Fleet transport sept17

IRELAND'S LEADING G COMMERCIA COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE Inside!

Contenders for Irish Truck of the Year 2018

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INSIDE

SEPTEMBER 17

Finalists announced for the Fleet Transport Awards 2018

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Contents SEPTEMBER 17

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, Jonathan Lawton, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Jerry Kiersey, HSA, Dr. Betty Maguire, Rob Van Dieten Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Howard Knott, Paul Sherwood, Orla Sweeney, Anne Marie Grant, EurActiv, New Mexico, IAM Administration: Denise Owens, Paula Mullarkey Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Advertising: Mary Morrissey - mary@fleet.ie Sponsorship/Events: Orla Sweeney - orla@fleet.ie Design: Eamonn Wynne Printed in Ireland

4 News • Briggs takes over Irish Lift Trucks • IFOY Awards now include Intralogistics • DriveRite suspensions on VW and MAN vans • New LCV appointments • Trailer Innovation Awards finalists announced • Obituaries: Pino Harris & Patsy Kealy 8 Interview With Preston Feight, President, DAF Trucks 10 Awards Shortlist for Fleet Transport Awards

16 Cover Nominations for Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year Awards 22 Fleeting Shots Motorsport & Road Safety 24 New Fleet II BWG invests in new Mercedes-Benz trucks with FleetPlan 27 Additives AdBlue from MAXOL Lubricants and GreenChem

38 Fleet Trailer & Body Builder • Developments at Dennisons • Krones for McArdles • Kässbohrer celebrates • Compliance guide from Carrier • WABCO AutoTail wins Innovation Award • More pallets inside Kögel curtainsider • Iveco & Aerodyne windcheaters • HiPower distributes Padoan tanks

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Transport Barometer: second quarter report 2017 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 Forklift Truck Award follow us on twitter.com/fleettransport

40 Showcase Dennison Trailers at the National Ploughing Championships 42 Product Innovation from Chereau and Krone 44 Interview With Alan Hunt, Schmitz Cargobull 46 Preview TCS&D 2017, Ricoh Arena, Coventry 48 Fuel Prices

14 New Fleet I 172 registered Mercedes-Benz, Renault & DAF Trucks

29 Fleet Van & Utility • New Van Fleet Sales • Launch Pad: New Ford Transit Custom, Mercedes-Benz X-Class, Renault Kangoo ZE.33

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.

www.fleet.ie | 3

European transport market?

50 Health Matters Drivers & Alcohol 52 Report VanSafe Seminar, Galway 54 Safety Matters Driver fatigue 56 Pictorial Convoy in the Park, Donington, UK 58 Fuels Topaz miles more with Lubrizol 61-64 Fleet Maritime 66 Times Past Guy Commercial Vehicles 68 Comment Tribute to the container 69 Finance Keys to success 70 Opinion European Competition Authority on Insurance 72 Legal SWOT 75 Soapbox IRHA in Brussels

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T i m o C o m T r a n s p o r t Barometer - High freight surplus Q2 2017 The TimoCom Transport Barometer App shows a freight-to-vehicle ratio of 70:30 for the second quarter of 2017. The exceptionally high freight surplus follows on from Q1. What were the reasons for such a high surplus in the

According to the German Office of Statistics, in May 2017 Germany exported 14.1% more in comparison to the same period of the previous year. The rapid economic development played a key role in the high freight surplus and ensured the large demand of loading capacities throughout Europe.

4 | NEWS 1

Briggs Equipment acquires Irish Lift Trucks from OHM Group

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ollowing restructuring within the OHM Group, leading British materials handling supplier Briggs Equipment, as part of its 5-year growth strategy, has acquired one of OHM's subsidiaries Irish Lift Trucks (ILT).

Irish Lift Trucks is a long-established dealer of the Hyster range of materials handling equipment serving the Republic of Ireland.

This acquisition represents an opportunity for both Briggs Equipment and ILT to build on the experience and customer base that ILT has developed over the past decades.

Briggs will provide short and long-term rental equipment, asset financing, contract hire, asset management and engineering services to existing and new customers, on a nationwide basis. This move also allows Briggs to maintain a presence in the EU at a time when the subject of European economic co-operation is going

through a period of transition.

Commenting on the transaction, Peter Jones, Managing Director of Briggs Equipment commented: “The next few months represent an exciting time as we deliver on the great potential of the Irish Lift Trucks' operation and expand the Briggs Equipment name and reputation to a wider audience. It will be business as usual with existing customers continuing to deal with their usual points of contact. The market that Irish Lift Trucks serves so well is an ideal new market for the proven and successful Briggs Equipment proposition. The versatility of our offering means we have tremendous scope to build on existing relationships and develop new ones.”

customers and marks the beginning of the next exciting phase in the development of Irish Lift Trucks. Briggs’ expertise in bringing added value, beyond the supply of OEM equipment, means our current customers and many new companies can benefit from a single source of supply for their industrial machinery. This move makes perfect sense for both businesses and the marketplace in general. It also allows OHM Group to streamline our operations and dedicate our focus on target areas of expansion in our Car, Van, Truck, and Power Solutions Divisions.”

Declan McCourt, Chief Executive of OHM Group, added: “This is great news for our

International Forklift Award broadens spectrum to include Intralogistics

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till relatively new since its establishment three years ago, the International Forklift Truck Award is broadening its portfolio to include honouring the best innovators in the intralogistics sectors. So the awards programme title has a new extended name – Intralogistics & Forklift Truck of the Year with the abbreviation – ‘IFOY’ – remaining unchanged.

Even though the number of categories in the competition has increased as a result, the jury will in future continue to nominate only the best entrants for the final round. Also unchanged is the testing and selection method, which will be supplemented by the test procedure and the

innovation checks for the new categories. The results of the tests and expert opinions form the basis for the decisions of the international jury, consisting of representatives from 26 leading trade-associated journals from 18 countries.

Ireland is represented by Fleet Transport and Handling Network magazines.

New IFOY categories for 2018 include ‘Intralogistics Software of the Year’ and ‘Intralogistics Robot of the Year’ categories and will in future be for apps, software solutions or robot-supported solutions for intralogistics applications.

“IFOY was launched as a forklift award

and has become t he bench ma rk for innovation in intralogistics. From the beginning, we received entries from system and software providers, and the forklift manufacturers have long been building not just materials handing equipment but also competing with the providers of integrated intralogistics systems. The renaming of the award is a logical step and levels the playing field for all entrants,” are the reasons given by Anita Würmser, Executive Jury Chairperson for the IFOY Award.

Drive-Rite develops Full Air Suspension for Volkswagen Crafter & MAN TGE

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Vehicles and German ambulance manfacturer Ambulanz Mobile. The Crafter was also on exhibit at the SwissPublic fair in Bern, Switzerland.

The system was displayed at the recent RETTmobil Show in Fulda, Germany in combination with Volkswagen Commercial

John Giles from Drive-Rite explained about the newly developed technology for the awardwinning Crafter. “Our new suspension system offers a smooth comfortable ride, a full lowering facility and multiple ride heights. The kit is easy to install, user friendly and requires little or no

ublin-basedglobalcompanyDriveRite has launched its full factory approved Full Air Suspension Kit for the rear axle of the new generation Volkswagen Crafter and corresponding new MAN TGE light commercial vehicle range.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

maintenance. The Air Suspension system also incorporates the latest advancements in our IntelliRide suspension control,” said John. “As a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Premium Partmer, the system has been fully designed in conjunction with the OEM guidelines and will come with all the high standards expected of a Premium Partner. The suspension system will be available as an aftermarket fit under Kit Part Number # DR.05.013344,” he added. * See photo on page 3.

NEWS II | 5

Appointments at Iveco, Mercedes-Benz, MAN & Longhaul Commercials

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ounty Offaly native Emmet Wrafter is the new Light Business Line Director at Iveco UK & Ireland, with responsibility for its multiaward-winning Daily light commercial range.

and truck fleet customers and commercial vehicle dealers to help implement our ambitious growth plans for this important part of our business.”

A new position has been established at MAN Importers Ireland with the job title ‘Light Commercial Brand Manager’ to oversee the introduction of the all-new MAN TGE van range. Tim Cronin has been appointed to take on the project, having gained years of experience with Mitsubishi Motors (FUSO Trucks) and more recently with Fiat Professional. The MAN TGE LCV line up will include panel van, chassis/cab and passenger carrier models covering from 3.5 to 5.5 tonnes GVW.

Emmet (39), grew up in the family’s transport business in Birr, before entering the automotive industry himself with dealer sales roles at Citroën in 2003, and Audi in 2004.

A year later he set-up his own dealership, Wrafter Motors, which he ran successfully for six years before joining the Ford Motor Company’s European commercial vehicle product marketing team in 2011, followed by a term with Leaseplan.

Jason Mulcahy is the new National Fleet Sales Manager at Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles. He takes up the position having held senior roles with Eircom and Northgate.

Trailer Innovation Award 2018 – shortlist announced

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hree Irish and one Dutch trailer manufacturer have been shortlisted for the annual Fleet Transport Trailer Innovation Award. Now in its eleventh year, this award honours innovations for all types and sizes of trailers and semi-trailers. The criteria set is simple; that the design concept or end product increases efficiency and safety in road transport. This year all of the finalists developed their new creations in-house.

In alphabetical order, BMI Trailers (Dungannon) entered its new RockPusher Ejector Trailer (Concept/Safety), which ensures speedier and safer tipping.

Dennison Trailers (Naas) has further modified its Sliding Bogie skeletal semitrailer that accommodates carriage of ISO tanks with a different, safer layout of the flow pipes (Concept/Chassis).

Having helped establish the SsangYong car and commercial brand in Ireland, John Keogh has moved on to become the Sales Executive at Longhaul Commercials Tullamore, the Iveco, Hino, Isuzu, Sinotruk and LDV main dealers. From the Midlands, John looks forward to the new challenge.

Previously, John held senior roles at the Harris Group for almost two decades as Sales Executive and Sales Manager at Harris Commercial Vehicles.

Dutch builder Nooteboom (Wijchen) put forward its MANOOVR semi-lowloader (Chassis) with its 780mm ultra-low floor height and 12 tonne per axle load capacity.

The judging panel also decided to nominate SDC Trailers’ extendable tri-axle platform trailer in the Concept/Safety categories.

Designed at its Toomebridge factory, the platform semi-trailer can stretch from 10.5m – 15.33m and is adaptable for numerous load/transport missions.

The winner will be announced on the evening of the Fleet Transport Awards’ Gala Dinner on 28 September next at the Citywest Hotel, Dublin.

In welcoming Jason to the team at the Mercedes-Benz Head Office on the Naas Road, Fergus Conheady, Commercial Vehicle Sales Manager said; “In his new role, it is expected that Jason will support van www.fleet.ie

6 | OBITUARIES

Passing of two stalwarts of the Irish Truck Industry

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ithin two weeks of each other, two stalwarts of the Irish Truck Industry passed away. The founder and owner of the Harris Group, Robert ‘Pino’ Harris passed away 10 days after the burial of his Sales Manager, Patsy Kealy.

Pino Harris

Patsy Kealy

Pino Harris was one of the most iconic figures in the Irish commercial vehicle industry, holding a big property portfolio while also a generous philanthropist.

Pino Harris’ success in business is noteworthy. The Harris Group, the Naas Road headquartered company, currently imports/ assembles and distributes Hino trucks, Isuzu trucks & Pick-ups, SsangYong cars, more recently Higer buses and coaches, LDV vans and Sinotruk construction trucks.

Born in England in 1940, the son of a Limerick born scrap dealer, Pino’s early days in the trade stretch back to the 1960s when he began selling Guy trucks, which was once part of Jaguar. It was the Hino truck brand that put Harris on the road to nationwide sales success and beyond. In 1968, he began a business relationship with Hino, now part of the Toyota Motor Corporation, that continues to this day. Over the years Hino multi-axle trucks and tractor-units were produced from knockdown kit form on a dedicated assembly line, focusing on the construction sector. Hino was the name in the sector, commanding over 40% market share annually.

Hundreds gathered from all over Ireland to pay their respects to Pino Harris at his funeral at the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Dalkey, and to sympathise with his wife Denise and his family within the Harris Group. Dealers, customers and business leaders from the Irish commercial vehicle industry assembled to join the celebration of Pino’s life.

Fr. Bryan Shorthall from the Capuchin Day Centre in Church Street, Dublin was the chief celebrant, assisted by Br. Kevin Crowley and two other priests. In his homily, Fr. Shorthall praised Pino’s hard work ethic, family values and dedication to his customers. He called him a visionary, in that his entrepreneurial spirit was based on good networking and seeking opportunities. “His business relationship with Asia, particularly with Hino in Japan was ahead of its time and lasted well over forty years.”

Dovetailing the business momentum was the acquisition of the importation franchise for Isuzu trucks and Pick-ups, together with distributing Iveco trucks and vans. Pino's modus operandi was to have trucks specified for certain sectors, particularly construction, facilitating customers to drive away ready for work. Th is eliminated the habitual 1218 week delay within the industry for new truck supply.

Pino’s close friendship with the Capuchins goes back decades and he was an ongoing generous benefactor to their fundraising activities, caring for the homeless and families in need in and around Dublin’s city centre.

A man of strong religious faith, one of Pino’s last requests was for Br. Kevin to bless his latest truck to market – Sinotruk, as the first model came off the production line on the Naas Road.

Despite suffering ill health in the past decade, Pino continued to strive forward, adding to the Harris Group’s product portfolio.

Renowned for his hands-on approach, Pino kept an eye on all aspects of his business through a small number of loyal generals, long serving staff members sharing decades of dedication and commitment to ‘the Boss’.

Denise Harris spoke before the final blessing, expressing a special word of gratitude to all members of staff at the Harris Group who helped build up the leading commercial vehicle business and requested that all staff members continue on as per Pino’s wishes and ‘make him proud’. “He was the most wonderful man to have ever known, and I will miss him dearly,” she said.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

Patsy Kealy’s passing after a long illness on 17 July was met with great sadness throughout the commercial vehicle and road transport industries.

Patsy dedicated his working life to the Harris Group and especially to the Hino brand of trucks. He entered the business in his mid-teens and learned the trade under the watchful eyes of Pino Harris. Together they succeeded in elevating the Japanese truck brand to number one in the construction segment for decades, also achieving high sales numbers in the ultra-competitive UK marketplace.

Patsy bravely batt led cancer for the past number of years and while in remission took on another project that gave him the strength and enthusiasm to continue on. He was pleased to see the progress of Sinotruk, the Harris Group’s latest truck franchise from China and seeing many of his loyal customers take interest in the new brand sporting their corporate colours, as they were prepared and ready for operation from the company’s prominent Naas Road headquarters.

A man true to his word, a deal was a deal with Patsy, mostly done verbally with a strong shake of the hand followed by a beverage or two for good luck. Old school tradition it may be but it stood the test of time with Patsy, both in his relationship with customers and long-standing members of the Group’s dealer network.

One of nature’s true gentlemen, Patsy always greeted life with a smile. From Cloghran, Swords, he will be sadly missed by his sons Stephen and Alan, Joyce, family members, Harris Group colleagues and a wide circle of business friends.

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8 | INTERVIEW

“Think globally, serve your customers locally” - Preston Feight, President DAF Trucks

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utch truck manufacturer DAF Trucks is spreading its wings.

It launched the new XF and CF series at the start of the summer, is expanding its markets globally and is increasing its production steadily. Last year, DAF Trucks appointed an American, Preston Feight as its new President. Gianenrico Griffini discussed several key topics with him at his office in Eindhoven.

Can you outline your position in the EU truck market?

“We can look back on an excellent year. Our European heavy-duty market share increased from 14.6% in 2015 to 15.5% last year. DAF is really benefiting from a strong economy, not to mention its excellent products and services, which are really leading the way. Three years ago we introduced DAF Transport Efficiency.

This philosophy aims to continuously reduce the costs of ownership for our customers by reducing fuel consumption and maintenance costs, among other things, and, at the same time, delivering the highest uptime possible.

In addition, 2016 was also the year in which we saw continuous growth in our PACCAR Parts business and record sales of more than 4,000 MX-11 and MX-13 engines to third parties, including leading bus and coach builders around the world.

How do you plan to achieve the ‘right’ balance between tractors and rigids?

“Sure, there are challenges as well. DAF traditionally performs very strongly in the European market for tractors. That is a big plus, of course, but I want DAF to be dominant in the rigid segment as well. And that is certainly possible. In the United Kingdom we have a good balance between tractors and rigids. And in the Netherlands we sell a proportionally higher percentage of rigids as well. I don’t see why we can’t be equally successful everywhere.”

Are you going to keep on investing?

“It’s one of the strengths of DAF and our US parent PACCAR: keep investing. Down-cycles, up-cycles: always keep investing. Investing is in our genes. As we speak, we are finalising the construction of our new cab paint shop – a €100 million investment. It’s no exaggeration FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

reduction in operating cost.”

On the new technologies and drivelines, which one looks most promising?

to say that this paint shop will produce the kind of paint quality usually associated with the best luxury cars. If you own the best truck in the market, you want it to look the best too.

And there is more, like a new large stamping press in our truck factory, the installation of new block and head machining equipment in the engine factory and highly sophisticated gear-grinding installations for the rear axle differentials.”

What feedback are you getting from the market from the new CF & XF? “So far, we have had excellent feedback from our customers. The current generation of our Euro 6 DAF CF and XF are not only the most reliable trucks we’ve ever built, but also the most reliable trucks in the market.

In addition, they offer industry-leading fuel efficiency and performance. The challenge our engineers took on was coming up with a new generation of trucks that would set new standards. This was a significant challenge to say the least, but the result is impressive.

The team redesigned the entire powertrain.

From the MX-11 and MX-13 engines to the transmission, axles and after-treatment. When driving at cruising speeds the engines now run at around 1,000 rpm. And from 900 rpm upwards the engines deliver maximum torque.

Sounds impressive – and that’s exactly how it drives, too. The combination of silence in the cab, the complete absence of vibrations and the superb power at low revs is guaranteed to put a smile on every driver’s face. So, the New CF and New XF perform superbly when it comes to driver comfort. But for the owner it is even more important to know that our new trucks deliver 7% better fuel economy than the current trucks. That really separates us from the rest of the competition. And to prove this impressive 7% improvement we have been running tests with our customers and these tests confirm that our new trucks are delivering this fuel efficiency. It’s wonderful to be providing our customer this significant

Obviously, DAF Trucks is constantly investing in new and promising technologies for the future. Three pillars are electrification/ hybridisation, autonomy and connectivity. We are active in all these areas and are working with Government officials and our customers to define commercially viable approaches to these technologies. For example, electric only vehicles may be able to fill a niche in low weight class urban environments but it is debatable whether all electric is the right answer for long haul applications. Last year, at the IAA in Hannover, we displayed one of our Innovation trucks, illustrating next generation technologies, such as the aforementioned hybridisation and electrification, autonomous features and connectivity, and we will continue to develop these platforms and opportunities.”

What’s your vision of the near future?

