Fleet World August 2015

August 2015

FLEETW RLD All that matters in the world of fleet

FLEETW RLD

see page 66

FUTURE IMPERFECT

Driven

Why autonomy and hi-tech materials will cause fleets problems

BMW X1 & 3 Series Volkswagen Touran Honda HR-V

PLUS • BVRLA Tech Conference • FIAT’s new fleet plans fleetworld.co.uk

contents August 2015

FLEETW RLD

16

All that matters in the world of fleet

FLEETW RLD

Martin Quail of Alphabet on why it’s important to maintain a fun working environment.

see page 66

FUTURE IMPERFECT Why autonomy and hi-tech materials will cause fleets problems

Driven BMW X1 & 3 Series Volkswagen Touran Honda HR-V

PLUS

18 30

On the road in BMW’s impressive new X1.

BVRLA’s Tech conference looks at the future for fleets.

• BVRLA Tech Conference • FIAT’s new fleet plans fleetworld.co.uk

Publisher Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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Peugeot 306 – the car that firmly restablished the French firm in fleet’s C-segment.

Editor Steve Moody steve@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Deputy Editor Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Business Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Features Editor Katie Beck katie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Fleet Consultant Ross Durkin ross@fleetworldgroup.co.uk VFW Editor Dan Gilkes dan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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Future technology will help avoid crashes, but what else will this mean for fleets?

Sales Director Anne Dopson anne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Sales Executives Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Circulation Manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Designers Tina Ries tina@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Samantha King sam@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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DRIVEN: Mitsubishi L200.

LCV Excellence.

INTERVIEW:

Certified circulation Jan – Dec 2014 18,000

Sign up for the UK’s premier economy driving event

Domenico Gostoli of Fiat Professional.

fleetworld.co.uk / 03

Future nology avoid what e mean

fleetreview This month, editor Steve Moody looks at what the future has in store for the leasing industry... as well as how autonomous vehicles will shape the fleet landscape.

Leaseco sales suggest a bright future...

...HERE sale points to an autonomous future

There was a time when car and van leasing businesses were seen as a good ‘in’ for selling companies’ other financial services, but such is the health and potential growth of the sector that investors are falling over themselves to snap up firms: LeasePlan and GE Capital Fleet Services being the latest two.

Increasingly I think there are mindset shifts occurring in two major areas: consumers are much less likely to want to buy their car outright, even with interest rates at low levels, because cars are not seen as the indulgent luxury purchase they once were, especially by the young. As with everything, they want to pay a monthly fee and hand it back when they don’t want it any more. This trend will only increase and that means strong growth potential for leasing companies in an untapped market.

And with the LeasePlan sale in particular, it looks as though Volkswagen Group is eyeing up huge growth and investment for Volkswagen Group Leasing, its wholly owned business. Like most carmakers, the idea that it controls the first three or four years of the life of its car from production to first disposal brings huge benefits to its whole operation.

It means dealers get a steady supply of controlled used stock and regular SMR work, while production capacity and residual values can be managed.

The fleet industry works best with certainty, and while some might shudder at the thought of increased influence of carmakers in the life of their product a steadier, more predictable sector is to be welcomed.

The near-£2 billion sale of Nokia’s HERE mapping systems to BMW, Audi and Daimler is the next step towards autonomous cars. It provides the type of precise, real-time digital mapping carmakers will need to make their vehicles drive themselves.

But for fleets, as we investigate in this edition, the issues won’t lessen with technology: in fact they could increase in complexity, even if actual numbers of crashes drop. Cars won’t stop hitting things, because the world itself is chaotic and nothing has ever been able to control the random nature of life. But when they do, will there be more ‘stakeholders’ (to use that horribly corporate word) involved?

At the moment, fault is relatively linear: a car fault, or a human fault, one way or the other. But what about the fault of a council whose road has been confusingly laid out? Or a road mender whose signage or lights are wrong? A pedestrian who causes a vehicle to react and creates an accident as a result? Apportioning blame will be far less distinct. Perhaps your legal team will become an essential part fleet management. Now there’s a thought…

04 / fleetworld.co.uk

HERE mapping the future for autonomous driving

Don’t miss out on all the latest daily news! Visit fleetworld.co.uk

Ford NEWS

inbrief S-MAX to offer Speed Limiter technology

New luxury Ford Mondeo Vignale THE new Ford Mondeo Vignale – the first vehicle in Ford’s new Vignale brand - delivers superior refinement including the European debut of Ford’s innovative Active Noise Cancellation technology on diesel models and quilted leather interior.

Hand-finished to customer specifications, the Ford Mondeo Vignale delivers a whisper-quiet, smooth and comfortable ride using sophisticated technologies and an advanced chassis.

Active Noise Cancellation enhances interior refinement, using three cabin microphones to monitor engine noise. Advanced audio technology then directs opposing sound waves through the audio system to cancel out engine noise and improve cabin ambience. Enhanced sound insulation better isolates road noise, and acoustic glass helps reduce wind noise.

Ford’s integral link rear suspension offers a smoother ride and front seat comfort can be optimised by Ford Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion massage function which use 11 inflatable cushions to deliver a massaging effect for thighs and lower back. Industry-first Inflatable Rear Seatbelts improve safety.

Powertrains include Ford’s new 210PS Bi-turbo 2.0-litre TDCi diesel, 240PS EcoBoost petrol, and 187PS petrol-electric hybrid. Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is also available.

A new Vignale Service smartphone app will support customers with services including Vignale Park Me, which allows drivers to record an exact location and time elapsed since parking. The app can also help drivers locate fuel stations, and provides a one-touch connection with emergency services or Vignale OneCall.

Driver assistance technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, SYNC 2, Active Park Assist featuring Perpendicular Parking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Active City Stop and Dynamic LED headlights.

EcoBoost named ‘Best Engine under 1.0-litre’ Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine has received an eighth award in four years at the 2015 International Engine of the Year Awards.

It was named “Best Engine Under 1.0-litre,” based on drivability, performance, economy, refinement and technology – by a panel of 87 automotive journalists, from 35 countries. Last year, the 1.0 litre EcoBoost became the first engine to be named overall International Engine of the Year three times in a row, and was in 2012 named “Best New Engine.”

Ten Ford models in Europe are available with the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, with 100PS, 125PS and 140PS outputs.

For further information on any vehicle in the Ford range please contact the Ford Business Centre on 03457 23 23 23, email flinform@ford.com, or visit www.ford.co.uk/fordfleet

Ford News Feature // 05

THE all-new S-MAX is the first Ford worldwide to offer Intelligent Speed Limiter, a new technology that scans traffic signs and adjusts the throttle to help drivers stay within legal speed limits.

It is one of more than 20 new technologies for the Ford S-MAX, including global debuts for Glare-Free Highbeam and Ford Adaptive Steering. And, for the first time, the Ford S-MAX is available with Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, already available on the Ford Kuga, and now also available on the new Ford Galaxy and Ford Mondeo.

Intelligent Speed Limiter combines the functionality of two Ford technologies, Adjustable Speed Limiter, which enables drivers to manually set a maximum vehicle speed and Traffic Sign Recognition which provides drivers with the latest detected speed limit, cancellation signs and overtaking restrictions via the instrument cluster display.

Among powertrains available for the all-new Ford S-MAX is Ford’s revised 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine with 120PS, 150PS and 180PS. Combined with a six-speed manual gearbox, all three variants offer 56.5mpg fuel efficiency and 129g/km CO2 emissions.

The World of Fleet

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Diesel price dives For the first time since 2001, diesel is cheaper than petrol, with prices in the last month dropping to levels not seen since 2010. With two massive new refineries in the middle east now at full production capacity, experts predict diesel prices will be stay below petrol for the long term.

fleetworld.co.uk / 07

THE NEW BMW 3 SERIES. THE DRIVER’S CAR SINCE 1975.

FROM 99G/KM.

FROM 17%.

UP TO 74.3MPG (COMBINED).

BMW Fleet & Business Sales

bmw.co.uk/business

The Ultimate Driving Machine

The new BMW 3 Series continues the 40 year tradition of always delivering the ultimate driving experience. Fuel consumption and emissions have been reduced considerably, with the new BMW 320d ED Plus Saloon Auto emitting just 99g/km CO2, meaning BIK starts at 17%. All models also feature a high level of standard specification, including BMW Business Navigation, Bluetooth® and Intelligent Emergency Call. BMW xDrive technology has now been introduced to the range, ensuring maximum traction whatever the conditions. So, if you’re looking for the ultimate driver’s car, the next 40 years look just as exciting as the last.

For more information please visit www.bmw.co.uk/3series or call 0800 777 113.

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inbusiness

LeasePlan sold to consortium of investors for £2.6bn

D

utch joint venture Global Mobility Holding BV, which comprises Volkswagen and the Dutch company Fleet Investments BV, have sold their 100% shareholding in LeasePlan to a consortium of investors for €3.7bn (£2.6bn).

Through the joint venture, Volkswagen and Fleet Invest‐ ments BV, an investment company of the German banker Friedrich von Metzler, each held an indirect stake of 50% in LeasePlan.

The consortium is composed of a group of long‐term responsible investors and includes leading Dutch pension fund service provider PGGM, Denmark’s largest pension fund ATP, GIC, Luxinva SA, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), the Merchant Banking Division of Goldman Sachs and investment funds managed by TDR Capital LLP. LeasePlan said the consortium supports its existing long‐ term strategy and growth ambitions and recognises the expertise of its workforce as a key asset for successfully executing this strategy.

Eric‐Jan Vink of PGGM, on behalf of the consortium, said: “As market leader in the global fleet management business,

Endless acquires Kier Group’s FPS division

l

eeds‐headquartered private equity firm Endless has acquired Kier Group's £36m‐turnover fleet and passenger services business for £17.9m in cash in a management buy‐out.

The newly formed company will now trade as Essential Fleet Services (‘Essential’) and it has entered into a new five year agreement to provide Kier with fleet services to its local authority highways and utilities businesses.

Kier said the disposal included the transfer of FPS' finance lease debt of approximately £32m.

The MBO was led by managing director Ray O'Toole and operations director David Liston.

LeasePlan offers an attractive long‐term investment oppor‐ tunity. We are investing in the future of a company with an unmatched portfolio of market‐leading assets, a highly knowledgeable and dedicated employee base and a sound strategy for the future, under highly experienced manage‐ ment. The consortium looks forward to supporting the management team as they focus on growing the business.”

LeasePlan added that it would continue its drive for the delivery of high‐quality fleet management and driver mobility services for its clients.

Commenting on the news, Matt Dyer, LeasePlan UK managing director, said: "This is an exciting development for LeasePlan. One that allows us to continue our growth strategy with our customers at the heart of our business.

This a consortium of long‐term orientated investors who recognise the strengths of LeasePlan as a business and our long‐term strategy. We look forward to this new era for LeasePlan."

Subject to approval by the competent regulatory and anti‐trust authorities, the closing of the transaction is expected by the end of this year.

Government pledges £20m fund for driverless cars R&D

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he Government has pledged £20m to a new R&D fund for driverless cars and launched a new code of practice for trials.

The project will see bidders put forward proposals in areas such as safety, reliability, how vehicles can communicate with each other and the environment around them and how driverless vehicles can help give an ageing population greater independence. Successful bidders will match fund projects with their own money.

The project also sees the establishment of a code of practice to provide the industry with framework in order to safety trial cars and create more sophisticated versions of models that already exist. A new joint policy unit, the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (C‐CAV), will co‐ordinate govern‐ ment policy on driverless cars and connected technology.

O2 partners with Geotab for fleet plug and play telematics

O

2 has partnered with Geotab to add two new products to its Drive from O2 portfolio of products.

The O2 Track and Go and O2 Smart Tracking have been developed to help companies reduce operational costs, enable real time remote vehicle monitoring and monitor driver behaviour, and see Geotab’s specialism in technology and

10 / fleetworld.co.uk

comprehensive motor manufacturer database combined with Telefónica’s experience in telematics.

The two new products offer two different levels of vehicle tracking, enabling rental and leasing company fleet managers to choose the level of data they wish to see to control their fleets.

inbusiness

Fiat’s Focus rival to target fleets F

iat is planning to re-launch its fleet presence with a replacement for the Bravo, set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next March with a focus on user-chooser volume.

Luca Napolitano, head of brand for Europe, Middle East and Africa, told Fleet World that the as-yetunnamed new model would be offered as a hatchback and estate in the UK. Both will be based on the Fiat Aegea Project, a compact saloon unveiled at the Istanbul Motor Show earlier this year.

Production is earmarked for the carmaker’s plant in Bursa, Turkey, and engines will be shared with the 500L. This will include two MultiJet diesel engines and two petrol engines with power outputs between 95 and 120bhp, with fuel economy of over 70mpg from the most efficient version.

It arrives as the manufacturer looks to clearly mark out two ‘families’ within its model range, Napolitano

said. The aspirational family includes the 500, 500L, 500L Trekking and 500X, with a new Spider due also for a 2016 Geneva reveal, sharing its platform with the latest Mazda MX-5. This will enable Fiat to target conquest customers from other brands.

A second family, based on functionality and value for money, will be offered alongside it. This comprises the Panda range, Punto and the new hatchback and estate – and will allow Fiat customers to choose what level of technology and design they require. This could also be expanded to include other bodystyles, Napolitano added, but said it was too early to confirm.

“At the next Geneva Motor Show, we will be expanding both families,” he explained. “We will present a new Csegment car, both hatch and estate, adding to the sedan shown in Istanbul. With this three-body car, we want to enter into the fleet channel. We need a core offering, in the functional segment, with the Fiat brand.”

From Tipo to Bravo 30 years of C-segment Fiats Tipo/Tempra: 1988-1996

Bravo/Brava/Marea: 1995-2002

Stilo: 2001-2007

New Bravo: 2007-2014

Boxy to maximise space, the Tipo’s galvanised body addressed criticisms of its predecessor, the Strada .

Separate names marked out sport and comfort-tuned hatches. Marea estate suffered poor RVs.

Fiat’s first one-badge C-segment range, with a modular platform to increase space on five-door and estate.

Developed in 18 months, low CO engines and connectivity showed the Bravo’s fleet aspirations.

12 / fleetworld.co.uk

inbusiness

Q &A Andrew Goodwin, business development director at Lex Autolease, on the company's vehicle leasing service launched in partnership with RAC Business.

How will it work?

Customers of the RAC’s Business Club will now have the added capability to lease vehicles, provided by Lex Autolease, through the portal. Complementary fleet services will also be available, from RAC telematics, accident management services, fuel cards and duty of care guidance.

How will the partnership stand out in the fleet industry?

The arrangement is thought to be the first white label leasing agreement of its kind in the UK, and will offer a unique combination of expertise from two of the leading automotive brands in the country. The buying power of the UK’s largest lease provider – Lex Autolease – will provide smaller fleet users with access to discounted special offers from top manufacturers.

How will SMEs benefit?

We believe that the RAC Business Club already provides a great deal of support for SMEs. By adding leasing into the mix, its customers will be able to see the benefits of leasing, as opposed to buying vehicles outright, and free up much-needed capital from depreciating assets which could be better invested elsewhere. Costly unplanned maintenance can hit SMEs hard, but the inclusion of maintenance in a lease agreement taken through the RAC Business Club means customers will benefit from a reduction in unexpected financial outgoings as well as minimising vehicle downtime.

There will be a range of other valuable resources available to members, from leasing expertise to special offers, all intended to help customers who are entrepreneurs, sole traders or SMEs reach their business ambitions.

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Malcolm Roberts joins ARI UK senior leadership team Fleet management company ARI has completed the structure of its UK senior leadership team with the appointment of fleet industry expert Malcolm Roberts.

Roberts brings over 30 years’ experience in fleet management, the majority of which was spent with Hitachi Vehicle Solutions. His most recent role was fleet services manager responsible for technical services, accident management and supply chain.

Roberts takes on the role of manager, technical operations and will play a pivotal role in the delivery and evolution of ARI’s service to its fleet clients.

Volkswagen Financial Services growth in large fleet sector Volkswagen Financial Services has appointed two strategic fleet sales managers to help grow its market share in the large fleet sector.

Jonathan Ellis and Chris Raynsford both join the business from Lex Autolease, where they held senior business development roles managing corporate new business fleet contracts.

The two new recruits will use their knowledge to support growth in the large fleet sector. Ellis will be responsible for new business in the North and Raynsford for the Southern regions.

Infiniti strengthens fleet team Infiniti has appointed two staff members to strengthen its fleet team ahead of the launch of the Q30 later this year.

Miles Cooke (left) and Mark Sheedy (right) have joined Infiniti as area fleet managers with a specific emphasis on helping grow the national fleet business. Both new appointments will be focused on identifying and developing the fleet strategy by looking after leasing, B2B and SME opportunities, whilst working closely with the Infiniti centres.

Cooke and Sheedy will work within the Infiniti UK structure, at the Rickmansworth HQ, under country manager, Carl Bayliss.

14 / fleetworld.co.uk

INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW FORD S-MAX

ALL-NEW FORD S-MAX Ford Dynamic LED Headlamps with Glare-Free Technology The perfect blend of cutting edge design, exceptional versatility and intelligent technologies:

• • • •

Dynamic LED headlights with glare-free technology that improves all-round visibility.

Intelligent Speed Limiter that automatically adjusts the car’s speed limit to reflect the changing road speed limits.

Front split view camera provides greater confidence at difficult junctions.

Intelligent All-Wheel Drive delivering enhanced traction and road-holding.

For more information please contact our Business Centre on 0345 723 2323.

COMBINED

P11D

BIK

CO 2

MPG

£24,345 - £32,060

23% - 31%

180 -129g/km

35.8-56.5

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Ford S-MAX range: urban 27.4-50.4 (10.3-5.6), extra urban 43.5-61.4 (6.5-4.6), combined 35.8-56.5 (7.9-5.0). Official C02 emissions 180-129g/km.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

inbusiness

What I’ve learnt Martin Quail, chief commercial officer at Alphabet, on paying attention to the micro details and helping to ensure a fun working environment.

The value of keeping it personal In the business world, it is vital to ensure the tone you are using is relevant for the person you’re engaging with. Key to this is making sure you come across as authentic in your interactions, whilst recognising that other people have priorities that are different to yours.

In the UK’s mature leasing market, the same ‘industry speak’ and topic themes can be repeated, but unless they are absolutely relevant to your customer, the message could be perceived as impersonal and apathetic.

People going the extra mile and adding a personal touch to their communications is something I continue to experience in my career. For example, in a previous role for a vehicle recovery company, the team went above and beyond when the heavy snow hit one winter, to make sure customers not only got home safely but in some cases, even ensured they got to a wedding on time! Actions like this mean an organisation maintains their brand integrity whilst heightening the customer’s brand experience.

Little things make a big difference Often it’s the simple things that matter the most to our customers. From thanking them for placing their orders with us to keeping in contact with updates impacting their business – the micro details are as important as the big ideas. I think all organisations can be guilty of not doing as much of this as they should.

I recently had a two-minute conversation with a supplier, unrelated to work. Two days later I got an email from that same supplier saying: “I saw this and thought you might be interested.” It was absolutely spot on. I know he didn’t need to do that, however, this small act really did make me feel he was listening to me.

