Fleet World March 2019

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EVERYTHING FLEETS NEED TO KNOW

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Renault’s all-new fifth-generation supermini delivers innovation and fleet-focused appeal

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FOR HYBRID, PLUG-IN AND FUEL-CELL FLEETS

FUTURE FUELS Looking at the pros and cons of fuelling options for operators

INTERVIEW Fiona Howarth explains how Octopus EV can benefit fleets

DRIVEN Citroën C5 Aircross Toyota Corolla Lexus UX Mazda 3

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The latest news from the EV fleet world, what’s coming and what fleets need to know about electrified vehicles

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Fuel consumption in mpg (I/100km) for the model shown: Combined 42.8 (6.6), CO2 emissions 133 g/km. MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. The figures shown here are for limited comparison purposes; fuel consumption is tested using WLTP and C02 emissions are NEDC equivalent. Only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. For more information about WLTP please refer to kia.com/uk. Model shown: All-New ProCeed ‘GT-Line S’ 1.4 T-GDi 138bhp 7-speed auto DCT ISG at £29,235 including premium Infra red paint at £550. All-New Kia ProCeed range available from £23,835. Specification varies across the range and is subject to change without notice. 7 Year /100,000 miles manufacturer’s warranty included.

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CONTENTS_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:03 Page 1

incorporating EVERYTHING FLEETS NEED TO KNOW

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March 2019 • fleetworld.co.uk

CEL EBR

ATI NG

Renault’s all-new fifth-generation supermini delivers innovation and fleet-focused appeal

INSIDE

March 2019 • fleetworld.co.uk

INCLUDED WITH THIS ISSUE

( GO ELECTRIC 19 ) evfleetworld.co.uk

FOR HYBRID, PLUG-IN AND FUEL-CELL FLEETS

FUTURE FUELS Looking at the pros and cons of fuelling options for operators

INTERVIEW Fiona Howarth explains how Octopus EV can benefit fleets

DRIVEN Citroën C5 Aircross Toyota Corolla Lexus UX Mazda 3

( GO ELECTRIC 19 )

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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The latest news from the EV fleet world, what’s coming and what fleets need to know about electrified vehicles

18 The lowdown on Renault’s e-tech engine

26 Spotlight > Renault Clio

32 Driven > Toyota Corolla

34 Driven > Lexus UX

36 Driven > Mazda 3

40 SWOT > Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

42 Future fuels, all the options for fleet explained

46 Fiona Howarth, MD of Octopus EVs talks electric

Director Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Editor Martyn Collins martyn@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Business Editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Content Editor Jonathan Musk jonathan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Editor Van Fleet World Dan Gilkes dan@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Account Directors Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Yvonne Wright yvonne@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Kevin Gregory Van Fleet World kevin@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Account Executives Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Lloyd Ramsdale Lloyd@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Circulation Manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Head of Production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Designers Dan Bennett dan.bennett@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Tina Ries tina@fleetworldgroup.co.uk Victoria Arellano victoria@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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66 Partner Grip delivers all-round performance

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60 Renault looks to electric van growth

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MARTYN_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 13:48 Page 1

FROM THE

EDITOR A show of two halves…

There was a real air of innovation this year, while most of the buzz around the show hinged on the slew of new pure EV models.

I’m just back from a surprisingly busy Geneva Motor Show. I say surprising because the motorshow format, the way it is, looks out of fashion, with major manufacturers such as Ford and Jaguar Land Rover choosing not to take stand space, and instead spend their budget elsewhere.

With all the manufacturers that had decided not to participate, I was worried that the halls might look empty. I’m pleased to report that the Palexpo still felt full, plus there was a real air of innovation this year, while most of the buzz around Geneva hinged on the slew of new pure EV models, released in concept form at the event. A happy coincidence then, that we have a feature on ‘Future Fuels’ and our ‘Go Electric 19’ supplement – both with lots of interesting and informative features to help you make the right future choices.

On the flip side to all this electric buzz, I also managed to catch up with a few key industry figures at the show. The general tone of the conversations was anxious and slightly uncertain, when talking about plans for the UK for the rest of this year. The bottom line, it seems, is the same as last year — it’s a wait-andsee approach until the situation with us leaving the EU is resolved. Meanwhile, many are remaining focused on carrying on with what they do well, keeping in mind the possibility that we could still crash out at the end of March without a deal and the headaches extra import tariffs could cause.

So, despite my genuine hope of bringing you better news about this key issue which is massively affecting our industry, I’m afraid like last month, I’m found wanting. Still trying to remain hopeful, but feeling frustrated…

Martyn Collins editor

006 • fleetworld.co.uk

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THIS MONTH IN FLEET www.fleetworld.co.uk

FROM START TO FINISH You could be liable for risks and costs if your employees are driving their privately-owned cars for work.

Our Mobility Audit can help identify these and make your fleet more efficient.

Volvo to limit top speed on all new cars from 2020 Volvo is to impose a 180kph (112mph) maximum top speed on all new models from 2020 to help reduce the dangers from speeding.

Although the carmaker has long placed focus on passive and active safety measures, including as part of its Vision 2020 initiative that aims for no one to be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo by 2020, it says research has revealed that

speeding is one of three so-called ‘gaps’ in its ambition.

According to Jan Ivarsson, one of Volvo Cars’ leading safety experts, further action needs to be taken on speeding as drivers just don’t recognise the dangers involved.

“As humans, we all understand the dangers with snakes, spiders and heights. With speeds, not so much,” said Ivarsson. “People often drive too

Jaguar targets fleets with updated, RDE2-compliant XE saloon Jaguar is renewing its focus on SME fleets, launching an updated version of the XE compact executive saloon with

010 • fleetworld.co.uk

the first RDE2-compliant diesel engine in its class.

Speaking to Fleet World, senior product planning manager Wayne Darley said the outgoing car had been a vital ice-breaker for getting the brand on fleet choice lists ahead of subsequent launches. Over half of early cars had gone to fleets, weighted towards SMEs and thus high trim levels, while low CO2 had driven a 70% diesel mix.

Jaguar is aiming for around 10,000 UK sales with the new car and it’s still targeting SMEs, but Darley

acknowledged that there had been a significant shift in buying habits since the XE launched in 2014. UK volumes are now 60% petrol-weighted, due in part to 4% BiK penalties introduced against diesels last April.

The new XE will be the first diesel car in its class to avoid that surcharge, thanks to a 2.0-litre, 178bhp engine which is compliant with the new RDE2 standard, introduced with Euro 6d. Jaguar is aiming to have its entire diesel range compliant comfortably ahead of the January 2021 deadline for new registrations.

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fast in a given traffic situation and have poor speed adaption in relation to that traffic situation and their own capabilities as a driver. We need to support better behaviour and help people realise and understand that speeding is dangerous.”

Apart from limiting top speeds, Volvo is

However, while Darley sees this opening new doors with fleets, the company is predicting petrol will continue to be more popular for the short term as the market catches up. Jaguar can quickly adjust production at its engine plant in Wolverhampton if demand shifts, and ‘electrified’ versions of its core models will arrive from next year.

“We’ve pushed our engineering teams hard to make sure we can achieve [RDE2 compliance], as we know in the UK that’s important,” he

also exploring the use of combined smart speed control and geofencing technology which could automatically limit speeds around vulnerable road user areas such as schools and hospitals.

Volvo’s research also found two other problem areas that need tackling under

said. “The message still needs to get out there that diesel is OK and it’s part of the solution, not the problem.”