“Our strategy is simple; if we continue to grow every year we will find ourselves on top. Take a look at our truck production last year, we have to go back to 2008 before we can find numbers like that. And production is still increasing. By the end of the summer, we will ramp up CF and XF production to 216 trucks a day. And perhaps we can go to even higher levels. And the economy continues to move forward. The market is strong, freight is moving, diesel prices are low, economical sentiment is positive, and (German) MAUT kilometres are at record levels. Last year the heavy truck market in the EU was sized at just over 300,000 units. We estimate that the 2017 market will be strong again with 290,000 to 310,000 registrations forecast for the total European heavy duty market.”

Do you plan to focus your business more on after-sale revenues in the future?

“I read that some brands have decided to focus more on after-sales and services than on the trucks themselves. But it has to be both. If I operate a transport business, I need the best truck and I want a partner to take care of that truck for me as well. Engineering, building, selling and supporting is an indivisible package to us. So we won’t be focusing on only one element, it will be all of them.

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10 | AWARDS

Fleet Transport Awards 2018 Finalists BOOK YOUR TICKET NOW TRANSPORT w w w. fl e e t t r a n s p o r t a w a rd s . c o m

AWARDS

2018

sponsored by

Contact Orla or Denise on 094 9372819 | 086 2439239 www.fleettransportawards.com

Awards Presentation & Dinner: Thursday 28 September 2017 Venue: Citywest Hotel, Dublin.

National Haulier of the Year Sponsored by Volvo

• DHL Supply Chain (Dublin) • Flynn Transport Limited (Dublin) • Freight Speed Group (Dublin) • Martin Ryan Haulage Ltd (Limerick) • Toner Transport & Logistics (Dublin) • Zellwood (Dublin)

International Haulier of the Year Sponsored by Thermo King

• Kennedy International (Dublin) • McCulla Ireland (Antrim & Dublin) • O’Brien Transport (Newbawn) Ltd (Wexford) • Virginia International Logistics (Cavan)

Own Account Transport Operator of the Year Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles

• BWG Foods (Dublin) • Corrib Food Products (Galway) • Keelings Retail (Dublin) • N&C Enterprises Ltd (Kildare) • Thomas Graham Sand & Gravel (Kildare)

Owner Driver Haulier of the Year Sponsored by MAN Truck & Bus

• Breen Haulage (Laois) • Smith Vehicle Transport (Dublin) • Evergreen Fields t/a Smyths Transport (Galway) • Thomas Graham Sand & Gravel (Kildare) • RNS Haulage (Galway)

Regional Transport Operator of the Year Sponsored by FUSO Trucks

• Cappoquin Transport (Waterford) • Costello & McDermott Ltd (Mayo) • JC Breen & Company Ltd (Wexford) • O’Brien Transport (Newbawn) Ltd (Wexford) • Oran Haulage Ltd (Cavan) • Quinn Transport (Westmeath) • Sligo Haulage & Distribution Ltd (Sligo)

Best Van Fleet Sponsored by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

• Autoglass (Dublin) • Cantwell Electrical Engineering Ltd (Tipperary) • Freight Speed Group (Dublin) • KN Network (Dublin) • Sligo Haulage & Distribution Ltd (Sligo)

Best Livery Award Sponsored by Blue Tree Systems

• Autoglass (Dublin) • BUMBLEance (Kerry) • DJ Downey Ltd (Cork) • Freight Speed Group (Dublin) • Gallagher Bros. Haulage (Dublin) • JC Breen & Company Ltd (Wexford) • Keelings Retail (Dublin) • Martin Ryan Haulage Ltd (Limerick) • Musgrave Retail Partners Limited (Cork) • Thomas Graham Sand & Gravel (Kildare)

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

AWARDS | 11 Best Safety Practice Award Sponsored by Health & Safety Authority

• Keelings Retail (Dublin) • Kennedy International (Dublin) • Musgrave Retail Partners Limited (Cork) • National Vehicle Distribution Limited (Wexford) • Zellwood (Dublin)

Innovation Award Sponsored by easytrip

• Cartow.ie (Dublin) • Coldmove Transport (Galway) • ProVision Vehicle Cameras (Dublin) • Transportzone (Dublin) • Tranzaura (Limerick)

Environment Award Sponsored by Gas Networks Ireland

• Freight Speed Group (Dublin) • Gallagher Bros. Haulage (Dublin) • J.S.J. Harris Transport Limited (Kildare) • Keelings Retail (Dublin) • McCulla Ireland (Antrim & Dublin)

Customer Service Excellence Award Sponsored by FIAT Professional

• Ballinlough Refrigeration Ltd (Dublin) • Cartow.ie (Dublin) • Cold Move Transport (Galway) • Costello & McDermott (Mayo) • N&C Enterprises Ltd (Kildare) • Smith Vehicle Transport (Dublin)

Women in Transport Sponsored by Freight Transport Association Ireland

• Deborah Herbert – Clare Distribution Services (Dublin) • Karen O’Toole – Freight Speed Group (Dublin) • Kerry Hoare – HSS Hire Service Group (Irl & UK) • Pamela Dennison – W.S. Dennison Ltd (Antrim) • Rebecca Fitzgerald – Govern Low Loader • Transport (Meath)

Excellence in Warehousing & Product Handling Award Sponsored by Cold Move

• Aztec Logistics (Galway) • BWG Foods (Dublin) • Cappoquin Transport (Waterford) • Costello & McDermott (Mayo) • DJ Downey Ltd (Cork) • McCulla Ireland (Antrim & Dublin) • National Vehicle Distribution Limited (Wexford)

Fleet/Transport Manager of the Year Sponsored by Iveco

• Colm O’Regan – Musgrave Retail Partners (Cork) • Gareth Mullen – Sligo Haulage & Distribution (Sligo) • Joe Gavin – N&C Enterprises Ltd (Kildare) • Kevin French – BWG Foods (Dublin) • Padraig O’Hara – Oran Haulage Ltd (Cavan) • Daniel Deveraux – Irish Commercials (Galway) • Liam BurkeIrish Commercials (Galway) • Martin Convey ESB Fleet & Equipment (Dublin) • Sean Cunningham – Galway

Technician of the Year Sponsored by Renault Trucks

Services to the Transport Industry Sponsored by Close Brothers Commercial Finance The winner in this category will be announced on the night Overall Irish Haulier of the Year Sponsored by Rosslare Europort The overall winner of Fleet Transport Irish Haulier of the Year 2018 will be announced on the night. www.fleet.ie

TRANSPORT www.fleettransportawards.com

Rewarding Best Practice

AWARDS 2018

The leading Awards Programme for the Irish Road Transport and Haulage Industry.

BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT Business associates, clients, partners and friends are all welcome to attend the Fleet Transport Awards and Gala Dinner 2018, which will take place on Thursday 28 September 2017 at the Citywest Hotel, Dublin.

Book your place now at the biggest event in the Irish transport calendar by emailing awards@fleet.ie or telephone +353 94 9372819.

A table of 10 is €990.00 + VAT Fee includes pre-dinner drinks, 4-course dinner and Awards presentation.

A single place is €110.00 + VAT Fee includes pre-dinner drinks, 4-course dinner and Awards presentation.

Please reserve seats @ €110 or table(s) of ten places @ €990 at the Fleet Transport Awards 2018 in the Citywest Hotel, Dublin on Thursday 28 September 2017 commencing at 6.30pm.

The above prices are plus VAT and will be shown as such on the official receipt.

Name of Company: _________________________________________________________________ Invoice Address: ___________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Contact Name: _____________________________ Tel: ___________________________________ Dress Code: Gentlemen: Lounge Suit. Ladies: Cocktail Dress This Booking Form can be posted to: Fleet Transport, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo.

To book your place now at the biggest event in the Irish transport calendar, contact Orla or Denise on +353 94 9372819 / email: awards@fleet.ie or log on to www.fleettransportawards.com

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14 | NEW FLEET I

Two new ACTros trucks for ATC

S

aggart, County Dublin headquartered ATC Computer Transport & Logistics has taken delivery of two new Mercedes-Benz Actros units, supplied

by MUTEC from its new Long Mile Road Sales Centre in Dublin. Th is increases to three the number of Actros units on the ATC fleet – having been operating an 1851LS 4x2 2.5m Actros BigSpace since early 2016.

First of the latest new units is an Actros 2533 6x2 (2.3m) StreamSpace rigid fitted with a temperature controlled body built by Lifford Coachworks, Donegal, complete with side marker/indicators. The second unit is an Actros 1845LS 4x2 (2.5m) BigSpace tractor-unit, fitted with ambient lighting, auxiliary hot water heater, leather steering wheel, and Predictive Powertrain control. It will tow one of ATC’s coupled trailers, all of which feature 5 indicators on each side for added visibility, as well

New Renault Trucks for KC & Moriarty

K

C Civil Engineering (Monasterevin, County Kildare) has put into operation the first of three Renault C460 6x2 tag-axle construction specified tractor-units.

These trucks are specially designed for higher ground clearance, better traction and factory fitted tipping gear, with side mounted hydraulic oil tank.

Theywerepurchased from Setanta Vehicle Sa les, Dublin, through Salesman Martin Ryan.

Also sold by Setanta are two new 18 tonne 4x2 rigids from the Renault Trucks D range to Sean Moriarty Transport Ltd., from Dundalk, Count y Louth.

The global cabbed trucks are fitted with new Fitzgerald and Cafco bodies, along with taillifts.

.

Pictured is Sean Moriarty collecting the keys from Setanta Salesman Aaron Clarke.

as load space cameras.

Painted in metallic black, both units are equipped with the latest Mercedes-Benz safety equipment including Stability Control Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Attention Assist and Active Brake Assist.

Additional safety comes via forward, reverse and side facing cameras which offer better visibility of vulnerable road users.

Commenting on the deal, MUTEC Dealer Principal, John Connolly, said: “As well as providing the functional support that ATC requires, these new units have a distinctly up-market appearance projecting a modern image in line with the expectations of customers in the high-tech sector.”

New DAFs for Techmove Solutions & MOR Oil

T

he acquisition of three new DAF CFs by Ballycoolin, Dublin based Techmove Solutions brings the number of DA F Trucks in the fleet to a round dozen.

This order was for two CF.330 26-tonners and an LF.220 12-tonner with ZF automated gearbox.

Meanwhile, authorised Texaco f uel d ist r ibutor MOR Oil Galway has purchased this new DAF CF.330 with AS Tronic transmission and full ADR kit, from Galway Truck Centre.

Need a quote? 01 2900 200

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE

or Log onto www.mikemurphyinsurance.ie TODAY! CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN INSURANCE Haulage: • Single Vehicles • Motor Fleet for Hauliers • Haulage Risks • Carriers Liability • Warehouse Risks • Public Liability • Employers Liability Mike Murphy Insurance is a trade name of New Sure Life Ltd. and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

SCANIA DEALER NETWORK SUPPORTING YOU NATIONWIDE Westward Scania Importer - Ireland.

Strokestown, Roscommon (071) 96 34500

Cawley Commercials Knocknarea, Sligo (071) 91 69555

McElvaney Motors, Dublin Road, Monaghan (047) 81596

McElvaney Motors, Finglas, Dublin (01) 8361044

Mike Kelly Commercials PARTS & SERVICES Merlin Park, Galway (091) 778880

Delaney Commercials, Naas, Co. Kildare (045) 879932

O’Mahoney Commercials PARTS & SERVICSES Thurles, Tipperary (0504 24290)

KD (Garage) Services, Drinagh, Wexford (053) 91 45554 T Nolan & Son Castleisland, Kerry (066) 71 41140

We would like to welcome Mike Kelly Commercials, Galway to the Irish Scania Network

A.O’C Commercials, Carrigtwohill, Cork (021) 4883322

Further Information: Email: Importer@westwardscania.com Telephone: (071) 96 34500

16 | COVER

Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year 2018 Tests aims to select the best!

N

ow in its 15th year, the annual exercise to select Irish Truck of the Year got underway in early July from its usual base at The Johnstown Estate, Enfield, County Meath. In all, fourteen different trucks from seven brands were in contention for two major awards – Ireland’s Best Fleet Truck of the Year 2018 and Irish Construction Truck of the Year 2018, with these category winners vying for the overall prestigious title Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year 2018.

Organised by Fleet Transport magazine, the expert judging panel looked to each truck for a number of features such as external/ internal design and styling, driveline, safety, comfort and technical innovation. Following a test drive programme both on-road and on-site at a nearby quarry, together with analysis gained from previous road tests undertaken during the year, the points were then allocated for each truck with the winners to be announced at the forthcoming Fleet Transport Awards Gala Dinner at the Citywest Hotel, Dublin on 28 September.

“The expert jury consisting of truck test drivers, technicians, mixed fleet transport operators, transport engineers and HGV trade journalists spent much time with each truck to inspect every aspect of the vehicles powertrain and the workings within the cabin. Each representative on the panel drove the designated route off the motorway to get a true feel for the truck, while offroad at the quarry, the tippers were tried out for manoeuvrability, visibility and overall performance around the uneven terrain,” explained Jarlath Sweeney, Editor, Fleet Transport, who organized the test programme. The following trucks were in contention for the competition:

Fleet Tractor-Units – Specification Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Iveco Stralis Hi-Way AS440S48 4x2

Cursor 11litre

480 hp @ 1,900 rpm

2,300 Nm @ 970 rpm

12 speed HiTronix

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

MAN TGX 26.500 6x2/2 XL

D26 12.4litre

500 hp @ 1,800 rpm

2,500 Nm @ 930 -1,350 rpm

12-speed TipMatic

BEST FLEET TRACTOR-UNITS • • • • • •

IVECO STRA LIS AS440S48 6x2 MAN TGX 26.500 MERCEDES-BENZ ACTROS 1843LS RENAULT TRUCKS T520 SCANIA S580 6x2/4 VOLVO TRUCKS FH.500

CONSTRUCTION TRUCK OF THE YEAR 2018 • • • • • • • •

DAF CF.440 IVECO TRA KKER 340 MAN TGS 35.400 MERCEDES-BENZ AROCS 3240K RENAULT TRUCKS C430 RENAULT TRUCKS K480 VOLVO TRUCKS FM.450 VOLVO TRUCKS FMX.420

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

COVER | 17

Fleet Tractor-Units – Specification Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Mercedes-Benz Actros 1843LS StreamSpace (1800)

10.7-litre OM470

428 hp @ 1,800 rpm

2,100 Nm @ 1,10 0 rpm

12-speed PowerShift 3

Renault Trucks T520 6x2 Comfort

DTI 13-litre

512 hp @ 1,4321,800 rpm

2,500 Nm @ 1,100 -1,432 rpm

12-speed Optidriver automated

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Scania S580 6x2/4 Highline

DC16 V8

580 hp @ 1,900 rpm

3,000 Nm @ 1,0001,350 rpm

12-speed Opticruise automated gearbox

Volvo Trucks FH.500 6x2 Globetrotter

D13K500

500 hp @ 1,400 – 1,800 rpm

2,500 Nm @ 1,000 – 1,400 rpm

12-speed I-Shift automated Dual Clutch

Construction Truck of the Year 2018 – Specification Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

DAF CF.440 8x4 FAD Day

MX-11 10.8-litre

435 hp @ 1,450 – 1,700 rpm

2,100 Nm @ 1,000 – 1,450 rpm

12-speed AS Tronic

Iveco Trakker Hi-Land AD340T41 8x4

Cursor 13-litre

410 hp @ 1,900 rpm

2,100 Nm @ 1,000 rpm

12-speed ZF automated

www.fleet.ie

18 | COVER Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

MAN TGS 35.400 8x4 M Day

D26 12.4-litre

400 hp @ 1,800 rpm

2,100 Nm @ 9301,400 rpm

12-speed TipMatic

MercedesBenz Arocs 3240K 8x4

10.7-litre OM 470

394 hp @ 1,800 rpm

1,900 Nm @ 1,100 rpm

12-speed automated

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Renault Trucks C430 8x4

DTI 11litre

423 hp @ 1,70 0 – 1,900 rpm

2,050 Nm @ 1,000 – 1,040 rpm

12-speed Optidriver automated

Renault Trucks K480.32 8x4

DTI13litre

473 hp @ 1,4 0 4 – 1,800 rpm

2,400 Nm @ 950 – 1,404 rpm

12-speed Optidriver automated

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Make/Model

Engine

Power

Torque

Transmission

Volvo FM.450 8x4 (Sleeper)

D11K450 11-litre

450 hp @ 1, 6 0 0 – 1,900 rpm

2,150 Nm @ 1,000 – 1,400 rpm

12-speed I-Shift automated

Volvo Trucks FMX.420 8x4

D13K420 13-litre

420 hp @ 1,400 – 1,800 rpm

2,100 Nm @ 860 – 1,400 rpm

12-speed I-Shift automated

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

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22 | FLEETING SHOTS

Peugeot flourishes on Silk Way Rally 2017 as Iveco leaves ‘satisfied’

C

yril Despres and David Castera make it two out of two for Peugeot DKR Racing, as the winners of the 2016 Silk Way Rally triumphed again this year. The French duo held the lead for the entirety of the second week of the cross-country race.

Their Peugeot DKR #100 eventually won with a margin of one hour and five minutes, over a total of 9,599 kilometres of which 4,094 kilometres were on timed sections.

In fact, a Peugeot was in the lead after every one of the 13 days of the event, which took place from Russia to China over two weeks, thanks to the efforts of Sebastien Loeb & Daniel Elena, Stéphane Peterhansel & Jean-Paul Cottret and Despres & Castera. In total, the Peugeot ‘Dream Team’ won ten stages, with seven one-two stage finishes, as well as two one-two-three stage finishes.

The French brand set off from the start in Moscow with three cars: one new Peugeot DKR Maxi for Loeb, and two examples of the current Peugeot DKR, which dominated the podium on the Dakar Rally last January.

Being the last truck on the list to cross the podium after finishing a rally is a new experience for Gerard de Rooy. “But actually, the whole Silk Way Rally was a strange experience,” he said. “Even though I have become the last, I am satisfied.”

Two weeks earlier Team Petronas De Rooy Iveco arrived in Moscow with the aim of testing Gerard’s new Iveco Powerstar. It was his intention to fight for a high position for as long as possible. Until the fifth stage, that worked out well. In the stage from Astana to Semey in Kazakhstan, De Rooy had to abandon the special stage to prevent further damage to the cab. He rapidly dropped through the rankings as by not finishing the special he incurred a 100-hour penalty. It would happen two more times - a broken steering on SS8 and again (in combination with sickness) on the 13th stage – meaning that De Rooy had over 300 hours of penalties behind his name at the finish of the Silk Way Rally in Xi’an.

event. “It was a nice rally. Unfortunately, I have not been able to drive all the dunes that were in the course, but what I did were more dunes in a few days than I have seen in the Dakar all together in recent years.

The new truck is about as fast as the one Artur Ardavichus drove. I’m glad, because that means we’re on the right track.”

Overall De Rooy considered the Silk Way Rally to have been a successful event for the team, with new driver Ardavichus finishing fourth, and Ton van Genugten in sixth. “The trucks will be examined thoroughly to see which parts need extra attention. The problems we have had should not be difficult to solve, but I am particularly curious to see what we will be seeing under the skin after a tough rally like this. If all that is clear, we will see what we are going to do, for example with the OiLibya Rally in October.”

The event was won by Dmitry Sotnikov (Kamaz), with the Russia military truck brand also securing second and third positions on the podium.