Pace, ambition and energy are the key Being bold to realise and exceed your own and your customers’ ambitions should be a key consideration – especially for larger organisations, where business change can be slower as there are more people involved in decision-making.

I have learnt over the years that having the fore-

16 / fleetworld.co.uk

sight and being motivated to do things differently is vital to a successful business outcome. If you have the energy to drive your ideas through and continue when it gets tough, bureaucratic and challenging, the rewards you can reap, both personally and for your business, will know no bounds.

My habit of overanalysing unnecessarily has sometimes held me back. Overthinking ideas is often a barrier to keeping up the pace and achieving ambitions. Ultimately, if it feels right and you’ve done enough analysis – test it and give it a go. If it doesn’t work, don’t kick yourself – try something new. Be bold and think the unthinkable.

Having fun along the way puts a smile on our – and our customers’ – faces I find that I get personal satisfaction from doing a good job, but equally I know the onus is on me as a manager to create an environment of support and encouragement.

By creating this open communication style and dealing with issues up front, I’ve found that it’s a lot easier for me and my team to have fun at work. It’s not necessarily about going out on corporate away days; it’s about coming into work and finding a way of making the mundane feel fun. You’ll soon see that people will naturally contribute more to the business if they know they’re being listened to and that their opinions are valued. And in the end, a happy workplace makes for a happy customer.

Embrace creativity at every opportunity Creativity has to be at the heart and core of everything you do, especially in our competitive market. In our industry, you could be in danger of having the same conversations with the same customers, day in, day out. But excitement can be created by doing this in a different way.

If you consider the pitch process for new business for example; no matter what, this is always a formal, structured process that requires a compliant response. But, there’s nothing to stop you assessing the opportunity and engaging with the customer to make for a more personal slant. It’s all about challenging the stereotypical way of dealing with everyday issues.

inbusiness

Technology in focus From connectivity to driverless cars, the 2015 BVRLA Fleet Technology Congress gave delegates a platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving vehicle parc.

Driverless Cars

Telematics

The next decade will bring huge advances in autonomous vehicles, from driver assistance systems to the first ‘driverless’ production models expected in 2025. In the meantime, agencies such as Thatcham Research and the Transport Research Laboratory are working to change legislation to make the technology road-legal, with aims to amend type approval and ISO standards by the end of 2018.

The BVRLA’s latest Fleet Technology Survey shows a growing appetite for partial autonomy – 60% of respondents said autonomous emergency braking (AEB) will be the most important safety technology for fleets in 2020, followed by dashcams at 47%. That compares to 44% and 30% respectively in 2015, but it’s largely driven by cost.

“Motor insurers and safety assessors have recognised the importance of AEB, as has the fleet industry,” said BVRLA chief executive, Gerry Keaney. “It is now time for the government to take a lead by mandating the use of AEB-equipped cars across its own fleet and promoting wider uptake through the use of tax and other incentives.”

Telematics has become a widely used tool for vans, but also recently for passenger cars, but Andy Price of Zurich Risk Engineering believes it’s up to operators to make the most of the technology. Financially it can usually be covered by fuel savings alone, but it’s important to engage with drivers and help them plan against long hours where possible, possibly using video conferencing.

“If you haven’t got good risk management policies and procedures then telematics is ineffective,” explained Price.

Andrew Brown-Allan, group marketing director of Trak Global and Carrot Insurance, said ‘gamification’ is a useful tool for driver engagement. The company monitors its young customers’ behaviour at the wheel, with points and financial rewards for safer driving. But, he added, it’s important to share data in a way that engages drivers, and to identify a suitable motivator, for it to work.

18 / fleetworld.co.uk

“Motor insurers and safety assessors have recognised the importance of AEB, as has the fleet industry.”

Gerry Keaney, chief executive, BVRLA

Connected Cars

Alternative Drivetrains

Consultancy firm SBD is predicting 20 million connected cars will have been registered globally by the end of the decade. This will be accelerated in Europe by mandating eCall from 2018, which will enable cars to share data to help emergency services respond quickly, but that on-board connectivity has challenges as well as opportunities.

The ability to access information remotely, and to activate features via a smartphone app, has the potential to make cars hackable. Terry Gibson of the Independent Garage Association said this could also give franchised dealers an advantage, being able to access diagnostic data which independents might not be able to use. The association is calling for a standardised platform for accessing it.

For businesses, data protection is a growing issue.

Kirsten Whitfield, director at legal firm Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co, said it’s important for employers to recognise that data is personal and valuable – including for criminals. Forthcoming EU legislation, due in 2017, will introduce large fines for businesses which aren’t collecting and processing this carefully.

BVRLA study respondents said low-emission drivetrains are having the biggest effects on the industry, but Neville Jackson, chief technology & innovation officer at Ricardo plc, said it’s likely that the fleet of the future will use a mixture of technologies rather than switching en masse to electric cars.

The company is predicting continued downsizing and turbocharging of conventional engines over the next ten years, with widespread use of cost-effective micro-hybrid systems. New economy testing, which has a higher share of high-load driving, is expected to disadvantage hybrid drivetrains, while EVs are hamstrung by substantial price and weight disadvantages for the near future.

Even by 2040, Ricardo sees 90% of vehicles having an internal combustion engine, though 40% will feature some form of electrification. The focus, Jackson said, must be looking beyond the CO2 emissions in use, to make fuel and battery production greener too.

Jackson said: “There’s no silver bullet, no simple message for policy makers. It will need a range of solutions to meet future targets. It’s not helpful to demonise diesels as they have helped, but we do need to address air quality in cities. We need a focus on how to take old vehicles off the road, or stop them going into city centres.”

fleetworld.co.uk / 19

inbusiness

What’s in store for dealers?

Dealers are smartening up their act to deliver fleets the customer service found in the best high street stores.

Curtis Hutchinson, editor of Motor Trader, reports.

W

hen it comes to choosing a dealer to do business with the overall look and feel of the showroom is an important deciding factor for fleet managers. With just about every volume and premium brand targeting local fleet customers as an area of growth, car manufacturers are looking at new ways of presenting their brands in the best possible light and engaging with customers on the showroom floor.

The car manufacturers have a dilemma. With consumers used to shopping in Apple Stores, Waitrose and Marks & Spencer, expectations are higher than ever before when it comes to what to expect in the form of customer care. The carmakers have latched onto this and you will be hard pressed to find a CEO who doesn't want their brand presented in the same way as this group of high street heroes.

Indeed the word 'dealer' has been pretty much expunged from their lexicons and replaced with the more progressive 'retailer, while showrooms have become 'stores' or 'centres'.

Traditionally the best car retailers, in terms of presentation and customer care, were always the premium brands. They had the biggest and smartest premises in the best locations and their sales staff wore the sharpest suits. Furthermore, their customers had high expectations when it came to customer service and expected a degree of genuflecting in proportion to the amount they were spending. However, that distinction has pretty much disappeared as the budget and mainstream players have upped their game to also win the hearts and minds of prospective customers. Even though Auto Trader recently estimated that the average car buyer only makes 2.4 showroom visits before making a purchase, the OEMs realise that scrimping on the fixtures, fittings and glass plate windows is not the way to make the brand appealing.

Consequently a number of brands are rolling out new corporate identity programmes. For OEMs this is usually a head office-prompted move, whether that be in the US, Europe, Japan or Korea. For dealers it means significant investment in overhauling their existing premises or relocating to bigger sites and starting from scratch.

So who's doing what? Hyundai has gone for a stylish beige for its dealer frontages, whilst Volvo, now under

20 / fleetworld.co.uk

Chinese ownership, has rediscovered its Swedish roots and embraced pine. Meanwhile Renault has rediscovered its mojo with its neatly themed open plan Renault Store showroom look which highlights its expanded car and van line-ups, motorsport heritage, EVs and, of course, the emergent Dacia brand.

While Ford has recently introduced a FordStore for its metropolitan centres which will display the entire car and commercial ranges, as well as the Mustang muscle car and new top-end Vignale sub-brand.

One of the most impressive showroom turnarounds though belongs to Kia. With UK sales having doubled in the last 10 years the brand has worked hard to establish itself as a serious contender in both the retail and fleet markets. Spurred on by the confidence borne from having new and desirable products already in its showrooms and more to come in the pipeline, it took the decision to totally revamp its fledgling dealer network whilst also introducing the eye catching Red Box design across 30 flagship sites.

Its most prominent showroom though opens its doors at the end of August. Located on London's Great West Road, on the elevated section of the M4, it’s a high profile stretch of car retailing real estate favoured

by Mercedes-Benz and Audi who both have competing flagship sites close by.

The multi-million pound four-storey 41,000 sq ft dealership has been designed to showcase Kia’s lineup to the 75,000 people that are estimated to pass by every day. It's an impressive set up which will be run by the Norton Way dealer group and trade as GWR Kia, however the top floor will act as a showcase for Kia's growing line-up with a glass façade, angled towards the motorway.

The dealership will be kitted out with interactive technologies with 3D headsets for waiting customers and an iPad customer experience area. The site will also operate a 40-seater café, which will also be open to the public, featuring a departure lounge style display screen notifying service customers when their vehicle are ready.

So, next time you visit a car showroom don't be surprised if you're approached by a guru, rather than a salesman, and are offered a skinny latte in a china cup. Things are changing in car retailing and fleet customers should expect improved levels of customer service in well appointed surroundings.

inbusiness

Getting into scrapes Minimising end-of-contract charges requires experience, negotiation and clarity, The Insider reckons.

W

e are all good at complaining about end of contract damage charges, but the thing is, whether damage is incurred during the contract or at the end, we still have to pay for it one way or the other. So the real issue is persuading drivers to avoid damage in the first place.

I don’t know about you, but I lose count of the people I hear say “so and so happened and the car was a mess, but hey it’s a company car, so who cares.”

These aren’t my drivers, just people I meet in the course of everyday life. And as usual, while salary, bonus and other benefits are important to them, they don’t stop to think that keeping business costs down is what keeps the other stuff up. You can imagine I am not backward in pointing this out to them.

In order to give us a steer on what is acceptable and what is not, the BVRLA has for many years published its own Fair Wear and Tear Guide, adopted by most of its leasing company members, so we should know where we stand, and it used to be freely available at no charge.

In a former employment, I routinely scanned a copy to drivers when they took delivery of a new car, so they knew the condition expected upon its return.

I thought I might start doing that again recently, and was disappointed to learn that we now have to pay for the privilege of procuring copies. Not helpful.

Our existing pre-return vehicle paperwork explains the general condition expected, details the necessity for returning all sets of keys, the locking wheel nut and the service history record. It requires a detailed walk around with the employee’s line manager (which will be one of several carried out during the vehicle’s life) and since I introduced that explanation and requirement, end of lease costs have dropped significantly. I also ask for photographs from the driver if there is any damage they

22 / fleetworld.co.uk

are concerned about, so I can discuss it with the provider later, if any query is raised.

My own experience of exiting contracts with providers was that they pretty quickly lost interest in being completely fair with us, and would charge more heavily if they could get away with it. It seems an odd stance to take, since you are unlikely to consider them again in the future. The last time that happened to me, the vehicle remarketing manager and I ended up developing a “none taken” relationship as I challenged each and every charge for vehicles returned, and we were able to settle fairly. But if I hadn’t done my job as a fleet manager and bothered to challenge, the higher charges would have stood. So, know what you are expected to pay for.

I have no problem settling fair charges. The overall contract cost is based on specifics, and if we don’t adhere, we should pay. Sometimes it’s easier to send a car back with known damage because if we hang on to it for longer, then we are still paying rental costs as well as hiring in a replacement vehicle whilst it’s off the road, which costs us even more.

But if I’m going to do that, then the lease provider gets prior warning, since waiting on repairs delays their end of lease process and subsequent sale too.

So, do we charge our drivers for end of lease damage? Our fleet policy reserves the right to do so, but in practice we very rarely do. Clear guidelines on condition and those regular and end of lease inspections really have helped reduce charges, and the majority of cars are returned within BVRLA guidelines. Our drivers appear to be taking pride in their company vehicles and the impression it gives of them and the company itself.

I am either lucky, or experience is counting.

Perhaps, in the words of that famous golfer, Gary Player, “the harder I practice, the luckier I get.”

The new Passat for business users

looks as good on the road, as it does on your spreadsheet from £199 per month on contract hire *

^

The Volkswagen Passat is an all-new car for 2015 – raising the game from its already high-quality predecessor.

It features advanced technologies and sophisticated assistance systems, providing new levels of comfort, luxury and performance.

A range of economical engines

The innovative lightweight design combined with sustainable engine technology reduces emissions, operating costs and fuel consumption to new low levels, benefiting both the environment and your pocket.

Auto Express award the new Passat 5 stars

+++++

“Refinement and comfort are class-leading, plus with tauter handling it’s more engaging than Passats of old.”

See, hear and feel the luxury

Find out how good the new Passat is 0870 333 2229 Email us vglenquiries@vwfs.co.uk Visit makingleasingsimple.co.uk/newpassat State-of-the-art technology * Plus VAT and initial rental. Business users only. Based on a 36 month, 10,000 mile per annum non maintained Contract Hire agreement with an initial rental equal to 6 months rentals in advance.

At the end of the agreement the vehicle and ownership rights will stay with Volkswagen Finance. 10.21p (plus VAT) excess mileage charges apply. ^ Offer available for vehicles ordered between 30th June and 1st September 2015. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time.

Further charges may apply when vehicle is returned, subject to the contract fair wear and tear guidelines and mileage. VAT payable at the prevailing rate.

Finance subject to status. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Accurate at time of publication [04/2015]. Freepost Volkswagen Finance.

Volkswagen Financial Services (UK) Limited, Brunswick Court, Yeomans Drive, Blakelands, Milton Keynes MK14 5LR. Registered in England and Wales. Company Number 2835230.

Model shown is the new Passat 1.6-litre TDI SE Business with optional metallic paint. Official fuel consumption in mpg (litre/100km) for the new Passat range: Urban 43.5 (6.5) - 62.8 (4.5); extra urban 60.1 (4.7) - 78.5 (3.6); combined 52.3 (5.4) - 70.6 (4.0).

CO2 emissions 140-103g/km.

g fleet e k

Booqpad for iPad Air 2 Combining the protection of a polycarbonate case with the convenience of a compact folio, the Booqpad contains a removable 50-sheet notepad for quick idea jotting, but can also hold an iPad Air 2 and prop it up for comfortable viewing. It’s even designed to be reversible, so it can suit left and right-handed users.

Price: £55 from booq.co.uk

Guards Red Design RL-72 Inspired by the rev counter of the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS, this minimalist single-handed wristwatch offers highclass design for a surprisingly small outlay. The hand shows the time in five-minute segments, aligned to match the instrument it pays homage to, and there’s a choice of red silicone or red-stitched black leather straps.

Price: £198 from guardsred-design.com

Golf Buddy Wearable tech for the keen golfer.

The Golf Buddy’s built-in GPS can recognise which of the 37,000 preloaded global courses you’re playing on, measuring shots, calculating distances to the front, centre and back of the green and tracking footsteps as you play. It’s also a watch, and available in six colours to match your outfit.

Price: £199 from golfbidder.co.uk

apps of the month

ETA by Eastwood

JustPark

Motorway Services GB

Enter a list of favourite destinations, and ETA will show a oneglance list of how long it will take to get from your current location to wherever you need to go. Live traffic data is shown as red, amber and green warnings, and it can tell you when you need to leave, giving turn-by-turn walking or driving directions through the navigation app of your choice.

It’s also Apple Watch compatible.

Price: £1.49 from iTunes Store

Backed by BMW, JustPark offers a time and money-saving way to locate and pay for 150,000 spaces around the UK. The app includes driveways as well as commercial areas, all available to search by price and reserve remotely, paid for through Apple Pay. Once parked, it’s possible to get alerts when your time is running out, and extend your booking via the app.

Price: Free from Google Play, iTunes Store

Useful for picky long-distance travellers, this enables services en route to be sorted based on the on-site brands – including fuel stations, available hotels and charging points on Ecotricity’s Electric Highway.

Constantly refreshing as you travel, English stations include their Visit England rating, and there’s a function to navigate to your nearest one too.

Price: £1.49 from iTunes Store

24 / fleetworld.co.uk

BAROMETER Making sense of the surveys

We’ve pulled together the pertinent points from the myriad of research done in the fleet industry this month to give you a clearer view of what’s really going on...

recessionary mindset

Source: GE Capital

Fleets are still placing a key focus on practical factors rather than imagefocused ones as the recessionary mindset continues to dominate, the results of a recent survey carried out by GE Capital Fleet Services suggest. As part of the organisation’s quarterly Company Car Trends research, respondents were asked to rank a number of selection factors by order of importance when setting new fleet policies.

53% of respondents ranked reliability highly in their list of selection factors, followed by 48% placing high importance on whole-life costs.

32% said CO2 output was a major selection factor, while purchasing price was imperative for 30% of respondents.

“This research really underlines the role of the company car as a practical working tool for UK businesses,” said Gary Killeen, managing director at GE Capital Fleet Services. “Imagebased considerations are placed at the bottom of the list while practical factors such as reliability, whole life costs and CO2 emissions still head the table.”

22% named residual values as a key selection factor, followed by 19% who prioritised fuel consumption.

Interestingly, just 10% said that corporate brand and image are essential when drawing up policies.

parking fines

Source: FTA

According to data released by the Freight Transport Association (FTA), nearly threequarters of parking fine appeals in London are successful. The Association surveyed its members to gather information on issues such as parking fine hot spots and PCN appeals.

Fifteen companies provided data about 32,633 parking fines received over a 12-month period. Of the fines that were appealed using the FTA’s PCN Administration Service, 72% were found to be successful.

36% of tickets were issued for a vehicle being ‘stopped where prohibited’ – parking on a red route or clearway.

33% of fines were levied for parking or loading where restrictions are in force.

High streets were identified as the main hotspot for the issuing of PCNs, with the borough of Bromley topping the list.

“Loading and unloading is an exemption to restricted street regulations – it’s allowed on single or double yellow lines for a maximum of 40 minutes,” explained Natalie Chapman, FTA’s head of policy for London. “Often PCNs are issued incorrectly because the enforcement officer needs more training and doesn’t realise what’s permitted. Our PCN Administration Service can advise members when tickets have been issued incorrectly and should be challenged.”

26 / fleetworld.co.uk

aggressive driving

Source: Brake & Direct Line

According to the results of a recent survey conducted by Brake and Direct Line, many drivers feel that British roads are becoming an increasingly hostile environment.

80% of drivers surveyed said they had felt endangered by an overtaking manoeuvre in the last year, either their own, by their driver, or another vehicle.

14% have been forced to swerve, pull over or brake to avoid a collision due to risky overtaking from other drivers.

94% have witnessed a risky overtaking manoeuvre, and 53% see them monthly or more often.

18% admit that they themselves have overtaken another vehicle when they were not certain if there were any hidden vehicles or hazards they could have hit during the manoeuvre.

Risky overtaking was found to be most common among male and young drivers, with 21% of men and 39% of 17-24 year olds admitting to doing so.

The figures for speeding paint a similar picture, with 44% of male drivers and 56% of young drivers regularly doing over 60mph on single carriageway country roads.

