in the coming years.”

Commenting on the ongoing developments, Stephen Kent, Chief Executive Officer, Bus Éireann said: “Bus Éireann is committed to the transition to a zero emission fleet and to our sustainability targets which include growing passenger journeys and offering a compelling alternative to private car travel. Given the very varied routes, locations and terrains Bus Éireann serves across 82 million kilometres a year, it has become evident that no single technology is the answer. We are especially excited about the range offered by zero tail-pipe emission hydrogen vehicles, and also the passenger benefits of silent, smooth travel that delivers a notably different and much improved bus journey experience.”

The Wrightbus Streetdeck H2 FCEV is the world’s first hydrogen double-deck bus. Speaking at the launch, Wright bus’ new Managing Director, Neil Collins, said he couldn’t be prouder: “This launch marks a true all-Ireland sustainability solution that will help us reach the ambitious Net Zero targets that we must all strive towards. We’re incredibly proud that zero-emission hydrogen buses made by

Wrightbus here in Ireland, powered by energy produced in Ireland, will soon be in service for passengers in Dublin, thanks to the progressive outlook of Bus Éireann and the National Transport Authority.

Details on the specification of the new Wrightbus Streetdeck H2 FCEV includes: n Each bus can accommodate up to 79 passengers within its overall length of 11.5 metres. n Accessibility is a priority in the design of the new buses, which feature: n Priority seats upholstered in distinctive, high contrast moquette n A large permanent wheelchair space n A separate, dedicated buggy space n Wider access passages n A powered wheelchair ramp at the front doorway n An additional passenger information display within the wheelchair space n High definition exterior destination displays n The high visibility yellow, green and white Transport For Ireland livery The Hydrogen fuel for the buses will initially be supplied by BOC Gases Ireland, with refuelling being undertaken at its Bluebell facility on the Naas Road in Dublin.

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No matter how hard one tries It’s difficult to ‘Love your Insurer’ If asked to identify your Insurer as close as possible to a close relation, who would you select?

The aunt or distant cousin that always arrives with an appropriate present, well turned out, parks their car discreetly and always ready to pitch in when help is needed. Possibly, it could be the nosey one with the perfect family that knows the answer to all your problems, but never able to give practical help. Or would it be the dreaded single uncle that arrives in a reasonable state, gets drunk quietly, reminisces about his great football ability and thinks nobody ever drank or played like him, while still thinking his chat up lines are original and relevant. I will let you decide, but that uncle has a good head start in my mind.

Recently the Government published an interim report on the Insurance industry. I know the State Agencies involved and the Insurance Alliance Reform Group are putting their heart and soul into resolving the issues faced by all of us as policyholders. This problem has been around for years and in spite of everybody’s best efforts to reform the Insurance sector, nothing seems to happen. From a policyholder’s point of view the matter is simple, premiums are too expensive, with no transparency in their calculation.

Insurance is pretty simple by its nature. An individual or business pays a fee so that if any unfortunate or unforeseen event arises, there is financial cover to protect the company from having to close its doors. Of course, we all know that the concept of simplicity disappeared a long time ago. Insurers have allowed their operations become complicated and infiltrated by other FLEETBUS&COACH| SUMMER 2021

services and agencies, legal and medical, as an example. So, are the insurance companies part of this almost conspiracy mess, or are they benefactors of a cosy charging system that gives their companies some security and vast profits? There are many opinions on this subject, but I know where most people’s suspicions lie.

Around the time the Government issued its report in early July, something struck me. Many representatives from the Insurance sector were interviewed and asked about their opinions and hopes for the way the whole process was going.

Not one of the spokespeople made any mention of a reduction in the cost of premiums until they were cornered on that point by interviewers. Given that the whole point of this exercise is to reduce premiums, I would have thought we would have heard opening remarks like “Well, we really hope that we will be able to reflect these reforms into a reduction in premium renewals” or “at last, we see scope for bringing reductions to the market place”.

No, not a bit of it.

They still don’t see policyholders as customers and to understand the need to give value for money. More’s the pity.

I think the Government is far too lenient with insurers and any other group or sector that prove to be an impediment to reducing premiums. At some stage that policy, inadvertent as it may be, will have to stop. Some weeks ago I received my insurance renewal bill, which showed

an 18% increase. After some to-ing and fro-ing, it was reduced to a 9% increase, with no change in the policy from the previous year. Unfortunately, due to a ‘technical’ non-disclose a few years ago, no other insurer would quote me. This seems to be a legal privilege insurers have in relation to sharing information and facilitating a transfer of data, long after the event. In most other sectors this would most likely be regarded as, at the very least, suspicious trading.

After I had finished the wrangling with my insurance policy renewal provider, I was listening to a discussion on the radio about some of the more unlikely businesses that have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Apparently “three card trick” men are struggling a bit … Hmmm!

Text: Sean Murtagh – sean@fleet.ie

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