Medicall – First to certify for RSA ESDS Programme

A

ward-winning Medicall Ambulance Services (Dublin & Galway) has become the first private ambulance service provider to certify for the Emergency Service Driving Standard (ESDS), an initiative governed by the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

Pictured at the presentation of the certification were Andrew Lyle, Operations Director, Medicall; Moyagh Murdock, CEO, RSA and Mark Dodd, Mark Dodd Driver & Safety Training (Sligo).

“I knew in advance that things were going to break,” Gerard said. “That’s what happens when you test a new truck. Testing was my primary goal in this rally. We’ve had a few days with lots of troubles. Only I didn’t expect these particular parts to break, while the parts I expected to break, didn’t. That was very unusual.”

Despite these incidents De Rooy left satisfied. The Dutchman liked the

Need a quote? 01 2900 200

MIKE MURPHY INSURANCE

or Log onto www.mikemurphyinsurance.ie TODAY! CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN INSURANCE Haulage: • Single Vehicles • Motor Fleet for Hauliers • Haulage Risks • Carriers Liability • Warehouse Risks • Public Liability • Employers Liability Mike Murphy Insurance is a trade name of New Sure Life Ltd. and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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24 | NEW FLEET II

Under the tree with BWG, Mercedes - B

L

eading retail and wholesale company BWG Foods has enhanced an already impressive vehicle fleet with the inclusion of 37 new Mercedes-Benz Antos rigid trucks to its Dublin based operation. BWG is a leading distributor of a full range of ambient, fresh and alcohol products with a recognised expertise in supplying the convenience, forecourt and supermarket retail sectors. The company distributes products throughout the Republic of Ireland for the sector's major brand names such as SPAR, EUROSPAR, MACE and Londis.

Following a series of vehicle trials BWG opted for the Mercedes-Benz Antos. While there were many factors that brought the Antos to the fore, including durability and driver appeal, it was fuel economy that won the day for the German model. In the main part of the contract, the 2530 Euro 6 models are all 6x2 rigids with a lift ing third axle.

However, there are also three 2540 (400hp) units, which are assigned to pull three, load-through centre-axle drawbars trailers supplied by TIP Trailers Ireland. The impressive looking drawbar trailers deliver greater efficiencies by easily increasing or reducing carrying capacity in a business that can be extremely cyclical even on a weekly basis.

The 10.6 metre refrigerated bodies with side-doors were produced by Lifford Coachworks (Donegal), and Gray & Adams. To keep it all cool, the bodies are fitted with Carrier Transicold Supra 750s, and Zepro 2-tonne tail-lift s assist with the deliveries and collections.

BWG has taken the trucks on a five-year arrangement which includes a full service and maintenance package from contract

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

NEW FLEET II | 25

- Benz & Fleetplan Hire vehicle specialists Fleetplan Hire. Th is simply means BWG can concentrate on doing what it does well - wholesale and retail distribution.

Once BWG had completed its research and knew exactly what was needed, and more importantly what would work, a contract with Fleetplan Hire to put the deal together was agreed. Drawing on thirteen years’ experience in the business, Fleetplan assembled all the elements to produce the fi nished product. With constant changes in customer demands and vehicle legislation, not least with emission controls and dimension regulations, contract leasing is for many operators becoming a more att ractive proposition.

This is especially true for companies where the road transport element of the logistics and distribution business is not the revenue earner, and as such the vehicles are a cost to be borne.

The simplicity of a set amount per month allows the business to plan without any nasty surprises and at the end of the agreed term the vehicles are handed back or renewed.

For the reasons just mentioned Fleetplan Hire is dealing with increasing levels of enquiries across all vehicle sizes from small van through to artic truck and trailers. Interestingly the enquiries are arriving from a wide variety of operators.

Commenting on the recent agreement with BWG, Fleetplan Hire’s Managing Director, Jarlath Kelly said: “Fleetplan is delighted to work with a blue-chip company such as BWG.” The agreement highlights that for many companies contract hire is the way forward - and could be the path to success.

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

www.fleet.ie

Tired of using IBS’s to store your AdBlue?

Be smart in 2017 Get your NEW Smart System from Maxol Lubricants for FREE!* Does your current supplier: • 1SPWJEF ZPV XJUI B UFTU DFSUJĂDBUF UP QSPWF UIF RVBMJUZ of your AdBlue? • Provide you with free equipment and installation? • Monitor your AdBlue levels ensuring you never run out of stock? • Give you complete peace of mind?

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ADDITIVES | 27

Trust the AdBlue from Maxol Lubricants & GreenChem

S

ince 2005, Maxol Lubricants has been the sole distributor of GreenChem AdBlue on the island of Ireland. As one of Europe’s leading producers of AdBlue, GreenChem is fully certified and a market leader in AdBlue supply across the continent.

Like Maxol, GreenChem is keeping abreast of the industry and bringing new and innovative solutions to the market.

The AdBlue Smart Plus by GreenChem is a new and improved system designed to streamline AdBlue management. Supplied, fitted and managed by Maxol Lubricants, the Smart Plus is the ideal solution for any van, truck and bus fleet. Th is unit is easily installed on-site and has optional storage capacity of 3,350 litres or 5,000 litres. Maxol Lubricants offers an all-inclusive solution with a fully integrated telemetry system so it can monitor the levels on clients’ behalf and refi ll the tank to ensure it doesn’t run dry.

The AdBlue Smart System means no more filling from IBC’s and also no more IBC’s lying around the yard.

Maxol Lubricants’ long standing customer Allingham Transport provides full load haulage and groupage services between Ireland and Britain. From its base in Cookstown, County Tyrone Allingham operates a fleet of 44-tonne GVW tractor-units and over 100 standard and high cube curtainsiders, double-deck and refrigerated trailers. Maxol’s AdBlue Smart System solution has become an integral part of its operation.

“We had been using IBCs to store and dispense our AdBlue but this was not ideal for us so we began looking for a better alternative.

We found that the AdBlue Smart System ticked all the boxes for us and we would highly recommend this AdBlue storage and dispensing solution. We would never go back to using IBCs,” said Thomas Allingham, Allingham Transport.

The use of good quality AdBlue is vital in maintaining a commercial vehicle fleet and this quality should only be sourced from a recognised VDA licensed partner. There are some brands of AdBlue on the market that are not approved and do not meet the required specification, not all urea solutions are considered AdBlue and these brands can cause damage to vehicles. If an inferior quality AdBlue is bought and used, the initial costs that you might save will be wiped out by future maintenance costs and downtime of your fleet. By purchasing AdBlue from Maxol Lubricants one can rest assured that your AdBlue is of premium quality, GreenChem AdBlue is produced to the international standard ISO 22241.

W.S. Dennison, the award-winning furniture distribution and storage company, based in Rathenraw Industrial Estate, Antrim, and with a warehouse in Limerick, operates a large selection of vehicles including 18 rigid trucks and 10 articulated units.

Delivering to all over Ireland, W.S. Dennison understands how critical it is to deliver on time, every time to its customers.

“We know that downtime can seriously affect our business. We strive to go the extra mile to provide services that are reliable and dependable. I would have no hesitation recommending the AdBlue Smart System. It’s perfect for us and with Maxol monitoring our AdBlue levels we can focus 100% on our customers, knowing we will never suffer downtime due to lack of AdBlue. Also, the quality of AdBlue from Maxol is never in doubt. It comes complete with a quality cert which gives us peace of mind,” stated William Dennison, Managing Director, W.S. Dennison Ltd.

Commenting on the importance of quality AdBlue produced to ISO22241 standard, Chris Haynes, Managing Director, GreenChem said: “Customers should seek assurances that the AdBlue bought is produced exactly following the ISO22241 procedure. No fleet owner wants their trucks sitting down due to engine problems caused by inferior AdBlue. Also, due to incorrect storing and dispensing equipment, AdBlue is easy to contaminate. Contamination can end up in SCR catalysts. After a while this will lead to a breakdown and the engine will ultimately stop performing. The Maxol/GreenChem Smart Plus will prevent any contamination.”

Maxol Lubricants General Manager, Owen O’Neill believes that quality AdBlue is a must for any company operating a fleet of vehicles.

“If you have any doubts about the quality of your AdBlue from your current supplier you should ask for a certificate of analysis for the batch you are purchasing. Here in Maxol Lubricants, we use Veolia to independently verify that our product meets all the requirements of AdBlue. By choosing Maxol Lubricants as your AdBlue supplier, you can be guaranteed and assured of the quality of the product as it is produced to the highest standards and it really is AdBlue you can trust.”

www.fleet.ie

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fuso.ie

LCV I | 29

Out on the Ranger (x3) for Obelisk…..

W

ith locations in Dublin and Cavan, Obelisk, the Infrastr ucture Solutions provider to Telecommunications, Civil Engineering and Energy Sectors has put to work three new Ford Ranger Limited Pickups purchased from Rialto Ford, Dublin.

They are powered by 2.2-litre 160 PS TDCi diesels with OPS, canopy, towbar and full leather inside. ..... while Toner tones up with new Ford Transit Connect Toner Transport & Logistics, the well-

known Dublin based haulage firm has purchased a new Ford Transit Connect from Rialto Ford.

Sold by David Carroll, Rialto Ford’s Commercial Vehicle Sales Executive, the L210 LWB model comes with two-person passenger bench seat and is powered by a 1.5 litre TDCi, producing 75PS.

95 Iveco Dailys Class new Volkswagen vans for brings it home Kellys & Walsh Electrical ellys Agricultural Machinery Ltd., Meanwhile down South, Brad O’Donoghue from Tesco Carlow, the Claas Harvest Centre (Salesman) is pictured with Gerard Walsh

S

upermarket chain Tesco has reinvested in a major home delivery fleet of 95 new Iveco Dailys from Emerald Truck & Van, Ballymount, Dublin. The chassis cabbed 35C12 (35-120) models feature HiMatic transmission, Solomen (UK) built refrigeration bodies with Thermo King refrigeration units supplied by Ballinlough Refrigeration.

K

that stocks the full range of Claas agricultural machinery spare parts, has put into service three new Volkswagen Transporters (T6) supplied by Laharts Van Centre, Kilkenny.

from Walsh Electrical (Douglas, Cork) collecting his new Volkswagen Transporter T6 TDI purchased from Blackwater Motors Volkswagen Forge Hill, Cork.

Its customer care mobile workshops cover the 26 counties and Kellys arrange delivery within Ireland on all spare parts.

www.fleet.ie

30 | LAUNCH PAD I

Sharper, cleaner and smarter Ford Transit Custom shape Transit arrived, receiving high acclaim from both the press and purchasing public alike. Last year alone, 118,000 units were sold across Europe.

According to Ian Porter, Chief Programme Engineer at the press introduction through Webinar, the new version features over 2,200 new parts.

Ford’s EcoBlue 2.0 litre diesel engine range offers a choice of 105 PS, 130 PS and 170 PS power ratings as before, but with the ECOnetic version, it delivers lower emissions of 148 g/ km CO2 - a 6% improvement over the previous edition. Auto-Stop-Start, a new acceleration control feature and a fi xed 100 kp/h speed limiter, help to achieve this goal.

A

s Ford in Ireland continues to celebrate and commemorate 100 years in the marketplace, its best selling light commercial vehicle, the Transit Custom 1-tonne van has benefited from a makeover. Key areas of the modification concentrated on exterior and interior design together with significant driveline changes.

Structurally the shape of the panel van remains the same, with new styling introduced in the headlight cluster while the grille now has three distinct horizontal bars. Immediately noticeable upon sitting in

is that the ergonomics have been improved, thanks in the main to a new door panel layout with more user-friendly door closing with additional storage added.

“Transit Custom has been a runaway success since it was introduced, and this new version raises the game once more,” said Pete Reyes, Vehicle Line Director, Ford of Europe. “We have listened carefully to our customers, and delivered a 1-tonne van that is even more stylish, even more productive and packed with smart features.”

It’s been five years now since the first new

MY 2018 Transit Custom gets the new Ford interior design theme that’s easier to use and more (mobile) office orientated. Storage space is better provided for this time around.

The tablet inspired 8” colour touchscreen dominates the centre console. On tap and by voice control are numerous commands accessible via the SYNC3 connectivity system.

Otherwise, the My Ford Dock replaces the touchscreen and facilitates gadget charging and storage.

Safety features strongly with innovative additions such as Intelligent Speed Limiter, which automatically adjusts the legal maximum speed limit (in transit!), while Cross Traffic Alert covers any blind spots around the van.

On the specification sheet this time is the choice of a newly developed 6-speed SelectShift autobox, while air suspension is available on Kombi models. Available to order later this year, the new Transit Custom with a broader and more vibrant colour choice is scheduled for customer delivery early in 2018. Within the new range will be the much sought-after Sport series and the PHEV – Plug-in Hybrid version, developed for the emission restricted LEZ in London and now beyond.

The 8/9-seater Tourneo Custom has received a similar upgrade to make an even more luxurious people carrier with an innovative seating configuration arrangement.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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6

Available Models • Low Roof SWB • Medium Roof LWB • High Roof LWB • Chassis Cab Variants • Mini B • Combi Van

Transmission speed manual

2.5L

turbo diesel engine

80L fuel tank

VM Motori Diesel Engine 2.5 TDCi Eco-D 136hp/330Nm Bosch & Continental Electronics

32 | LAUNCH PAD II

Mercedes-Benz takes new road While the X-Class is distinctively a MercedesBenz vehicle, it is based on the blueprint of the Nissan Navara and will be produced at the Japanese brand’s plant in Barcelona.

However, Mercedes-Benz engineers have added width and extra height to the ladder framework together, with an exterior design that clearly defines its origins. They have also completely redesigned the cabin to give a distinctive Mercedes-Benz interior.

The collaboration between the two manufacturers affords Mercedes-Benz a fast and cost-efficient entrance to the high-growth segment of mid-size Pickups. In addition, both companies benefit from optimal utilisation of the production capacity. Nissan is the world’s second-largest manufacturer of mid-size Pick-ups offering payloads of around one tonne, and can look back on more than 80 years of experience in producing and marketing these types of vehicles.

T

here was a clear understanding at the fi rst-drive launch of the new Mercedes-Benz X-Class that this is both a new departure for the German automotive giant, and one that requires a whole new marketing strategy in terms of target customers.

Mercedes-Benz’s new X-Class marks the premium brand’s first venture into the highly competitive Pick-up segment. Focusing initially on four major markets, three of which are in the Southern Hemisphere, Mercedes-Benz management has a game plan that it believes is fool proof. Australia,

Latin America, South Africa and Europe/ Russia are the initial territories the new X-Class will be aimed at.

It is not surprising therefore that the new 1-tonne model was launched in Cape Town, South Africa, as sales of Pick-ups in the Southern Hemisphere far outreach those in Europe. That said, Europe and Russia, which have been pooled together in this context are seen as important markets in their own right and will be the fi rst of the four to see the X-Class on the public roads.

Hence, the X-Class will come to Ireland in the latter part of 2017.

Pick-ups, according to Mercedes-Benz marketing experts are no longer viewed purely as workhorses, with the manufacturer taking these changes in usage into account with some in-house pedigree. This is based on comprehensive experience and competence in developing commercial and off-road vehicles such as the Unimog and the G-Class for tough operation, alongside vehicles which are equally suitable for work or leisure, such as the V-Class and Vito, and passenger cars that uniquely stand for modern luxury and driving pleasure around the world.

Designed to suit all lifestyles and work environments, demand for mid-size Pick-ups with typical passenger car characteristics and comfort features has been steadily on the rise for years. At the same time, the number of Pick-ups for private use is rising.

From the single, well-to-do business person to the construction or farm manager, or the family that embrace adventure and love to explore, Mercedes-Benz marketing gurus see the X-Class as a cut above the rest but still capable of delivering in the toughest working environments.

It will come in three model variants: PURE, a basic variant for classic robust use; PROGR ESSIVE - likely to be the most popular spec in Ireland - is a crossover variant in terms of quality feel and comfort; and POWER, a high-end

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

LAUNCH PAD II | 33

(and off-road) with X-Class variant designed for urban lifestyles. And, of course, as you would expect from a car of this standing, customers can add styling bars, side bars, canopies, various covers as well as numerous cargo and offroad solutions – all developed and designed

by Mercedes-Benz accessories division.

Power is delivered by a 2.3-litre, high-torque, common-rail diesel engine with a choice of two power outputs - 120kW/163hp in the single turbocharged X220d, and no less than 140kW/190hp in the bi-turbo X250d.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a seven-speed automatic transmission available for the X250d and X250d 4MATIC models. A top-of-the-range V6 diesel with 190 kW/258 hp will be released around the middle of 2018.

In work terms, X-Class can haul a payload of up to 1.1 tonnes with a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes. It will be the only mid-size Pick-up equipped with lighting in the cargo area as standard, while the load bed is designed to be wide enough to fit a europallet between the wheel arches. A lot of thought has gone in to making the rear of the vehicle look fresh too. The vertical slender rear lights for instance book-end the rear view while remaining functional for loading the cargo area.

Out front, the signature Mercedes-Benz design has a masterful look typical of the brand’s SUVs. A big ‘triple-star’ is centrally positioned on the twin-louvre radiator grille, with the high, powerfully honed bonnet and headlamps that extend far into the wings emphasising width, giving the X-Class its own distinct character. There are nine att ractive exterior colours and a variety of exclusive 17, 18 or 19-inch rims to choose from across the three design and equipment lines.

superb on-road performance.

Benz Vans.

On top of that the 4MATIC all-wheel drive with low-range gearing and optional differential lock on the rear axle masters any terrain. From the middle of next year a permanent all-wheel drive will complement the portfolio. It will offer maximum performance and traction even while driving on-road at full speed.

Here in Ireland it is expected that the secondtier PROGRESSIVE specification will be the most popular, with few customers choosing the lowest PURE trim. Mercedes-Benz also expects there will be some take-up of top-of-the-range POWER versions, albeit in limited numbers.

On the inside, the X-Class delivers a sensible amalgamation of the quality that we have come to expect from the brand with enough sturdiness to take some fairly rough treatment typical of the sort that these cars often experience. Of course, as one climbs the trim ladder equipment levels increase significantly.

“The X-Class is the first genuine Pick-up with convincing passenger car characteristics.

It’s robust, strong and with good off-road capability – just like a Pick-up should be.

It’s also aesthetically pleasing, dynamic to drive, comfortable, safe, connected and individual – as you would expect from a Mercedes-Benz. As a result, the X-Class pushes the boundaries of the classic Pick-ups and makes this vehicle segment att ractive for private use too. With three design and equipment lines and an extensive scope of further individualisation options, we offer the ideal vehicle for a range of different customer groups and their needs,” stated Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-

At the global launch in Cape Town, Fergus Conheady, Commercial Vehicles Sales Manager at Mercedes-Benz in Ireland (pictured) said: “We’re relishing the challenge that this excellent new addition to our range will bring.”

Prices have yet to be agreed and will not be announced here until closer to launch in the fi nal quarter of the year.

During the numerous on-and off-road tests carried out at the launch, the wide track, combined with the spring and damping system that is tuned for comfort was demonstrated to good effect. While the car was suitably capable on all the off-road tests it proved to be extraordinarily surefooted when pushed to its limits on the race track section at the test venue. Indeed with coil springs as well as internally vented disc brakes on the front and rear, the X-Class offers not just excellent off-road but also Text & Photos: Gerry Murphy - gerrym@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

34 | LAUNCH PAD III smooth, slick propulsion with the added comfort and psychological reassurance that it will genuinely travel further without recharging.