The RDE2-compliant diesel engine is being introduced as part of a mid-cycle upgrade for the XE, marked out by subtle exterior styling changes and a heavily reworked interior with better quality materials. The streamlined line-up comprises two petrol engines and one diesel, with two trim levels – XE and R-Dynamic. Pricing starts at £33,915 on the road.

its Vision 2020 ambition, including driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol and driver distraction.

The announcement came just weeks after research published by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) showed that speeding remains a significant problem in many European countries, with the organisation highlighting that over-rideable Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) could help tackle the problem; the technology is one of 11 different systems on track to become mandatory from around 2022 in new cars, with measures to tackle distraction and alcohol interlock installation facilitation also to become mandatory.

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ANALYSIS_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 13:55 Page 1

A N A LY S I S CLEAN AIR ZONES

SHOCKWAVES

Could the impact of London’s ULEZ and the UK’s forthcoming clean air zones on fossil fuel cars – and vans – mean issues for the new and used car markets?

Natalie Middleton speaks to the experts.

W

e all know that fossil fuelpowered cars and vans will eventually become a thing of the past but will London’s imminentlylaunching Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and the proposed implementation of clean air zones (CAZs) across the UK force change quicker?

Certainly, it’s something that vehicle finance firm Mann Island Finance believes; it’s said in the last month that diesel and petrol car sales are expected to decline at an accelerating rate with the advent of clean air zones, impacting on future values.

So even though Euro 4 petrols and Euro 6 diesels cars/vans will be fine to use such zones, could the advent of CAZs affect buyer interest, and what’s the outlook for used values?

Andrew Mee, a senior forecasting editor at Cap HPI, is quick to point out that CAZs will bring minimal impact on new ICE car purchases compared to other considerations, explaining: “The existing trend of falling diesel car registrations will continue throughout 2019, not because of ULEZs and CAZs, but because the anti-diesel sentiment over the past few years has made buyers consider which is the right fuel choice for them and their driving needs. Many drivers have and will continue to switch to petrol and alternative fuel cars. The trend is also supported by the fact that manufacturers are now producing far fewer diesel variants of their products, especially in the smaller car sectors.”

He added that looking a little further into the future, petrol's share of the new car market will start to fall while the share of ULEVs will start to rise, but this will also be down to the wider choices of ULEVs.

But Martin Potter, group managing director of Aston Barclay, does think that the London ULEZ will help push companies to petrols as well as new hybrids and EVs, following a similar pattern to when the Congestion Charge was first introduced.

He continues: “With a scrappage scheme set for launch for both older cars and vans, ULEZ may well help boost car sales as drivers trade in their old model for a new or compliant used

Anti-diesel sentiment over the past few years has made buyers consider which is the right fuel choice for them and their driving needs. one. Previous scrappage schemes have not only stimulated the new car market, but also contributed to increasing used prices of old cars as supply has been dramatically reduced.”

He also believes the van market will see more operators start to consider electric models seriously for deliveries in and around London, further boosting the used market. However, he says Euro 6 diesels will remain the mainstay light commercial for those companies who travel longer distances in and out of the capital each day to ensure they avoid ULEZ fines.

Meanwhile Alex Wright, managing director, Shoreham Vehicle Auctions, says that the imminent arrival of such schemes is already having an impact on the used market, pointing to ongoing rises in demand for electric vehicles and Euro 6 used vans. But he says demand and prices for used diesel vans remain strong across the board; those fleets not geographically located near the zones are happy to still buy Euro 5 vehicles, which is upholding demand and prices.

He also doesn’t think that the ULEZ/CAZs will impact on sales of ICEpowered cars, adding: “We anticipate the growth in sales of electric vehicles across all towns and centres with or without an ULEZ in place as more users understand how they fit into their average daily lives.”

Finally, Cox Automotive has also dismissed any concerns over the impact of the ULEZ/CAZs on the used market, including for diesels. Philip Nothard, customer insight and strategy director – cars, pointed out that ‘Dieselgate’ has already led to a huge reduction in the number of new diesel cars entering the market, and the company predicts that demand will hold steady, keeping values in line with the market in general.

And James Davis, Customer Insight and Strategy Director – CV, has moved to dispel current speculation that Euro 5 van values are beginning to suffer.

But he finishes: “Demand for used Euro 6 vans will definitely hot up in the coming years. 2021 is a marker – the London ULEZ expansion to Greater London in that year and the air quality target deadline across the UK means we should start to see an increased trend for sole trader and SME van operators upgrading to Euro 6 and electric vans.”

fleetworld.co.uk • 013

OPINION_Curtis_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 13:58 Page 1

OPINION

Curtis Hutchinson motor industry guru

It’s good to talk Volvo’s product-led revival puts it in an ideal position to grow its fleet business, which is why it has recruited virtual sales managers to talk to more SMEs. olvo is back. Recent years had been tough for the brand with a spell in the wilderness following Ford’s disposal of the business to Geely back in 2010, followed by the inevitable lag in building a new product pipeline.

Now the brand has one of the freshest car ranges available. To illustrate the pace of change the XC90 is now the oldest of its new-generation models built under Geely ownership.

The new look, expanded line-up and enduring high quality are serving Volvo well with UK sales crashing through the 50,000 mark last year, its highest total in 28 years. Volvo now has 60,000 units in its sights.

Fleet should be an easy sell for Volvo. Discerning user-choosers enjoy the differentiation in a sector dominated by German marques, while fleet managers appreciate the brand’s record for safety and reliability; the trouble is there’s never been enough converts.

Last year, fleet accounted for 56% of total sales; on the face of it not a bad mix but only half of those were in ‘true fleet’. So, there’s plenty of room for improvement; especially in the SME sector.

Volvo’s aspirations here will be helped by the launch of the new S60 in the spring and the facelifted XC90 later in the year. Electrified versions of the XC40, its popular entry into the compact SUV sector, will follow, making Volvo’s business case even stronger.

Buoyed by its current sales success, which saw year-on-year registrations grow an astonishing 80% in January alone, the brand is actively targeting

V

016 • fleetworld.co.uk

‘true fleet’ and sees the SME sector as ripe for growth. Leading the sales drive is Steve Beattie, who joined Volvo as head of business sales in 2017 after a 12-year career at Vauxhall where his positions included fleet sales manager and national contract hire and leasing manager.

Drawing upon his experience in the process-driven Vauxhall fleet department, Beattie immediately set about restructuring and expanding Volvo’s fleet team. A key change was introducing demarcation, with business sales managers now dedicated either to SMEs or fleets running over 50 cars, not both.

“It was important for each team member to focus on one specific area of fleet, determined by size, rather than trying to be a Jack of all trades,” he says.

The brand has also increased its daily rental buybacks from 72% to an impressive 90%.

“It’s important for us to support and control our residual values by repatriating daily rental cars back into the dealer network, which in turn supports the growth of the brand.”

However, drumming up new SME business meant pretty much starting from scratch as Volvo had dropped out of contention. Beattie said new product, particularly the arrival of the XC40, presented the brand with an opportunity to start talking to SMEs which prompted a ramping-up of its telesales operations.

“There’s probably 100,000 SMEs out there with fleets of six to 49 cars, so we really needed to turn up the dial,” he adds.

With SME sales served by a network

of 30 dealer-based business centres, giving the brand an optimal spread of key geographical locations across the UK, he then looked at how to drive more sales. And this is the really clever part.