This tallies with the statistical evidence that young male drivers are involved in many more crashes than older and female drivers.

benefits of telematics

Source: LeasePlan

New research conducted by LeasePlan suggests that using telematics can lead to increased driver safety and substantial cost and CO2 savings for fleets. In the global urvey conducted by TNS, 3,377 lease drivers in 20 countries worldwide were questioned on their attitude toward telematics: 35% stated that they would change their driving behaviour if a telematics device were installed.

13% of the respondents said that they would probably pay more attention to fuel consumption.

9% said they would most likely drive more cautiously, while 7% said they would probably drive more slowly.

A pilot project by LeasePlan Italy showed that compared to 2013, the accident claim frequency of a fleet of 16,000 cars (80% of which were LCVs) equipped with telematics devices decreased by almost a third in 2014.

LeasePlan Italy also noted that the recovery rate of stolen vehicles increased substantially, from 14% to 86%.

Meanwhile, LeasePlan Spain recently developed a driver application based on telematics data, allowing approximately 7,000 drivers to monitor their own driving behaviour. The initial results are promising: a 12% reduction in insurance claims and an 8% reduction in fuel consumption.

for the latest daily news from the fleet industry, visit fleetworld.co.uk fleetworld.co.uk / 27

BMW X1 Platform sharing with BMW’s MPVs has made the X1 a much better product, reckons Alex Grant.

SECTOR Crossover PRICE £31,225–£36,060 FUEL 44.8–65.7mpg CO2 114–146g/km

B

MW managed to beat its direct rivals to the crossover segment with the X1, and it’s done well out of the outgoing car. Despite a lukewarm recep‐ tion from the press, sales have climbed steadily during its six‐year life cycle, reaching 8,500 units last year. That’s slightly more than the X3.

It’s unlikely that many of those buyers would have noticed, but the old X1 was mechanical oddity. Though only slightly larger than a 1 Series, the platform, engines and wheelbase were taken from the last generation 3 Series, and it managed to offer neither the extra glazing nor interior versatility that usually comes from sizing up to a crossover.

The new car is an entirely different proposition. It’s on the same platform found under the 2 Series Active Tourer and Grand Tourer, which means two‐wheel drive versions are front‐wheel drive. This puts the X1 into the same bracket as its newer rivals, the Audi Q3, Mercedes‐Benz GLA‐Class and the Range Rover Evoque.

Although slightly smaller than its predecessor, with the same wheelbase and an almost identical footprint to the xLine trim levels over the entry‐level SE, the latter adding 2 Series Active Tourer, there’s some MPV‐derived pack‐ aluminium and black plastic cladding to give it a hint of aging which transforms the X1. The seating position is off‐road ruggedness. An M Sport trim will be available higher, it’s airier inside than the old car and from November. the two‐piece sliding rear bench from the 2 The UK gets a slimmed‐down engine range FLEET FACT Series Active Tourer is an option. compared to the rest of Europe. This may be a Boot capacity is 505 litres – 85 more than 50% fleet car, but only 5% of British buyers BMW expects the old car – the rear bench folds using take two‐wheel drive, so the forthcoming switches inside the tailgate and there’s a three‐cylinder sDrive16d won’t be imported to sell 8,000 compartment under the floor for the tonneau and the sDrive18d isn’t offered in all trim new X1s in its cover. With a stylish new dashboard laid out levels. As it’s now front‐wheel drive, there’s first full year. almost identically to the Active Tourer, and no heavy propshaft connecting the engine to an optional folding passenger seat, the X1 the rear wheels, which benefits fuel economy. makes a convincing alternative to an MPV. BMW expects the xDrive20d to be the biggest seller. It Particularly now that it looks unmistakeably like a uses the same 188bhp 2.0‐litre diesel engine found across downsized SUV. BMW is offering a choice of Sport or most of the range and is offered in the xLine and Sport trims, and almost definitely in M Sport when that launches.

The four‐wheel drive system spends most of its time directing 100% of the power to the front wheels, but it’s capable of shifting everything to the rear axle depending on available grip, so real‐world economy should be good.

However, there was only one diesel to test on the launch; the 231hp xDrive25d, equipped with variable dampers and the xLine bodykit. With a platform derived from the latest MINI, BMW has a track record for fine‐ handling front‐wheel drive cars and the X1 is no excep‐ tion. It feels light and sure‐footed while cornering, with plenty of grip and minimal body roll much like a smaller hatchback, but there was no opportunity to test it with the standard suspension setup.

Of course, these are attributes which are also true of its nearest rivals, but no other premium SUV offers quite the same level of interior flexibility as the X1. Having had a generation to perfect its offering in this segment, BMW may have taken the lead again.

30 / fleetworld.co.uk

what we think highlights Big-selling xDrive20d returns 57.6mpg and emits 128g/km – lower than the equivalent Evoque or Q3, and on par with the GLA-Class.

MPV-like interior flexibility with 505-litre boot, three-piece rear bench released via switches inside the tailgate, and optional folding passenger seat.

The outgoing X1 sold well despite its flaws, which bodes well for its considerably more well-rounded replacement.

MPV flexibility, small-car efficiency and SUV styling with BMW driving dynamics should find it plenty of fans.

Efficiency-boosting four-wheel drive system usually drives the front wheels, while the eight-speed gearbox features a ‘coasting’ function at low loads.

key fleet model BMW X1 xDrive20d Sport

fleetworld.co.uk / 31

Volkswagen Touran The ever-functional Touran has all the right tools for the rigours of family life, says Alex Grant.

SECTOR Compact MPV PRICE TBA FUEL 50.4–67.3mpg CO2 111–132g/km

Y

panels, solid switchgear and high‐quality soft‐touch plas‐ ou can tell a lot about a car’s target audience from the tics, neatly concealing the lids of its myriad cubby holes, options list. For Volkswagen, building on the success cupholders and blinds. Given that high‐spec Tourans have of the first‐generation Touran, now retiring after a 12‐ to compete with premium MPVs from BMW and Mercedes‐ year lifespan, has meant incorporating some very clever tech‐ Benz, this is no bad thing. nology to make the mundane bits of family life a little easier.

The infotainment system is shared with the Golf, but with Available to order from September, the brand’s mid‐size a couple of unique features. Live images of children fighting MPV now uses the same modular platform as the new Golf. in the back can be streamed from a GoPro camera to the This means it’s lighter than its predecessor, despite being screen on the dashboard and, via the Bluetooth microphone, larger overall and 113mm longer in wheelbase. Since this parents are amplified through the speakers in the middle sector sells on space and versatility, the resulting 63mm row. Useful technology for keeping the family in line on long extra cabin length is a useful asset. journeys.

All UK cars get seven seats, its larger Volkswagen has also bundled the interior offering extra legroom in the clunky MirrorLink setup and the excel‐ second and third rows, and the middle lent Android Auto and Apple CarPlay row seats slide individually 200mm fore software, which means apps and phone or aft. There are five ISOFIX points in the functions can be controlled on screen. So back, with enough width for three child while built‐in navigation is only standard seats across the middle row, and seven on SE Family and SE‐L trims, all Tourans adults can just about fit inside by sharing can use Google Maps or Apple Maps on the legroom in the back. the central touch screen.

Storage is plentiful, too, with up to 47 Volkswagen reckons 90% of UK cars cubby holes dotted around the cabin, will be diesel‐powered, with the major‐ some large enough to carry big bottles of ity opting for the 108bhp 1.6‐litre engine fizzy drink, others existing mainly to followed by the 148bhp 2.0‐litre. Both conceal small toys, old parking tickets are uncharacteristically gruff in the and the decaying remnants of Happy Building on the best Touran, even compared to the Golf SV, Meals. Folding the two rear rows, and the points of the old car can but it rides well at high and low speeds passenger seat on SE versions and above, do the Touran no harm, and road and wind noise are otherwise enables it to be packed to the roofline well suppressed. when needed. but the lack of a subThere are some fantastic options in Yet it doesn’t feel like a van. The outgo‐ 100g/km version seems this segment, despite the ongoing migra‐ ing car had felt a little dated of late, but out of sync with this tion to crossovers. With functionality and the new cabin is closer in design to the segment’s latest models. an increase of Golf aesthetics on its side, Golf hatchback than the Golf SV or the Touran is one of them.

Sharan. It’s full of the typical piano black

what we think

32 / fleetworld.co.uk

Fiat 500 Very little of the ‘new’ 500 is unfamiliar, but that’s no bad thing, says Alex Grant.

SECTOR City car PRICE £10,890–£17,070 FUEL 60.1–74.3mpg CO2 90–110g/km

L

its body‐coloured dash pad, boiled sweet switches and aunched in July 1957, the Nuova 500 – ‘new’ concentric instruments, the 500 still feels upmarket. because it replaced the 500 ‘Topolino’ – was a semi‐ There's no change to the driving experience either. The nal moment for Fiat. It was the car that put many 500 rolls through corners, its steering setup is nicely Italians on the road for the first time and, in doing so, laid weighted but offers little feedback and the gear throws are out the foundations for its retro‐inspired namesake to long. It's not a driver's car like the MINI, but that's never spearhead of the brand’s recent renaissance. been a problem for the outgoing car's target audience.

This September, there’s another new Fiat 500 on the All UK trim levels feature a five‐inch infotainment way and, tasked with maintaining still‐growing sales screen in place of the old LCD display, and it’s momentum, it’s an important newcomer. However, this touch‐responsive on the most popular, range‐topping one isn’t quite as ‘Nuova’ as its predecessors.

Lounge version. Slightly sluggish TomTom navigation It has no reason to be. Sold across most of the world, costs an extra £250, and the Lounge’s consistently setting new sales records system can stream apps to its screen, and still entering new markets, the 500 but the CD player has been replaced by enjoys strong residual values, a great a USB port. image and is the spearhead of an entire With sales heavily weighted towards family of products with the 500L, 500L young retail customers, it’s the 69bhp Trekking and 500X. Fiat pitched the 1.2‐litre petrol engine which accounts 500 perfectly in 2007, so you can for most UK volume. On paper it’s the understand why it’s trodden so care‐ least efficient, but it’s also the cheapest fully with the new one. by £875 and an Eco pack will take it The reshaped nose, a nod to the 500X, down to 99g/km CO 2 later this year, features projector headlights and new which is good news for user‐choosers spotlights lined with LEDs in the shape who can live with its lack of torque and of the zeroes of the 500 logo, while the unwillingness to rev. rear lamps have been hollowed out to The TwinAir petrol is the pick of the make room for a body‐coloured centre Cute and stylish, Fiat range, and still offered with 85bhp or section. It’s subtly more modern, but hasn’t tipped the 500’s 103bhp. Both offer spirited perform‐ still a pretty small car. apple cart here. But with a ance and that unique flat mechanical Otherwise, with ostensibly the same growl under load, while CO2 emissions bodyshell, the good and bad points are winning formula it could start at 90g/km. Real‐world fuel econ‐ carried over. So boot space is limited, arguably have changed omy isn’t great, but the Benefit‐in‐Kind the driving position is off‐centre and even less and would still advantage offsets the price hike against the cabin is heavy on the hard textured enjoy strong sales. the 1.2‐litre, and the driving experience plastics – normal for this sector, but a is far more enjoyable too. bit cheap at this price. However, with

what we think

34 / fleetworld.co.uk

All-New

Renault KADJAR Start living

renault.co.uk

All-New

Renault KADJAR Start living

7” Personalisable Digital Dashboard 7” Touchscreen Multimedia System with Satellite Navigation Front and Rear Parking Sensors

All-New

Renault KADJAR Start living

renault.co.uk

CitroĂŤn Berlingo Multispace Updated design, new technologies and improved engines push appeal, says Dan Gilkes.

SECTOR People carrier PRICE £13,355–£18,540 FUEL 44.1–68.9mpg CO2 109– 48g/km

T

hose looking for a practical people carrier that can take the knocks of occasional load�lugging duties, or a family car for the active outdoors type, may be attracted by the latest version of CitroÍn’s Berlingo Mul� tispace. With new engines, upgraded technology and a modern front�end redesign, Multispace gives CitroÍn’s own C4 Picasso a run for its money.

A revised front bumper, with LED daytime lights and a new radiator grille brings a modern look to the car, which is now offered with two additional colours, Cumulus Grey and Moka Grey. There are also new upholstery designs inside, though the car retains its three individual row two seats.

The big news is the arrival of a seven�inch touchscreen that brings together media and navigation functions along with PSA’s Mirror Screen technology. This allows drivers to duplicate their smartphone content on the screen, which also doubles as a monitor for the optional reversing camera.

Also new to Multispace is Active City Brake, which will be available from November 2015 production.

CitroÍn will offer a 1.6�litre VTi 95 petrol engine, but the Euro 6 diesels are expected to account for the majority of sales. The BlueHDi 1.6�litre engine is avail�

able with 75hp, 100hp and 120hp, with both 100hp and 120hp engines offered with Start/Stop technology.

The BlueHDi 100 Start/Stop manual is the sweetspot of the range, delivering 68.0mpg and just 109g/km of CO2. That said, the BlueHDi 120 delivers a serious boost in power plus 300Nm of torque, yet boasts 64.2mpg and 115g/km thanks in part to its new six�speed manual gearbox, a first for Berlingo.

All diesel Multispace models have a 17�litre AdBlue tank, that should last up to 12,400 miles between refills.

! "

ARE YOU TIRED OF CHEAP UPFRONT DEALS WITH HIDDEN END OF CONTRACT RECHARGES?

"! ! "

BMW 3 Series With new engines, the segment pioneer is re-asserting itself against newcomers, says Alex Grant.

SECTOR Compact Executive PRICE £24,975–£41,665 FUEL 38.2–74.3mpg CO2 99–179g/km

b

upgraded 188bhp version consumes as little as 70.6mpg MW might seem focused on niche models, but the and emits 106g/km, while the lower, more streamlined 3 Series is a reminder that its core products are the 320d ED Plus takes the 3 Series saloon under 100g/km for most important. Claimed to be the figurehead of its the first time. The latter does take a drop in power to driver‐focused brand identity, the sedan and Touring 161bhp, though, and 74.3mpg is only achieved with the account for a quarter of BMW’s global sales, with 14 eight‐speed automatic gearbox. million sold in its 40‐year lifespan.

UK volume is 80% fleet weighted, and 45% in favour of But the segment pioneer now has many rivals, not only the M Sport trim. It’s a split recongised by a new 320d ED from other German brands, but a resurgent Lexus, Jaguar and Sport trim, which gets the bodykit and larger wheels of the soon Alfa Romeo too. This might be a subtle nip‐tuck, but the Sport but with the drivetrain and efficiency‐boosting technology beneath – including three‐cylinder engines, a upgrades of the ED Plus. It’s engineered for strong RVs, so plug‐in hybrid and sub‐100g/km CO2 emissions – has put there’s only a tiny cost add‐on for user‐ BMW back with the latest newcomers. choosers, but CO2 emissions start at The biggest changes are under the 103g/km due to the larger wheels. bonnet. Petrol engines are now based on All versions now get a faster naviga‐ a modular 500cc‐per‐cylinder design, tion system with a high‐speed data ranging from a 136bhp 1.5‐litre three‐ connection to download map updates, cylinder unit shared with the MINI and 1 for free, for three years. And, while and 2 Series, to the effortlessly fast 340i Mercedes‐Benz has the segment lead on straight six. There’s no three‐cylinder cabin aesthetics, BMW sets a high diesel yet, but other models suggest it’s benchmark as a driver’s car. Stiffer only a matter of time. pickup points, revised dampers based The ActiveHybrid 3, a petrol hybrid on the M235i and a re‐tuned steering which was never that well‐tuned to setup lightly polish what was already a European tastes, is absent from the new fine driver’s car, balanced, agile and range, and the 330e plug‐in hybrid will communicative enough not to need any be its indirect replacement early next Minor mid-life revisions variable‐rate optional upgrades. year. This produces 252hp with petrol and double-digit As with the styling, it’s hardly a black‐ and electric power combined, has a CO2 emissions show versus‐white transformation, but it battery range of 35km available at doesn’t need to be. There’s been a clear motorway speeds and emits 49g/km BMW hasn’t got to evolution of BMW’s sports‐sedan line‐ CO2. BMW reckons it should have plenty change much for the age through six generations of the car of corporate appeal.

3 Series to hold its and, in a market full of niches, the 3 But it’s the staple 320d versions which own in this segment.

Series is a deservedly popular slice of are likely to continue to be the corporate. thoroughly enjoyable familiarity.

This badge covers two models – the

what we think

36 / fleetworld.co.uk

DS 5 The DS flagship might not be perfect, but it’s a desirable alternative, reckons Alex Grant.

SECTOR Compact Executive PRICE £25,980–£34,890 FUEL 47.9–72.4mpg CO2 103–136g/km

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trim levels, with a ‘1955 Edition’ paying homage to the ith its own website and the beginnings of a original Citroen DS. All cars get navigation and the entry‐ dealer network, DS Automobiles has been level Elegance includes most of the equipment a long‐ taking steady steps away from Citroën for just distance driver might want. Prestige versions get a over a year. But it’s the flagship DS 5 that’s leading the reversing camera, which is useful with limited rear visi‐ French premium brand’s separation, and it’s the first bility, and luxuries such as leather upholstery – a £1,200 European model not to feature the double‐chevron badge. upgrade on the Elegance – plus the new Xenon and LED So this is DS staking its claim on the executive segment, headlights with scrolling indicators. and putting the 5 up against some formidable rivals – A4, 3 It’s reckoned that the bulk of UK cars will take the 2.0‐ Series and C‐Class among them – in a market where others litre BlueHDI 150 diesel engine. Offered with a manual have tried, failed or spent decades trying to get to the top. gearbox and in both trim levels, this returns 68.9mpg and The DS 5 makes no attempt to look or feel German. Part emits 105g/km, which is competitive in sports tourer, part coupe, part hatch‐ this class. Acceleration is smooth, back in profile, it’s different enough not though it’s a little gruff under load, and to blend in, but still just about conser‐ the convenience of an automatic gear‐ vative enough not to be challenging. The box is the only real benefit of moving up new DS grille and jewel‐like LED‐lined to the BlueHDI 180. headlights haven’t blunted its unique Actually, it’s the 1.6‐litre BlueHDI 120 sense of style. which feels best tuned to the car. It’s But its key strength has always been only offered in Elegance form and the cabin. Wrapped around the driver limited to 17‐inch wheels, but feels like an aircraft cockpit – something more eager off the mark than the larger alluded to by the horizon line on the engines and the smaller wheels trans‐ digital dials – and offered with a smor‐ form the ride quality. For that alone, it’s gasbord of leathers, milled aluminium worth downsizing and cherry‐picking a and seat finishes, it’s an environment few options from the Prestige. which delights on small details.

Luxurious, generously The DS 5 is an executive car built as The downside is, function has equipped and with a only the French would build one. It isn’t followed form. It’s comfortable up front competitive engine range, perfect, nor is it as practical or good to but there’s limited rear headroom, no drive as the segment‐defining Germans, grab handles, the cup holders are poorly the DS 5 is a leftfield but it’s a choice which hinges on aesthetic positioned and the split A‐pillars create choice which doesn’t fall appeal. Buy into its modern interpreta‐ huge blind spots at junctions. A smaller, down in the real world. tion of well‐heeled 1950s automotive more dished, steering wheel would also Desirable and different. chic, and you’ll find it’s a characterful be welcome. alternative to the obvious choices.