Z.E. Trip is part of the new Renault Easy Connect programme. When engaged with Renault’s R-LINK navigation system, charging points can be located. My Z.E. Connect facilitates users to access vehicle data from a Smartphone or from PC with Internet while ConnectPro is a web-based service providing data about electric fleets.

Renault Pro+ on a charge on the double with Kangoo Z.E. 33

T

here is no doubt that range anxiety is the biggest issue with electricvehicles, with the lack of fully operational charge points around the country the next area of concern. Renault has gone about addressing the fi rst issue for both its electric car and commercial vehicle line-ups. Many plaudits have been directioned towards the latest ZOE ZeroEmission (ZE) with its estimated 300-400 kms range distance (depending on varying conditions). Now through its commercial division, Renault Pro+ has redeveloped its award winning Kangoo Z.E., extending its range with faster, easier charging.

Now termed Kangoo Van Z.E. 33 (to designate its 33 kWh motor) it can now cover even more ground than its predecessor, reaching an estimated 280 kms, compared to 180 kms. Four is the optimal number here as the Z.E. 33 has got a new battery pack developed with LG Chem, a new electric 44kW (60 hp) motor, revised charger and a new heat pump system in place to extend the trajectory. A selection of connected and other services have been added.

The faster charging is noteworthy as the twice–as-powerful 7kW 32A charger permits the vehicle’s battery to be fully charged in around six hours (best done overnight), while a one-hour break is sufficient to add a 35 kilometre top-up. The new generation 7kW AC charger (32A single-phase 230V AC) cuts the time by 2 hours. Launched initially at the Brussels Motor Show last spring, the Kangoo Z.E. 33 was made available for first drive in and around the city environs of Paris. Kangoo Z.E., which won FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

the International Van of the Year award in 2012, has been Europe’s best selling small electric van for the past six years, achieving sales in excess of 25,000 units since launch in 2011. Environmentally aware customers are full of praise for its driveability, carrying capacity and ultra competitive running costs.

Kangoo Z.E. 33 is offered in the same format as before – long and short wheelbase in panel van and crew cab variants. Load capacity is between 3.0 to 4.6 cubic metres with the overall payload unchanged at 640 kg.

Brisk acceleration and the absence of engine noise and vibrations make the drive different from normal combustion engines, reducing stress on the working day. Interestingly the ECO mode is permanent, extending the driving by 10%.

Renault Pro+ will offer four electric commercials from factory, the Twizy Cargo, ZOE Company, Kangoo Van ZE and from next year, the Master ZE. At the Paris event, two specially developed body types were demonstrated on the Kangoo chassis/cab – one with a high volume box body and the other a unique tipper body on a pick-up version of the Kangoo.

Mentioning the ZOE ZE earlier, the all-new Renault R60 motor which delivers 44kW (60 hp) is based on the R75/R90 used in the family car. It is built at Renault’s Cléon plant in France. Greater energy density has been achieved from the battery pack codeveloped with specialists LG Chem. Th is innovation involves increasing the storage capacity of the battery, without changing its dimensions or the vehicle’s volume. By improving the chemistry of the battery cells, energy density has been increased.

Significant too in that the new heat pump linked to the air conditioning system improves the vehicle’s range in cold weather.

In addition, the pre-conditioning facility uses either a Smartphone or steering wheel controls to set the starting time, meaning the vehicle can be heated or cooled in advance when it is plugged in.

During the initial press test drive, there was no need to apply the cold start enhancement as in early July the weather in France was warm and clammy. Again the experience was pleasant as the Kangoo Z.E. 33 combines Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

NEWS I | 35 NEW

Autumn 2017

Six of Dennison best for Cherry Drainage Pipes *Dennison Group acquires Mettech

D

ennison Trailers' renowned customer care and attention came to the fore in advising Dungannon-based Cherry Drainage Pipes of specifying bespoke trailers for its operation. A business specialising in the manufacture and distribution of plastic drainage systems, the company recently bought six curtainsider semi-trailers, with the intention of using them to transport both their own goods and those of others.

“We were confident that these would be perfectly suited to meet their needs. As we hoped, Cherry Drainage Pipes were delighted with their purchase. The company told us that not only were our products fantastic quality, but that we also made sure that they knew what to expect, and went over and above from the very start of our interaction,” explained David Dennison, Innovation Director at Dennison Trailers.

“To us, there is no better endorsement than this: that the service we offer is so strong, our customers will recommend us to their contacts.

It is something we are incredibly proud to have accomplished, and we hope that every one of our clients is equally satisfied with our service,” he added.

Speaking on the advice and subsequent deal, Neal Martin, Cherry Drainage Pipes Transport Manager said: “The service we received from Dennison Trailers was exceptional, with all of their team going above

and beyond to meet our needs. Offering us a great customer experience from the start, the company really couldn’t do more for us.”

Recently, the Dennison Group concluded the purchase of Metal Technology and Processing Limited (Mettech), located near Dennison Trailers Naas headquarters. Mettech, which was founded by Liam and Liz Young over 30 years ago, has been a key part of the supply chain to the Dennison Group over the years. Apart from the products it supplies to the Dennison Group, Mettech also serves some of Ireland's other leading original equipment manufacturers in the forklift, farm machinery and allied trades. Mettech supplies the bulk of the steel for the trailer beams as well as various sundry subassembly and finishing parts.

McArdle International returns to Krone for ‘Dual-Temperature Control’

C

ounty Louth-based DG McArdle International, the ambient and temperature controlled transport specialists, has once again returned to Krone for a repeat order of Cool Liner refrigerated trailers. Th is time around, the box trailers are fitted with Krone’s new ISOWALL moveable bulkhead, which is lighter and easier to operate and provides McArdle with optimum dual-temperature control.

Operating throughout Ireland and Europe, McArdle’s modern fleet now includes 120 trailers - all of which are specified to the highest standard and fitted with GPS tracking systems - to enable real time vehicle monitoring anywhere in Europe. Its main distribution hub, a newly extended warehouse facility is in North Dublin.

In recent years, McArdle has developed partnerships with many third party logistic providers in Ireland and Europe, thus expanding the company’s range of services and delivery network.

“Constant development of our business model has seen us progress in recent years to provide specialist services for temperature-sensitive and high security goods across a number of industry sectors,” adds David, “and with our type of operation, the European back-up service from Krone provides us with reliable support should we need it.”

“We have been using Krone Cool Liners for many years” commented David Mc Ardle, “and have always found them to be of the highest quality. Our reputation for nearly 25 years is built on reliable service, and given the high value of the goods we handle it is imperative we use only the best trailers to provide maximum load protection. It’s what our customers expect.” www.fleet.ie

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

21m power steered extendable flat in stock, all 3 axles hydraulically steer, 37 tonne payload, twistlocks, post sockets, extra lashing rings for load securing, XL Rated. In stock, available now.

9.6m Aluminium Schmitz tipping trailer, Rear steer axle, auto dump on suspension, front lift axle, galvanised steel chassis. In stock, available now.

New 48ton Gross Faymonville 3 axle fixed bed low loader, rear steer axle, double flip ramps, out riggers, ramps to neck, storage trays, auto greaser. In stock, available now.

New 58 tonne gross Faymonville 4 axle step frame, fixed bed and extendable version, two rear steer axles, front lift axle, Double flip ramps, out riggers, ramps to neck, auto greaser. In stock, available now.

www.ashbournetruckcentre.com

NEWS II | 37

Kässbohrer Returns Home to Ulm

T

railer maker Kässbohrer has re-established its links with its birthplace. On 5 July last, its new location in Achstetten, Ulm, where the famous ‘K’ brand was founded 123 years ago was officially opened. Kässbohrer has returned home

At the grand opening of Kässbohrer, associates, business partners and customers from 13 different countries met with each other.

Kässbohrer proudly hosted the VSL-Baden-Württemberg e.V. (The German Association for Transport and Logistics – BadenWürttemberg - Verband Spedition und Logistik – BadenWürttemberg). The attendance of more than 300 participants worldwide includes numerous suppliers like BPW, WABCO and DEKRA. The new production facility will provide sales and full after-sales services at the heart of Germany, covering one of the core transport corridors of Rhine-Danube, Rhine-Alpine and Scandinavian-Mediterrean networks.

On the occasion, the new Kässbohrer K.SKS tipper for the European market was unveiled alongside a selection of new vehicles from Kässbohrer product group including the K.SCP paper roll curtainsider, K.SHFT tank container chassis and the K.SCA air cargo semi-trailer.

The winner of the “Trailer Innovation 2017” Award from the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show, the Safety Bitumen Tanker will also be exhibited at the Ulm factory.

Carrier Transicold publishes “Cool Compliance” Guide

A

handy new guidebook aimed at helping refrigerated fleet operators stay informed and compliant with updates on European legislation affecting the transport refrigeration industry, has been produced by Carrier Transicold.

Transicold, Northern Europe & Service EMEAR. “It is important for commercial vehicle fleet operators to be fully conversant in the F-Gas and Stage V Engine Emissions Regulations, which contain rules that could require modifications in how their fleets are specified and managed.”

The 12-page “Cool Compliance” guide is available to download from Carrier Transicold’s website and provides information on compliance issues for cold-chain fleets, including the revised F-Gas Regulation and the EU Stage V Engine Emissions Regulation, which affects engines powering transport refrigeration units.

Additionally, the guide contains valuable advice on noise standards defined by PIEK certification and covers ATP certificate information. The latest refrigerant developments and options from Carrier Transicold are also outlined to aid customers in specifying and purchasing new transport refrigeration equipment.

“We’ve created this guide as a helpful tool for fleet operators to stay up-to-date with legislation changes and to assist in forwardplanning, as customers look to ensure the

To download the booklet and get more information on Carrier Transicold and its products and services, visit www. carriertransicold.co.uk.

viability and sustainability of their refrigerated fleets,” said Scott Dargan, MD at Carrier

WABCO AutoTail wins CLEPA Innovation Award 2017

W

ABCO was recently recognized by CLEPA with its prestigious Innovation Award 2017 for its OptiFlow™ AutoTail, the latest addition to WABCO’s industryleading portfolio of aerodynamic solutions for trailers. The stateof-the-art device helps reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of commercial vehicles. CLEPA is the European Association of Automotive Suppliers and has more than 100 member companies and over 20 national as well as European trade associations.

OptiFlow AutoTail is made from automotive grade thermoplastic, an extremely lightweight, durable and long-lasting material that resists wear from weather, vibration and everyday hazards of the trucking industry.

The panels measuring only approximately 50cm in length offer a unique, curved shape and smooth surface that reduces air resistance.

WABCO’s OptiFlow AutoTail panels move forward and back based on driving speed as determined by sensors linked to WABCO’s braking systems for trailers. The device automatically engages at vehicle speeds of 75 km/h ensuring it is consistently used at speeds that maximize aerodynamic fuel savings. The tail panels automatically retract at a vehicle speed of 15 km/h. OptiFlow AutoTail delivers fuel savings in Europe of up to 1.1 litres per 100km at motorway speeds, and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 2.8 tonnes per trailer per year. www.fleet.ie

38 | NEWS III

Double the number of pallets on Kögel curtainsider

I

t is now possible to double the number of pallet bays in all Kögel trailers from the Cargo and Mega product series with the double-level loading option. Th is way, these tarpaulin semi-trailers can be used to transport 66 Euro pallets, or up to 67 with skilled loading. Th is allows forwarding companies to transport non-stackable goods on two levels, and make even more efficient and profitable use of their units.

Th is is made possible by the double level loading option. Using steel C-rails and telescopic aluminium load-securing beams, a second loading level with a maximum payload of up to 10 tonnes can be built in no time. The additional level provides space for 33 Euro pallets and thus doubles the number of pallet bays.

For transport contracts that do not require a second loading level, the 24 load-securing beams can be stored in a storage bracket, available as an optional extra. In addition, the sliding roof with lift ing roof function, which is optional on the Cargo version and standard on

the Mega version, facilitates loading and unloading. As with all Kögel trailers with a sliding tarpaulin, the double level loading option requires no additional load-securing for a form-locked load, thanks to the DIN-EN-12642 Code XL certification.

IVECO & Aerodyne (air) flow together *New air management kits for Stralis tractor-units with double deck trailers

I

VECO’s engineering division has teamed up with fuelsaving specialist Aerodyne to jointly develop a new range of air management kits to reduce drag when Stralis tractorunits are operating with double deck trailers.

Available to order via the IVECO dealer network, the air kit is available in two sizes and can be adjusted telescopically, with the smaller of the two systems designed for trailers between 4.08m and 4.28m tall, and a second larger kit for trailers between 4.22m and 4.7m.

The air kits developed by Aerodyne, built at Aerodyne’s Bourne headquarters in Lincolnshire are made from GRP and come as standard in white, but can be supplied in other colours to suit a customer’s own livery.

Calculations carried out with a Stralis plated at 44 tonnes (but typically part-laden) with a 4.6m double-deck trailer showed that aerodynamic drag becomes the number one factor affecting fuel consumption at just 80kp/h. With the Aerodyne air kit fitted, it is estimated that the aerodynamic drag co-efficient could be reduced by as much as 25 percent – helping to significantly improve fuel efficiency.

Ryan Kingston, Managing Director of Aerodyne, explains: “In a typical operation, the return on investment for the air kit could be less than six months, plus it has the potential to save nearly 10 tonnes of CO2 every year, through improved fuel efficiency. If an operator is regularly running with double deck or very tall trailers, that’s a convincing argument. We’re expecting significant interest from Stralis operators.”

Hi-Power Ltd appointed Irish Distributors for Padoan

H

i-Power Ltd., (Cork-DublinBelfast) is the newly appointed Irish distributors for Padoan, the Italian manufacturer of tanks, solutions and integrated systems for industrial and commercial vehicles.

Research and Development have been keystones of the company’s success since 1937. Over the years Padoan has become a

worldwide company supplying its products all over the world.

For example, Padoan offers a complete service: from the prototype to the manufactured item through to customisation of standard tanks according to customers’ requirements. The company produces a wide range of both rear and side tanks to suit hydraulic oil, diesel and combination units.

FLEET TRAILER & BODY BUILDER | AUTUMN 17

^ales ^ervice Contract Hire EaƟonwide 24/7/365 allinlough Eews allinlough open a second Workshop in Dublin and move to a Eew Workshop in Cork

Transport RefrigeraƟon Trailer RefrigeraƟon

Dh >/E Workshop at Old Eaas Road, Kingwood Cross, Dublin 22. D22 WP49

CORK Eew Workshop Annacarton ridge, Glanmire, Co. Cork

Truck RefrigeraƟon

www.brltd.ie DUBLIN

Cold Cube RefrigeraƟon

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allinlough RefrigeraƟon >td.

Old Eaas Road, Kingwood Cross, Dublin 22.

D22 WP49 Phone: +353 1 460 0322 Web: www.brltd.ie Email: info@brltd.ie

CÊÙ» Annacarton ridge, Glanmire, Co. Cork Phone: +353 21 488 2077 Email: cork@brltd.ie

RÊS ÊMMÊN

Tail >iŌs

allinlough RefrigeraƟon >td. allinlough, Co. Roscommon Phone: +353 94 964 0045 Email: ballinlough@brltd.ie

G Ló Y hnit 8 Glenascaul Danufacturing Park Oranmore, Co. Galway Tel: + 353 91 790 788 Email: ballinlough@brltd.ie

40 | SHOWCASE

Dennison Trailers and The National Ploughing Championships

D

ennison Trailers has been building high quality trailers for over 50 years, with a passion for engineering excellence, continuous product development and the highest standards of customer service. At its two modern factories in Naas and Lancaster UK, Dennison manufactures skeletals, curtainsiders, tippers, platforms, machinery carriers and drawbar trailers, and a range of specialist trailers.

Load security is further enhanced on this trailer with 8 pairs of recessed 5-tonne deck rings and a 1500mm headboard. Locking positions can be found every half metre allowing the trailer to be configured to the appropriate length required.

After five decades Dennison Trailers is still a family owned and run business and is a market leading manufacturer of semi-trailers, with customers throughout Ireland and Britain and a healthy export market.

As well as the new 4-axle 13.6m to 21.27m extendable trombone, the team will be once again showcasing its Gooseneck Timber Carrier. With a range of features, the 12.2m long chassis runs on SAF drum brakes and CD Off-Road suspension with a front lift axle.

From 19-21 September next, Dennison Trailers are looking forward to showcasing a range of these trailers at Europe’s largest outdoor exhibition and agricultural trade show, the National Ploughing Championships to be held in Tullamore, County Offaly.

This timber trailer comes with 8 Forest King timber bolsters at 2.7m tall, the front pair are fixed in the neck and 3 pairs are able to slide. The one-piece design of bolster and upright combined, the 8-tonne Forest King bolsters are unique on the Irish market.

Throughout its history, Dennison Trailers has been a company based on innovation, with continuous research and development being at the core of the business. At this year’s exhibition, the company will be showcasing a number of trailers and are particularly excited to showcase its new 4-axle 13.6m to 21.27m extendable trombone.

High yield steel is utilised which gives a comparable weight to traditional steel base bolsters with aluminium uprights but achieves a stronger design. The Dennison Trailers chassis is designed for a Palfinger crane mounted at the front and comes with galvanised tie down points along the chassis, a bolt on rear crash bar and a plastic tool box to finish.

This trailer will be running on BPW drum brakes, has a front lift and a rear self-track axle and is designed to carry a 42-tonne payload, taking Dennison Trailers into a heavier league of products.

David Dennison, Innovation Director said of the upcoming event: “With a rich history of innovation, the team are looking forward to showing off trailers tailored to customers old and new. We are particularly excited to be taking our new 4-axle trombone, a trailer we believe can once again make a real difference to our customers”.

Key features include 8 twistlocks for a 40’ or 2 x 20 containers, 6 pairs of posts and sockets, with 3 of these incorporating sockets across the full width of the deck for additional support of concrete beams.

FLEET TRAILER & BODY BUILDER | AUTUMN 17

Designed in conjunction with Dennison’s long standing customer Whitten Road Haulage, the trailer on display is one of six.

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42 | PRODUCT MARITIME II

Chereau ‘Opens’ to Innovation Newly developed Multiplex semi-trailer is ready for autonomous vehicles

I

nnovation has always been part of French temperature-controlled specialists Chereau’s DNA. Not only is its ongoing technical developments meeting customers needs, the company is also geared for the future. One of the most recent results from its R&D department is the award winning Smart Open-C, Chereau’s patented electric rear opening system, and with the Multiplex semi-trailer its latest work that’s prepared in advance of autonomous vehicles.

various electrical and digital data systems, in this case within a vehicle. Multiplexing reduces both cable length and the number of connections. In practical terms, on a vehicle such as a refrigerated semi-trailer, multiplexing means networking the vehicles’ key systems through sensors, so that all data related to their operations and engagement can be assembled together at one point and from there, these elements can be made to interact with each other. Although the external appearance of the vehicle doesn’t change very much, the multiplex system moves everything forward; with many customer advantages.