Recognising that Volvo was not talking to enough SMEs, he created a virtual sales team tasked to build relationships and sales.

“We’ve recruited three virtual sales managers to drive SME sales.

Customers are time-poor which means they’ll research online, deal with brokers and might end up at a dealer for a test drive. I wanted to capture them in this buying cycle earlier to make sure that we are one of their brands of choice; I want us to be on everyone’s shopping list,” says Beattie.

Telesales leads are now passed through to the virtual sales managers, who each cover a geographical region.

They will then arrange between five and 10 meetings a day on the phone or using Skype or FaceTime. Face-to-face meetings are also offered but Volvo recognises these can often be too time-consuming for busy SME managers where running the fleet is only a small part of their job.

The virtual sales managers will use the meetings to understand the SME’s requirements, offer a demonstrator for a couple of days, agree a price and place the order. After which they will work closely with the supplying dealer.

“Volvo’s trying to make life less complicated and we’re certainly aiming to do that in fleet and business,” finishes Beattie.

Chances are if you haven’t heard from Volvo for a while, then you soon will.

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INNOVATION_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 13:59 Page 1

INNOVATION

APPS, GADGETS AND ESSENTIALS FOR PEOPLE ON THE MOVE...

RENAULT E-TECH HYBRID TECHNOLOGY

WHAT IS IT? Renault’s first full hybrid system, developed entirely in-house and debuting in the new Clio.

second, much smaller, motor-generator which is permanently connected to the engine. Drivers won’t be able to select gears manually, but there will be a mode which increases regeneration, similar to engine braking when shifting down, and an EV mode is also under consideration.

HOW DOES IT WORK? The core technology is a hybrid transmission, enabling two electric motor-generators to assist a 1.6litre petrol engine. Renault’s aim was to offer a driving experience similar to an electric vehicle, while avoiding the unnatural, disconnected engine behaviour of a hybrid under heavy acceleration.

Off the mark, all of the pulling power comes from the larger of the two motor-generators, offering EVlike responsiveness while avoiding high loads on the petrol engine to get the car moving. Because the motor has two gears, for high or low-speed driving, it can augment the petrol engine all the way to the maximum speed of the car, improving performance and reducing fuel consumption The petrol engine has its own set of four gears, so it can be run at the most efficient points in the rev range. This can directly drive the wheels, but there’s no need for first or second gear because low-speed driving is done on battery power. At high speeds the electric motor can also be decoupled to improve efficiency, if it’s not being used.

At the back of the car is a 1.2kWh lithium-ion battery, charged by regenerative braking and the

018 • fleetworld.co.uk

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? Diesel traditionally accounted for over half of European Clio sales, but that share halved during the outgoing car’s lifespan and Renault is expecting fiscal policy, shifting public opinion and rising compliance costs to continue that trend.

Launch versions of e-Tech feature a relatively powerful 132hp, which might limit demand, but performance can be scaled up or down by varying engine size or motor output. Renault says hybrids could account for a diesel-like share of Clio volumes in some markets within the lifespan of the new car – and e-Tech is earmarked for other Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance vehicles too.

WHEN DOES IT LAUNCH? The new Clio will get an e-Tech variant early next year, quickly followed by a plug-in hybrid versions of the drivetrain, featuring a larger-capacity 9.8kWh battery, which will be fitted to the next Captur and Mégane.

EVNEWS_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:03 Page 1

evfleetworld.co.uk

IN BRIEF AA trials emergency hydrogen refuelling van The AA says it's successfully trialled a new solution that could be used in the future to provide refuelling back-up for drivers of hydrogen cars. The emergency refuelling van features a mini hydrogen dispenser, providing assistance for drivers caught short, and was used to support a hydrogen-powered 1,000-mile journey across the UK in a Hyundai Nexo.

RVs for EVs on the rise Used demand for electric cars and vans is fast rising, giving stronger RVs. The figures from Shoreham Vehicle Auctions show that strong demand for used EVs in the second half of 2018 has continued into 2019, with the Nissan e-NV200 van having appreciated y-o-y by around £1k. It added that demand is up for both owned and leased battery-powered vehicles.

E.ON and ALD Automotive sign partnership ALD Automotive and energy firm E.ON have signed a strategic partnership to jointly develop and market digital enhanced mobility, financing, and energy services to bring a full-service e-mobility offering. The partnership will focus on mobility offerings for electric vehicles for corporate customers, municipalities and private customers in Europe, including in the UK.

New eco rating system for cars debuts in Europe A new ‘Green NCAP’ system has launched to highlight the least and most polluting new cars on the market, drawing on the well-known Euro NCAP star system. Hosted and supported by Euro NCAP, the rating scheme has seen the Hyundai Ioniq and BMW i3 EVs score top five-star ratings in the first 12car batch of results.

022 • evfleetworld.co.uk

For greener, more flexible, future fleets...

Tesla goes online-only to help launch lowercost Model 3 Tesla is switching to an online-only global sales model, ahead of the RHD-market launch of the $35k (£26,500) entry-level Model 3.

The move means Tesla can finally push ahead with its promise to offer a ‘standard’ Model 3 priced at $35k, as first announced three years ago and intended to bring electric driving to the masses. The base Model 3 has been open for deposits since the car was revealed in March 2016 and offers 220 miles of range, a top speed of 130mph and 0-60mph acceleration of 5.6 seconds – the cheapest version had previously offered a 264-mile range, and was priced at $44,000 (£33,400).

Tesla is also introducing a Model 3 Standard Range Plus, which is priced at $37k (£28k) and brings increased range of 240 miles, while its top speed rises to 140mph and the 0-60mph time falls to 5.3 seconds. It also provides premium interior features.

The arrival is being facilitated by shifting all sales online, which will enable the brand to drop all vehicle prices by around 6% on average. Over the coming months, Tesla will close many of its stores, retaining only some higher-demand locations to showcase products and provide information.

The company claims buying a Tesla is quicker online and added that test drives weren’t necessary due to its seven-day/1,000-mile refund policy.

However, it’s not known how the move will hit the UK, and more specifically fleet sales. A spokesperson for the UK said: “It’s too early to speculate on how the changes will affect things locally.”

Nissan readies electric SUV as EV demand grows Nissan is readying a range of ‘electrified’ SUVs, including a standalone battery-electric model, following strong demand for its second-generation Leaf.

Despite launching in February, the Leaf was Europe’s best-selling electric car last year, with 40,699 units sold across the region. The longerrange e+ version, with a larger-capacity 62kWh battery, sold half of its 6,000-unit allocation within a month.

Ken Ramirez, Nissan Europe’s senior vice president, sales and marketing, said that Nissan’s traditionally aboveaverage diesel share is declining ahead of the fuel being phased out of all new model launches. An electric SUV is due in the near future, and this will be a standalone EV-only model,

tapping into a growing trend for highspecced versions of the Leaf. Globally, the Alliance has hybrid and plug-in hybrids available within its product portfolio, as well as the ePower system – popular in the Note MPV in Japan.

However, there are no plans to offer fully-electric versions of cars which otherwise use some form of combustion engine, he said.

The Nissan IMQ concept unveiled at Geneva hints at plans for an electric SUV

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EVNEWS_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:05 Page 2

MOBILITY

Sixt unites mobility services under single MaaS platform Sixt has launched a new app that brings together all of its mobility solutions onto one platform.