DS has divided the range into two

what we think

38 / fleetworld.co.uk

Honda HR-V It’s no longer a pioneer, but the return of the HR-V looks like a safe bet, reckons Alex Grant.

SECTOR Crossover PRICE £17,995–£24,945 FUEL 50.4–70.6mpg CO2 108–134g/km

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more head and legroom and better visibility too. aunched in 1999, the original Honda HR‐V might not Honda’s genuinely clever Magic Seats make this as versa‐ have been a big seller in the UK, but it was certainly tile as the Jazz. The fuel tank is under the front seats, freeing ahead of its time. Acknowledging that drivers were up the space under the rear bench and enabling the seat base attracted to the high‐riding muscularity of an SUV, but to be lifted and for items to be stacked from the floor to the didn’t want the running costs or need off‐road ability, the rooflining. Load volume outstrips the rest of the class with ‘Joy Machine’ was every bit the modern crossover. the seats up or down, and the folding passenger seat means It was characterful, too; square sided and tall, with low it can accommodate objects up to 2.5 metres in length. overhangs, it’s got a bit of a cult following. But Honda With limited demand for four‐wheel drive in Europe, all dropped the HR‐V in 2005 – two years before the Qashqai HR‐Vs are front‐wheel drive. The ubiquitous 118bhp 1.6‐litre arrived – and, considering Nissan’s runaway success with diesel makes the most sense for company car drivers, offer‐ essentially the same concept, it’s a decision they’d probably ing smooth and linear power delivery but have made differently in hindsight. without the refinement of the equivalent Now the HR‐V badge is returning Civic or CR‐V. There’s also a 128bhp 1.5‐ attached to a new global model. Based litre petrol engine, optionally mated to a on the Jazz and sporting a coupe‐like continuously variable transmission with profile, it’s joining an established, boom‐ stepped ratios for Europe, but it lacks ing segment which should make it a torque compared to small turbocharged safer bet than its predecessor. It’s petrols, and has a tendency to drone already shifting in big numbers in the through the revs when accelerating.

United States and Japan.

The chassis is tailored to European Honda is predicting similar volumes tastes, but lacks the soft ride and agility to the Civic and CR‐V, which means it of the Civic, tending to fidget over rough could become joint second or third‐ surfaces and roll through corners with largest seller behind the Jazz, and 70% no reassurance of grip from its light and of customers will come from other disconnected steering. This isn’t a brands. The aim is to grow overall sales There are more appealdriver’s segment, but most of its rivals rather than cannibalise Civic volume, ing all-rounders in this feel more like a hatchback. and only a third will go to fleets. class, but the HR-V However, the HR‐V looks right, it’s This is a small car, though. It’s shorter generously equipped and surprisingly than a Civic, let alone its direct rivals, has the right mix of versatile. Where its Nineties namesake and the side profile makes it look rational and visual struggled to find its niche in the UK, smaller still. However, it stacks up well appeal to establish Honda’s newcomer should have no on interior space. The cabin feels itself within this sector. problem getting a foothold in the roomier than the Civic, particularly for crossover segment. rear seat occupants who get noticeably

what we think

40 / fleetworld.co.uk

Jeep with ®

IT’S NOT BUSINESS AS USUAL. So you think you know Jeep? Think again. The new Cherokee doesn’t just offer outstanding performance off-road, it’s also guaranteed to stand out in the office car park. Its efficiency figures catch the eye too, returning 53.3mpg on the combined cycle with CO2 from only 139g/km.* New Cherokee models are also available with a range of fantastic features such as our award-winning 8.4” touch screen entertainment system, unique in-car wireless charging pad for mobile devices and adaptive cruise control. Hardly your average nine-to-five runaround, wouldn’t you say?

To book a test drive call our Business Centre on 01753 519442 or email us at fleet@jeep-comms.co.uk The new Jeep® Cherokee. Built Free.

jeep.co.uk/fleet OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE NEW JEEP® CHEROKEE DIESEL RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 53.3 (5.3) - 61.4 (4.6), URBAN 37.7 (7.5) 44.1 (6.4), COMBINED 46.3 (6.1) - 53.3 (5.3), CO2 EMISSIONS: 160 TO 139 G/KM. Fuel consumption and CO figures based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Model shown is 2

Cherokee Limited. *Figures based on 2.0 140 4x2 versions. Chrysler and CNH Industrial are Official Global Partners of the Expo Milano 2015. Jeep® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

SWOTTeam This month the SWOT Team analyses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the new Renault Kadjar against its closest rivals. Here is what they have to say...

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

GA There’s more than enough of an audience for another contender in this segment. It’s well publicised that Kadjar shares many parts with Qashqai, which can only be a good thing for anyone doubting the reliability.

GA Some may be put off

by Renault’s history – the Koleos never really made it in the UK. Some competitor brands have more of a ‘reliable’ heritage.

GA This is a huge opportunity for Renault. It’s a very good competitive offering and ticks all the right boxes.

GA The main threat is potential users overlooking Kadjar and going straight for the bread and butter alternative.

AC Due to its pricing and the cool styling it certainly makes an attractive proposition and, although the segment is becoming more and more crowded, it is still growing as more people opt to move into what they consider to be the more practical and stylish SUV type of vehicle.

AC The main threats are from well-established existing players such as the segment-defining Qashqai, which always comes out as one of the best allrounders. This is a crowded, competitive segment so Renault will have a battle on its hands.

AC Despite the Qashqai’s 17-inch wheels giving a CO2 advantage, the cheaper Kadjar means there’s only a £5 BiK difference between the two.

MJ Ubiquitous 1.5 dCi 110 power unit returns good CO2 emissions and impressive economy. Good whole-life costs should create plenty of opportunities, and equipment levels are very good.

It’s longer than the Qashqai, benefitting loadspace.

MW A good looking well-built crossover, and the new kid on the block.

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AC The sloping roof line reduces rear seat headroom, and, like the Qashqai, it doesn’t have the most dynamic diesel engines. The 1.5dCi is adequate for tootling around town, but if you want a bit more poke then the 1.6dCi diesel engine gives noticeably more torque.

MJ The 1.5 dCi power unit is not the quietest. There may still be some remaining consumer caution over this brand quality. And where did they get this name from?!

MW Strange name will not help buyers decide or explain what they have just bought.

MJ Renault has continued to regain market share at an impressive rate since cutting their UK product line-up.

Remaining cars have style and credibility, helping Kadjar’s entry into this new sector for them.

MW This sector of the market continues to grow. All of these four models are well built and offer so much in the way of practicality and flexibility.

MJ There is plenty of choice in the sector that Qashqai created, with an increasing number of players lining up. As a new sector for Renault, all sales will need to be conquest.

MW So many now to choose from, and many more coming.

And, with so many being sold new, will there be too many on the used market, or will used buyers embrace them in the same way.

Martin Ward (MW) Manufacturer Relationship Manager, CAP

Renault Kadjar

Gavin Amos (GA) Head of Valuations, CDL Vehicle Information Services

Mark Jowsey (MJ) Commercial Director, KeeResources KwikCarCost

Strengths GA Good looks, low CO2 and in the hottest sector of the market.

AC Drives well and extremely practical.

MJ Longer overall, with more loadspace than the Qashqai.

MW Good looking and the new kid on the block.

Strengths

Mazda CX-5 2.2d SE-L Nav

GA Looks good, refined and economical.

AC Great to drive, big boot.

MJ High power, low CO2 and good real-world MPG, with excellent RVs. MW Still relatively unknown, but technology and style help.

GA Large diesel engine doesn’t help CO2, but helps on the road.

AC Higher BiK than the Kadjar or Qashqai.

MJ CO2 has been overtaken by rivals.

MW CO2 emissions look a bit high now.

OTR: £24,795 P11D: £24,740 Fuel: 61.4mpg CO2: 119g/km RV*: £11,125 (45%) BiK: 21% SMR: £2,404 Fuel costs: £5,363 Insurance: £2,880 Finance: £3,340 NI: £2,151 VED: £60 Cost per month: £830

Strengths

Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi 150PS Zetec (plus Nav)

GA Very successful, a real alternative.

AC Spacious, also better dynamically.

MJ Bigger and 200kg heavier than the Renault – could be overlooked as an SUV. MW A fleet favourite, desirable used.

GA Not as clean as the smaller RenaultNissan engines, but good on the road.

AC Higher BiK costs than both the Renault and the Nissan.

MJ Conservative styling, no small diesel.

MW Relatively high CO2 emissions.

Strengths

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi 110 Acenta Premium

GA The number one choice in this sector, class-leading and never overlooked.

AC Great all-rounder, great reputation.

MJ The sector benchmark, and CO2 and MPG winner in this group.

MW Continues to be top of the game, and will be difficult to knock off the top.

Weaknesses GA Volume is its only threat.

AC More expensive like-for-like.

MJ Lacks exclusivity.

MW Looks a bit expensive. * 3yr/60k ** LDW - Lane Departure Warning TSR - Traffic Sign Recognition AEB - Autonomous Emergency Braking

Standard equipment: • DAB Radio/CD with Bluetooth, 2x USB, aux-in • Cruise control with speed limiter • Dual-zone climate control • Front and rear parking sensors • Sat nav with 7-inch touchscreen • 17-inch alloy wheels • Auto lights, wipers, mirror dimmer • AEB • 40/20/40 split rear seats Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £540

OTR: £23,445 P11D: £23,390 Fuel: 60.1mpg CO2: 122g/km RV*: £8,900 (38%) BiK: 22% SMR: £2,436 Fuel costs: £5,479 Insurance: £3,105 Finance: £3,158 NI: £2,130 VED: £220 Cost per month: £863

Weaknesses

Nissan Qashqai

Standard equipment: • DAB Radio with Bluetooth, USB, aux-in • Cruise control with speed limiter • Dual-zone climate control • Front and rear parking sensors • Half leather upholstery • Sat nav with 7-inch touchscreen • 19-inch alloy wheels • Auto lights, wipers, mirror dimmer • AEB, LDW, TSR, auto high beam Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £525

GA Lack of ‘reliable’ heritage with Renault.

AC Sloping roofline – reduced headroom.

MJ The 1.5 dCi engine could be quieter.

MW Odd name won’t help buyers decide.

Weaknesses

Ford Kuga

Renault Kadjar 1.5 dCi 110 Dynamique S Nav OTR: £22,395 P11D: £22,340 Fuel: 72.4mpg CO2: 103g/km RV*: £8,025 (36%) BiK: 18% SMR: £2,106 Fuel costs: £4,548 Insurance: £2,430 Finance: £3,016 NI: £1,665 VED: £40 Cost per month: £783

Weaknesses

Mazda CX-5

Andy Cutler (AC) UK Car Editor, Forecast Values Glass’s

OTR: £23,730 P11D: £23,675 Fuel: 74.3mpg CO2: 99g/km RV*: £8,100 (34%) BiK: 17% SMR: £1,680 Fuel costs: £4,432 Insurance: £2,430 Finance: £3,196 NI: £1,666 VED: £0 Cost per month: £807

Standard equipment: • DAB/CD, Bluetooth, USB, aux-in • Cruise control, Active speed limiter • Manual air conditioning • Sat nav with 5-inch screen • 17-inch alloy wheels • Heated windscreen Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £545 • Parking sensors, park assist, folding mirrors £550 • AEB, LDW, TSR, driver alert, auto high beam, auto lights, wipers £550

Standard equipment: • DAB Radio/CD with Bluetooth, USB, aux-in • Cruise control with speed limiter • Dual-zone climate control • Front/rear parking sensors, camera • Sat nav with 7-inch touchscreen • 17-inch alloy wheels • Auto lights, wipers, mirror dimmer • AEB, LDW, TSR**, auto high beam • Panoramic roof Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £525

fleetworld.co.uk / 43

flashback a look back at the company cars of yesteryear

model Peugeot 306

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era 1993-2001

lthough Peugeot had undergone a renaissance, led by the 205 and 405, during the 1980s, it entered the 1990s without a conventional hatchback in a booming C-segment.

The 306 filled that gap. Essentially replacing two models – the larger 305 saloon and estate, and the 205based 309 notchback – it put a full line-up of three and five-door hatchbacks, four-door saloon and cabriolet under one badge, tucked in between the 106 and 405.

Designed by Pininfarina, as per the rest of the range, and sharing a platform with the Citroen ZX, it scored highly on style and handling. The suspension setup was similar to the 305’s, but with a passive rear-wheel steering system which enabled it to turn harder into corners, and Peugeot had priced it aggressively with a wide range of engines.

In the UK, most petrol-powered 306s featured either the 1.4 or 1.6-litre engines, though a lowly 1.1-litre was offered for a short period after launch, and a 1.8-litre was available too. Sporty petrols comprised a pair of 2.0-litre units, the XSi featuring eight valves and producing 136bhp, while the S16 could outrun the equivalent Golf GTI with its 16-valve, 167bhp drivetrain.

Strong demand in France meant PSA Peugeot-Citroen was also ahead of most rivals with its diesel engines. The 306 launched with 71bhp non-turbo and 90bhp turbodiesels, the latter underpinning the sporty D Turbo. One of the first diesel hot hatches, Peugeot had slanted the engine as far back as possible to keep the additional

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UK sales 446,377

successor Peugeot 307

weight within the wheelbase, aiming not to damage its agility. With near-S16 styling, surprisingly potent on-road performance and economy on its side, the 306 D Turbo was a big-seller.

The 306 received its first major update in 1997, introducing softer-edged styling to bring it in line with the 406 and recently-refreshed 106 and growing the range to include the SW estate. S16 versions had gained six gears to become the GTI-6, also offered as a stripped down Rallye version as a limited edition for the UK market.

Peugeot stopped UK 306 production at Ryton with the second update, in 1999, and stopped importing the saloon. Heavy colour-coding and clear headlamp lenses modernised the car for its final two years, and it received the same 90bhp HDi diesel engine as the ZX. This was one of the first common-rail diesels on the market, offering lower NVH levels, reduced harmful emissions and improved fuel economy. With fuel economy of up to 54.2mpg on the combined cycle, 50% of UK 306s were diesel-powered in its final year on sale. Unusually high for non-carbon taxed vehicles.

The 306 made way for the 307 in 2007, ending Peugeot’s Pininfarina-penned era. It had ranked as one of the UK’s biggest-selling models for most of its lifespan, with almost two thirds sold to fleets. Innovative engines, excellent handling and generous equipment levels had taken Peugeot from an odd fit to a core part of the C-segment.

We’ve done a lot of thinking too

Chances are, keeping running costs low and drivers happy are what occupy you most. Same goes for us. It’s why we redesigned the Civic’s rear wing. So now it not only looks sportier, but saves up to 5mpg.

Great minds really do think alike.

Discover more clever thinking at www.honda.co.uk/civicfleet

Fuel consumption fi gures for the Civic range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 37.2 – 70.6 (7.6 – 4.0), Extra Urban 54.3 – 85.6 (5.2 – 3.3), Combined 46.3 – 78.5 (6.1 – 3.6). CO 2 emissions: 145 – 94 g/km. Fuel consumption figures sourced from official EU-regulated laboratory test results, are provided for comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving experience.

Model Shown: Civic 1.6 i-DTEC SR Manual in Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic.

FEATURE Future Accidents

Crash Rapidly advancing technology is developing safer cars that are claimed to avoid crashes, but will it in future bring more complex and varied challenges for fleets? Alex Grant investigates.

Accidents in 2020 Cost versus safety On‐road trials might be underway, but driverless cars won’t become a day‐to‐day concern for leets by 2020. Instead, while legislation readies itself for full autonomy, it’s driver assistance systems – the foundation for driverless cars – which will become a big consideration for leets.

The market is growing exponentially. Bosch, one of the biggest manufacturers of the sensors which underpin driver assistance systems, exceeded 50 million units last year, and it says sales of its radar and video sensors will double during 2015, for the second consecutive year. To put that into perspective, Bosch built two million radar sensors between 2010 and 2014, and expects to build its ten millionth next year.

Achieving a ive‐star Euro NCAP rating already requires at least one driver assistance function and, as of next year, pedestrian safety systems will be part of that. Working with its Australian

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equivalent, ANCAP, a recent study by Euro NCAP showed autonomous emergency braking reduces low‐speed rear‐ end crashes by 38%. As this is recognised by insurance ratings, it’s likely to push uptake further.

But ACFO chairman, John Pryor, says legislation is needed to remove the cost barrier: “If the technology genuinely reduces accidents ACFO would like to see it mandated in legislation in the same way as seat belts and ABS brakes and therefore not treated as an ‘extra’ for Bene it‐in‐Kind tax purposes. Thus leets would become early adopters.

“However, unless there are proven cost savings the majority of car leets will not commit additional expendi‐ ture on such technologies.”

The challenge of lighter cars Meanwhile, ongoing pressure on fuel economy will evolve the way cars are built. Thatcham Research is predicting that as many as 40 different materials – including different grades of steel, aluminium, plastics and carbon ibre – could be included in a mass‐market car by 2020 as manufacturers seek to shed weight.

Given that this means multiple joining methods and varying advice on whether panels can be repaired or replaced, the most fuel‐ef icient cars also have the potential to be challenging to repair. Thatcham is already working to ensure that easy repairs are considered at the design stage, as this has a direct effect on insurance groupings.

Andrew Hooker, advanced repair studies manager at Thatcham Research says this shouldn’t stop vehicles being economical to repair, provided the information is readily accessible: “The risk is not from the materials, but from how these are integrated into the car with insuf icient consideration of the repair process with more intrusive replacement procedures than are necessary. If leet managers are seeing more cars that are uneconomical to repair then they are welcome to engage with us here at Thatcham so we can include this in our repairability discussions with the vehicle manufacturers.”

Data as an asset All new cars sold in Europe will have to feature eCall from 2018. The system enables data about the accident location, severity and number of occupants to be sent to the emergency services, improving response times. Widespread itment will bring unit costs down to £104 on a new car, according to Department for Transport projections, and the data connection also creates a platform for other information to be exchanged.

For example, Vauxhall’s OnStar system can send monthly vehicle reports to a leet operator and submit data about driving styles and maintenance to a telematics system. Connected cars could monitor driver behaviour to help prevent collisions, with the ability to shorten response times, improve occupant safety and potentially cut claim costs if the worst happens.

The evolution of the telematics industry into passenger cars is a promising sign for dashboard cameras too. SmartWitness estimates that around 20% of company cars already have them, and the drop in third‐party contests from the 40% industry norm to 2% with a dash‐ cam means claims can be handled faster, minimising costs.

By the end of the decade, Craig Lamont, managing director of SmartWitness says dashcams could offer additional driver monitor‐ ing technology, such as the ability to detect when tablets or smart‐ phones are in use – currently a dif icult thing to track.

“Our insurance broker clients are telling us that there are more inci‐ dents caused by mobile phone distraction now than by any other means,” he says.

“Recent research has shown that response times for distracted driv‐ ers are worse than drink drivers and that was for hands free use of phone, so not even for having a phone to your ear whilst driving. Some‐ thing needs to be done to combat this otherwise leet managers leave themselves open to some potentially expensive insurance claims.”