The North-western based trailer and body builder is on the up on all fronts. Last year its turnover touched €200m, producing almost 4,000 units. While it commands 46% market share in France, 50% of its production is exported with market share in Europe just over 10%. In 2016 alone, €2.5m was invested to improve production facilities and an additional €3.1m directed towards key Research & Development and customer specific work. Resulting from the synergies between sister brands SOR and Chereau, there are now 103 service points in 22 countries.

In general terms, multiplexing is a technique

that uses a single cable or channel to link

Multiplexing brings telematics to the cab and to the operator’s back-office, with more electronic connectivity on the bodywork for automatic systems, its safer too. For repairs and maintenance, multiplexing brings easier trouble-shooting and even effective preventative maintenance. After the initial prototyping and pre-production testing phase undertaken by selected customers, this new generation of Chereau semi-trailers will be on sale following its show debutant at Solutrans 2017, in Lyon, France on the third week of November.

Krone develops new bulkhead for Dualtemp control

O

n its Cool Liner refrigerated trailers, Krone, the Germany-headquartered international manufacturer, has introduced a new, lightweight moveable bulkhead for dual-temperature use.

Called ISOWALL and manufactured at Krone’s Lubtheen plant in Germany, the new bulkhead weighs just 120 kg, is robust, easy to operate and can be retrofitted in under one hour – without the need for special tools.

comes with a one-piece inner and outer GRP skin and can easily be trimmed to fit, while the rollers and balancers can be repaired or replaced without removing the whole panel.

Servicing too is made easier and safer with the inclusion of high-strength reinforced, noise-reducing plastic sliders. Tension adjustment also requires no special tools, and can be done in under 10 minutes.

A newly designed balancer system combined with a locking lever positioned at the top of the bulkhead, makes the ISOWALL easy to open, close and slide along the trailer. Also, due to the vertical movement of the bulkhead when opening and closing, no additional components are required for vacuum ventilation.

In addition, when pushed to the roof, magnets hold the bulkhead in place, so there is no requirement for secondary locking or risk of fork lift obstruction. When in use, the ISOWALL can be positioned hard-up against the load for added security and efficient use of load space.

For mixed trailer fleets, with varying internal heights, the ISOWALL FLEET TRAILER & BODY BUILDER | AUTUMN 17

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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44 | INTERVIEW

“Forward thinking and customer interaction Key to Schmitz Cargobull’s success” Alan Hunt, MD Schmitz Cargobull UK & Ireland

J

ust over a year in the position as Managing Director for Schmitz Cargobull’s UK & Ireland Operations, Alan Hunt comes into work each morning at the company’s Warrington headquarters excited at the challenge ahead in meeting and addressing customers’ needs.

Peace of mind is promised through Schmitz Cargobull Telematics as the trailers and load can be monitored by the driver and fleet manager in the back office. Alan is well aware of the high value of the goods carried and is pleased that the whole image of the trailer sector is gaining more positive credibility as here-to-fore, as most, if not all of the attention is on the shiny tractor-unit.

Having a long established and highly recognised brand on the road and with Schmitz Cargobull being the biggest manufacturer and supplier of semi-trailers in Europe helps but in this ultra-competitive marketplace, there is no time to rest on laurels.

“Right from the start, I’ve been hugely impressed at what a positive and forward looking company Schmitz Cargobull is. My goal continues to expand our presence further in both the UK and Ireland, with a particular focus on improving efficiencies for our trailer customers,” he said.

From an early age, Alan got to know what is required to not only satisfy customers requirements but also becoming an all-round solutions provider. At 16 he served his time as an apprentice at Wincanton followed in more recent times with 16 years at Finning CAT where he held a number of senior roles for the world’s largest distributor of Caterpillar plant and equipment.

In essence, Schmitz Cargobull is no longer just a trailer manufacturer. It turns out more than 50,000 new units per year at its five plants worldwide but it is with its added value products and services that is key to customers gaining strong return on the investment. As well as the Finance and Aftermarket (spare parts, repair and maintenance) divisions, it is with safety, telematics and other future orientated innovations to include autonomous technology that the most benefits to clients can be made.

8 minutes, add another 6 minutes for a reefer trailer. “Our portfolio of trailers expanded to include the multi-temp version of Schmitz Carogbull’s own refrigeration unit, equipped with TrailerConnect telematics and the XL version of its fi xed roof curtainsider.”

Alan’s brief is to strengthen the brands presence further with high quality services and solutions offered by its sales agents and service providers together with looking at customer’s operations to offer beneficial advice. “Today’s trailers are intelligent pieces of equipment and through our technical innovations, more uptime can be assured, diagnostic data and load security is provided, reduced risk is achieved through safety fittings and temperature control monitoring, which can also lead to reduced insurance premiums. Demands from end customers require that the goods delivered must be in the same condition from source, so we can de-risk the transport operations,” he added.

It’s over seven years since Schmitz Cargobull closed its facility in Harelow in North East England, resulting from the recession and the need to increase production efficiencies.

More modern plants in Germany, Spain and Lithuania now cater for demand and can build units specifically for the UK and Ireland markets. Alan stated that a new curtainsider is rolled off the assembly line every FLEET TRAILER & BODY BUILDER | AUTUMN 17

Looking to the future, Schmitz Cargobull is involved with current developments relating to autonomous driving. Alan sees the trailer as becoming a vital component in achieving the efficiencies desired. “Trailers can provide energy savings to the combination, transferring electricity generated through the rolling wheels to power refrigeration units or even add hybrid aspects to the tractor unit’s drivetrain.

While the levels of investment required will be high, the environmental benefits will be enormous.”

For 125 years, Schmitz Cargobull has been a success story in the world of road transport.

From its origins in a blacksmith’s workshop in Altenberge, Germany, the company has helped transform the humble trailer to a multi-faceted piece of equipment that creates efficiencies and reduces operator’s carbon footprint.

Alan’s perspective of the trailer industry changed somewhat on moving to the other side of the desk. “Traditional processes have changed radically, and with Schmitz Cargobull’s high levels of automisation, sets the brand apart. It is a forward looking company, mindful of customers’ needs, integrating with them and optimising benefits between both parties.

Schmitz Cargobull Enhanced Safety Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

46 | PREVIEW

TCS&D 2017 at Ricoh Arena, Coventry

T

he home stadium for Wasps RFC and Coventry FC at Coventry’s R icoh Arena will showcase new product developments that will dominate this year’s TCS&D, the biggest exhibition of its kind to date. For 2017, TCS&D has moved from its traditional home at Peterborough Show Grounds.

Some of the industry’s most respected brands will showcase innovation and efficiency at the dedicated cold chain exhibition on the 13 & 14 September, complemented by a comprehensive free-to-attend seminar programme providing expertise, advice and Q&As with industry experts.

Montracon is celebrating 40 years in the trailer industry with its largest TCS&D showcase to date, featuring three stand-out products: a lift ing deck reefer that can carry 44 pallets, a refrigerated 18-tonne rigid body, and an all new reefer semi-trailer.

Body and trailer manufacturer Cartwright will exhibit its next generation of temperaturecontrolled, double deck 44-pallet capacity trailers, built at its new £1.8m refrigeration technology plant in Altrincham.

Refrigerated body specialist CHEREAU will present its award-winning multi compartment rigid truck that features SmartOpen-C, a roller shutter opening that offers wider load volumes, greater efficiency and speed, and Citylight, a 100% LED-lit upper ramp with flush integrated working lights and scrolling warning lights.

Vehicle bodybuilder Paneltex will exhibit two flagship vehicles: a Paneltex Somers Ford Transit featuring a fold-back freezer door; and a range-topping 7.2-tonne IVECO Daily featuring a 16ft refrigerated box body compliant with ATP Class C standards.

Five vehicles will be on display at the Cold Consortium’s stand, including a Volkswagen Crafter CR35 medium wheelbase panel van with a Deep-Freeze conversion and GAH refrigeration system, and a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van with medium wheelbase, chill conversion and Webasto-DIAVIA fridge system, equipped with the unique Cold Consortium-designed and manufactured Meat Hoist, which is being officially launched at the show.

Visitors to SSI SCHAEFER’s stand will see examples of storage equipment for both frozen and ambient environments, and learn about Orbiter, a high-density storage and retrieval system, and the company’s Warehouse Management System, which provides real-time information and high levels of transparency.

Materials handling specialists UniCarriers will demonstrate a heavy duty cold store reach truck, that features a heated cab, while Monaghan-based Aisle-Master will exhibit a cold store model from its articulated Very-Narrow-Aisle (VNA) forklift range, designed for space saving storage and handling whilst offering the highest level of operator comfort.

its portfolio of new-builds, extensions, refurbishment and fit-out projects.

Construction fi rm Chalcroft, which has a particular specialism in coldstore facilities for food and beverage, will be showcasing

To register for the exhibition or for more information on the seminar programme please visit www.tcsdshow.com.

Additional IVECO vehicles will be on display at the manufacturer’s dedicated stand – the fi rst time the Italian commercial vehicle manufacturer has showcased its products at the UK’s only dedicated cold chain event.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

Text: Rob Van Dieten - rob@fleet.ie

48 | FUEL PRICES (WEEK 34) Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Albania

ALL

172.00

-

169.00

Lithuania

EUR

1.099

1.168

0.999

Andorra

EUR

1.048

1.098

0.889

Luxemburg

EUR

1.118

1.199

0.968

Austria

EUR

1.151

1.305

1.069

Macedonia

MKD

62.00

63.50

48.00

Belarus

EUR

0.550

-

0.568

Moldova

MDL

16.95

17.51

14.75

Belgium

EUR

1.378

1.454

1.303

Montenegro

EUR

1.220

1.290

1.090

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.15

2.25

2.10

Netherlands

EUR

1.622

1.745

1.272

Bulgaria

BGN

2.09

2.35

2.07

Norway

NOK

15.97

16.96

14.75

Croatia

HRK

9.18

9.72

8.57

Poland

PLN

4.44

4.71

4.25

Czech Republic

CZK

27.90

29.30

27.55

Portugal

EUR

1.483

1.522

1.267

Denmark

DKK

10.09

10.52

8.19

Romania

RON

4.30

4.52

4.56

Estonia

EUR

1.159

1.209

1.139

Russia

RUB

40.69

-

38.36

Finland

EUR

1.449

1.524

1.251

Serbia

RSD

141.90

-

146.90

France

EUR

1.366

1.415

1.216

Slovakia

EUR

1.144

-

0.997

Georgia

GEL

2.09

2.19

1.89

Slovenia

EUR

1.256

1.351

1.180

Germany

EUR

1.306

1.477

1.113

Spain

EUR

1.186

1.328

1.084

Greece

EUR

1.459

1.695

1.211

Sweden

SEK

13.52

14.12

13.15

Hungary

HUF

339.00

-

376.00

Switzerland

CHF

1.440

1.530

1.530

Ireland

EUR

1.329

-

1.199

Turkey

TRY

5.20

5.21

4.61

Italy

EUR

1.539

-

1.384

Ukraine

UAH

24.57

25.70

21.89

Kazakhstan

KZT

150.00

164.00

129.00

UK

GBP

1.161

1.262

1.170

Latvia

EUR

0.999

1.059

0.929

USA

USD

0.630

-

0.686

RSA’s CVORI with the Fleet Manager & Assetminder

A

ccording to a recent survey conducted among Fleet Managers, they are being inundated with an increasing amount of paperwork; driver daily inspection sheets, workshop inspections, job cards, etc., all of which have to be stored for up to 18 months.

All of this translates into an unsustainable amount of time spent on administration, but it also opens the door to errors, such as incorrectly completed inspection sheets or missing documentation.

Adding to the pressure on Fleet Managers is the recent announcement that the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is implementing a risk rating system for heavy commercial vehicle operators.

The risk rating system, which is called CVORI (Commercial Vehicle Operator Risk Indicator) aims to improve the safety of heavy commercial vehicles on our roads, making journeys safer for all, and applies to all operators of trucks, trailers, buses and ambulances.

operators should be inspected.

Operators having a Red rating can expect to have a higher number of inspections from the RSA than those having a lower or Green rating. All of this adds up to more paperwork and administration for the Fleet Manager.

Moving to a web-based system such as Assetminder, to manage maintenance on a transport fleet is estimated to save on average, up to 30 hours of administration time every week, compared to a spreadsheet/paper-based system.

Most importantly, the time saved by moving to a web-based system can now be spent on a more proactive approach to fleet maintenance, which in turn means that operators can be confident that their fleets are 100% compliant, and their risk rating will always be green.

The aim is to minimise inconvenience to compliant operators and focus enforcement efforts on those operators most likely to be non-compliant and pose a high road safety risk.

Operators are given a risk-rating assessment for road safety compliance for both roadworthiness and driver hours requirements. The risk-rating assessments are based on data collected by the RSA on a 3-year rolling period, with risk-ratings continually updated each week. The RSA will use the CVORI risk rating system as a tool to help decide which FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

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50 | HEALTH MATTERS

Drivers, Alcohol and the New Guidelines

D

eath and illness from traumatic injury are by far the most significant health consequences of alcohol

use.

Alcohol abuse is related to all kinds of trauma and injury - it increases the risk for many chronic health events such as diseases and cancers, and it also can lead to acute consequences such as traffic accidents.

Drinking an average of 25 grammes of alcohol a day (about 3 glasses of wine) significantly increases the risk of cancers in the mouth, throat, stomach and bowel.

On the other hand an irregular pattern of binge drinking can cause sudden death due to a heart attack or a major stroke.

An unexpected finding in alcohol research was that low to moderate alcohol consumption was associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease than that in non drinkers - the lowest level of heart disease came with 20 gm of alcohol a day - two and a half glasses of wine a day. (Do you weigh up the chance of cancer against that of heart disease?)

Alcohol misuse is a major problem in our FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

society. Over the last number of years the average consumption of alcohol has increased considerably, with more people drinking in a harmful manner. Th is is reflected in the increased number of attendances at our Accident & Emergency Departments all over the country. A great number of attendances at these departments are associated directly or indirectly with problem drinking.

We are all aware that alcohol is associated with increased risk of injury in a wide variety of situations - motor vehicle crashes, cycling and pedestrian accidents, and of course interpersonal violence and self-infl icted injuries including suicide.

It has also been found that the presence of alcohol in the body at the time of the injury is associated with greater severity of injury and less positive outcomes.

The reasons for this are obvious. Even small doses of alcohol have effects on the brain, interfering with reaction time, the processing of information, muscle coordination, watchfulness and caution. An experienced driver will not have as adverse an impact from the alcohol on his/her performance as an inexperienced one, and it has been found

that the fatal crash risk for drinking drivers aged between 16 and 19 years is higher than the risk for any other age group.

Th is is due to the fact that younger drivers have a lower tolerance for alcohol combined with relative inexperience in driving.

With alcohol being consumed in large quantities almost everywhere in the world the disease of alcoholism is becoming more widespread. This is a chronic ailment with an insidious onset and the risk of developing it is directly related to the amount of alcohol consumed. It is found to impair intellectual function, memory, judgement, and of course physical skills.

When alcohol is consumed, it is absorbed much more rapidly than it is eliminated therefore continuous drinking over a short period of time leads to its accumulation in the body. It is important to be aware of these facts because there are conditions involving alcohol and drivers of which doctors must take account when issuing a medical certificate of fitness to drive.

Among other concerns around alcohol are fi rstly alcohol misuse and secondly

HEALTH MATTERS | 51 alcohol dependence. Alcohol misuse is when the person drinks much more than the recommended limits of alcohol consumption, thus causing disturbances of behaviour or disease related to the alcoholic intake, and that these factors are such that they are likely to cause the drinker, his/her family or society harm.

Alcohol dependence is seen when the person is so physically and mentally addicted to alcohol that he/she feels the need for it just to survive, are unable to quit or control the drinking, needing more and more to get the same effect. When such a person does attempt to stop drinking they develop nausea, sweating, tremors and acute anxiety.

In April 2014 the Road Safety Authority recommended that Group 1 drivers (those driving cars, tractors or motorcycles) who engage in alcohol misuse must cease driving for at least three months after abstinence or controlled drinking has been achieved.

Group 2 drivers with alcohol misuse (those driving trucks or buses) face more stringent conditions – they must cease driving for at least a year after abstinence or controlled drinking has been achieved.

Alcohol dependence is obviously a much more important consideration and the consequences for drivers are equally more severe: Alcohol dependence in Group 1 - the period of time is six months cession of driving and it must be an alcohol free six months.

With regard to Group 2 drivers - no license will be granted where there is a history of alcohol dependence within the previous three years.

In all these four scenarios the driver is obliged to notify the National Driver Licensing Service (NDLS), and presumably their driving history will be taken into consideration if a licence is ever to be reissued in the future.

The alcohol industry is constantly exhorting us to “ drink sensibly”, but what exactly does that mean? Sensible drinking guidelines recommend a maximum daily level of 3 units for men and 2 units for women - less for women as they suffer greater health damage more quickly than men. (A unit is 8 gm of alcohol and is contained in a half pint of beer, a single measure of spirits, or one glass of wine).

A few things to remember about alcohol: • One unit per hour is the rate of elimination so spread the drinking time.

• A full stomach decreases the absorption of alcohol - have a good meal before you go out or have it with your drink.

Remember it is almost impossible to gauge your “drink driving” limit when you are out having a good time - either have a nondrinking designated driver or be that driver yourself.

Also, remember when obtaining a medical certificate of fitness to drive that one of the duties of the examining doctor is to notify the NDLS regarding a person’s fitness to drive where there is a risk to the public and the driver does not cease driving.

The doctor would have advised the driver in the fi rst place, but if his/her advice is disregarded there may have to be a breach of doctor - patient confidentiality if there is a danger to the driver or to the public at large.

Text: Dr. Betty Maguire contributor@fleet.ie

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52 | REPORT

VanSafe – New programme for when renewing their insurance policy.”

With vans playing an increasing role in delivering consumers’ day-to-day requirements and recognising that currently there are four times as many vans on our roads as there are heavy goods vehicles, any assistance with addressing compliance issues is noteworthy, and particularly with new EU legislation coming down the road.

T

those who wish to achieve compliance. At FTAI, we have the experience and knowledge within the organisation to help operators run a compliant, safe and sustainable van fleet operation.”

In his opening remarks, Gary explained the objectives of VanSafe. “We have set up this scheme to achieve industry recognition for compliant van fleet operators and to help

“Th rough our work with the enforcement authorities such as the Road Safety Authority, Health & Safety Authority and An Garda Síochána we were encouraged to set up a scheme for operators of light to small commercial vehicles along the same lines as our successful HGV accreditation programme. Indeed, the insurance sector has also supported this initiative and encourages fleet operators to participate in the VanSafe scheme and use it as a risk management tool

he first of a series of Regional Seminars around the country to promote VanSafe, the new programme from the Freight Transport Association Ireland (FTAI) was held in Galway in July. The representation trade association has now broadened its portfolio by introducing VanSafe “to drive compliance standards and professionalism within the van fleets,” as described by Gary Green, the FTAI’s Business Services Manager who chaired the session.

“The European Union proposes to bring small to light commercial vehicles into scope for operator licensing rules, this would mean that companies must have funds available for the vehicle fleet they operate, currently set at €1,800 for the fi rst vehicle and €900 for each subsequent vehicle. In fact, the FTAI is lobbying against this. VanSafe is the fi rst step towards demonstrating to the relative authorities that there should be no need for an EU ruling on this as we can demonstrate compliant van operators through VanSafe.”