Said to be a world-first, the ‘One’ app integrates the firm’s car rental (Sixt rent), car sharing (Sixt share) and the ride-hailing/taxi (Sixt ride) products and enables customers to book and pay for services online. The ‘One’ platform also integrates services from other ride hailing and taxi partners and covers roughly 240,000 vehicles, 1,500 affiliated partners and more than one million drivers.

For Sixt Rent, the new app will serve as a “digital counter”. Already in Germany, customers can select their vehicle digitally at top airports and open the vehicle directly via the Sixt app. In 2019, this service is to be expanded to other airports in Europe and the USA as well as selected stations in urban areas.

The Sixt Share car sharing service will enable customers to access the car of their choice for time periods ranging from minutes to up to 27 days and return it to more than 2,200 Sixt stations worldwide and also in all business areas.

And the Sixt Ride service will offer a comprehensive range of taxi, ride and transfer services via the app, delivered through those 1,500-plus partners; said to be one of the world’s largest networks of taxi and ride hailing services.

Alexander Sixt, chief strategy officer of Sixt SE, commented: “We are bringing together things that belong together and are combining car rental, car sharing and ridehailing/taxi into the world’s first and fully integrated mobility platform – not tomorrow, but today.

This presents us with the opportunity of limitless scaling within the growing mobility-services market.”

IN BRIEF TomTom, Moovit and Microsoft partner for mobility solution MaaS provider Moovit has teamed up with TomTom and Microsoft to create a new multi-modal trip planner. The partnership sees Moovit’s transit APIs combined with TomTom’s routing and traffic APIs to create full multi-modal mapping with precise ETAs for developers on Azure Maps.

New platform enables multiple mobility services A new mobility management platform has been developed that enables firms such as OEMs and rental or leasing companies to offer multiple mobility services from a single fleet. The Multi-Service Fleet Platform has been developed by Israel-based smart mobility platform provider Fleetonomy and means that clients can choose whether to launch a single mobility service or manage all services simultaneously on a demand basis.

Enterprise further expands car club operations Enterprise is expanding its 24/7 car club service in Southampton with two new vehicles. The Ford Transit van and Toyota Yaris hybrid car are located at its new City Dock branch - which also offers a range of daily rental services - and join the existing four car club vehicles in the city.

London borough to trial on-demand bus service Transport for London (TfL) is planning to trial an on-demand bus service in Sutton from this spring to help reduce car dependency in the borough.

Operated by ViaVan and passenger transport provider Go-Ahead, the minibus service will stop at locations including areas not currently served by public transport and will be able to be booked via app or over the phone. The plan is to run the service from 6.30am to 9.30pm, seven days a week, offering up to 14 passengers a guaranteed seat, free WiFi and USB charging points and flexible stops within a certain area.

A four-week consultation has opened, asking Londoners for their views on the specific area of Sutton that the service should cover and suggested stopping points. The trial, which will last for a year, will help TfL gauge the level of interest for an on-demand service and assess how it would work alongside the existing public transport network in Sutton.

TfL said the cost of using the service would be slightly

024 • evfleetworld.co.uk

higher than a traditional bus, with Freedom Passes accepted.

TfL is also exploring the possibility of delivering a second on-demand bus trial to provide further evidence about the initiative’s viability.

PERFORMANCE YOU’LL FALL IN LOVE WITH.

ALFA ROMEO STELVIO BIK from 32%

P11D from £36,920

CO2 from 139g/km

ALFA ROMEO GIULIA BIK from 30%

P11D from £32,930

CO2 from 129g/km

Created and crafted in Italy, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and Alfa Romeo Giulia are true masterpieces. They couple the most exciting driving dynamics with elegant Italian design. The technology behind Alfa Romeo is created to enhance performance and to give great driving sensations. Both models feature all the latest cutting-edge technology in safety and infotainment including Alfa™ D.N.A. driving mode selector, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and 8.8” Connect 3D Nav with DAB radio. All this combined with exceptional fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

For more information, call our Business Centre free on 0808 168 7146 or email alfaromeo.fleet@alfaromeo.com

OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE ALFA ROMEO RANGE MPG (L/100KM): COMBINED FROM 28.8 (9.8) TO 60.1 (4.7). CO2 EMISSION FROM 227 TO 123G/KM. FUEL CONSUMPTION AND CO2 VALUES ARE OBTAINED FOR COMPARATIVE PURPOSES AND MAY NOT BE REPRESENTATIVE OF REAL LIFE DRIVING CONDITIONS. FACTORS SUCH AS DRIVING STYLE, OPTIONAL WHEELS, ADDITIONAL VEHICLE ACCESSORIES, WEATHER AND ROAD CONDITIONS MAY ALSO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT EFFECT ON FUEL CONSUMPTION. CO2 AND FUEL CONSUMPTION VALUES ARE DETERMINED ON THE BASIS OF THE MEASUREMENT/CORRELATION METHOD REFERRING TO THE NEDC CYCLE AS PER REGULATION (EU) 2017/1153

19-05 [Alfa Fleet - Q1 Deliverables] - Fleet World_Range_297x210.indd 1

03/01/2019 10:37

SPOTLIGHT_Renault_Clio_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:19 Page 1

SPOTLIGHT RENAULT CLIO

QUIET REVOLUTION Despite evolutionary styling, Renault’s fifth-generation Clio is an all-new car with some innovative fleet-focused technology up its sleeve, as Alex Grant explains.

THINKING BIG Sales of the outgoing Clio increased every year since launch. It’s Europe’s second best-selling car and the segment’s most popular model with fleets – albeit more in the south of the region than the UK. So, while the incoming Clio is entirely new, Renault hasn’t radically altered the styling customers rated as a major selling point.

It’s a little lower and slightly shorter end to end but, like successive generations of the Golf, it’s an evolution not a revolution.

The big changes are inside. Renault has made better use of the available space, while addressing customer criticisms of low-grade cabin materials in the old car. The dashboard is lower, angled towards the driver and features digital instruments, while abundant soft-touch materials and silver accents on the switchgear all add a feeling of upmarket quality. Seat and door card shapes have been optimised to maximise passenger space, the headrests are slimmer to improve visibility, and the centre console features two deep cupholders and an optional wireless phone charger.

026 • fleetworld.co.uk

BETTER CONNECTED Renault is debuting a new generation of infotainment with the latest Clio. All versions include a three-year high-speed 4G data connection for over-the-air software and map updates, and plans are underway to allow this to share data with fleet management software. From launch, drivers will be able to access and upload information and lock or unlock the car via a smartphone app.

This system will be offered with 7.0-inch landscape or 9.3-inch portrait screens, with an customisable, tablet-like interface designed to make it easier to access the most important functions. Drivers can use Google-powered searching to find addresses and receive live TomTom traffic data, while Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard across the range – both feature mapping apps for occasional users. Regularly-used functions, such as climate control and self-parking features, are still operated by physical controls to minimise distraction while driving.