John Pryor believes it’s a technology which must be supported by reduced insurance premiums, but added that leets have their reser‐ vations about it: “Member comments would indicate a possible reduc‐ tion in enthusiasm for the technology as evidence could be used to mitigate a claim against the claimant. Additionally, in the event of a serious accident, the police will con iscate the on board camera memory card, and it could be used to prosecute the driver.”

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FEATURE Future Accidents

Accidents in 2025

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Specialist repairs Pursuing the 78g/km average CO2 emissions indicated by the European Commission by 2025 will have a couple of knock‐on effects for vehicle repairs.

Compared to 2005, when high‐strength steels were rare in mass‐market cars, most leet cars will include an unprecedented mix of materials and joining techniques, with some parts only suitable for replacement after a colli‐ sion. BMW, for example, recently introduced carbon ibre parts in the platform of the new 7 Series – technology which will cascade into smaller models.

Drivetrains will also become more varied. Ricardo expects most vehicles to feature a petrol or diesel engine in ten years, but with increased electri ication. This will include plug‐in hybrids and a small number of hybrid and fully electric vehicles, but energy recuperation is the mass‐ market option. The growth of ‘mild hybrids’ – capable of harvesting energy and using a small electric motor to assist the petrol engine – will mean damage which bridges any electrical parts could result in expensive repairs.

It’s also becoming more common for vehicles to need software resets after they’ve been damaged, which can cost hundreds of pounds depending on if the bodyshop has the right equipment on site.

David Cresswell, director at Auto Body Professionals Club, expects technological advances will also lead to the repair industry becoming more specialised: “I think we will see, due to the levels of technology, more and more vehicles will need to be repaired at a manufacturer‐approved shop.

“For example some cars need headlight alignment reset after tracking, some require a full system sweep after an acci‐ dent. Bodyshops will have to have the right equipment ‐ they’ll still be independent, but with manufacturer approval.”

Smarter Travel By 2025, most vehicles will be new enough to have eCall and thus the ability to share data. Mapping company HERE is developing a communications standard to enable data from on‐board sensors – such as weather conditions, grip and mass braking incidents – to be gathered and relayed to following traf ic. Advanced navigation systems could fore‐ warn about problems ahead, further reducing accidents and avoiding delays, making them a real asset for leets.

But the ongoing growth of handheld devices is a chal‐ lenge. Last year, Apple patented a system which could lock functions on a smartphone if it’s being used by a driver, aiming to target the 80% of accidents it said were caused by distraction. There’s no release date suggested yet, but the patents include software built into the phone, such as analysing its travelling speed or using the camera to show they’re not at the wheel, and systems which block mobile phone signal in the driver’s seat, or to lock functions if it’s connected via USB with the ignition switched on.

48 / fleetworld.co.uk

Mapping company HERE is developing a platform which will enable vehicles to share data from their on-board sensors, giving a real-time view of traffic conditions ahead

Removing the risk The irst driverless cars are expected in 2025, but it’s partial autonomy which will be helping leets to reduce the risk of tired or distracted drivers. Bosch is aiming to have its irst motorway‐ready autopilot technology market‐ready by 2020, and by 2025 it will have trickled down from luxury vehicles into the mass market. The company says this could signi icantly reduce accident rates – it’s claiming by up to a third in Germany.

Figures from Thatcham Research show a 45% reduction in the size of third party injury claims for the new Volk‐ swagen Golf, based on 7,000 insured vehicles and attrib‐ uted to autonomous emergency braking. This could help offset some of the additional costs of repairing compli‐ cated new vehicles, says David Cresswell. “No vehicle can overcome the law of physics, but the technology we’re seeing coming in is likely to avoid some crashes and to reduce the severity of the impact in others.

“I see more cars being repairable because of the avoid‐ ance technology, as it reduces the speed of the impact.

So rather than a total loss, it will be repairable. So we will lose some low‐speed impact cars, but save more at higher speeds because the lower impact speed as a result of the technology.”

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A win-win approach to fleet management Combining a fully outsourced fleet management solution with highly competitive leasing rates from a range of leasing firms means that multi-bid acquisition can bring a range of benefits for fleet operators.

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lthough sole-supply acquisition has long been recognised for its benefits in simplifying administration and providing one supply chain and one point of contact for drivers, recent years have seen a growing number of fleets recognise that such a ‘one-size-fitsall’ philosophy may be actually costing them thousands in unnecessary procurement costs. Instead, switching to multibid acquisition can provide a ‘best of both worlds’ approach.

For many companies, fleet is one of the largest areas of spend, making the process of going out to tender for a new leasing supplier such a vital way to cut costs. But purely focusing on price puts fleets at risk of missing out on using the best lease companies and can also leave them open to ‘rental creep’ over time.

This is where multi-bid acquisition comes in, by providing you with a basket of preferred contract hire suppliers, based on their proven record for supplying the most competitive rentals, helping to ensure you receive the best price for every vehicle renewal.

The benefits of such an approach can be many and varied: • more control and flexibility; • competitive procurement of best value; • transparent pricing; • reduced vehicle lifecycle cost; and • improved levels of service.

But it’s also important to ensure that you are working with an experienced provider, such as ARI, that can manage the process effectively for you.

Founded in 1948 by Holman Automotive Group, ARI has grown into the largest privately held vehicle fleet management services company in the world. In the UK, Chippenham-based ARI offers a comprehensive fleet product and services portfolio, distinguished by award-winning fleet control and reporting technology. This includes multi-bid

“Vehicle acquisition can account for around 70% of fleet spend.”

acquisition, which is the cornerstone of ARI’s procurement offering.

With over 15 years’ experience of providing such schemes, ARI offers a specialist service in multi-bid acquisition. From the outset, ARI can advise your fleet team about the benefits of different lease vehicle acquisition methods and help you decide whether multibid acquisition is best for the company.

ARI’s dedicated team of fleet professionals will then manage the best lease companies in the industry on your behalf, which can bring increased flexibility, greater choice and savings in your total cost of ownership.

Jason Chamberlain, ARI’s sales director commented: “In fact, multi-bid acquisition has been instrumental in cutting the total cost of ownership for ARI’s clients by up to 15%. For companies running in excess of 1,000 vehicles, the savings are compelling but it can be highly worthwhile for smaller fleets too.”

Fleets using ARI’s multi-bid acquisition will also benefit from a fully outsourced fleet management service, providing everything from day-to-day fleet administration to 24/7 driver support and maintenance management.

In short, turning to multi-bid acquisition can provide fleets with a win-win method, ensuring they find the most cost-effective funding solution for their fleet as well as the most efficient management solution.

For more details, please contact us at 0844 8000 700, email us at sales@arifleet.co.uk or visit arifleet.co.uk

FEATURE Future Accidents

20 years of change for fleet operators January 2016 – New Euro NCAP ratings will require pedestrian monitoring and driver assistance systems to receive ive stars.

Summer 2017 – Reviews of the licensing, driving standards and liability for autonomous cars will be completed. Fully driverless trials will begin shortly afterwards.

Accidents in 2035

→

Who’s liable?

Ricardo’s market predictions suggest most cars will have a high level of auton‐ omy by 2035, such as the ability to park themselves and undertake large parts of the journey with no driver input. Driverless cars, which can travel door to door and essentially make all occupants a passenger, potentially with no need for a licence, will be an established technology too.

Given that almost all accidents today involve some sort of driver error, this is technology which could transform the way accidents are handled. Removing this factor could eradicate low‐speed impacts and parking damage completely, but it introduces questions about liability which cover a far greater number of parties.

Beyond vehicle manufacturers, that could include OEMs, local authorities or even potentially the leet operator, all of whom are likely to get involved with the acci‐ dent management process.

“There are some practical and legal issues that need to be addressed, partic‐ ularly about where ultimate responsibility for an autonomous vehicle will rest,” explains Ben Howarth, policy adviser for motor and liability at the Association of British Insurers.

“If car drivers are replaced entirely by passengers who have no way of over‐ riding or controlling the systems in the vehicle, it’s possible manufacturers would become liable in the case of accidents. The insurance industry’s focus will remain on ensuring claims are dealt with appropriately as technology develops.”

It’s clear that logging data will be important, too. Craig Lamont sees video as a potential way around the complications of dealing with a claim involv‐ ing a driverless car: “There are clearly big problems about who is at fault in the case of collisions with driverless vehicles. It’s likely that all driverless vehicles should be installed with an in‐car CCTV camera to provide protec‐ tion in the case of incidents.”

50 / fleetworld.co.uk

End of 2017 – Type approval and ISO standards to be amended to include driverless cars.

January 2018 – Autonomous brak‐ ing for cyclists to be included in Euro NCAP ive‐star ratings.

March 2018 – All new cars sold in Europe must feature eCall emer‐ gency services calling.

2020 – European Commission’s 95g/km CO2 average to be phased in, equivalent to 68.9mpg for petrol or 78.5mpg for diesel engines.

2025 – First driverless vehicles to come to market, according to Thatcham.

End of 2025 – EC average CO2 emis‐ sions target of between 68 and 78g/km to be introduced, with a igure to be set by the end of 2016.

2035 – Worldwide sales of vehicles with autonomous capability to reach 94.7 million, from zero in 2014, according to Navigant Research.

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one

FEATURE Back to Basics

7 steps to better...

Accident Management We talk to the experts about how accident management solutions can assist fleets in the aftermath of a collision, help deal with insurance claims and get assets back on the road as quickly as possible. By Katie Beck.

1... Put drivers first According to a recent survey conducted by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), 86% of fleets had to deal an on‐road incident involving at least one of their drivers in the last year. While it is important to make an assessment of the vehicle and begin insurance proceedings following a collision, supporting the driver emotionally and physically should be a fleet’s main concern.

“Accident management solutions can support fleet management by ensuring the driver is put first in the event of a collision,” says Nick Williams, general manager of RAC Accident Services.

“The priority should be to make sure the driver is safe, that they have onward travel, and crucially that they know what to do following an accident. Drivers can suffer shock and disorientation, so it’s vital that given instructions are clear.”

2... Around the clock support This is essential. Any accident manage‐ ment supplier who doesn’t offer around‐ the‐clock support should be avoided.

Volkswagen Financial Services provides Driverline 24/7, a service designed speci ically for its leet customers, to provide support in a range of situations at all hours, 365 days a year.

If a driver is involved in an accident, a phone call to Driverline 24/7 will put them in contact with a trained operator who can offer emotional support and practical advice for dealing with any vehicle repairs, such as directions to the nearest garage. This kind of around‐the‐

52 / fleetworld.co.uk

clock support can be particularly bene‐ ficial for workers in remote locations by helping them to feel safe and connected, and allows repair work to begin on the vehicle as quickly as possible.

3...Consider outsourcing to specialists Outsourcing to a specialist can have signi icant advantages if you don’t have expertise in managing the claims and repair process.

“Outsourcing accident management services avoids the diversion of time and resources away from core business activities,” explains Mark Young, account director at Accident Exchange.

“The claims process is multi‐faceted; it’s not just about organising repairs but also monitoring the downtime and managing the potential costs incurred.

An outsourced accident management service handles the entire process from first notification from the driver through the repair process to repatria‐ tion. They will also provide legal serv‐ ices as required which minimises disruption to business, whilst saving money and freeing up time to get on with other things,” he adds.

4... Leverage better rates Accident management services are also often offered as part of fleet manage‐ ment or rental package, and there can be a number of advantages to using these existing partnerships. These include the ability to leverage a better rate for repairs and higher standards as

workshops will be keen to retain the business of large leasing and fleet management companies.

“As fleet and rental suppliers like FleetEurope have significant buying power, thanks to a guaranteed higher volume of work from multiple clients, we are able to agree favourable rates on labour, parts and paint which would otherwise be unavailable to the wider market,” says Michael Cooke, operations manager at FleetEurope. “The fleet management supplier can ensure repairers return vehicles to manufac‐ turer standards, which in turn aids customer duty of care obligations.”

5... Access to replacement vehicles Should a vehicle need a more serious repair, a replacement vehicle may be required to keep deliveries and employees moving. Fleet management companies can provide a further value‐add service by the provision of replacement vehicles, either from a pool of available vehicles, or supplied via a partner organisation.

FleetEurope refers repair work to Selsia Accident Management, which in turn works with Kindertons Accident Management to provide replacement vehicles. Each stage of the accident management process is handled by a third party with the relevant skills, knowledge and experience. This is foun‐ dation for these types of partnerships, and offers clients the advantageous posi‐ tion of working with industry experts in different ields, without the additional admin and cost of working with three separate suppliers.

“Accident management solutions can support fleet management by ensuring the driver is put first in the event of a collision”

Credit: Accident Exchange

6... Evidence provided by telematics Telematics and video products can provide invaluable evidence when a driver needs to make a claim, and are offered by a variety of providers. CMS Supatrak has developed a combined video and telematics system to deliver real‐time crash reconstruction infor‐ mation to incident management centres, referred by insurance compa‐ nies as first notification of loss centres (FNOL centres).

The system automatically identifies a potential road safety incident and starts sending back video and telemat‐ ics data 20 seconds before and 10 seconds after the logged alert. In addi‐ tion to the automated alerts, drivers can manually create an incident by pressing a button inside the vehicle.

When an incident is identified, the system will automatically create an alert, which generates an email with the video footage embedded and a text message, if required. This information is securely stored, ready to be used if a disagreement about liability for an accident arises.

7... Protection against whiplash fraud The issue of fraudulent whiplash claims is one of the most significant problems facing the insurance indus‐ try; in the UK, false neck‐injury claims are estimated to costs motorists £2.5bn per year. Insurance telematics provider Scope Technology has launched a new platform that could help tackle the issue of fraudulent whiplash claims.

By using crash‐related algorithms, Scope Technology can determine the vehicle impact zone, angle and sever‐ ity of each impact. By mapping this against a huge bank of crash data and research on physical injury, the likeli‐ hood of physical injuries can be gauged. This technology could greatly improve the efficiency and accuracy of the claims handling process for the insurer, and therefore the client. In addition, the newly improved system, which transmits vehicle information and accident analysis to a central plat‐ form in real‐time, can enable faster medical attention for drivers in cases of genuine injury.

CASE STUDY Benefits of a ‘one stop shop’ service Infrastructure support services provider Amey has outsourced its accident management needs to Selsia since July 2013. According to team leader Kerry Patmore, Selsia Accident Management was selected as the provider of choice because of the extensive UK coverage of its sites and the ‘one stop shop’ management services available.

“We have noticed a huge improve‐ ment in the reduction of administra‐ tion and repair times by working with Selsia,” Ms Patmore explains.

“It has helped Amey to streamline its administration process with no more time wasted chasing many suppliers for estimates, images and invoices. The online vehicle tracking service is used to give live time updates on vehicle repairs which have resulted in fewer phone calls being made,” she adds.

fleetworld.co.uk / 53

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29-30th September 2015 • Cotswolds, UK fleetworld.co.uk / 55

MARKET OVERVIEW Daily Rental

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental is one of the UK’s largest, independently owned rental companies with over 40 years’ experience providing long and short-term tailor-made economical fleet solutions.

We have a nationwide, multi-franchise fleet in 36 branches throughout the UK. Close manufacturer relationships mean we can offer competitive rates on a range of up-to-date vehicles.

We have packages to suit all industry sectors, providing fleet solutions tailored to meet each client’s needs.

We have an online booking facility available for retail and corporate clients. Our business customers can also benefit from dedicated online management reporting.

Contact: Sales Team car.rental.sales@arnoldclark.co.uk www.arnoldclarkrental.com

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Europcar UK Group

Founded 1957, Enterprise Rent-A-Car has developed into an internationally recognised brand with more than 7,000 corporately owned neighbourhood and airport locations throughout 70 countries and territories around the world.

Specialising in the provision of replacement vehicles and courtesy cars that are relied upon in the event of an accident, Enterprise also provides daily and weekend rental for private or business use. In the UK alone, Enterprise operates in excess of 80,000 vehicles through a network of more than 400 branches.

Enterprise has developed its product offering in recent years and now offers a wide range of services from longterm commercial vehicles rental through to hourly car hire through City Car Club.

Contact: Tony Francis Anthony.B.Francis@ehi.com

Tel: 01786 468700

Tel: 01784 221 300 www.enterprise.co.uk

Europcar UK Group provides access to the UK’s leading fleet of over 45,000 cars and vans, through its network of more than 200 locations across the UK and 140 countries worldwide. With a proven track record of innovation, great service delivery and a quality fleet, Europcar offers flexible short term and long term products to suit all business requirements. These include delivery and collection, diesel only models, corporate loyalty programmes and a range of payment options. Plus innovative online solutions help businesses monitor and manage vehicle use and support cost efficiencies, duty of care responsibilities as well as address environmental concerns.

Contact: Europcar Business Team businesssolutions@europcar.co.uk www.europcar.co.uk

Tel: 01162 173531

Nexus Vehicle Rental As the leading provider of corporate vehicle rental in the UK, we are the only supplier that can offer you any vehicle, anytime, anywhere! Our online booking system can now make reservations in under 10 seconds – saving you time. With over 500,000 rental vehicles available in over 1,750 rental locations, there is always a vehicle available to meet your needs.

Thrifty Car and Van Rental

Driven by quality We are constantly improving our systems and services to meet the evolving needs of our customers. We’ve achieved internationally recognised certifications in the ISO Quality Management and ISO Information Security Management standards and were awarded ‘Best Customer Focus’ in the 2014 Best Business Awards.

Thrifty Car and Van Rental has 95 UK locations, offering a full range of cars, commercials, 4x4s and luxury vehicles. Thrifty has a dedicated Central Reservation Team, providing an immediate response to enquiries and offering highly competitive rates, with access to a quality fleet of vehicles nationwide and an efficient delivery and collection service. Fast, accurate billing and detailed management information is available along with a dedicated account manager. For longer-term car hire, Thrifty’s Flexi Fleet programme enables customers to rent vehicles on a short to medium term basis without being tied into a long term commitment.

Contact: Dean Rose dean.rose@nexusrental.co.uk

Contact: Caroline Gallagher caroline.gallagher@thrifty.co.uk

56 / fleetworld.co.uk

Tel: 07525 323067 www.nexusrental.co.uk

Tel: 01494 751500 www.thrifty.co.uk

Are you a rental, leasing or broker company?

How many vehicles does your company operate?

How many rental locations does your company have?

Do you offer flexible medium-term rental?

Does a driver get given a proof of condition receipt on handing back their hire car?

Do you have a rapid check-in system?

Do you have relationships with charging infrastructure supplies for EV’s?

Do you offer an on-line billing facility?

Do you offer an on-line management reporting facility?

Can a driver guarantee a specific make & model of car when booking?

Do you charge a fee for non-cancelled bookings?

Do you charge excess mileage rates on pre-agreed contracts?

Do you offer hybrid & Electric Cars?

Do you offer an hourly rate for hire?