In describing VanSafe, Gary explained that it is membership based on achieving accreditation through an annual audit. “The audit looks at seven areas:1) Vehicle and equipment maintenance; 2) Safe working environment; 3) Vehicle standards; 4) Vehicle administration; 5) Driver licensing and competence; 6) Driver behaviour; 7) Sustainable operations.

The annual fee of €1,250 includes the audit which also gives access to the FTAI’s membership advice centre, member briefings and access to auditing and training services.

A number of sector-orientated partners have teamed up with the FTAI’s VanSafe programme such as Enprova, Transpoco, insuremyvan.ie, AA Ireland and Merrion Fleet Management, with representatives present at the seminar to address and meet delegates.

A video ‘One fateful day’ reinacted a tragic incident between a van driver and a child and the subsequent consequences at a police station.

Ronan Monaghan, FTAI VanSafe; Ron McNamara, DriverFocus; Shona Farrell, Enprova; Gary Green, FTAI; Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport and Darragh Coen, Merrion Vehicle Leasing.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

On behalf of the FTAI’s media partners, Fleet Transport’s, Jarlath Sweeney, Group Editor

REPORT | 53

r compliant van fleet operators and Chairman of the International Van of the Year jury presented the “Evolution of the Van Species,” chronicling the history of the light commercial goods carrier of yesteryear to today’s future electronic delivery modules such as all-electric robots and load box pods.

Jarlath also covered the 26-year history of the International Van Award and the more recent establishment of the International Pick-up Award, both titles to be decided upon later this year at the Solutrans Exhibition in Lyon, France.

Seona Farrell, Commercial & Industrial Scheme Manager at Retrofit Energy Ireland Ltd (Enprova) explained about the energy credits available to road transport operators who reduce fuel consumption. The initiative, is Government led with key stakeholder associates such as the Irish Petroleum Industry Association. The scheme is part of a national campaign to reduce Ireland’s overall carbon footprint in order to avoid heavy fi nes to be incurred by the European Union by 2020. With CO2 emissions from transport in general growing by 5% per annum, the required target will be more difficult to be met. What it will mean, according to Seona, is tax equalisation for diesel over petrol. Between now and 2021, expect to see a 2.2 cent increase in the price of diesel per litre per year.

What can businesses or fleets do? Seona answered these questions by saying that fuel savings can be achieved through effective fleet management, driver feedback, ecodriving, aerodynamics, speed limiters, detailed maintenance and investment in new vehicles. Bottom line: Save fuel and get paid. Accurate records must be kept by the operator, which will be audited by Enprova. To help with the process, a new ECOfleet.ie App has been developed. A Performance Certificate has also been created, designed to show clients how well fuel usage is managed.

take on the broad issue that is duty of care, risk assessment and evaluating benefits.

works better. Then review outcomes versus objectives, share the success,” he advised.

Ron emphasised the ‘cost of doing nothing’ from both a driver and vehicle perspective.

“Leadership buy-in is a must, line managers need to be involved, staff motivated to perform, and culture developed to support change. Communication should be clear and consistent, the objective is to raise awareness, remind staff to do the right thing, also listen and encourage feedback. Continuity is key, keep it going – a drip-drip approach

DriveNtell is DriverFocus’ connect system, described by Ron, “It’s like Fitbit for your company vehicle.” Basically, DriveNtell is a modular, driver-friendly App and Cloud based system that helps reduce running costs and risks. The device is non-tracking, is simple to set up, raises awareness and offers personalised tips together with capturing mileage automatically.

Ron McNamara from DriverFocus, in highlighting what his company is about, displayed a number of high profi le transport companies and operators as customers of the connected and responsible driving programme. “DriverFocus provides App and Cloud-based services that help employers significantly reduce costs and risks associated with driving for work.” He had an interesting Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

54 | SAFETY MATTERS

Safety Matters . . . Safety Matters . . .

Fatigue is a factor in 1 in 5 fatal collisions on Irish roads •

E

uropean research indicates that driver fatigue is a major factor in 1 in 5 commercial transport crashes in Europe and that more than half of long–distance truck drivers have at some time fallen asleep at the wheel.

At-work drivers are at high risk of driving tired: • 1 in 10 at-work drivers admit to having fallen asleep at the wheel, compared with 1 in 20 drivers who don’t drive for work.

• 50% of at-work drivers get behind the wheel after less than five hours’ sleep, compared to 35% of drivers who don’t drive for work.

These types of crashes typically involve vehicles running off the road or into the back of another vehicle. They tend to be highspeed crashes, because drivers do not brake before crashing, so the risk of death or serious injury occurring is greater than in other types of crashes.

Driver fatigue results in slower reaction times, diminished steering performance, difficulty keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front, increased tendency to withdraw mentally from the driving task and ultimately a greater chance of falling asleep.

Factors which increase the risk of an at-work driver being involved in tiredness-related crash include: • Lack of sleep due to: disturbed sleep, for example, caused by a baby, stress or domestic problems, or due to sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnoea.

• Poor journey planning and scheduling: Long driving times and short or infrequent rest periods leads to fatigue. Meeting any legal minimum requirements relating to driving times and rest periods may not be enough to prevent fatigue.

• Time of day: The most common times for drivers (with normal sleep patterns) to fall asleep are early morning (2am-6am) and early afternoon (2pm-4pm) when the body clock ‘dips’.

• Stress: A typical symptom of stress due to work or home life pressures is tiredness.

• Irregular sleep patterns: this can be a problem for shift drivers who switch regularly from day to night shifts without having sufficient time off in between for their body clock to adjust.

• Medication: Both prescription drugs, including some antiFLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

depressants and over-the-counter drugs can cause drowsiness and impaired alertness.

Vehicle engineering: Vehicles are often quieter and more comfortable than they used to be, meaning drivers might be more relaxed when driving. As well as this, driving can have a lulling effect, particularly in vehicles fitted with comfortenhancing features, such as cruise control.

Fatigue warning signs Falling asleep at the wheel is preceded by warning signs that can and should be acted on. Research shows that normal sleep does not occur without warning and is preceded by a period of increased sleepiness. Most drivers are aware of the warning signs, but fail to take appropriate action. Warning signs include: • increased difficulty concentrating • yawning • heavy eyelids and eyes starting to ‘roll’ • neck muscles relaxing, making the head droop • microsleeps - occur when someone nods off for up to 30 seconds without realising Preventing fatigue Driver advice starts with gett ing enough sleep before any journey, not sett ing off if tired, and complying with sensible rules on shift length and regular breaks. In the event of fatigue at the wheel, however, it is important that drivers know to stop somewhere safe as soon as possible. Sleep academics have found that stopping and then having just a 15 minute sleep or even light snooze (sett ing an alarm fi rst) can alleviate fatigue enough to continue driving for a short time, although drivers should not drive if they still feel tired.

They have also found that drinking a high-caffeine content drink just before sleeping can also help (because the caffeine takes effect after a short sleep). Th is advice is useful for long-distance drivers, although for some drivers it may be more challenging to follow (for example, drivers who do not drink caffeine, and drivers who fi nd it harder to sleep in their vehicles).

The highest-risk group is overweight middle-aged men, although it can affect other groups too. If you think a driver may have sleep apnoea, they should be required to see a doctor immediately for diagnosis. Sleep apnoea is treatable, and if left untreated can increase the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart attacks, as well as driver fatigue crashes.

For more detailed information on Fitness to drive considerations for driving for work refer to the Driving for Work Driver Health Guidelines at htt p://drivingforwork.ie/wp-content/ uploads/2016/09/Driving_for_Work-Driver_Health_Guidelines. pdf More general information on driver fatigue is available at www.rsa.ie and the BRAKE Fit to Drive report at http:// brakepro.org/assets/docs/practitionertools/Fit_to_drive_guidancereport. pdf?mc_cid=d978bcb342&mc_ eid=e304e2696b

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56 | PICTORIAL

Convoy in the Park at the ‘home of truck racing’

I

nteresting to see the emergence of additional truck shows on both sides of the Irish Sea. Latest to arrive into an already busy summer schedule is Convoy in the Park, organised by Road Transport Media, (publishers of Commercial Motor, Truck & Driver and Motor Transport) and held at Donington Park. The weekend event on 22/23 July proved to be an instant success as the whole package put together for visitors was hugely entertaining.

Thousands of truck drivers, truck show

enthusiasts and families gathered at the famous Derbyshire motor-racing circuit. On track activity was one of the big att ractions with truck racing and various car classes raising pulses as they careered around the circuit.

As the British Truck Racing Championship (BTRC) reached its halfway point, it is worth noting that Donington hosted the UK’s first ever HGV race back in 1984. Show visitors were not only thrilled to see these high horsepowered race trucks thunder around

the corners but also get to see them (and their drivers) close up on the Paddock. A selection of well-prepared MAN, Scania and Iveco trucks featured prominently in the First Division series with an American styled bull-nosed Volvo VN and Freightliner mixing it with the best.

All around the circuit, a trade stand selection att racted the top brands while there were near 1,000 gleaming show and working trucks on site. Fleet Transport was there too taking in all the activities.

DAF Trucks promoted the new XF Series in RHD

Iveco had a presence through its biggest UK dealer Guest Trucks

MAN showcased its latest generation models

Scania had its award winning S-series as a showstopper

Renault Trucks had tippers and the Range T High in RHD

Kelsa always manages to further enhance cab designs

Mercedes-Benz had a fi ne display of its commercial vehicles

Manitou is a regular exhibitor at Truck Shows with its truck-mounted forklift

Montracon trailers celebrated 40 years in business this year.

E BMI trailers were displayed with some of its customers' liveries

LDV vans were well represented F FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

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

EUROPE KORTRIJK www.busworldeurope.org

The other Busworld exhibitions:

LATIN AMERICA MEDELLÍN 05-07.12.2017 TURKEY IZMIR 19-21.04.2018 INDIA BENGALURU 28-30.08.2018

20-25 OCT 2017

RUSSIA MOSCOW 23-25.10.2018 EUROPE BRUSSELS 18-23.10.2019 www.busworld.org

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58 | FUELS

Topaz miles - better cleaner fuel can

I

f you’ve visited a Topaz fuel station recently you may have spotted some new branding bearing the word ‘miles’. No, it isn’t a campaign by Ireland’s largest fuel supplier to revert to imperial units of measurement, rather it represents a significant investment in an enhanced fuel that promises real savings in your pocket. Miles fuels, Topaz claims, can deliver up to 3% improved fuel efficiency in diesel and petrol engines. Whether a private car owner or operator of a large fleet of commercial vehicles, that’s a claim that will grab the attention of any vehicle user.

The new fuels use unique blends of additives developed by global fuel lubricants developer Lubrizol that not only deliver up to 3% better fuel efficiency, but offer enhanced engine cleaning and protection, provide better engine efficiency and improve reliability, as well as reduce harmful exhaust emissions.

“Miles has received the Quality Approved endorsement from AA Ireland, so customers can rest assured their fuel is assessed to the highest standards and they are getting the best available on the market,” explained Gordon Lawlor, Fuels Director, Topaz.

The company is investing significantly in its new products, with €6 million set aside by Topaz to introduce the miles fuel brand. It includes an investment across all areas including marketing, forecourt renovations and new pump installation. The rollout includes TV, radio, outdoor, digital, print media and PR and social media promotion.

Separately the company is also undertaking an update of its extensive network of over 440 stations the length and breadth of Ireland. €12 million has already been spent on replacing pumps, with the same amount to be invested again over the next four years. These upgrades provide 40 litre per minute dispensing capabilities while selected pumps will be capable of delivering up to 120 litres per minute. A further €120 million is being spent on upgrading and replacing underground tanks that will allow for different grades of fuel to be sold.

Delivering the new miles fuel to its network is a new fleet of fuel distribution trucks. Including 30 new tankers, 22 of these are FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

supertankers, which cannot put wrong fuel in tanks and are faster to empty.

In due course the Topaz name itself is set to disappear, as parent company Alimentation Couche-Tard intends to rebrand it as Circle K in line with other markets.

Lubrizol - making your fuel go further To find out what is behind Topaz’s bold claim of up to 3% improved fuel efficiency, Fleet Transport visited the UK headquarters of Lubrizol in Hazelwood, Derbyshire to get an understanding of the science behind the technology.

Part of the Berkshire Hathaway group of companies, Lubrizol is the largest developer of fuel additives in Europe. In fact, one out of every three vehicles on the road uses Lubrizol products. Lubrizol technology can be found in everything from shampoos and soaps, to medical applications, clothes, and even electronic devices and plumbing systems.

The Hazelwood facility, with approximately 400 employees, has been in existence since 1947 and focuses on testing and development of additives for fuels. It features state of the art testing facilities, and undertakes thousands of tests and blends every year, of which only a very small percentage make it through to actual production. That said, since 1998 Lubrizol’s Hazelwood facility has been awarded 128 patents for its products, highlighting the contribution the company has made to enhancing fuel quality over the years.

So why use fuel additives? One very major reason is emissions and resultant deaths from air pollution - research has shown that exhaust emissions were responsible for 5.5 million deaths worldwide in 2013.

Lubrizol representatives highlighted that while great steps have been taken in Europe in recent years to improve emissions, many global regions still exist where market fuel quality is far behind.

Additives can be added at various stages to fuel, including at the refinery, at the terminal or at the service station. In Topaz miles’ case,

FUELS | 59

reduce running costs by up to 3% the multi-functional additives are put in at the refinery.

Lubrizol representatives explained that fuel additives improve fuel quality, vehicles operation and long-term maintenance costs, eliminate possibilities of customer complaints, increase customer satisfaction and enable vehicle and engine technology to reach maximum potential.

Solutions for diesel and petrol power units Some of the components used in additives are common for petrol and diesel engines including deposit control additives, emulsifiers, antioxidant, anti-static, anti-corrosion and solvent components. Others are unique to petrol or diesel engines.

Deposit Control Agents (DCAs) are among the most important ingredient in diesel and petrol engines. They are primarily designed to prevent and remove deposits which lead to a range of engine performance issues including reduced power and fuel economy, increased emissions, impaired vehicle drivability, and increased maintenance costs. Deposit formation leads to sticking caused by reaction of hydrocarbons, adsorption of gaseous components and condensation of gaseous components. DCAs help maintain clean injectors for diesel engines, giving better cold starts As modern diesel engines have become more sophisticated, so the requirements of fuel have become greater, with direct injection engines operating in a much more severe environment compared to old injection systems. For instance, a modern injector port size is approx 100 microns - one human hair width. Not surprisingly such systems are more susceptible to a wider range of deposit problems leading to poor drivability.

The new miles diesel contains a new and improved package of additives that prevent the build-up of deposits and optimise combustion at the high injection pressures that modern diesel engines operate at.

It contains up to 7% biodiesel to reduce life cycle greenhouse gas emissions, and has very low sulphur content. The multifunctional additive also protects against rust on all metallic surfaces in the fuel system. In addition, miles diesel contains Cetane improvers which enhance the ignition properties of the diesel, which in turn contributes to improve the cold start properties of the engine, gives optimal combustion, lower emissions and reduced knock and noise. Other properties are reduced foaming when filling the tank, resulting in faster filling times, as well as improved storage durability.

Petrol Changing technology in petrol engines is also leading to differing requirements from fuel suppliers. Traditional Port Fuel Injection (PFI) systems tend to have fewer inlet valve deposit issues when using good quality fuel, but on the downside have increased fuel consumption, overall higher emissions and a lower power density.

The advent of newer Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines give more power from smaller capacity units, as well as lower overall emissions and better fuel economy, but are more prone to deposits that can build up on inlet valves causing blockage.

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

Gordon Lawlor, Fuels Director, Topaz

Topaz’s miles unleaded 95 contains a high-tech multi-functional additive that cleans vital engine parts, but also contains a friction-reducing component that lowers the friction and reduces wear of engine parts that the engine oil has a difficulty to lubricate. The additive keeps the valves and nozzles clean, even under difficult operating conditions such as idling for a long time, short drives and cold starts.

Extensively Tested Extensive testing by Circle K was undertaken before the new miles petrol and diesel fuels were put on sale, using a company in Poland called BOSMAL Automotive Research and Development Centre - used by leading oil companies and vehicle manufacturers. All the tests were in accordance with strictly defined methods and procedures including the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) and WLTC (Worldwide harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycles). Exercises included type approval tests, engine test stands, and real-world driving tests.

The tests, which included a range of engines types, ages and mileage, took place over a number of months and covered up to 120,000 kilometres, with results demonstrating the 3% improved fuel efficiency in both diesel and petrol engines, while keeping engines as close to original quality as possible Real world testing for commercial vehicles Separate testing was undertaken specifically for commercial vehicles.

Circle K enlisted the support of a major distributor in Denmark, supplying miles fuel for a fleet of 93 vehicles, operating a varied series of routes. Tested over a 9-month period, the drivers involved were not aware they were part of the test exercise.

In total, the test covered 11.2 million km with nearly 4.3 million litres of diesel consumed. Factoring in variables such as temperature changes over the time period, the test results showed that the fleet used 33,0000 litres less fuel - equivalent to 0.6% of the total - than before. Broken down this gave an average saving of 2.3% on a heavy-duty truck “The rollout of miles in Ireland, and the significant investment in the brand, represents a commitment to innovation, and to providing customers with the best quality fuel products in Ireland,� explained Gordon Lawlor of Topaz. Certainly that 3% claim is one that will catch the eye of hard pressed road transport operators. www.fleet.ie

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Fleet Car Awards 2018 -

H

Winners to be unveiled ahead of Fleet Transport Awards on 28 September

onouring the best corporate and fleet cars on sale today, the winners of the 2018 Fleet Car Awards will be unveiled at a special ceremony at Citywest Hotel, Dublin on 28 September ahead of the Fleet Transport Awards gala evening. Up for grabs are prestigious prizes recognising best in class winners in six categories namely; C-Segment, D-Segment, Crossover, Premium, Executive and Irish Green Fleet.

Having whitt led down an original long-list of over 150 eligible vehicles to just 35, judges spent additional time in July test-driving the shortlisted contenders and assessing their suitability for corporate and fleet buyers before submitt ing their fi nal scores.

Now in their 7th year, this is the fi rst time that the Fleet Car Awards winners will be announced in conjunction with the Fleet Transport Awards, and will add further drama and excitement to what is already the major event for the transport industry in Ireland.

www.fleetcar.ie

Car AWARDS 2018

Rewarding innovation in the Corporate Car Sector Date: Thursday 28 September 2017 - Venue: Citywest Hotel, Dublin.

fleetMaritime: IRISH SHIPPING & FREIGHT

MARITIME I | 61

Compiled by Howard Knott Edited by Jarlath Sweeney email: maritime@fleet.ie

Volume 12, No. 3 Autumn 2017

There’s something familiar about Sea Partner

U

nlike previous vessels featured in this series, Sea Partner has never actually been rostered to sail on the Irish Sea. However a driver boarding her or watching her from a Black Sea beach might be forgiven for thinking that there is something very familiar about this ship. Not just the profi le, even the colour scheme would remind one of at least two other vessels that spent a number of years on Irish Sea routes.