SPOTLIGHT_Renault_Clio_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:20 Page 2

DrivetrAins The Clio’s new platform saves around 50kg compared to its predecessor, while the bodywork is aerodynamically-optimised for high-speed driving. Both help maximise economy for the new engine line-up, which still includes a pair of 1.5-litre diesels despite declining demand in this segment. These produce 85bhp and 115bhp and feature NOx-reducing AdBlue injection, but do not meet the full Euro 6d standard, which means they will attract the four percentage-point company car tax surcharge in the UK. So Renault believes petrol options will be more popular. These comprise three 1.0-litre three-cylinder engines at 65bhp and 75bhp, a turbocharged 99bhp which emits 100g/km CO2 (NEDC Correlated), and a 128bhp 1.3-litre four-cylinder shared with the Kadjar. The 99bhp unit is also available with a Nissan-sourced continuously-variable transmission, albeit with six stepped ‘gears’ to feel more like a conventional automatic, while a 130bhp petrol hybrid will follow in 2020.

in sUMMArY The outgoing Clio ushered Renault’s new brand identity in 2013, and its replacement shows that renewal process has reached maturity. This new car is as much a generational leap forward as its predecessor, methodically addressing its predecessor’s weaker points and adding new technology, but also not leaving it looking outdated visually. Early adoption of hybrid technology in a segment that’s well suited to it should also pay dividends. AG fleetworld.co.uk • 027

DRIVEN_Citroën C5 Aircross_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:10 Page 1

DRIVEN

Citroën C5 Aircross C5 Aircross might be late to the SUV party, but its comfort stands out, discovers Martyn Collins.

Remember the C-Crosser? Citroën would rather you didn’t, as it was an unloved, rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Outlander. So, seven years on, will buyers be receptive to its replacement – the new C5 Aircross?

It looks more funky than many rivals on sale – utilising many of the design cues first seen on the original 2014 C4 Cactus, and there are subtle ‘airbumps’, with different colour detailing.

At the back, there are distinctive, high-set LED rear lights, with the smaller rear window linking into the rear quarter lights.

Inside, the C5 Aircross continues with styling cues already seen, with the central touchscreen infotainment sat at the top of the tall transmission tunnel with digital instruments right in front of the driver. Standard fit Advanced Comfort seats are just that and work well with the multiadjustable driving position. The rear space is unremarkable, but the fitment of three separate seats is welcome and there are no headroom issues. It also gets a practically-shaped 580litre boot, plus all three rear seats can be folded individually.

It’s vailable in Feel, Flair and Flair Plus

trim levels, all of which are wellequipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the latest 8inch HD touchscreen as standard, the C5 also features the clever ConnectedCAM system and Wireless Smartphone Charging. Also included is a comprehensive safety suite, including 19 safety and driver assistance technologies, with Advanced Active Safety Brake, Active Lane Departure Warning and Active Blind Spot Monitoring, all standard equipment.

We drove what’s expected to be the top-selling engine for fleets, the 131hp 1.5-litre BlueHDi 130 diesel, this time matched with a six-speed manual gearbox. There’s also the proven EAT8 automatic transmission too. Generally refined, it only gets noticeably noisy when worked. Despite its 10.4 second 0-60mph acceleration and relaxed nature, it’s still easy to make decent progress, with the reasonably precise six-speed manual. The 110g/km** CO2 and 48.2-55.1 mpg* figures mean the C5 Aircross should be affordable to run too.

On the road, like the Cactus, the C5 Aircross is fitted with Citroën’s clever Progressive Hydraulic Cushions. Which amounts to what could be the most composed riding SUV in its sector.

Bump absorption is particularly good, considering the standard 19-inch wheels that are part of the range-

SECTOR Large SUV PRICE £23,225-£32,725 FUEL 48.2-55.1mpg* CO2 110g/km**

topping Flair-Plus trim level that I drove. The downside of the ride is the body roll in corners, plus lack of feeling from the steering – with comfort at the expense of any dynamism. Then again, the C5 Aircross is sold on its comfort and refinement, and is perfect for long drives. I’m also not convinced that the £400 cost of the Grip Control off-road system is well spent?

Of more interest to fleet buyers and previewed at last year’s Paris Motor Show is the forthcoming Hybrid model, which will launch later this year and go on sale in 2020.

THE LOWDOWN KEy FLEET MODEL C5 AIRCROSS BLUEHDI 130 S&S STRENGTHS STYLING, COMFORT, PRACTICALITY WEAKNESSES COMFORT HAS COME AT THE EXPENSE OF DYNAMISM

THE VERDICT There’s lots to like about the new Citroën C5 Aircross – it looks good, plus it’s impressively comfortable to drive and practical. In BlueHDi diesel form, it should prove affordable to run too.

RATING *WLTP

030 • fleetworld.co.uk

** NEDC correlated

SMALL ON BIK. BIG ON SUV. New Grandland X. Keeps calm. Carries on.

BiK from 24%† | P11D from £23,190 | CO2 from 108g/km* | Combined 37.2 to 55.4 mpg#

Search Vauxhall 3DTD Fuel economy# and CO2* results for the Grandland X. Combined mpg (l/100km) : 37.2 (7.6) – 55.4 (5.1). CO2 emissions: 128 – 108g/km.

Fuel consumption figures are determined according to the WLTP test cycle. *CO2 emissions figures are determined according to the WLTP test cycle however, a Government formula is then applied to translate these figures back to what they would have been under the outgoing NEDC test cycle, which WLTP replaces. The correct tax treatment is then applied. Figures are intended for comparability purposes only. The fuel consumption you achieve under real life driving conditions and CO2 produced will depend upon a number of factors, including the accessories fitted after registration, variations in driving styles, weather conditions and vehicle load. Only compare fuel consumption and CO2 with other vehicles tested using the same technical procedures. For more information contact your local Vauxhall Retailer. †2018/19 tax year. Vauxhall Motors Limited does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their own tax position. 3 Day Test Drive terms and conditions apply and vehicles are subject to availability. Please call 0330 587 8221 for full details. All figures quoted correct at time of going to press (February 2019). #

GMF_11102118_Fleet Fleet World Advertising 2019_210x297.indd 1

22/02/2019 14:43

DRIVEN_Toyota Corolla_DPS_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:11 Page 1

DRIVEN

Toyota Corolla Quality, durability and reliability – but has Toyota added emotion to the Corolla? Martyn Collins finds out.

The Corolla badge has to be one of Toyota’s most iconic names, but it disappeared from its C-segment models 13 years ago in favour of the Auris. Well now it’s back, but from a company that has vowed never to make boring cars again. So, can it cut it against keen opposition?

The new Corolla will be offered in five-door hatch, five-door estate and four-door saloon flavours – all with their own distinctive looks.

The hatch is expected to be the most popular body and looks the most interesting in my opinion. At the front, it has a narrow upper and larger trapezoidal chrome-edged lower grille, distinctive slashed LED head-

032 • fleetworld.co.uk

lights, plus a wider and lower stance.

Move to the side and the 25mm lower roof height gives this hatch a sportier look, plus the choice of up to 18-inch wheels to fill the flared arches. The back is quite rounded, with a standard rear spoiler above the rear window, plus high-set rear lights pushed right to the edge.

The Touring Sports estate shares the front styling, lower roof height and choice of alloy wheels, as per the hatch – but every panel from the central pillar is unique.

Last of the new Corolla versions is the saloon. Saloons don’t sell well in the UK, but Toyota sees an opportunity with the death of the Avensis last year, plus the fact that the Corolla offers hybrid power. It certainly looks significantly different and less aggressive with its simpler head-

lights and a less-fussy front bumper.

The short overhangs that are part of Toyota’s New Global Architecture, which underpins all the latest cars, seem most obvious in the saloon’s stubby rear. At the back, there are unique rear lights linked by central chrome detailing.

Inside, all four trim levels have the same angular, high-set dashboard, which is mostly finished in pleasingly European soft-touch and leather-look finishes. The driving position and seats are comfortable and supportive and all-round vision is generally excellent. But despite 40mm more wheelbase, rear space is no better than rivals. Need boot space? The Touring Sports is the model you’re after, with its 598-litre loadspace and clever features such as the reversible load floor.