FLEETW RLD

Key to services

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Rental

6.6k 36 ✔ ✔

✔ ✔ ✔

✔ ✔

-

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Rental

80k+ 400+ ✔

✔ ✔

✔ ✔ ✔

Europcar UK Group Rental

45k 200 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Nexus Vehicle Rental Broker

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Northgate Vehicle Hire Rental

55k 75 ✔ ✔ ✔

✔ ✔

✔

-

Thrifty Car and Van Rental Rental

20k 95 ✔ ✔ ✔

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

✔ Service provided

Service unavailable

500k+ 1.75k+

FRIDAY 23RD OCTOBER 2015 AWARDS DINNER THURSDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2015

FLEETW RLD

PRE-REGISTER NOW AT

www.vanfleetworldlive.co.uk MILTON KEYNES

ontheroad Anthony Ffrench-Constant’s handy, Cut Out ‘n’ Keep, 10-point plan to help the new Government sort out Britain’s ailing road network and get us all moving at a decent lick once more.

Dear David…

1. Scrap HS2. There’s already a perfectly good, adequately rapid train service running to Manchester, and we’re really not remotely interested in the government wasting £50 billion of our money just to polish its own halo. At current costs (an astonishing £24 million per mile), we could have 2,300 miles of new motorway for the money, more than doubling the 2,083 odd miles already in existence. Oh, and, please start with the A34.

2. Reintroduce the word ‘work’ to road works. We’re all utterly fed up with dawdling through endless, cameraenforced, 50mph average speed limits in order to protect a workforce of which there is consistently about as much evidence as snow in August. And the contracts need to be far more draconian, with compulsory 24 hour work schedules, and heavily punitive penalties for late completion; the latter not giving contractors a London Underground-style excuse for quoting three years to refurbish an escalator.

3. Deal with lorries. Firstly, help them out by fitting timelimited overrides to their governors, giving them short bursts of an extra, say, 10mph, so that overtaking manoeuvres may be completed in less time than it takes to grow an oak tree substantial enough to hide in.

Secondly, take a leaf out of French transport policy and ban non-essential lorries from the roads on Sundays.

4. Raise the speed limits. In case the authorities hadn’t noticed, we are no longer required to employ a chap with a red flag to run ahead of our cars, the brakes of which have become somewhat competent since the original limits were decreed. I propose 90mph on motorways, 80mph on dual carriageways, and 70mph on single carriageways.

Not the ludicrous, and entirely unjustified, 50mph that’s insidiously spreading across Mudfordshire as we speak.

5. Bring back Cat’s Eyes. Not everyone can afford headlights powerful enough to make Herefordshire spontaneously combust on a damp, February evening, yet this seems to be the reasoning behind diverse local authorities’ obvious decision to let Percy Shaw’s ingenious invention fall into increasing disrepair. I don’t know what cat’s eyes cost per mile, but would be more than happy to see a chunk of that HS2 money spent making A-roads across the nation infinitely safer at a stroke.

58 / fleetworld.co.uk

6. Make cyclists and horses pay road tax. Why ever not?

Let’s face it; in London the former, and in Mudfordshire the latter, clearly think they own the roads, so it seems only reasonable that they should pay for them.

7. Fix parking rates at £1.00 per hour across the nation.

Taking the right to set exorbitant parking tariffs away from local authorities is a sure fire way to bring motorists, and their attendant spending power, back to town and city centres. Impoverished student-glutted Oxford is far and away the worst offender; matters made all the more infuriatingly daft through a pay-by-mobile system in an underground car park with no phone signal.

8. Introduce motorway driving to the Driving Test. It’s all very well passing a law penalising motorway middlelane hogs, but, as the police told me when I raised the issue over a decade ago; ‘It’s almost impossible to enforce...’ With the constabulary all too busy raising revenue via the mobile speed camera to actually police motorways, would it not be easier to simply teach people to drive them properly? If I see one more person indicate left after overtaking, I think I shall scream.

9. Change the law on mobile phone usage.I’ve said it before; what’s really dangerous is not driving with one hand whilst watching the road and talking on the phone, but texting, eyes down, in your lap to hide your phone use from the law.

Protestations that there’s no excuse for not using hands-free are absurd; the most tech-savvy generation is the youngest, and they can’t afford expensive, Bluetooth-equipped cars.

10. Abolish traffic lights. Numerous European towns have already experimented with this ostensibly bonkers notion, replacing both traffic lights and a plethora of signage with the simple diktat: Give Way to the Left and Drive Slowly. This, entirely predictably, has helped speed traffic circulation considerably. More interestingly, as Dutch transport planner Hans Monderman discovered in the town of Drachten, making the roads more dangerous actually makes them safer.

“What’s really dangerous is texting, eyes down, in your lap to hide your phone use from the law.”

It… is raising the bar, and raising it again.

ARI is known and trusted by fleet management decision-makers worldwide for setting industry standards and controlling costs.

It is about people. Empowering them and rewarding performance.

Finding new ways of helping customers to do a better job—with increased efficiency, productivity and safety. It is about fleet management success. Moving the needle, and the bottom line.

Learn more about ARI’s professional fleet management services: 0844 8000 700 | www.arifleet.co.uk

FEATURE Taxation & Funding

Low emissions Time to get on board?

Professor Colin Tourick takes a look at the shifting tax regimes and what it means for fleet choice.

W

e’ve had the pre‐election budget and the post‐elec‐ tion budget so we finally know how the Chancel‐ lor will be taxing cars in 2015/16.

There were no major shocks or surprises in either budget though we can definitely see a change in attitude towards the taxation of low emission cars. Government has been using the tax system to encourage the take‐up of low‐emission cars for years but it is now clear that deficit‐reduction is the priority, as shown in these two charts.

This chart shows the ‘appropriate percentage’ that is used to calculate the Benefit‐in‐Kind (BiK) tax payable by a company car driver. The taxable amount is derived by multi‐ plying the list price by the appropriate percentage.

It is very clear from the high end of the chart that the government is trying hard to discourage business car driv‐ ers from selecting high‐emissions cars. And it is also clear

that relatively little BiK tax is payable on lower‐emission cars.

But look at the trajectory of BiK tax payable on cars in, say, the 76‐94g/km range. The appropriate percentage at this level is set to double from 11% to 22% by 2019/20. This increase is even greater in the 1‐75g/km range (rising from 5% to 19%), whilst drivers of pure electric cars have now started paying tax for the first time, which will rise sharply (the 5% appropriate percentage will rise to 16% by 2019/20). These are big increases and it remains to be seen how they will affect the enthusiasm of company car drivers for lower emission cars. And of course employers have to pay Class 1A NIC on these charges too.

George Osborne’s second budget of the year dramatically changed the vehicle excise duty (VED) system. Here again, lower emission cars came off worst, with VED being charged

HOW TO CALCULATE BIK TAX C02 emissions

2014-15

C02 emissions

2015-16

C02 emissions

2016-17

C02 emissions

2017-18

C02 emissions

2018-19

C02 emissions

2019-20

0

0%

0‐50

5%

0‐50

7%

0‐50

9%

0‐50

13%

0‐50

16%

1‐75

5%

51‐75

9%

51‐75

11%

51‐75

13%

51‐75

16%

51‐75

19%

76‐94

11%

76‐94

13%

76‐94

15%

76‐94

17%

76‐94

19%

76‐94

22%

165‐169

26%

165‐169

28%

165‐169

30%

165‐169

32%

165‐169

34%

165+

37%

170‐174

27%

170‐174

29%

170‐174

31%

170‐174

33%

170‐174

35%

175‐179

28%

175‐179

30%

175‐179

32%

175‐179

34%

175‐179

36%

180‐184

29%

180‐184

31%

180‐184

33%

180‐184

35%

180+

37%

185‐189

30%

185‐189

32%

185‐189

34%

185‐189

36%

190‐194

31%

190‐194

33%

190‐194

35%

190+

37%

195‐199

32%

195‐199

34%

195‐199

36%

200‐204

33%

200‐204

35%

200+

37%

205‐209

34%

205‐209

36%

210+

35%

210+

37%

95‐164

add 1% for each 5g/km

60 / fleetworld.co.uk

Low-emission vehicles now represent an attractive option. But it’s even more important now to do the whole life costs calculations.

fuelled by diesel or petrol. However, once we start looking at hybrid or electric engines we also need to consider how they will be operated before working out the fuel costs.

If you are looking at vehicles with hybrid engines you’ll want to bear in mind that mpg in a hybrid varies hugely depending on how it is being driven. With lots of Stop/Start motoring it will deliver relatively high mpg but on the motor‐ way it may be no more fuel‐efficient than a similar diesel‐ engined vehicle.

If you are considering plug‐in hybrids you’ll need to consider the likely split between the miles to be driven using pure electric and on pumped fuel.

If you’re considering plug‐in electric vehicles with range extenders the same applies: how many miles will be driven using the conventionally‐fuelled engine versus pure electric?

And if you’re considering zero‐emission vehicles you’ll have to decide where it’s most likely they will be charged up: at the office or the driver’s home at perhaps 2p per mile, or at a city centre charging point at a much higher price?

Despite the changing mood music from the Chancellor it’s clear that low‐emission vehicles now represent an attractive option. But it’s even more important now to do the whole life costs calculations carefully before jumping in.

on low emission cars for the first time.

So the question is, is now the time to start adding more low emission cars to your fleet, perhaps by capping the maximum CO2 level allowed? Many companies already use a threshold of 130g/km. Should they be looking to reduce this now?

The answer is almost definitely yes, despite the Chancel‐ lor’s activities.

Through clever engineering and weight reduction, car manufacturers have been doing a great job in reducing CO2 emissions without affecting motoring performance. And in the process they have increased fuel efficiency greatly. Many models with emissions below 100g/km deliver the goods in terms of motoring experience just as well as cars emitting 130g/km only five years ago. If you imposed a 130g/km cap some time ago, now might be a good time to review it.

Once you get below 76g/km you get into some interesting territory because the government are actually willing to encourage you to take up a low‐emission car by giving you a £5,000 grant for a car or £8,000 for a van. Twenty‐five cars and seven van models currently qualify for this grant.

Every fleet manager knows that the best way to select a vehicle is by calculating its whole life costs, and most fleet managers probably use their leasing company’s contract hire rental as the starting point. That’s also a good starting point when calculating whole life costs for low emission vehicles

Colin Tourick is Grant Thornton Professor of Automotive Management, University of Buckingham Business School.

HOW TO CALCULATE VEHICLE EXCISE DUTY 2015-16

2016-17

CO2 (g/km)

Annual rate £

First year rate £

Annual rate* £

First year rate £

0

0

0

0

0

1‐50

0

0

140

10

51‐75

0

0

140

25

76‐90

0

0

140

100

91‐100

0

0

140

120

101‐110

20

0

140

140

111‐120

30

0

140

160

121‐130

110

0

140

160

131+

Rising from £130 to £505

Rising from £130‐£1,100

140

Rising from £200 to £2,000

*Cars above £40,000 pay an additional £310 supplement for ive years.

fleetworld.co.uk / 61

our fleet BMW X4 2.0d xDrive20d M Sport Auto I’LL be honest, I went on the launch of the BMW X4, and I wasn’t its biggest fan. For a start I couldn’t really square why somebody would buy an SUV, but then give up the attendant strengths of space and practicality, just for a swoopy roofline.

Its bigger cousin, the X6, I get a bit more, because it is chunkier and better looking, while those Tonka Toy proportions aren’t as developed on the X4. I’m not sure the Melbourne Red paint job suits it especially either. Perhaps more macho black or grey would be more apposite.

So, as long termers go, you might get the impression that breath was not baited before the X4’s delivery.

First impressions are that it has a cabin which isn’t compromised by the coupe-ish roofline, and happily fits four, but the couple of centimeters lower driving position than an X3 isn’t especially noticeable. The 186bhp 2.0d engine, which is fairly

the figures

chuggy in most installations, is as refined in this as in any BMW. But the biggest surprise is the boot. Cut off in its prime by the sloping roofline, it has 500 litres with the seats in place (50 less than the X3), and 1,400 with them folded down. But in real terms, that loss is very rarely felt because it is wide and long. I got three golf club bags in there no trouble at all, with drivers still in place, and it’s surprising how often that’s not possible in many cars purporting to be much larger.

Then, I was walking back to the X4 in a car park the other day, and I found myself musing that from the back three-quarters, it looked pretty handsome, in a rugged way. Perhaps these few months aren’t going to be quite what I thought after all…

Steve Moody

OTR PRICE £39,895 POWER 186bhp @ 4,000rpm TORQUE 295lb.ft @ 1,750rpm 0-62mph 8.0 seconds TOP SPEED 132mph COMBINED MPG 52.3mpg CO2 138g/km (25% BiK)

Renault Captur Dynamique dCi 90 LAST weekend proved the flexibility and practicality of Renault’s Captur beyond all reasonable doubt.

When you’re best man at a wedding and

62 / fleetworld.co.uk

you’re charged with carrying all manner of paraphernalia, including items as diverse as fragile six-foot tall wooden stands and enough bottles of wine to set up a roadside off-licence, a car’s interior practicality really comes into its own.

I was concerned as the Captur’s boot isn’t the most capacious around, but the sensible way that it’s packaged, and the way the seats pop down easily made the whole process pretty much painless.

You’d think that a car that locks itself as you walk away with the key is a slightly unnecessary luxury for the chronically

lazy but my experience is anything but. I’m constantly – and not just this weekend – alighting the Captur with hands full, so it’s great having one less thing to worry about.

And I also need to mention the superb integrated TomTom sat-nav system, which cunningly re-routed me around a 45minute-delay traffic incident that would have seen me renege quite badly on my duties on the day.

It’s no surprise that I constantly keep seeing other Capturs on the road, either.

Seems that word has got around...

Luke Wikner

Lexus NX 300h Luxury

Audi Q3 1.4 TFSI SE CoD 150hp S-tronic I have just handed the keys to the Q3 over to colleague Dan Gilkes and with far more regret than I would have expected when I took delivery of the car. For a crossover, the handling is tidy, ride comfort impressive and road noise well suppressed, so it makes for a good long distance cruiser. The winner for me is the drivetrain, the combination of cylinder on demand 150hp 1.4 TFSI turbo petrol engine, with S-tronic transmission, cylinder on demand deactivation and a coasting facility to cut fuel consumption. It works seamlessly and makes round town or long distance driving a pleasure.

John Kendall

Kia Carens 1.7 CRDi “2” Manual OUR Carens long-termer is still running well but a check on the fluid levels last week unearthed a small issue when I couldn't get the bonnet to shut. I had to wait until someone was around to help and we then had 10 minutes of one wiggling the boot release lever whilst the other checked the cabling, which was somehow not working.

Happily enough we’d just decided to give up and lowered the bonnet lid when it actually closed. But I’ll be ready for the next check with a can of oil and a possible trip to the local dealer.

Natalie Middleton

SUCCESSIVE Governments have made no secret of the fact that the fiscal screw will continue to tighten on company car drivers and employers alike through progressive lowering of the BiK tax thresholds. It’s a strategy which has not been risk-free as – had not the motor manufacturers responded so well with ever more fuel-efficient cars, we might have seen a wholesale move away from company cars altogether.

No doubt successive Chancellors have consulted widely on the likely outcome of successive shifts in the percentage bands. And while there has undoubtedly been a shift in recent years away from the ‘traditional’ company car into other financial arrangements, there’s still a substantial rump of fleet buyers and drivers dutifully paying tax while looking to stay one step ahead of the new tax rules.

Hybrids like our Lexus NX 300h long-termer undoubtedly have a role to play in this story. When the CO 2-based scheme was first introduced in 2002, it would have been unthinkable that a 200PS, 2.5-litre petrol-engined 4x4 could have CO 2 emissions of just 121g/km and combined fuel consumption of 54.3mpg. At the time there weren’t many diesel superminis that could achieve this and the new rules consigned most big petrol 4x4s to the cash-or-car fraternity or history.

Diesel was seen as the way forward for many and the advances made were impressive indeed. But with the prospect of increased demand to clean up the air in our cities – and the inevitable pressure this will put on diesel-powered vehicles, the benefits of a petrol-electric hybrid are becoming ever clearer.

When it was launched late last year, the NX premium crossover was said to herald a new era for Lexus, and few who get behind the wheel will disagree. Everything about the cars says ‘quality’, it is great to drive and environmentally friendly too.

Ross Durkin

fleetworld.co.uk / 63

our fleet Citroën C4 Cactus BlueHDI 100 Flair

SUPPLIER

DIRECTORY electric vehicle charging

Ensto UK Ltd Tel: +44 7432 701524 ensto.com/chago

CITROËN has been very clever in its pursuit of cost and weight reduction in the C4 Cactus and, after four months, I haven’t found myself missing many of the strippedback features. However, there’s one omission that’s bugging me. There’s no sixth gear.

I can understand five-speed gearboxes have their place in a range engineered for low cost, so it wouldn’t bother me on a lowpowered petrol. But diesel engines appeal to higher-mileage drivers and, beyond offering a slight P11d reduction, it seems shortsighted for this version not to have six gears.

Doubly so because this is a very efficient engine. With a few thousand miles under its belt, cross-country routes in fifth gear can push fuel economy over 70 or even 80mpg depending on the terrain. As this isn’t a car

which provokes aggressive driving, this doesn’t require much willpower.

It’s an issue on the motorway, though.

Our recently-departed 308 SW, which was heavier and used a more powerful version of the same engine, could return over 70mpg at 70mph. Granted, the Cactus isn’t as aerodynamic, but I have no doubt that it could match or even beat the Peugeot’s efficiency record if it had the same six-speed gearbox.

As it is, I’m typically seeing just over 65mpg on the run home from the office.

That’s a respectable number, but I’m confident that the slight lift in P11d pricing for the extra gear would quickly offer a return on investment in real-world economy figures.

Alex Grant

Mazda CX-5 2.2d Sport Nav (2WD) THE recent boom in the crossover sector may be largely down to style and that raised seating position, but the CX-5 has shown some other talents recently. It’s very practical compared to a conventional C-Segment hatchback.

Mazda has really made an effort with the load area, which actually isn’t a given in this sector.

The rear bench – unusually split into three sections instead of two – drops neatly with a tug on handles inside the boot. Lift the rearmost section of the boot floor and there’s a space for the tonneau cover when it’s not in use. All features which could make impromptu trips to Swedish furniture stores a bit easier.

Once folded, it’s completely flat from the tailgate to the backs of the front seats. The seat squab shifts forward to let the backrest lie flat with the load floor. Again, a small detail but it avoids uneven loading of long objects in the back – good for stopping boxes splitting. Plenty of estate cars don’t have this sort of practicality, especially

64 / fleetworld.co.uk

considering the waist-height load floor.

To be entirely truthful, a crossover still holds more appeal to me because of the way it looks, but living with one quickly highlights a portfolio of strengths which go beyond style. With Mazda’s hatch-like handling and economy, rugged off-road styling and flexibility which makes up for the lack of a Mazda3 estate, the CX-5 really does offer the best of all worlds.