Sea Partner is one of a series of 11 Searunner vessels built during 1978 and 1979 in South Korea by Hyundai Marine for Stena Rederi, the ship owning arm of the Stena Group, all of which entered service in European waters.

Her ownership remained within that Group for most of her career. While she is currently in operation on the single vessel Stena route between Karasu near Istanbul in Turkey and Chornomorsk (formerly Ilichevsk) in Ukraine, Searunner, during her career, Sea Partner ran on a variety of services for other Shipping Lines.

In the North Sea, she ran services for Townsend Thoresen European Ferries, Cobelfret Ferries and P&O European ferries. In 2002, she came under the direct ownership of Stena Line and was re-named Stena Partner to open the Black Sea service in conjunction with a local operator. In 2010 ownership passed to Partner Sia and her name was changed to the present Sea Partner.

Sea Partner

Global Freighter

In the period 2007-2008, P&O European Ferries operated a sister vessel to the Stena Partner, the Global Freighter on its LiverpoolDublin route. Perhaps though, the most recognised sister in these parts is the one that went to the scrapyard in India in 2011. Best known as the Pavilion, she was introduced to the Irish Sea in 2001 as the European Diplomat. Most of her earlier service had been on North Sea routes operating under the name Baltic Ferry, though in 1982 she and two similar vessels were requisitioned by the UK Ministry of Defence in pursuing the Falklands War. There she supplied fuel and munitions to a fleet of Harrier jump-jets which operated from her upper deck.

In 2003, she moved to Rosslare to open P&O Ferries’ fi rst direct Ireland/France route, running here until 2005. At that point P&O pulled back a number of routes on the Irish Sea, and the vessel, with the service, was sold on to Celtic Link Ferries.

She operated there until 2010 when she was displaced by the Celtic Horizon, whereafter she was chartered out to take up a season’s service in the Caribbean before sailing on to the breakers.

Sea Partner is one of the last two of the eleven sisters remaining in active service and there are no indications from Stena that she will be replaced anytime soon.

CSM Peking

The Black Sea route involves a 24-hour sailing time and Stena market the vessel as being: “suitable for a wide range of different cargo types as accompanied, unaccompanied units, high, heavy and project cargo.” Passenger capacity is limited to 166.

Diplomat

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“Making Waves For Generations”

FLEETMARITIME | Autumn 2017

62 | MARITIME II

Windjammer taken home on a heavy lift vessel

T

he four-masted windjammer Peking left New York on 21 July aboard the Combilift company’s 11,000 tonne deadweight semi-submersible vessel, Combi Dock III headed for Hamburg. There she will become the centrepiece of Hamburg’s new €120 million museum currently under construction.

The Peking is one of the last survivors of one of the most famous windjammer fleets. She was built at the Blohm and Voss shipyard in Hamburg in 1911 to join other similar vessels in the Chilean nitrate and wheat export trades, making a number of voyages each year around Cape Horn until being retired to become a training vessel in 1932. Following war service with the Royal Navy the Peking sailed to New York and from 1976 until 2016, she was part of the South Street Seaport museum there. By then her hull condition

had deteriorated and the museum decided to dispose of here for scrap. However, the City of Hamburg, anxious to get a vessel to represent one of the city’s most famous shipping companies, funded her purchase and the restoration work needed to enable her to be loaded aboard the heavy lift vessel for the transatlantic passage. Alexandre Poirier, a naval architect and project engineer for the Peking at the Hamburg Maritime Foundation said; “It is not particularly heavy relative to, say, a military vessel, but it is long and fragile. It has three to four millimetres of hull plating left at the waterline out of an original thickness of fi fteen millimetres or more.” On the heavy lift vessel, the ship was supported by seventy bottom and side support structures.

The restoration of the Peking is estimated to take three years and then she will be in a museum, but not seaworthy condition.

Deep Sea container shipping rates continue to slip back

L

eading Supply Chain advisor, Drewry, has reported that overall container shipping rates have continued to fall back from the heights reached during Spring 2017, though they are still considerably higher than the rates at the same point in 2016. Therefore, while in the week to 13 July 2017, overall quay to quay rates for shipping 40ft. laden containers slipped by 2.1%, they are still up by 13% from the same week last year.

On the export side out of Europe the annual increase has been much larger, with an average Rotterdam to Shanghai rate now standing at US$ 1,362, a 119% increase on the rate a year earlier.

The Rotterdam to New York rate has, on the other hand dropped by 8% over the year to US$ 1,717. The westbound transatlantic rates are now running at about three times the rate for a container coming eastbound while on Europe/Asian routes the rates are very much closer to being in balance.

In a separate study Drewry reports an unexpected development of services offering sailings direct from Indonesian and other countries deemed to be secondary markets, to Europe. These services replace

the feeder vessel and hub services offered in recent years. The direct services make use of smaller vessels that would have been displaced from the main-line services by the arrival of the Ultra Large Container Ships. Use of the direct vessels should facilitate faster and more economical door to door transport, cutt ing out the delays that can arise when containers are being transhipped from feeder to deep-sea vessels and vice versa.

Kuehne + Nagel discloses CO2 emissions

G

lobal Freight Forwarder Kuehne + Nagel has expanded its sustainability offering for its sea freight services.

Starting in May 2017, the total amount of CO2 emissions generated by sea freight shipments is printed on each invoice assisting shippers to identify their carbon footprint from transport operations.

With this programme Kuehne + Nagel customers are able to

improve the analysis, reporting and management of CO2 emissions caused by their transport chain and thereby achieve long-term reduction of the environmental impact. For the calculation of the shipment CO2 data imprinted on its freight invoice, Kuehne + Nagel is using the data of its online Global Sea Freight Carbon Calculator (GSCC), providing instant overviews of CO2, SOx and NOx emissions for FCL and LCL movements from door-to-door.

The FCL port-to-port emission data is compiled by the Clean

Premier European Ferry Crossing Provider 0044 (0) 28 8778 4949 | bookings@derrybros.com | www.derrybros.com FLEETMARITIME | Autumn 2017

“Making Waves For Generations”

MARITIME III | 63

Expansion of Liverpool 2 Terminal gets underway

E

xpansion work at the Port of Liverpool’s Liverpool2 container terminal has commenced. This latest phase of Peel Ports’ f lagship development will include the installation of a further three ship-to-shore cranes (STS) and 10 cantilever rail-mounted gantry cranes (CRMG). These will add to the previous five STS cranes and 12 CRMG cranes installed during Phase 1 which was opened in November last year. On completion in 2019, Liverpool2 will have the capacity to handle the unloading of two 380-metre vessels at the same time and will have significant capacity for reefer container handing in the terminal.

of Liverpool2 and reflects our confidence and our long-term commitment to positioning the North of England as a competitive route to international markets and a major port for global trade,” Mark Whitworth, CEO of Peel Ports, said in a statement.

“This is an important step in the development

Peel Ports sees its Irish and Scottish traffics

as being key to the Port’s development. Its subsidiary BG Freightline operates container shipping services linking Liverpool to Cork, Dublin, Belfast and Greenock carrying a mix of local traffics and deep-sea feeders.

Though the Port is capable of servicing Ultra Large Container Ships, it is unlikely that many of these would choose to operate to an Irish Sea Port due to the deviation from the route to the main Continental centres.

The carriers concerned would find the use of feeder vessels to Ireland and North-west England to be more economical. However, if more services are developed running direct to Europe from smaller Asian locations and using smaller vessels, then calls at Liverpool become a real possibility.

Port of Cork developments power ahead

S

peaking at the IEA Supply Chain Workshop held in Cork on 15 June, Port of Cork Commercial Manager, Captain Michael McCarthy, welcomed the granting of the final planning permissions

by An Bord Pleanála that will facilitate the development of the deep-water facility at Ringaskiddy. Following the completion of the development the Port plans to relocate the European container services from the Tivoli location, and the smaller vessel general cargo operations from the City Quays area. Container capacity at the port will be doubled and feeder and other lines will be able to operate larger and more economical vessels on its Cork services. The revised planning permission would facilitate the handling of vessels of

the terminal area so that this mode can be effectively used to ship cargo to any Irish location.

up to 360 metres long at the Ringaskiddy facility.

Capt. McCarthy also informed the meeting that the Port now has a majority interest in the former IFI location at Marino Point.

Current plans will see this location being developed so as to facilitate the berthing and discharging of Bulk vessels. The facility is rail linked and the Port’s plans include the redevelopment of the railhead within

Cargo Working Group (CCWG), whose shipping line members represent 87% of the global container movements, based on the actual consumption of fuel by each vessel, trade-lane, nominal vessel size and distance travelled.

Otto Schacht, member of the Management Board Kuehne + Nagel International AG responsible for sea freight explained: “Our goal is to raise visibility and awareness of the environmental impact within the sea freight supply chain. Th is will improve decision making with respect to carbon emissions. Due to our global IT operating

Bantry Bay Port, which is a subsidiary of the Port of Cork company, welcomed the arrival on 12 June of the fi rst Cruise Liner to berth there for over 30 years. The cruise activity there is focussed on the smaller boutique and expedition cruises carrying up to 1,000 passengers. They anchor in the sheltered inlet, close to Bantry House. The inner harbour development of pontoons and other facilities for leisure sailing and other activities will also service the tenders bringing guests to and from the cruise vessels. The new facility provides an alternative berthing location to the nearby Glengarriff.

platform, we are able to deliver customised reporting and digital solutions not only in our core business, but also in areas such as sustainability. In order to meet the customer’s own CO2 reduction targets, we can assist with moving the cargo, generating the lowest possible carbon footprint.”

European Shipping and Multimodal Operator, Samskip, introduced its own CO2 calculator during the Multimodal Exhibition in Birmingham in April.

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FLEETMARITIME | Autumn 2017

64 | MARITIME IV

PORT PORTALS Stena Line has purchased the sister-ships, Stena Superfast VII and Stena Superfast VIII from Tallink. The Swedish Line has been operating these vessels based on a charter agreement since 2011, sailing them on the Belfast-Cairnryan route. The company already owns their near-sister ship Stena Superfast X sailing on the Dublin-Holyhead route.

Irish Ferries has sold the Isle of Innisfree ferry to Kiwi Rail. Built in 1995, the vessel operated on the Dublin-Holyhead and RosslarePembroke routes until 2002. Following the arrival of the Ulysses into the fleet she was displaced on the Pembroke route by the Isle of Inishmore. She was chartered to P&O and in 2005 was moved on to the Kiwi Rail company to operate its Picton to Wellington route.

Neptune Line, which runs a weekly service linking Rosslare Eurosport with Santander, is planning to offer space to hauliers to develop an export service from the County Wexford port to Iberia. Irish export volumes to the region are growing steadily particularly in the food and drink area, while the Port of Santander already services substantial ferry traffic to British Ports in particular, while the Port is well connected to the Spanish road and rail networks.

The Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTAS) will conduct a study of the British Landbridge in the context of the forthcoming BREXIT. This study will be completed within a few months and the outcomes will guide the Department in its discussions with the European Commission.

CLdN has confi rmed that the fi rst of its new-builds with a lane metre capacity of 8000 metres will be delivered in November 2017. It is, as yet, unclear on which routes the new vessels will be deployed. The company currently operates five sailings a week from Rotterdam to Dublin and four from Zeebrugge.

COSCO Ports, a subsidiary of the Chinese conglomerate, COSCO Shipping has acquired a majority stake in Noatum Ports Holdings, which operates container terminal facilities in the Ports of Valencia and Bilbao. It will also acquire two inland railway hubs, one of which, NRTZ Zaragoza, is located in one of the biggest rail logistic centres in the Iberian Peninsula. According to the COSCO it is one of the most important intermodal rail hubs of the Spanish general public rail network.

COSCO already operates the major container terminal and related facilities at the Port of Piraeus which is ranked at number 39 in the world container ports league.

Seatruck Ferries has signed a ten-year extension to its operating agreement with Warrenpoint Harbour Authority. Seatruck operates a twice daily Ro-Ro service linking Warrenpoint with Heysham using two 2007-built sister ships, each with a 120-trailer capacity. The Seatruck operation commenced in 1996 and in 2016 the service hit the 100,000 shipments mark for the first time.

Commenting on the extended agreement Warrenpoint Harbour Authority CEO, Peter Conway said: ”Together both companies hope to continue to grow the business and to provide and develop this modern cross channel Roll-on Roll-off service. Seatruck

is the Port’s largest customer and this new deal demonstrated its commitment to the Port and the region for the long term.

As Northern Ireland’s second general cargo Port, Warrenpoint Harbour is a major economic driver for its local region, and its position half way between Dublin and Belfast on the island of Ireland is a major benefit in attracting business. The Port continues to lobby for the construction of the Newry Southern Relief Road to further improve access to the major road network.”

Speaking ahead of the 2017 Cool Logistics Global Conference taking place from 25 to 27 September 2017 in Algeciras, Spain, Director of Cool Logistics Resources, Alex von Stempel has voiced industry concerns at the slow pace of investment by the Ocean Carriers in new refrigerated containers. In 2016 only 75,000 reefer boxes were ordered from the builders compared with the average volume over the last number of years in the range of 100,000 to 150,000. He said that as a result shippers and freight forwarders are becoming concerned that sooner or later they may run out of equipment. The effect of this equipment shortage, combined with the slower than expected realignment of carrier services on all routes handling significant volumes of perishable goods, has become a major concern and may dominate the conference at Algeciras.

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“Making Waves For Generations”

The new MAN TGX.

EfÄciency in long-haul transport.

Call to your nearest MAN Dealer for further details: MAN Importers Irl, Dublin 12. Tel: 01 419 1300 Dennehy Commercials, Limerick. Tel: 061 229900 Cork. Tel: 021 488 3344 MS Commercials, New Ross. Tel: 051 422277

MAN kann

O’Reilly Commercials, Ballinalack. Tel: 044 93 71360 Newtown Trucks, Newtowncunningham. Tel: 074 91 56666 Athenry Truck Centre Ltd., Galway. Tel: 091 849 375 Walker Commercials, Rathcormac, Cork. Tel: 025 87770

66 | TIMES PAST

Guy Commercial Vehicles

G

uyMotorswas one of the many marques that went through a series of take-overs and amalgamations to end up in the ultimately doomed Leyland empire.

According to Peter Davies in his splendid World Encyclopedia of Trucks (Hermes House, 2006), Sidney S Guy resigned from the Sunbeam Motor Company where he was Works Manager in 1914. He then formed his own company, Guy Motors, at Fallings Park, Wolverhampton, which built its first commercial vehicle in that year. Guy Motors went on to produce several series of models which in time included military vehicles, buses, trolleybuses and commercial vehicles. And it is the commercials that have proved particularly elusive for me.

While giving increasing attention to commercials in the 1950s and sixties, the only Guy lorry I ever remember seeing in Dublin belonged to Chivers, the jam manufacturers.

It may have been one of a pair and always managed to evade my camera. Information on commercials was virtually out of reach for Irish vehicle enthusiasts, at that time regarded in some quarters as odd and unpatriotic. This was long before magazines and other publications came on stream and a widespread preservation movement got under way.

Meanwhile, Guy was going from strength to strength, with the weight range of its products escalating spectacularly during the mid-1950s.

The Invincible range appeared, with offerings including 4 x 2, 6 x 4 and 8 x 4 models. With chassis input from AEC, they had Gardner (or Meadows) engines and were well received in the haulage industry. Then in 1958 came the Invincible Mark II, more heavily built and with a cab which was to become a familiar sight on Irish roads. Harris Assemblers, based in the 1960s on the Swords Road at Cloghran, and headed up by the recently deceased Robert ‘Pino’ Harris, became Guy agent and successfully promoted the brand, selling to a wide range of customers.

By 1960 Guy was experiencing financial difficulties, which many have attributed to the development of the revolutionary but sadly unsuccessful Wulfrunian double-deck bus. Whatever the cause, Guy was taken over in 1961 by Jaguar, which invested in the company, from then on known as Guy Motors (Europe) Ltd. The Invincible range FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

Pre-War UK registered Guy

Guy Warrior

Guy 8x4 Tanker

TIMES PAST | 67 continued in production until 1964, when the Big J (J for Jaguar) range appeared, offering the same choice of models as its predecessor.

It had a Motor Panels steel cab and offered Cummins engines as first choice. The Big J sold well in Ireland.

Also in 1964 Jaguar merged with British Motor Corporation, which controlled Austin and Morris commercial vehicles. The new organisation, known as British Motor Holdings, joined Leyland in 1968 to form British Leyland. This giant was now on its way to controlling a vast swathe of the British commercial vehicle industry. The Guy range, whose models competed directly with Leyland, were now about to go the same way as those of other former builders of heavy vehicles already taken over by Leyland, including AEC, Albion and Scammell. And so Guy vanished in 1979. Harris continued to service Guys for as long as parts were available, but the group’s main interest after 1967 was the importation of Hino trucks from Japan in knock-down kit form and reassembled in Dublin.

Beautifully restored Guy Warrior from 1966

Many Guys remained in service for several years after the end of production and I have managed to get pictures of ones that were still at work – and also of some that have appeared at rallies. The accompanying images deserve more mention than a mere caption. Image 1, taken by Sean O’Sulllivan at a Munster rally on 22nd May 2005, shows a pre-War UKregistered Guy of about 1.5 tonne capacity.

Note the radiator cap, more fully described later.

The second image shows 2710 Z, a rather work-worn tri-axle tipper of the Warrior type at Richmond Road, Dublin in March 1979.

In picture 3 and in much better condition is SMO 700F, a splendid eight-wheeled tanker photographed at Newtownards Ulsterbus depot on 26th April 1980. The fourth illustration is of John O’Donovan’s elegantly restored tractor 66 C 821, seen by Sean O’Sullivan at the May 2005 rally. Picture 5 shows Big J 4 tractor 872 CIK, now in the care of the Transport Museum. Once a member of the CIE Road Freight fleet, it passed to Dublin Bus with a semi-trailer to train student drivers.

The last illustration shows the Indian’s Head radiator cap, used by Guy from the 1930s. This device is carried by a Guy bus in the Museum collection but on advice from colleagues in Northern Ireland, it has been placed in safe storage!

Guy Big J 4x2 Tractor-unit

The National Transport Museum Heritage Depot, Howth Demense, Howth, Dublin 13.

Indian’s Head radiator cap, used by Guy

Text & Photos: Michael Corcoran - contributor@fleet.ie

Opening Times: Saturdays, Sundays & Bank Holidays, 2.00 - 5.00pm www.fleet.ie

68 | COMMENT

And the winner is…… A Tin Box!

From where I'm sitting - Howard Knott

Y

ouknowthestory,youaredriving along and start flicking through the radio stations looking for something interesting and then you hit on a discussion that clearly has been going on for a number of minutes, but has more to go. Next thing you arrive at your destination with the discussion still ongoing and finish up frustrated that you have missed both the beginning and the end.

That happened to me one morning with a conversation featuring the author of a book on the inventions that most changed the lives of ordinary folk. A huge range of products were suggested, ranging from electric light, through contraception, washing machines, takeaways and on to motor cars, but none of these was, in the opinion of the author, the winner. In fact the winner was the introduction of the standard freight container.