DRIVEN_Toyota Corolla_DPS_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:12 Page 2

The hatch is expected to be the most popular body and looks the most interesting in my opinion.

All Corollas are well-equipped and fitted with Toyota’s upgraded Safety Sense, which includes a Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control.

The Corolla will be offered with three engines, one petrol plus two petrol hybrids which we were able to try on the launch. The first was a 122hp 1.8, expected to be the most popular with fleets, with up to 65mpg* and as little as 76g/km CO2** emissions. Plus a bigger 2.0-litre with 178bhp, with up to 60mpg and emissions as low as 89g/km. Acceptable best describes the performance of the 1.8-litre; smooth and refined most of the time, but sadly like Toyota hybrids before, if you press on, the CVT gearbox

becomes an issue, as the engine then feels harsh and unrefined. The 2.0-litre felt faster and with the steering wheelmounted paddles on the rangetopping Excel hatch I tried, the CVT gearbox was more controllable.

CVT gearbox issues aside, the biggest surprise is how well all these Corollas drive. The lower centre of gravity, another result of the new architecture, plus the set-up, with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link configuration at the rear, equals precise steering, good body control and a generally comfortable, composed ride.

We’ll have to see how the new Corolla works in the UK, but it looks like Toyota is back in the C-segment game.

SECTOR C-segment PRICE £21,300-£25,825 FUEL 39-65mpg* CO2 72-166g/km**

THE LOWDOWN KEy FLEET MODEL ICON TECH 1.8 HYBRID CVT HATCH STRENGTHS GOOD TO DRIVE WITH LOW RUNNING COSTS WEAKNESSES CVT TRANSMISSION WON’T SUIT ALL

THE VERDIcT Whether you choose the hatch, Touring Sports Estate or saloon models, the new Corolla offers an appealing mix of refinement, plus a tidy and comfortable drive if you can live with the hybrid powertrain.

RATING

*WLTP

** NEDC correlated

fleetworld.co.uk • 033

ROAD_Lexus-UX_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:14 Page 1

DRIVEN

Lexus UX 250h A C-segment luxury SUV that doesn’t break the bank? Lexus thinks it has the answer, discovers Jonathan Musk.

Premium is mainstream, diesel is demoded and SUVs are in: all sentiments that play to the strengths of the new Lexus UX. And, with Lexus’ entrylevel CT hatchback now in its ninth year of production (and despite a recent facelift), the UX is likely to encroach into would-be CT customers before its eventual replacement in a few years’ time too. Consequently, this is the right car at the right time for the Japanese luxury brand.

UK fleets will be interested to learn Lexus’ bean counters have been hard at work and reckon between £5-8k could be saved over three years with the UX, compared to premium-brand competition including the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Volvo XC40 – with expected depreciation, fuel consumption, SMR costs, employers’ National Insurance and road tax all taken into account.

And the story repeats for BiK with a low 22%, compared to the average competitor diesel commanding 32%.

Hybrid power bestows the UX with best-in-class CO2 of 94g/km (FWD variant), while fuel consumption is marginally better than the rest with a WLTP-high of 53.2mpg.

Prices start from £29,990 for the

base-level UX, while the F-Sport commands £33,900 and the rangetopping Takumi is £39,100.

Three simple grades will be available in the UK: UX, F-Sport and Takumi plus the choice of E-FOUR electric allwheel drive and a handful of useful options packs that allow base-level cars to get premium features.

There’s no question then that the UX appeals to the mind, but what about the heart? The UK is only getting the hybrid UX, which is powered by a new 2.0-litre petrol engine that’s efficient and light, while the hybrid element has been tweaked to deliver plenty of EVfocus – for example during our time with the car the UX managed around 35% of the time in EV mode. The hybrid system, however, never provides much thrill, with the car better looked at as a comfortable cruiser.

But there’s no denying its impeccable on-road handling; thanks to a lowcentre of gravity it’s nimble and agile.

Suspension is beautifully setup, providing a cosseting ride without jarring over traffic calming, and expressing low amounts of roll in corners.

Inside it’s a pleasant place to be with plentiful attention to detail. Quality materials, engineered door shuts, sublimely comfortable seats and a high-tech spec are stock across the board. Lexus’ Safety System+ comes as

SECTOR C-SUV PRICE £29,900-£39,100 FUEL 46.3-53.3mpg* CO2 94-103g/km**

standard across all models too and incorporates cruise control, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and so on. The 17-inch alloys even direct air onto the brakes and aid aerodynamics, like a racing car.

On the flip side, the UX’s compact size and rakish styling result in a distinct lack of luggage space and rear passengers aren’t treated to much legroom either.

And then there’s Lexus’ fabled infotainment system, which is operated using a notoriously fiddly trackpad. However, Fleet World can reveal that Lexus is working on replacing the system with an all-new touchscreen, although no more details are available as yet.

THE LOWDOWN KEy FLEET MODEL UX 250H STRENGTHS LUXURIOUS RIDE, GOOD HANDLING WEAKNESSES TINY BOOT, WEAK INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM

THE VERDIcT Lexus’ entry into this segment wasn’t easy, but the company has come up with the goods.

Only minor foibles catch out an otherwise impressive package.

RATING *WLTP

034 • fleetworld.co.uk

** NEDC correlated

DRIVEN_Mazda3_DPS_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:22 Page 1

DRIVEN

Mazda3 Watch out Focus! The Mazda3 is finally getting a sharp suit to match its keen drive, finds Martyn Collins.

The current C-segment is a tough area for manufacturers to play in, with talented rivals such as our current Best New Fleet Car, the latest Ford Focus, plus the great all-round and soon-tobe-replaced current Volkswagen Golf.

So you’ve got to make your mark.

Think of the current Mazda3 and, like the rest of the Mazda range, you’ll think of keen dynamics and willing, efficient performance, but all wrapped up with clean and forgettable styling.

Well, not anymore. In fact I guarantee the 2019 remake of the hatch will turn heads, with its latest evolution of Mazda’s KODO design. Highlights include the low nose and long sculpted bonnet curved, contoured

036 • fleetworld.co.uk

side panels (deliberately left without character lines), the aggressively upswept window line, coupé-like lowered roof line, strong C-pillars and the distinctive halo rear lights.

The interior design, like the exterior, follows the same minimalist approach.

The dashboard is tall and horizontal, with the standard fit 8.8-inch rectangular infotainment system neatly integrated into the two-storey design.

There’s also a seven-inch TFT driver instrument display, plus a quality, European feel to the plastic, leatherette, metal highlights and piano black trim throughout. All finished with a sportylooking, thin-rimmed three-spoke multi-function steering wheel.

There’s a saloon version of the latest Mazda3 that we’ll be getting later in the year at the same time as the highly anticipated Skyactiv-X compression

ignition petrol engine. The Mazda3 saloon is in my opinion less distinctive — but still attractive.

The multi-adjustable driving position and supportive seats make for a comfortable drive. Despite sitting on an all-new platform, sadly rear legroom is no better than average, and that curvy roofline means that tall passengers’ heads will be brushing the headlining. Open the curvy hatch and there's still a boot shaped for practicality with up to 358 litres.