Anne Dopson

accident management Selsia Vehicle Accident Centres Ltd

Tel: 0845 468 6800 www.selsia-vac.co.uk

Total Accident Management Tel: 0845 078 4157 www.totalaccman.co.uk

fast fits & tyres ATS Euromaster Tel: 0870 066 3624 www.atseuromaster.co.uk

fleet insurance Bond Lovis Insurance Brokers Tel: 08000 113 444 www.bondlovis.co.uk

Bluedrop Services Ltd Tel: 01706 658608 www.bluedropservices.co.uk

insureFLEET Tel: 0333 202 3133 www.insurefleet.com

driver licence checking Jaama Tel: 0844 8484 333 www.jaama.co.uk

FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY contract hire, leasing & finance Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Contract Hire a Car Tel: 0370 218 8015 www.contracthireacar.com

Tel: 0845 603 4590 www.acvm.co.uk

daily rental

risk management

fleet management software

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Tel: 01786 468 700 www.arnoldclarkrental.com

MAC GB Ltd Tel: 01745 828180 www.reduceroadrisk.com

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Thrifty Car & Van Rental Tel: 01494 751 550

AA DriveTech Tel: 01256 495732

www.thrifty.co.uk

www.AAdrivetech.com/fleetsafe

Civica Tranman Tel: 01454 874002 www.civica.co.uk/tranman

Vehicle Management

Pendle Vehicle Contracts Tel: 08456 025697 www.pendlelease.co.uk

Fleet Alliance Tel: 0845 601 8407 www.fleetalliance.co.uk

DriveTech

Promote your company here and online for just £500/year.

Zenith Tel: 0844 848 9311 www.zenith.co.uk

sgfleet Tel: 0845 154 0721 www.sgfleet.com

Volkswagen Group Leasing Tel: 0870 333 2229

Maxxia 020 7520 9450 www.maxxia.co.uk

Europcar Tel: 0116 217 3530 www.europcar.co.uk

Interactive Driving Systems Tel: 01484 551060

Enterprise Software Tel: 0161 925 2400 www.essl.co.uk

www.virtualriskmanager.net

www.volkswagengroupleasing.co.uk

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Tel: 01784 221 300 www.enterprise.co.uk

IAM Drive & Survive Tel: 0870 120 2910 www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 08444 99 1402 www.venson.com

Budget Rent-a-Car Tel: 0844 5338 08701544 56 56 56 www.budget.co.uk

Roadmarque Tel: 01792 824438 www.roadmarque.com

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk

Cardinus Risk Management Tel: 01733 426015

Alphabet (GB) Limited Tel: 0870 50 50 100 www.alphabet.co.uk

Tel: 0845 815 0019 www.dayscontracthire.co.uk

www.cardinus.com

Drive Software Solutions Tel: 01438 317731 www.drivesoftwaresolutions.com

Sofico NV Tel:+3292018040

www.soficoservices.com

Jaama Tel: 0844 8484 333 www.jaama.co.uk

SMR Lex Autolease

Tel: 0344 824 0115 www.lexautolease.co.uk

Autoserve Limited Tel: 0844 888 3001 www.autoserve.co.uk

Bill Plant Ltd Tel: 01765 645023

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk

ARI Fleet UK Tel: 0844 8000 700 www.arifleet.co.uk

www.billplant.co.uk

Chevin Fleet Solutions Tel: 01773 821 992 www.chevinfleet.com

Total Leasing Solutions for your business

Telephone 0113 250 0060

www.jct600vehicleleasingsolutions.co.uk

FLEETW RLD FLEETW RLD November 2014

November 2014

All that matters in

the world of fleet

All that matters in the world of fleet

interview

Michael O’Shea of

interview Michael O’Shea of Volkswagen

Volkswagen

stopping power

Why fleets should

stopping power Why fleets should check their brakes

check their brakes

fuel management

misfuelling MODE MODELPUPIL LPUPIL Behind the wheel

of Tesla’s remarkable

Model S

Behind the wheel of Tesla’s remarkable Model S

2014 2014 MPG Marathon 100mpg in real-world driving from a C-segment estate? The UK’s premier economy event sees if it’s possible...

MPG Marathon

100mpg in real-world driving from a C-segment estate?

The UK’s premier economy event sees if it’s possible...

AFF Tel: 0844 879 4770 www.autofuelfix.com

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk

For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0845 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

fleetworld.co.uk fleetworld.co.uk

tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

telematics & tracking

Navman Wireless UK Ltd Tel: 0845 521 1188 www.navmanwireless.co.uk

Fleetmatics Tel: 0800 975 4566 www.fleetmatics.co.uk

Teletrac, a Trafficmaster company Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletrac.co.uk

Trakm8 Tel: 0330 333 4120 www.trakm8.com

Telogis Tel: 0203 005 8805 www.telogis.co.uk

Shell Fuelcards Tel: 0800 915 6021 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

Quartix Ltd Tel: 0870 013 6663 www.quartix.co.uk

MiX Telematics Europe Tel: 0121 717 5360 www.mixtelematics.co.uk

Promote your company here and online for just £500/year.

Esso Fuel Cards Tel: 0800 626 672 www.essocard.com

TRACKER Network UK Limited Tel: 0845 602 3981 www.TRACKER.co.uk

The Fuelcard Company Tel: 0845 073 0873 www.fuelcards.co.uk

BOX Telematics Tel: 0330 333 4118 www.boxtelematics.com

Tel: 0845 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk

fleetworld.co.uk / 65

FLEETW RLD FRIDAY 23RD OCTOBER 2015 AWARDS DINNER THURSDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2015

MILTON KEYNES

PRE-REGISTER NOW ONLINE!

www.vanfleetworldlive.co.uk

VAN

August 2015

FLEETW RLD

p72

at a glance driven...

Mitsubishi L200, Ford Transit Courier

The first of a new generation of pickups to break cover.

Updates will put it on many fleet buying lists.

plus...

INTERVIEW Domenico Gostoli, Fiat Professional Contract hire, Software services

Friday 23rd October 2015 ArenaMK

Register for the show at... vanfleetworldlive.co.uk vanfleetworld.co.uk

INTERVIEW Domenico Gostoli, Fiat Professional

Raising Perception Domenico Gostoli, Fiat Professional’s EMEA CEO, is keen to push the firm’s TCO message, says, Dan Gilkes.

T

here can’t be many company chiefs who start with the admission that just a few years ago the firm was struggling. For parent company Fiat though, the early noughties were a tough time, prior to the firm’s merger with equally desperate US giant Chrysler in 2009.

“In 2004 we were almost on our last legs,” admits Domenico Gostoli, Fiat Professional’s new CEO for Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

The turnaround has been rapid though. Fiat and Chrysler product development was integrated in 18 months and the two companies were fully integrated in just 36. This has resulted in a truly global business, with 61% of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) sales in North America, 21% in Europe, 10% in Latin America and 7% in Asia Pacific.

For Fiat Professional, the group’s light commercial vehicle company, sales have risen to 510,660 in 2014. The numbers are somewhat reversed in LCV though, with EMEA taking over 265,000 of those vans, 220,000 going to Latin America and just under 23,000 finding homes in North America. That looks set to change however, as both Ducato and now Doblo Cargo are to be sold in the US under the Promaster brand.

In Europe Fiat Professional is riding high, with an 11.5% share of the EU28 market. So far in 2015, that has risen further to 13.4%, with new Ducato in particular grabbing an increas‐ ing number of sales.

Gostoli has reason to be happy with the firm’s UK business too, with Fiat Professional recording its highest sales figures here in 2014, at around 15,000 vans. Here too Ducato has been strong, taking its best share of the UK market to date, while retail order uptake is up 70% so far this year. Yet he believes there is more to come.

“I’m not sure that our brand is perceived as it should be,” says Mr Gostoli.

“My personal commitment is to create a different percep‐ tion. We have to work on our credibility. This is my goal.

68 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

“I come from heavy trucks (at Iveco) where no one talks about purchase price, it’s all about total cost of ownership (TCO). In heavy trucks everyone talks about fuel consumption, but in LCV no‐one talks about fuel, though it represents up to 30% of the running costs.”

He is keen to point out that, though some of the vans that Fiat sells are also marketed under other manufacturers’ names, they don’t all make use of Fiat engines.

“We may not always be the best on price, but we are the best in powertrain. In fuel consumption we are very good.”

Gostoli has arrived at an opportune time, with Fiat Profes‐ sional having had successful launches of updated Ducato and Doblo Cargo models. In 2016 the firm will also replace the ageing Scudo van, with a new model based on Renault’s Trafic, and will update the popular Fiorino compact LCV. Fiat will also launch its first 4x4 pick‐up in Europe, based on the new Mitsubishi L200.

He is keen to ensure that Fiat Professional has the best deal‐ ers and has been reassessing the network around the world.

“The level of support from a heavy truck dealer is a reference point and that level of service is not in the mindset of any LCV manufacturer,” says Mr Gostoli.

“We don’t need reaction time, but action time. All of the chain should change the speed of reaction.”

UK director Sebastiano Fedrigo has made a start on reor‐ ganising the UK network, having parted company with 52 Fiat dealers in 2011. There are currently 73 sales operations in the UK with a further 153 service outlets.

“My ambition is to get back to 100 dealers. We are in conver‐ sation with dealers at the moment,” says Mr Fedrigo.

The company is also working to boost residual values and thereby improve TCO, through a new used vehicle programme that will be launched in Q3. New fleet deals, with national parts and service pricing, should appeal to customers from across the UK too.

“In heavy trucks everyone talks about fuel consumption, but in LCV no-one talks about fuel, though it represents up to 30% of the running costs.�

vanfleetworld.co.uk / 69

FEATURE Van Excellence

Excellence standards T

he Freight Transport Association’s (FTA) Van Excellence Driver of the Year 2015 competition has been won by Dave Lucas, a driver for the London Borough of Redbridge. Open to all Van Excel‐ lence accredited businesses, the competition put seven‐ teen drivers through tests of their overall ability, behind the wheel and outside the vehicle.

They included a 15‐mile road test, where the drivers’ performance was monitored through telematics. Each entrant had to complete computer‐based exams, concerning legislation and risk awareness. There was a manoeuvrability test against the clock and a pre‐use vehicle check, using a BT Fleet Vivaro with 30 pre‐ arranged faults.

A broad spread of businesses entered drivers, from local authorities to construction companies, builders’ merchants and utilities. Some had held internal compe‐ titions to find their best drivers, while others had relied on existing fleet management data to pick their best representative.

“We ran an internal competition in May, based on telematic data, looking at driving style, mpg and customer service,” said Adam Drury, transport compli‐ ance manager at Alsford Timber.

The company runs 50 commercial vehicles from 3.5 tonne dropsides to 44 tonne artics, from 19 locations across London and the South East.

“The competition will raise the status of our drivers and that’s an important factor,” he said.

“We as a company have seen a definite improvement in our drivers since joining Van Excellence, they feel more supported now.”

Julia Davies, fleet compliance manager at construction and utilities giant Amey agreed. The company runs more than 1,200 vans and was an early adopter of Van Excel‐ lence, indeed it now insists that its suppliers also achieve the standard.

“I believe we should promote our drivers, we’re not only thinking of senior management,” she said.

70 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

“We expect drivers to look after the vehicle, it’s not just a tool of the job. They are all drivers, van or truck.

We look at drivers as a whole and we try to instil that they are all professional drivers.”

There are 103 accredited operators in the Van Excel‐ lence scheme at present, running more than 125,000 vans on the UK’s roads.

“The standard of entries to the FTA Van Excellence Driver of the Year 2015 was outstanding,” said Mark Cartwright, FTA head of vans.

“Many congratulations must go to every single person who took part, they all demonstrated expertise, knowl‐ edge, experience and professionalism in every aspect of the competition.

“The image of the white van man is much maligned, and this event offers drivers the opportunity to highlight the fantastic work they do, and illustrates the professional manner in which they carry out their work, playing a vital role within the UK logistics sector on a daily basis.”

Second place on the day went to Ian Booth, from Balfour Beatty, while Glen Quinn of Iron Mountain took the third prize. FTA Van Excellence Driver of the Year 2015 was sponsored by Leaseplan, with support from ATS Euromaster, Bott, BT Fleet, Hertz Van Rental, Lex Autolease, TomTom Telematics and Mercedes‐Benz.

The FTA's Mark Cartwright (left) presents the award to Dave Lucas.

Mitsubishi L200 Mitsubishi’s Series 5 L200 delivers an improved ownership proposition, says Dan Gilkes.

SECTOR Pick-up ENGINE POWER 151–178hp PAYLOAD 1,050kg TOWING CAPACITY 3,100kg

T

here is little doubt that Mitsubishi kicked off the leisure pick‐up market for many in Europe, adding air conditioning, leather trim and big alloys to its working trucks. Yet, despite the fact that most L200 models are now sold in higher trim levels, it remains a manufacturer of sturdy workhorse pick‐ups too, for those that need to carry goods off‐road.

Mitsubishi has been selling pick‐ups in the UK for more than 30 years and has just taken the wraps off its fifth generation L200. Powered by the Euro 5b compliant 2.4‐litre diesel engine from the Outlander, and finally boasting a sixth ratio in its manual gearbox, the L200 has been comprehensively overhauled.

Though only 100cc smaller in capacity, the all‐ aluminium 2.4‐litre diesel engine is 30kg lighter than the previous engine. It delivers a headline 178hp with 430Nm of torque in all of the lifestyle models, with a 151hp version backed up by 380Nm of torque in the 4Life model.

Equipped with cooled EGR, variable valve timing and a variable geometry turbo, the engine meets Euro 5b without needing SCR, so there is no AdBlue to worry about. Again that keeps weight down. Indeed cutting weight has been a major focus and the truck comes in at around 1,860kg unladen, which helps towards claimed fuel consumption of up to 42.8mpg. That means CO2 emissions of just 169g/km for the 4Life models and 173g/km for higher trim levels, which is impressive for a double‐cab pick‐up.

As mentioned Mitsubishi has finally slotted a sixth gear into its manual box, though the optional auto retains just five ratios. The extra gear no doubt contributes to the improved fuel consumption, but also plays a part in reduced noise levels at speed. The L200 also benefits from 120mm longer rear suspension springs, uprated front springs and a larger anti‐roll bar for improved handling and ride quality. Larger body mounts and a greater use of high strength steel in the chassis to add rigidity, also

72 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

play a part in improving the driving experience.

The load bed dimensions are similar to the previous model, though the bed sides are 15mm higher for an improved load volume. The truck will of course carry over 1‐tonne, to ensure that owners can reclaim VAT, but the concentration on light weight means that towing capability has been pegged at 3.1 tonnes, somewhat behind some competitors.

Mitsubishi’s all‐wheel drive system has been improved.

The basic 4Life models use the firm’s Easy Select 4WD, delivering drive 50/50 front and rear with a manually applied rear differential lock for tough off‐road conditions.

All models above the 4Life have Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD system, which can be used in four‐wheel drive on the road as well as off. It now uses a Torsen centre differential to deliver a 40/60 torque split front and rear for improved on‐ road handling. There is no rear diff lock on the Super Select models though the truck’s stability and traction control system will brake any spinning wheel to increase traction.

All models get air conditioning, powered windows and heated mirrors, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, with 4Life models starting at £19,749. Titan trim adds Super Select AWD, rain and light sensors, lane departure warning, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 17‐inch alloys, privacy glass, dual zone AC and a DAB radio. Prices start at £20,749.

Move up to the Warrior spec level, which is expected to be the most popular, and you also get a choice of manual or automatic transmission (auto traditionally accounts for 20% of L200 sales) plus heated seats, sat nav, rear view camera, Bi‐Xenon lights with LED daytime lights and a rear bumper step. Prices are from £23,049.

The range‐topping Barbarian, from £23,799, adds a premium leather interior, LED mood lighting, puddle lamps, a soft opening tailgate damper and a host of styling covers and chrome surrounds. Mitsubishi will continue to offer the Series 4 L200 for another 12 months, while Series 5 sales will commence in September.

FLEET FACT Workhorse 4Life models offer 169g/km CO2 emissions.

what we think The L200 is the first of a new generation of pickups to break cover and the updates will put it on many fleet buying lists.

vanfleetworld.co.uk / 73

Renault VAN RANGE Grow your business like your family.

Renault Kangoo Available from £139.95 per month

All-New Renault Trafic Available from £189.95 per month

Your success booster.

Renault Vans range available from £139.95 per month on contract hire.

BUSINESS USERS ONLY. All prices exclude VAT unless otherwise indicated. 36-month contract hire based on 10,000 miles and 6+35 profile inc. VAT. Excess mileage 6ppm on Trafic, 8ppm on Master. Excess charges apply if the van exceeds BVRLA Fair Wear & Tear guidelines PO Box 149, WD17 1FJ. Subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. You must be 18 or over and a UK resident schemes or finance offers and are available on Trafic and Master until 30 September 2015. Trafic and Master shown have optional front

New Renault Master Available from £209.95 per month

(6x monthly payment in advance followed by 35 monthly payments). Vehicles shown have metallic paint, available at an additional £480 for its age/mileage. AT THE END OF THE CONTRACT YOU WILL NOT OWN THE VEHICLE. Finance provided by Renault Finance, (excluding Channel Islands) to apply. Terms and conditions apply. Participating dealers only. Offers shown cannot be used with other fog lights available at an additional £180 inc. VAT. Kangoo shown has optional front fog lights available at an additional £132 inc. VAT.

Ford Transit Courier Ford’s Transit Courier bridges the final gap in the firm’s line up, Dan Gilkes takes a drive.

F

ord’s compact high cube Transit Courier offers fleet users real carry‐ ing capacity in an urban‐friendly package, with a 660kg payload and a 1.9m3 load bay. Specify a flexible bulkhead and folding passenger seat and that volume grows to 2.4m3, putting it head to head with the Nemo/Bipper/Fiorano trio.

Power outputs are similar too, though from larger engines, with Ford offering a 1.5‐litre TDCi Duratorq with 75hp and a 1.6‐litre Duratorq with 95hp. The firm will also sell you a Courier with its three‐cylin‐ der 1.0‐litre EcoBoost petrol engine deliv‐ ering 100hp, if preferred.

All three engines can be had in the higher Trend speci ication, while the EcoBoost and the 1.5‐litre diesel can also be paired with the Base trim. Only the smaller diesel can be ordered in the people‐carrying Courier Kombi.

Surprisingly, despite its additional power and torque, the 1.6‐litre diesel engine is the most efficient and the cleanest of the three.

It offers 70.6mpg and 105g/km in standard form, dropping to just 97g/km and 76.3mpg with optional Start/Stop and a speed limiter in ECOnetic trim.

The 1.5‐litre that we tested, returns up to 68.9mpg and 108g/km, which can be improved to 72.4mpg and 103g/km if you add Start/Stop.

However, the 1.5‐litre is only £400 less than the 1.6‐litre, which offers 95hp and 215Nm of torque against the smaller engine’s 75hp and 190Nm. If you regularly venture out of the urban environment, it could well be worth the additional invest‐ ment for the added power and economy.

76 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

what we think Transit Courier easily outpaces the existing competition in this compact high cube sector.

It will be interesting to see how the engine split develops.

specification MODEL Ford Courier Trend 1.5TDCi BASIC PRICE £12,145 ENGINE 4-cyl/1,498cc FUEL INJECTION Common-rail POWER 75hp @ 3,750rpm TORQUE 190Nm @ 1,750rpm Weights (kg) GVW 1,795 KERB WEIGHT 1,135 PAYLOAD 660 MAX TRAILER WEIGHT 1,160 Dimensions (mm) LOAD SPACE LENGTH 1,620 LOAD SPACE WIDTH 1,488 LOAD SPACE HEIGHT 1,244 LOAD VOLUME 2.3m3 Cost considerations COMBINED CO2/MPG 108g/km/68.9 mpg OIL CHANGE 1 yr/20,000 miles WARRANTY 3 yr/100,000 miles

That said, driving the 1.5‐litre on the motorway is no chore. Indeed the van is almost better at the long distance stuff than it is in the cut and thrust of urban traffic.