Some will contend that the freight container was introduced by Hannibal to carry his elephants over the Alps. I’m not so sure about that but we will all have seen pictures of the LMS and other British Railway owned wooden containers introduced during the 1930’s and which could be lifted by rail-yard crane on and off railway wagons and railway owned tractors and trailers. These boxes remained in use throughout the 1950’s before larger versions were introduced by CIE and other rail companies. Similar boxes, and their platform equivalents - the ‘Lancashire Flat’, were

introduced to start the first container shipping services from Drogheda and a number of other secondary ports.

Meanwhile, in 1955, Malcolm McLean, who had previously built up a major trucking business operating several thousand vehicles, bought an old tanker and had a number of 30ft containers built with a view to operating a container based cargo service along the US East Coast. Other people had dabbled in this business before then, but the real magic of his Sealand operation was that all of those years in the trucking business had taught him that these containers must be of standard sizes if they were to be adopted universally.

What never fails to amaze people who operate outside the freight industry is that this insistence on standard equipment sizes is maintained – well, perhaps some equipment is a bit higher or a bit longer, but the lifting and securing points are still at the standard locations on 20 or 40ft long and 8ft wide containers. This holds good as well for bulk tanks, refrigerated boxes and ISO flats, though to watch a container train pass by is to marvel at the range of shapes and colours of those standardised pieces of kit.

The Lift-On, Lift-Off container soon dominated the deep-sea shipping services, bringing with its general introduction a dramatic drop off in the cost of goods from China and elsewhere coming into European

> Your gateway into Europe FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

shops.

Meanwhile the Roll-On, Roll-Off trailer business, itself a product of the standardisation of trailer dimensions, fought back in regional markets. This segment had three main advantages; a) there was a driver taking the trailer and its cargo door-to-door, b) the ship carrying the trailer was perhaps twice as fast as the container ship, and c) the trailers were about six inches wider than the normal container.

The tin box seemed to be out of the game, but it wasn’t long before the pallet-wide container hit the market able to carry the same volume of cargo as the trailer of the same length. The trailers then got longer, in response so did the containers, now reaching 45 feet long but retaining the standard securing positions.

Then in the early 2000s fuel costs rose and Ro-Ro ships throttled back from sailing at 27 knots to about 18 knots, just as the new, larger container ships carrying twice the volume as the Ro-Ro vessels for the same amount of fuel and travelling at about 16 knots, were introduced.

Recent years have seen the incorporation of further new technology, such as real time track and trace using GPS. There might no longer be a driver micro-managing the load, but the cargo owner can do it from the comfort of his/ her office. Meanwhile the costs keep falling.

For certain, the tin box is a winner.

www.samskip.com Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

FINANCE | 69

Simple Keys to Business Success

T

he full impact of Brexit is as yet unknown but it will clearly result in a much altered environment in which to do business with financial institutions. Here are 5 simple business keys to assist your business into an uncertain future.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Clear Financial Plan Clear Financial Information to produce plan Self and Staff Motivation Ability to change Ability to learn

Businesses that have a clear and detailed financial plan for the current year and next financial year, together with a total five year investment/ return strategy, have a clear advantage over companies that have not financially assessed the future direction of the business. Every financial institution is now looking for up to date current financial information along with detailed fi nancial projections going forward. Preparing fi nancial projections in a changing market means that assumptions that make up the figures have to be reviewed regularly. For the business to achieve these projections, assumptions have to be re-evaluated both operationally and fi nancially on an on-going basis.

Businesses that produce detailed and accurate monthly and quarterly financial reports, and have all financial and administrative functions up to date, have a clear advantage when information is sought to produce financial plans. The day to day link of profit and loss and cash flow forecasts is crucial to demonstrate to banks that the business can survive and prosper. Clear information on the profitability of each sector of business, and how margins can be improved by concentrating on business that does not increase fi xed costs but ‘sweats’ assets, is vitally important in an industry where margins are low.

Successful businesses are run and managed by highly motivated owners. A poor manager can do well in a good business but even a good manager can struggle to survive in a difficult business such as warehousing. There are basically two types of management, top down or bottom up - both can be successful. The fi rst is where the owner/ manager runs the business like a dictatorship, staff have clear roles and deviation from the standard is not accepted. This works very well when the owner is present. Staff are comfortable to do as requested but at the end of the day they will not input anything to the business to develop it, and when the owner is not present productivity falls.

Type two is bottom up whereby all staff have input, normally common uniform, regular social gatherings and bringing a genuine ‘big family’ feel to business. Problem is that business needs a boss, and currently with changing economic factors ahead of all of us, a business needs a strong and cohesive management team. Most staff do not like change, in fact they will make change difficult, but if a company is not annually re-assessing all aspects of its business the tide will come in and wash over it. In logistics it is important to focus on core skills when looking at change. Taking on new sectors in the current climate that you do not have knowledge or expertise in, or have operational and fi nancial assets that suit this business is incorrect, but re-assessing sectors that you previously operated in may be far more beneficial. If you are asked where will your warehousing business be in five years’ time an answer that confi rms its profitable Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

existence but with an open mind regarding new sectors of work is the most appropriate.

Looking at profitable businesses the ability of owners and staff to continuously learn is vitally important. It may be the implementation of new technology, or additional professional qualifications to keep the business ahead of the market. It may be a structured regime in the business that allows key staff to keep abreast of business and operational advancements though trade press and seminars. All are key factors in how the business places itself to make profit. Formal education for a doctor or an accountant may stop after seven years, but after those seven years continuous learning is mandatory so as to keep ideas and processes fresh and relevant. Likewise for business owners.

Cawley Commercials Ltd. Drinaghan, Sligo.

Tel: 071 91 69555 / 91 60783 / Fax: 071 91 69500

www.cawleys.ie

Scania & Mitsubishi Dealer Sales, Service & Vehicle Hire VTN Test Centre - HCV & LCV

www.fleet.ie

70 | OPINION

European Competition Authority puts microscope on insurance sector

W

hen the European Competition Authority arrived in Dublin earlier this summer there was a sense - or at least a hope - of sorting out insurance premiums and the companies involved. I am not so sure this will be the case. In the past, it seems that insurance companies have always been able to evade every regulatory probe and efforts to make them accountable. Historically too I would have regarded insurance companies as having been a bit naive when it came to calculating premiums, with there never seeming to be much in the way of risk assessment analysis.

View from the Operators Desk by Sean Murtagh sean@fleet.ie

In the case of road transport firms, no check was ever made regarding maintenance practices, driver selection or training. Ironically the Quinn Insurance Group was the fi rst to introduce these types of risk assessments. Th ings have changed however, and it has now gone to the other extreme.

Many hauliers have gone to great lengths to reduce and quantify their risk for underwriters, however the evidence is that in cases this thoroughness has gone against them. In particular the use of a ‘Non-Disclosure’ clause on proposal forms can in many cases be used in a cynical way to increase premiums. Th is practice would sometimes make the behaviour of budget airlines look fairly meek.

I accept that where somebody has wilfully and purposely made a false declaration to obtain cover in a deceitful manner, there should be consequences. I have long suspected this type of behaviour was often used, but recently became aware of a case which leaves me in no doubt that strong evidence exists to suggest that this practice may frequently be used as an anti-competitive measure. I am of course open to an explanation from the insurance industry to the contrary.

Th is is a brief outline of the set of circumstances that I became aware off. A policy holder on receiving their renewal notice decided to shop around. A substantially cheaper quote was found. A new proposal form was completed, which included the declaration of a small claim from four years previous, with everything seeming to be in order. So the policy holder changed companies, and as it happened brokers.

So far so good. However, eight weeks later they were contacted by the new insurer to say that there had been a ‘non-disclosure’ on the original proposal ascertaining that two claims had not been declared. Naturally the policyholder was somewhat surprised and anxious to see what was behind these accusations.

On investigation, it emerged that one of the claims had never existed and was a clerical error, so that was one problem out of the way. The second was a litt le more complicated. As far as the policy holder was concerned it related to the declared claim, but because it was badly managed by everybody (including the policy holder), the same occurrence appeared as two separate incidents. Incidentally the total amount paid out by the insurer four years previously was cumulatively €3,500.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

The upshot of all of this was that the new insurer issued a sevenday notice to cancel the insurance. In spite of two official appeals and strong intervention from some industry insiders, there was no changing their minds, leaving the policyholder with limited options.

It took strong representation from the original broker to get the original insurers to consider re-quoting. They eventually did, but for more than double the original premium. I have seen the fi le relating to this incident and there is no doubt about the facts. As I said I would welcome an explanation from the insurer in terms of speaking about the way they dealt with a customer, their customer.

Th is sorry tale presents a few questions for the insurance industry and the way it trades. The industry also seems to have access to a lot of policyholders’ information, not given directly to them, but worse still it is produced on a piecemeal basis to ensure maximum disruption and cost to the policyholder. Unless somebody could prove otherwise to me, the actions of the new insurer in this case facilitated the original insurer to get back the business with a 120% increase in premium. One would have to wonder if the favour was paid back.

In all of this saga the only hero was the insurance broker. I have always been careful to separate the role played by brokers as distinct from insurance companies. I am not sure what difference the intervention of the Competition Authority will have as insurers are still a very big lobby group and the Government is far too lenient with them, giving them too much airtime. I quite accept that either of the insurance companies involved may have completely acceptable explanations for their actions, but I would like to hear them.

72 | LEGAL

D0 you remember ‘SWOT’?

S

ome years ago owners of businesses and directors of companies were being urged to give time, on a regular basis, perhaps in the course of a board meeting, to apply ‘SWOT’ to the activities of their company. To consider the Strengths of the activities of their company (S), perhaps more importantly to consider the Weaknesses in the way in which the company operates (W), to look at the Opportunities for increased business or profit (O), and finally to look at any Threats that exists to the company’s continuing operations (T).

Set out in this way most company managers would say, truthfully, that these matters are on their minds on a daily basis, even if each topic does not get direct daily individual attention. Commercial reality tells us that, if a company, whether large or small, intends to increase the size of its business, the considered application of the SWOT principles is essential. It may be that an owner-driver would not be expected to work through these ‘SWOT’ principles in a structured way but, in a larger company, these principles provide an excellent working base for future planning.

On a day-to-day basis examination of a company’s strengths will reflect its relationships with its customers, the location of the company’s premises in relation to the potential market, and the suitability of the premises for its own activities, with the potential to accommodate an increase in the company’s business. It may be that there has been a change in the company’s business which might make it the correct time to consider moving premises.

A company’s weaknesses will primarily reflect its position in the marketplace in which it operates. How good is the service it provides in relation to that provided by its competitors? Are deliveries and collections made on time? Are the company’s vehicles well maintained and well presented? Additionally, are a customers’ goods handled well and safely whilst they are on the company’s premises or can the systems be improved?

The next heading is ‘opportunities’. In the current financial climate it is hard to believe that there is a transport operator who is not looking to increase his/her company’s profitability, but it is sometimes forgotten that the best opportunity may well be with existing customers. The haulier, whether or not an owner-driver, should know how their customer’s business is progressing and should let the customer know that they are interested. The occasional

shared cup of coffee and discussion will often lead to new business opportunities.

There are, of course, and always will be, many threats which arise on a day-to-day basis. It is however any threat to the licence to operate which should always be the major cause for concern. Happily there is a simple way to avoid this type of threat by ensuring that the company, and its drivers, comply with the legislation. Apart from the potential attack on the licence other threats may be fi nancial and largely unexpected.

The fi rst question to be asked is whether or not the drivers know and understand the legislation, and, more importantly, do they realise the effect that an offence may have on the company’s licence to operate. Secondly the operator needs to realise if the drivers really do know and understand the legislation. All drivers of commercial vehicles will have had to have shown some knowledge of the law as part of the process of obtaining a CPC. Once the driver is let loose on the road, with the opportunity to talk to other drivers, that knowledge may become less than accurate.

When an operator employs a number of drivers the occasional halfdays training may be worthwhile, otherwise a careful examination of the printout from the tachograph will show any errors made by the driver.

Other threats may arise from unexpected sources such as the need to replace vehicles which are too old, or no longer suitable for the current work. The sudden need to carry out repairs to the companies’ property, or the unanticipated need to renegotiate a lease may prove to be an unexpected fi nancial threat. Perhaps the need to purchase new equipment to meet the needs of a new contract will require additional fi nance. The fact is that any sudden call on a company’s fi nancial reserves must be seen as a threat to the smooth running of the company.

Although the use of the acronym SWOT may be dated, it continues to be an important management tool.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

Text: Jonathan Lawton - jonathan@fleet.ie

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74 | ADVERTORIAL

Why you need to throw away that DashCam!

Front Camera View

Side Camera View

et’s be clear; having any form of vehicle camera solution in your vehicle is better than having none.

But too often fleet owners are putting their hopes and trust into products that are not fit for purpose and can sometimes cost almost as much as an entry-level multicamera system.

L

Is it recording?

The whole point of having a camera in your vehicle, is to actually have the recording if the worst should happen. But many dashcams do not have a recording status light. So, if an issue has occurred, you’ll never know until it’s too late, unless you manually check SD cards regularly.

So here are a few reasons that show why you should never install dashcams into commercial vehicles:

That may be OK in a private vehicle, but if you need to do it regularly for larger fleets, it becomes prohibitively time consuming.

Things don’t just happen in front of you According to vehicle accident data from the United States in 2005, only 2% of accidents are front-on, while 30% are rearend and 29% are side impact. So, if your fleet is equipped with a single, front-facing dashcam, you are literally missing the point!

Just watch this video (https://vimeo.com/220991829). On it, you see something happen, but you have no idea what has actually happened, basically making this video useless.

But the side camera shows the full story (https://vimeo. com/220991840). Now we can clearly see that the other truck reverses into the parked truck, for no obvious reason.

Remote access With dashcams, getting hold of the video is not always possible, especially if the vehicle is badly damaged and has been towed away. New customers tell us that this is one of the major reasons for them throwing away their dashcams.

Professional vehicle camera systems, as provided by ProVision, allowed the customer above to remotely access the device, locate the video and download what was needed, even with the vehicle ignition switched off!

Tamper-proof Here at ProVision, we have also had many examples of fleet owners approaching us after a dashcam, or sometimes just the SD card, has disappeared! Whether it’s the driver or the thirdparty, this can mean you never get the footage you need.

This can be avoided by having a discreetly installed DVR that holds the footage separately from the cameras.

FLEETTRANSPORT | SEPTEMBER 17

A professional vehicle camera system allows you to see a list of all devices on all vehicles with a visual status next to each, so you only need review those vehicles showing an issue.

One-way street If you invest in a dashcam solution for your fleet, you spend money on a system that can’t grow as your needs do. It’s basically a dead investment.

ProVision sells a single-camera solution, but that solution can be upgraded to up to 5 cameras (or 8 cameras dependent on the base DVR chosen). That means your investment can grow with your needs.

So, DashCam or Professional Vehicle Camera System?

In summary, for commercial fleet applications, dashcams are the wrong choice that can leave you as worse off as not having one at all. That’s why we say, “throw your dashcams away” and choose a professional vehicle camera system to protect your fleet.

SOAPBOX | 75

IRHA brings concerns to the EU in Brussels

A

n intensive two days of meetings were recently under taken by senior representatives from the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) in Brussels with a busy schedule arranged

by IRHA’s EU Representative Tom Antonissen. The delegation, headed by the organisation’s President Verona Murphy, met and talked with just about everyone who either makes the rules we work by, or lobbies to change them on our behalf. Two of our major concerns are with the new ‘Mobility Package’ and the consequences of Brexit. The main purpose of the visit was as Tom put it: “Make friends before you need them.”

In meeting with the International Road Transport Union (IRU) and its new General Delegate to the EU, Matthias Maedge, there was a robust discussion on the concern that the IRU, in trying to fi nd a consensus view of members, ends up with the lowest common denominator. Therefore it has to take a stance or at least acknowledge the differing views. It cannot be everything to everyone. Matt hias acknowledged that on the Mobility Package there is an East - West division with some in betweens. The IRHA’s view is that in Ireland we share the Eastern market's point of view and are rather fed up with Franco-German dominance of road transport legislation. The proposals in the Mobility Package are, in the main, relating to Cabotage and posting of workers, which is totally unacceptable to Ireland.

On meeting with Ireland’s Permanent Representatives to the EU, it was rewarding to hear that the Government’s view of the Mobility Package ref lected the IRHA’s concerns. It is very clear from this briefi ng that anything that adds additional costs to Ireland’s road transport will not be accepted

by Ireland. The All-Ireland Civic Dialogue on Brexit has clearly unified all parties and amongst other things has highlighted our total dependence on road transport and access to our markets. On asking where the guidance was coming from, we were told it was the Department of Transport. That news was the highlight of all the meetings.

The meeting with EU’s DG Move department Text: Jerry Kiersey - jerry@fleet.ie

David McArdle, IRHA; Mairead McGuinness, MEP & Vice-President European Parliamen; Verona Murphy, IRHA President & Sean Kelly, MEP.

was slightly less convivial, and our clear impression was that rather than rowing back on the threats to Freedom of Movement and Access to the Market, the Commission was again trying to fi nd a consensus. Th is approach will inevitably result in even more restrictions on Cabotage, no long rest break by sleeping in the cab, the need for more secure parking to enable the latter, and the application of minimum wage rules. The only positive from the IRHA’s view was the proposed changes to weekly breaks, offering flexibility for drivers to make their way back home for their long break. With the exception of the latter, the rest are what the Franco/ German alliance will agree to – Macron Law etc! We made it clear we are not in favour of it and will oppose all with the exception of tachograph hours change.

We also met Irish MEPs Clune, Kelly, McGuinness, Harkin and Hayes. Deirdre Clune is a rapporteur for the Transport Committee of the Parliament on one of the legislative initiatives within the Mobility Package and as such carries some influence.

However, all were obviously well briefed about the threats both the Mobility Package and Brexit hold for hauliers, and appreciated the meeting with the IRHA allowing them to get even more informed.

Thanks to Tom Antonissen we gained the distinction of being the only national organization to meet with the Commission’s Brexit Task Force, whose official title is “Task Force for the Preparation and Conduct of the Negotiations with the United Kingdom, under Article 50 TEU”. It was made clear to

us that it was only because of Ireland’s unique geographic position that such a meeting was afforded to us, and notwithstanding the fact that one of the officials we met was Irish, the overall feeling is one of great concern towards the predicament Ireland fi nds itself in. They expressed the view that the Irish Government was handling itself exceptionally well in preparing for Brexit, but we also got a clear sense of the frustration of dealing with the UK’s opaque position - or rather lack of it.

On a separate topic, that of the Driver CPC, Tom arranged a meeting with the DirectorateGeneral for Mobility & Transport (DG Move), Head of Unit, Road Safety. The IRHA expressed its disappointment with the proposed changes to the DCPC in not doing enough to overcome its gross defectiveness especially with the seven hours requirement; It did however acknowledge the efforts of the RSA to make it worthwhile through its revision in Ireland.

To sum up, while visits such as these are extremely costly in time for the working Management Team of the IRHA, the appointment of an EU Representative who ‘knows his way around the houses’ ensured that none of that time was wasted. There can be nobody in Brussels now who is unaware of the IRHA’s views on both the Mobility Package itself, and its impact coming at the same time as Brexit, making for a Perfect Storm. Only time will tell, but the IRHA is now in an excellent position to try to avoid its potentially disastrous consequences. www.fleet.ie

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