Available in SE-L, SE-Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech trim levels, all models are very well-equipped and include a colour head-up display with traffic sign recognition, radar cruise control, LED headlights, plus Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity with an eight-speaker audio system. SE-Lux adds a reverse parking camera, keyless

DRIVEN_Mazda3_DPS_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:21 Page 2

With the ongoing diesel uncertainty, petrol is expected to be the most popular choice.

entry and heated front seats. Sport Lux has additional chrome and rear privacy glass, with black leather power seats, a heated steering wheel and the Bose audio system added to the GT Sport. The range-topping GT Sport Tech has all of this, plus additional safety equipment, including a 360º camera and Driver Attention Alert with interior camera.

When the new Mazda3 goes on sale in May, it will be offered with the choice of 122hp 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol or 116hp Skyactiv-D diesel engines, both with six-speed manual transmission, or optionally with an eight-speed automatic. With the ongoing diesel uncertainty, petrol is expected to be the most popular choice, especially considering the

52.3mpg* fuel consumption and CO2 emissions starting as low as 117g/km**.

Go diesel, and the Mazda3 offers 64.2mpg* and 109g/km** emissions.

On the road, leisurely is the best way to drive both the diesel and petrol versions of the new Mazda3. Both the petrol and diesel engines lack torque, so need to be worked hard to do anything else, spoiling refinement, although the petrol is worse. This is a shame, as the precise steering, slick manual and automatic gearchanges, firm ride and keen handling encourage a more spirited drive. Although the performance issue might be resolved with the Skyactiv-X engine later in the year. So we’ll reserve our final judgement until after driving that.

SECTOR C-segment PRICE £20,595-£26,795 FUEL 30.1-65.7mpg* CO2 107-128g/km**

THE LOWDOWN KEy FLEET MODEL MAZDA3 2.0 SKYACTIV-G SE-LUX STRENGTHS STYLING, REFINEMENT, EQUIPMENT WEAKNESSES ENGINES LACK TORQUE

THE VERDIcT The new Mazda3 looks fantastic, has keen levels of standard equipment and is good to drive. Although both diesel and petrol models could do with more torque.

RATING

*WLTP

** NEDC correlated

fleetworld.co.uk • 037

ROAD_Nissan-Micra_Jaguar-XF_FW_Mar_19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:23 Page 1

DRIVEN

Nissan Micra N-Sport The sports-tuned Micra debuts a couple of significant new engines, explains Alex Grant.

Change is afoot for the Micra. Sales are up by a fifth across Europe in the two years since it grew into a rakish, youthful supermini, and it’s become well-placed to bridge the gap left by the nowdiscontinued Pulsar. But, given that this evolution was drastic enough to perhaps warrant a new name, is the world really ready for a performance version?

The Micra N-Sport faces formidable warm-hatch adversaries in the Ibiza FR and Fiesta ST-Line, and it’s cut from a similar cloth. It features large wheels, black Alcantara and artificial leather seats, and equipment including a rearview camera, keyless entry and NissanConnect with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Proper sports bucket seats feel like the only glaring omission.

Nissan is offering two new 1.0-litre, threecylinder turbocharged petrol engines, and it’s the more powerful version which offers the keenest drive, helped by a drop in ride height.

This is a derivative of the Qashqai’s new 1.3litre unit, but with a cylinder missing, and produces 117bhp with an overboost function to sharpen short bursts of acceleration. This makes for a spirited, if not overly involving, driver’s car, but impresses most for its refinement – it’s exceptionally quiet and smooth for a three-cylinder.

The 100bhp version is based on the old 0.9-litre, 90bhp engine and available with a five-speed manual or stepped continuously-variable transmission – something Nissan

SECTOR Supermini PRICE £17,935-£19,005 FUEL 44.8-50.4mpg* CO2 103-114g/km**

expects to become increasingly popular. It lacks the 117bhp engine’s sixth gear and low suspension, but the driving experience is so close that the extra power feels unnecessary. Both engines are also offered in other trims, for those who want to tone down on the aggressive styling.

Either way, it’s a competent supermini if relatively pricey versus rivals. With that in mind, Nissan’s biggest issue might well be making its target market aspire to the ‘Micra’ badge.

RATING *WLTP, ** NEDC Correlated

Jaguar XF Sportbrake 2.0D 240hp AWD R-Sport The XF Sportbrake is the perfect blend of prestige, performance and space, discovers Jonathan Musk.

Adding a useful hatch atop Jaguar’s executive saloon should make a lot of sense, combining a refined drive with acres of storage. However, with stiff competition in the sector, the Jaguar needs to prove itself worthy first.

Although our 240hp R-Sport AWD impressively bullies its way to 62mph from the off in just 6.4 seconds, thanks to 500Nm torque, it isn’t the obvious fleet option. However, it’s driven by Jaguar’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel that’s alternatively available with either 163hp or 180hp options that each provide improved economy with either all or rear-wheel drive. The RWD units are RDE2 compliant.

Prestige and Portfolio round out the regular trim range, while special

Chequered Flag and S models offer maximum performance with petrol V6 powerplants. The point is the Sportbrake is adaptable to any job required of it.

Handling is Jaguar’s usual forté of sportmeets-comfort and it somehow belies its 2.4-tonne heft.

However, this is no hot hatch hunter despite what the previously mentioned performance specs may indicate, with power being delivered low-down in the rev range, resulting in brisk but frugal performance.

Motorway cruising allows the diesel to settle to just a few decibels and delivers maximum economy and it’s easy to best the WLTP figures. Leave the trunk roads behind and well-chosen springs on our R-Sport model offer a rewarding drive.

SECTOR Executive PRICE £37,390-£44,210 FUEL 41.5-37.8mpg* CO2 157g/km**

A 51mm longer wheelbase than the saloon also ensures road bumps are better pacified while also adding to the car’s ‘raison d’être’: transporting cargo.

The boot sits mid-range amongst rivals, yet practical touches, including a lifting cargo cover and foot switch, indicate this is no rush job.

Overall, the XF Sportbrake is a capable machine that keeps up with the competition and provides fleets with a sensible alternative to the usual German defaults.

RATING *WLTP, ** NEDC Correlated

038 • fleetworld.co.uk

ADVERT_GBFE_FW_Feb19.qxp_Layout 1 06/02/2019 20:36 Page 1

NEWS > INTERVIEWS > WHITE PAPERS > CASE STUDIES The latest news, interviews, case studies, white papers and a host of other features from the very best fleet suppliers

stay informed at...

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SWOT_Mitsubishi_Eclipse_Cross_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:32 Page 1

SWOT Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Our expert panel analyses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing Mitsubishi’s quirky crossover, the Eclipse Cross.

STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

OPPORTUNITIES

THREATS

AC It offers most of the things that you would expect from a car in this segment; a high seating position, plus it’s fairly practical and spacious. The interior is better than you’d expect, there is plenty of space in all seats and despite the sloping rear roof line, headroom is good.

AC The 1.5-litre engine is the most powerful, but it is also the thirstiest and produces the most CO2. So, even though it is the cheapest out of the four, the BiK costs are the most expensive. I’m not a fan of the split rear screen either as it impedes visibility.

AC The Eclipse Cross is a thoroughly decent offering from Mitsubishi and as such gives them much more of an opportunity in this segment than they had previously.

However, a fleet vehicle it is not, and this is due to the prohibitive BiK costs.

AC Obviously there are many rival vehicles and this segment is absolutely stacked, so competition is fierce. I am not sure if Mitsubishi has the brand strength to compete with some of the more established peers.

MJ Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield front styling looks great.

Competitive pricing and good equipment levels — particularly safety features. The long wheelbase results in a spacious cabin. Interior materials are improved from other Mitsubishi models. The rear seat slides for greater versatility. Low volume sales help support a good RV.