It feels incredibly long geared, cruising with ease at very low rpm. The downside, is that acceleration always feels relatively leisurely, with little of the dartiness of the smaller Fiesta Van. Courier is an easy van to pilot through the town centre though, with that huge panoramic windscreen providing good vis‐ ibility ahead. It’s a very comfortable van too, in Trend trim you get a height adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjust‐ ment and an armrest.

Other standard Trend kit includes wheel covers, front fogs, body colour mirror hous‐ ings and door handles, a single side loading door, auto lights and wipers, electrically‐ operated and heated mirrors, underseat storage, Ford SYNC, electric windows and a fuel computer.

Even the Base Courier comes with day‐ time running lights, remote central locking, ESC, an immobiliser, a Device Dock, DAB radio with Bluetooth and USB, a fixed bulk‐ head and load compartment lighting, but it makes do without that side loading door, which really is an essential on something with such a deep load bay.

Whatever the trim level, Courier is a very accomplished compact van, with easily accessed load space and an easy to live with cab. Given the pricing and engine perform‐ ance though, we recommend a very close look at all engine models before making a buying decision.

FEATURE Software

Software service Customer care leads to customer retention, telematic software provider Fleetmatics tells Dan Gilkes.

“Telematics is not about the software, it’s about the service.” That might sound like an odd quote from what is essentially a software provider, but for Derek Bryan, vice president of Europe and Asia Pacific sales for Fleetmatics, retention and re‐signing of existing customers are the main priorities for further company growth. And the company has been growing, as of 31 March this year Fleetmatics served more than 28,000 customers globally, with a combined vehicle fleet of over 594,000 vehicles. More importantly, its share price has more than doubled in the last two years.

“People are investing in Fleetmatics as a brand now,” he said. “We have proven ourselves and we are growing faster than the market. We develop all of our own soft‐ ware and we sell it ourselves.

“The technology is good now, but that’s only half the story, 60‐70% of our new contracts in the UK are moving from another supplier. The basics of customer care have been neglected a lot in our industry and we are about aftercare, training and the regularity of upgrades.”

Indeed a tour of Fleetmatics’ UK base in Reading starts not with the expected demonstration of its range of telematic solutions, or its increasingly popu‐ lar Fleetmatics Reveal user interface, but with a look at the team of customer care staff handling calls.

“As technology becomes a necessity, which it is now, the more educated buyer will look to companies with a proven track record,” said Mr Bryan.

“Where is your customer care? What happens if you have a problem? We take care of our customers end to end.”

Telematics, be it a simple tracking product or a full fleet management solution, has become an essential part of the vehicle manager’s toolkit. From SMEs to major national delivery companies, the ability to see

78 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

how efficient your drivers and your vehicles are, can be the difference between profit and loss.

“We are very focussed on the LCV market, with 10 vehicles and up, particularly in the service industry,” says Mr Bryan.

“Our solution is not just for the transport manager though, we ind that the managing director is very much involved too, but the leet manager is interested in pro‐ ductivity and vehicle use. However information and data is worthless, schedule reporting is just a buzz‐word, implementing a solution in itself is just adding a bill.

“You have to sit down and look at what the com‐ pany’s problems are, what can be achieved and who needs to know,” said Mr Bryan.

“We provide a very intuitive, very reliable business intelligence solution, to include training, customer care and regular upgrades.”

That doesn’t mean that customers continually have to add components to a basic offering though.

“We have a one‐size‐fits‐all product, so you get everything as a subscriber, including the upgrades,” said Mr Bryan.

“We believe that we have uncluttered the buying process. You get a full warranty for the life of the con‐ tract. All service calls are included in the contract and we’ll give you one solution at one price. We have a number of hardware suppliers but 100% we are pro‐ viding the back‐up and will replace it free of charge for the life of the contract.”

Looking Forward So what’s next for the telematics business? For the last few years, leet managers have concentrated on productivity and overtime. More recently it’s all been about fuel use.

“It’s evident that health and safety is much more to the fore now. Organisations are looking much more to the driver than to the vehicle, with driving style and legislation like the Working Time Directive all in focus,” said Mr Bryan.

“We can follow the driver around the leet in multiple vehicles. The vehicle doesn’t behave, the driver behaves.

“We are also finding that more of our customers now are logging on via our mobile app than through the web‐ site, so mobile is definitely the future.”

This move to increasingly mobile access has in part been facilitated by the launch last year of Fleetmatics Reveal, an improved interface that allows managers to access a wealth of driver and vehicle information. Here too though Mr Bryan says that Fleetmatics is taking a different approach.

“We never lose your data, but we have had to find intelligent ways to demonstrate what is happening to your fleet over the years,” he says.

“We take data from every customer and put it into industry‐speci ic groups, that gives you the ability to see how your leet compares with others in your industry.”

These industry groups include contractors, delivery companies, electricians, passenger carrying fleets and

plumbers, to name a few.

The system also ties in with a range of fuel cards, providing instant updates on fuel use, with Fleetmat‐ ics’ Lost Fuel Report in particular providing managers with a powerful monitoring and potentially money saving tool. Importantly, all of the company’s reports are active, not fixed PDFs that managers have to down‐ load. Managers can access multiple active reports at the same time, flipping between them to find the infor‐ mation that is right for their operation.

As Mr Bryan said: “The simple things in life are the things that will be the most used.”

iPad

vanfleetworld.co.uk / 79

MARKET OVERVIEW Contract Hire, Finance & Leasing

ALD Automotive

Alphabet

The ALD Automotive group is the second largest vehicle leasing operation in Europe and manages over 1 million vehicles across 40 countries worldwide.

Within the UK ALD is widely recognised as one of the industry’s leading service providers, with a proven portfolio of award winning products for major plc’s, small businesses and individual drivers alike.

Our LCV team are able to support all elements of LCV acquisition, conversion and up time management regardless of fleet size. With innovations such as our award winning ProFleet2 telematics proposition, ALD can help manage LCV fleets and reduce cost.

ALD holds both ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accreditations.

Alphabet is an experienced provider of commercial vehicles to both private and public sector organisations within the UK. Few vehicle leasing companies can match our track record and experience when it comes to understanding your funding, operational and general fleet management requirements.

Our highly experienced team can guide you through the complex process of vehicle specification, preparation, maintenance and disposal – ensuring ‘best advice’ every step of the way. We are committed to developing partnerships with our customers and working closely with them to ensure we, and our supplier network provide the best solution.

Contact: Matt Dale, LCV Operations Manager Tel: 0117 908 2000 matt.dale@aldautomotive.com www.aldautomotive.co.uk

Vehicle Management

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management Arnold Clark Vehicle Management is one of the UK’s premier vehicle leasing companies. We’re a family run business – small enough to deliver a uniquely personal experience, yet big enough to deliver the professional fleet management you need.

We are the largest dealer-based leasing company in the country and we have a characteristic no-nonsense business style. Because we're totally independent, you can always rely on us to provide unbiased advice. We’ve helped corporate clients, small businesses and government departments realise genuine savings and improvements in productivity. We listen, and we'd welcome the chance to work with you.

Contact: Calum Ewart calum.ewart@arnoldclark.co.uk

Tel: 0845 603 4590 www.acvm.co.uk

Tel: 0370 5050 100 www.alphabet.com/en-gb

alphabet@alphabet.co.uk

Days Contract Hire Days Contract Hire is one of the UK’s leading independent vehicle funding, leasing and fleet management companies, providing fleet solutions to businesses in the private and public sector for over 25 years.

With no affiliation to a bank or vehicle manufacturer, we are well placed to offer impartial advice to recommend a fleet solution which is tailored to your business needs. As well as Contract Hire, Days are able to offer a short-term Flexi Hire service and a host of ancillary services to assist in the management of fleets, all of which are supported by industry-leading technology and client facing systems.

Contact: Neil Vaughan neilvaughan@daysfleet.com

Tel: 0845 2172 608 www.daysfleet.com

Fleet Alliance Limited

Lex Autolease is also the UK’s leading specialist commercial vehicle provider. We know this industry better than anyone. We’ll build the perfect commercial vehicle solution for your business and overcome your unique challenges in the process. By bringing together extensive expertise, innovative service and a comprehensive range of vehicles, Lex Autolease consistently adds value to your business. From Driveaways for SMEs, to our industry-leading Business Critical 24/7 proposition for mega-fleets, we’ll help you create the very best solution for your needs.

Fleet Alliance is an award winning fleet management provider, offering contract hire, leasing and a complete range of fleet solutions. We manage in excess of 18,000 vehicles on behalf of corporate clients.

Our market-leading Fleet 360 model provides the best combination of products and advice delivered through our cloud-based fleet management system, e-fleet, and our award-winning smartphone app, e-fleet mobile.

Recent awards successes include: • Top 10 UK Best Place to Work – Great Place to Work awards 2015 • Excellence in Leadership Award – Great Place to Work awards 2015 • National Business Awards: Customer Focus (Finalist) 2013/14 • National Business Awards: Employer of the Year (Finalist) 2013/14 • Scottish Business Awards: Employer of the Year (Highly Commended) • Best App Award, BusinessCar Techie Awards 2014

Contact: Marcus Puddy Tel: 0344 824 0115 enquiries@lexautolease.co.uk www.lexautolease.co.uk/commercial-vehicles

Contact: Grant Boardman Tel: 0845 601 8407 grant.boardman@fleetalliance.co.uk www.fleetalliance.co.uk

Lex Autolease

80 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

VAN

Approximately how many commercial vehicles does your company operate?

Do you employ dedicated specialists to offer advice & guidance on LCV specification?

Do you offer non-maintenance contract hire on LCV’s?

Do you offer funding & maintenance for ancillary equipment fitted to the vehicle (tail lifts etc)?

Can you create bespoke return conditions for your LCV customers?

Do you offer pooling of excess and credit mileage?

Do you follow the BVRLA’s guidelines on Fair Wear & Tear for LCVs?

Do you offer packages that are based upon re-using bodywork or Interior equipment?

Do you offer guidance to clients on Duty of Care legislation?

Do you offer a design & build service for extensive bespoke conversions?

Do you offer and arrange long term vehicle evaluations (6 months duration)

FLEETW RLD

ALD Automotive

19k

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Alphabet

13k

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Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

4.2k+

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Days Contract Hire

2.25k

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3k+

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Inchcape Fleet Solutions

13.5k

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Lex Autolease

81k

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Venson Automotive Solutions Limited

5.5k

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Fleet Alliance Limited

Inchcape Fleet Solutions Inchcape Fleet Solutions has been providing flexible fleet management solutions to Corporate, Government and Non-profit sector clients throughout the UK for more than 50 years and has grown to become one of the UK’s leading fleet management companies. We currently manage in excess of 46,000 vehicles. IFS is a subsidiary of Inchcape plc, a leading global premium automotive group. Our customer centric fleet management solutions embrace simplicity to enable our customers to focus on their core business and we pride ourselves on the breadth of our services and the depth of our commitment to customers.

Tel: 0333 222 0966 info@ifs.inchcape.co.uk

www.inchcape-fleet.co.uk

Venson Automotive Solutions Venson is a hands-on fleet management specialist with a proven track record in reducing fleet costs and increasing vehicle availability. It’s our level of experience, knowledge and service that allows us to give you the kind of impartial advice that has real financial returns whether your business is in the private, public, not-for-profit or emergency services sector. From sourcing the right vehicles to funding, maintaining and delivering commercial vehicle fit-outs, we handle every aspect and we don’t let our clients down, our 95% retention rate is testament to that. Get in touch and drive your business in a new direction.

Contact: Danielle Tilley sales@venson.com

Tel: 08444 99 1402 www.venson.com

vanfleetworld.co.uk / 81

FEATURE Autogas

Viable alternative W

ith air pollution high on the agenda for local and national government, fleets face a potential bar‐ rage of emissions legislation in the coming years.

The recent turn on diesel engines, despite CO2 legislation having pushed the majority of fleet users towards the black pump, has caused many in the industry to look again at alternative fuels.

While electric and hybrid drivelines may be the answer for some, gaseous road fuels are also under scrutiny again.

LPG in particular could offer a low cost alternative, with provider Autogas promising up to 40% fuel cost savings, along with a 90% reduction in Particulate Matter, an 80% cut in NOx and up to 20% less CO2 than a comparable diesel.

Yes we’ve been here before, some operators will remember the sudden demise of Powershift incentives for LPG vans. They may also recall that while there were quite a few LCV options, there was very little infrastructure to support gas users.

This time around, the opposite is true, there are more than 1,400 LPG sites across the UK, including 220 Autogas pumps at Shell filling stations. It has never been easier to find LPG gas, the problem for van operators in particular, is locating the potential vehicles.

LPG conversions are based on petrol engines, which have been few and far between in the UK LCV market over the last decade. There has been a slight return to petrol in smaller vans, with manufacturers answering a call from fleet operators concerned about DPF life in urban use and rising diesel charges, but there are still only eight to nine vans to choose from. However, there are more petrol, and even some factory‐built LPG vans on the Continent.

The LPG market has been given a boost by the Chancellor though, with a 10‐year duty trajectory set in December 2013 that will ensure that LPG remains considerably cheaper than petrol or diesel.

“The time is right for a resurgence in LPG,” says Autogas business development manager Paul Oxford.

“There is a fantastic infrastructure, it just needs the vehi‐ cles to use it. What we need is a manufacturer to offer an LPG van in the UK.” At present the market relies on conversions, with LPG tanks usually being fitted in the spare wheel well. The vehi‐

82 / vanfleetworld.co.uk

cle starts from cold on petrol and once operating tempera‐ ture has been reached will automatically switch to LPG. The driver can change between fuels if required on the move and the swap between petrol and gas really is unnoticeable.

Despite the low numbers, there are around 120 LPG installers in the UK. However, Autogas warns that some are better than others. To help fleet managers decide, the com‐ pany launched an approved converter list earlier this year, with five signed up so far and a desire to see 20 registered converters by the end of the year.

“It’s very important to make sure that the vehicle is right for conversion to gas,” says conversion manager Andrew Sanders.

Of course Autogas doesn’t see LPG as the only solution, but it believes that for the right operation it should cer‐ tainly be considered as part of the mix. Elsewhere in Europe LPG tends to capture around 2.5% of the vehicle park, so there is certainly room for growth here.

FIAT DOBLO VAN Fleet World had the chance to try an LPG conversion based on a Fiat Doblo Cargo, equipped with the irm’s 1.4‐ litre petrol engine. In petrol form the engine delivers 95hp and 127Nm of torque, offering up to 38.7mpg.

There really is no discernable difference from the driv‐ ing seat, even when you manually switch between fuels.

Noise levels remain very similar and the van has much the same performance.

The 51‐litre LPG tank provides a range of around 320 miles, plus the van’s petrol tank delivers peace of mind for the few remote areas of the UK that might not have ready access to gas. The additional tank and fuel take just 54kg out of the van’s available payload, so shouldn’t concern most users.

The only downside to the LPG van is, rather unfortu‐ nately, the fact that it is based on the petrol model, which is rather torque‐free when compared to Fiat’s excellent MultiJet II diesels. If you can live with the relative lack of performance however, the savings could cancel out the £1,400 conversion cost within the irst year of ownership.

VAN SUPPLIER DIRECTORY FLEETW RLD daily rental

contract hire, leasing & finance

racking systems

tail lifts

fleet management software

Budget Rent-a-Car Tel: 0844 5338 08701544 56 56 56 www.budget.co.uk

Alphabet (GB) Limited Tel: 0870 50 50 100 www.alphabet.co.uk

Tevo Limited Tel: 01628 528034 www.tevo.eu.com

Ratcliff Palfinger Ltd Tel: 01707 382880 www.ratcliffpalfinger.co.uk

Civica Tranman Tel: 01454 874002 www.civica.co.uk/tranman

Europcar Tel: 0116 217 3530 www.europcar.co.uk

LeasePlan UK Ltd Tel: 0844 493 5810 www.leaseplan.co.uk

Bott Ltd Tel: 01530 410600 www.bott-group.com

DEL Equipment (UK) Ltd Tel: 01993 708811 www.del-uk.com

Chevin Fleet Solutions Tel: 01773 821 992 www.chevinfleet.com

Avis Rent A Car Budget Rent-a-Car Tel: 0844 5000 08701544 56 56 56 www.avis.co.uk www.budget.co.uk

Zenith Tel: 0844 848 9311 www.zenith.co.uk

Sortimo Central Tel: 0121 511 2303 www.sortimo-central.com

Penny Hydraulics Tel: 01246 811475 www.pennyhydraulics.com

Mycompanyfleet Tel: 0845 077 7760 www.mycompanyfleet.co.uk

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Tel: 01784 221 300 www.enterprise.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

TRACKER Network UK Limited Tel: 0845 602 3981 www.TRACKER.co.uk

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

TomTom Business Solutions Tel: 020 7255 9774 www.tomtom.com/business

fast-fits & tyres

Tel: 0845 603 4590 www.acvm.co.uk

telematics & tracking

Vehicle Management

automatic transmissions Stephens Engineering Automatics Limited Tel: 01920 462530 www.stephensengineering.co.uk

UKVANLEASING

Tel: 01708 511071 www.ukvanleasing.com

Lex Autolease

Tel: 0344 824 0115 www.lexautolease.co.uk

Full listings online at

Tel: 0845 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk Navman Wireless UK Ltd Tel: 0845 521 1188 www.navmanwireless.co.uk

Trakm8 Tel: 0330 333 4120 www.trakm8.com

fleetworld.co.uk conversions Full listings online at

Clarks Vehicle Conversions fleetworld.co.uk Tel: 0845 319 2787 www.van-conversion.co.uk

STEPS

Volkswagen Group Leasing Tel: 0870 333 2229 www.volkswagengroupleasing.co.uk

Teletrac, a Trafficmaster company Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletrac.co.uk

Promote your company here and online for just £400/year.

ATS Euromaster Tel: 0870 066 3624 www.atseuromaster.co.uk

vehicle data International Decision Systems Tel: 01256 302 000 www.idsdata.co.uk

risk management Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 08444 99 1402 www.venson.com

fuel management

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0845 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

Roadmarque Tel: 01792 824438 www.roadmarque.com

Esso Fuel Cards Tel: 0800 626 672 www.essocard.com

IAM Drive & Survive Tel: 0870 120 2910 www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

AVS Steps Ltd

Tel: 01939 235900 www.avssteps.co.uk

Fleet Alliance Tel: 0845 601 8407 www.fleetalliance.co.uk

Shell Fuelcards Tel: 0800 915 6021 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

insurance Bluedrop Services Ltd Tel: 01706 658608 www.bluedropservices.co.uk

Full listings online at

fleetworld.co.uk

vehicle ventilation

accident management

Flettner Ventilator Ltd Tel: 020 8200 2321 www.flettner.co.uk

Total Accident Management Tel: 0845 078 4157 www.totalaccman.co.uk

VAN FLEETW RLD SUPPLIER DIRECTORY For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk vanfleetworld.co.uk / 83