MJ Sadly, the Eclipse Cross is better suited to a retail buyer as MPG, CO2 and therefore BiK taxation is higher than many.

Fuel economy is not a key strength either. Plus, that distinctive rear styling may not appeal to all.

MJ Eclipse Cross fits neatly between the smaller ASX crossover and Mitsubishi’s successful Outlander SUV, opening up a key volume market sector for the marque, provided it and its dealers are ready to fight for sales against rivals.

MW It might have been on sale for over a year, but the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is probably the least known in this group. It does however look good, plus has a high level of standard specification.

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MW The Eclipse Cross has got a weird name that hardly rolls off the tongue. And as I’ve said many times, it is not on most company car drivers’ radar, so that is a disadvantage. The petrol engine also falls short of what the others offer, in terms of economy.

MW This sector of the market (the small SUV) continues to grow, at the expense of the hatch. If the Eclipse Cross was more well known, it might sell more, but does Mitsubishi have the capacity or the inclination to sell more?

MJ Actually, the next-generation ASX is not far off and could harm Eclipse Cross sales. The strength of the competition in the sector, with a diverse range of competitors is significant — as in this group. Plus, awareness of this car is still very low outside of Mitsubishi owners.

MW As this sector grows, just about every manufacturer has a vehicle competing in the small SUV sector. The threat is that there will simply be far too many on the used car market, and the choice will be huge, so could affect used car values in the coming years. But for now these are solid.

SWOT_Mitsubishi_Eclipse_Cross_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:31 Page 2

Martin Ward (MW) Manufacturer relationship manager, CAP

MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS 3

Gavin Amos (GA) Global valuation director Global Analytic Services *AWAY THIS MONTH

Strengths AC Practical and spacious.

MJ Low volume sales support a good residual value.

MW Good looks and a high level of standard equipment.

Weaknesses AC Most expensive to run.

MJ Rivals are better suited to fleet.

MW The Eclipse Cross has a weird name that doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue.

TOYOTA C-HR 115 DESIGN

Strengths AC Polarising looks, but in a good way.

MJ Good build quality, low SMR and long warranty.

MW Only one to offer a petrol hybrid system, so appeals to fleet drivers.

OTR: £23,480 P11D: £22,240 Fuel: 40.4mpg CO2: 159g/km RV*: £9,650 (42.12%) BiK: 32% SMR: £2,539 Fuel costs: £8,081 Insurance: £3,081 Finance: £3,093 NI: £3,256 VED: £795 Cost per month: £858

Standard equipment: • DAB, BT, USB • Front/rear parking sensors • Heated seats • Dual-zone climate control • Media system • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto • Keyless entry and start Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £550-£800* *Depending on colour

Toyota C-HR 1.2 VVTi 115 Design 6Spd Standard equipment: • DAB, BT, USB • Front/rear parking sensors • Heated seats • Dual-zone climate control • 8.0-inch touchscreen with Toyota Touch Go Navigation • Keyless entry and start

Strengths

SEAT Ateca 1.5 TSI EVO 150 SE Technology 6Spd

AC The Ateca still looks stylish against more modern alternatives.

MJ Well-built, strong residual values.

MW Sales success in both fleet and retail, the 1.5 litre petrol engine is a gem, and proving popular in most VW Group vehicles.

Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £545-£795* *Depending on colour

AC Ride can be a little firm for some.

MJ High retail price, conservative interior styling.

MW Ateca is every bit as good as a VW, but not its image.

OTR: £25,410 P11D: £25,190 Fuel: 51.4mpg CO2: 126g/km RV*: £10,175 (40.39%) BiK: 26% SMR: £2,445 Fuel costs: £6,351 Insurance: £3,081 Finance: £3,401 NI: £2,955 VED: £445 Cost per month: £855

Strengths

Peugeot 3008 1.2 PureTech 130 Active 6Spd

AC Superb interior, best BiK figures.

MJ 1.2 Turbo gives good performance, stylish. Whole Life Cost winner here.

MW 3008 has a clever design that just about everyone likes.

Weaknesses AC Peugeot is still rebuilding their brand reputation in the UK. MJ Peugeot is still rebuilding their brand reputation in the UK. MW Many won’t buy this French car, simply based on history. Wrong I know, but a fact.

*3 year/60K

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 1.5T 3 6Spd

AC Not as practical as the others here.

MJ MPG, CO2 and therefore BiK are higher than many, and rear accommodation feels tight. Looks may not suit everyone!

MW The C-HR and the hybrid system is still a bit of a mystery to many people.

Weaknesses

PEUGEOT 3008 1.2 PURETECH 130 GPF ACTIVE

Andy Cutler (AC) UK car editor, Forecast Values Glass’s

OTR: £24,165 P11D: £23,905 Fuel: 46.3 mpg CO2: 138g/km RV*: £9,200 (38.49%) BiK: 28% SMR: £1,734 Fuel costs: £7,051 Insurance: £2,727 Finance: £3,227 NI: £3,002 VED: £485 Cost per month: £833

Weaknesses

SEAT ATECA 1.5 TSI EVO 150 GPF SE TECHNOLOGY

Mark Jowsey (MJ) Director, KeeResources KwiKcarcost

OTR: £24,575 P11D: £24,355 Fuel: 54.3mpg CO2: 119g/km RV*: £9,550 (39.21%) BiK: 24% SMR: £1,918 Fuel costs: £6,012 Insurance: £2,838 Finance: £3,288 NI: £2,655 VED: £445 Cost per month: £816

Standard equipment: • DAB, BT, USB • Front/rear parking sensors • Park Assist • Heated seats • Dual-zone climate control • 6.5-inch touchscreen with Navigation • LED headlights

Standard equipment: • DAB, BT, USB • Rear parking sensors • Dual-zone climate control • Sat-nav with 8.0-inch touchscreen • Mirror Screen – enables MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay /Android Auto Optional equipment: • Metallic paint £300-£725* *Depending on colour

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FEATURE_Future-Fuels_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:35 Page 1

FUTURE FUELS

DESTINATION UNKNOWN THE ONCE-SIMPLE DECISION OF WHAT FUEL TYPE TO OPT FOR WITH FLEET CARS HAS BECOME SOMEWHAT MORE PROBLEMATIC. NATALIE MIDDLETON LOOKS AT THE CHOICES AVAILABLE FOR FLEETS AND THE CONSIDERATIONS THEY NEED TO MAKE.

T

hey say all roads lead to Rome but for fleets, most roads have been leading to diesel for the best part of two decades; the result of the 2002 changes that switched company car Benefit-in-Kind tax to a regime based on carbon dioxide emissions as well as the 2001 Labour Government cut on fuel duty.

But since then there’s been a whole timeline of diesel disasters, starting in fact not in 2015 with the Dieselgate saga but as far back as 2012 when media attention focused on the clogging of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) – a requirement of Euro 5 emissions limits – under mostly urban driving. Further factors have

042 • fleetworld.co.uk

included the rise of low-emission zones and the Government’s 2040 ULEV ambitions but the ultimate nails in the coffin have come from see-sawing tax policies, conjecture over clean air zones and major media misconceptions.

It’s led to a vastly transfigured new car landscape. SMMT new car registrations figures for 2012 show diesel took a share of 50.8%, with petrol standing at 47.8% and AFVs holding just 1.4%. For 2018, this changed to 31.7% for diesel, 62.3% for petrol and 6.0% for AFVs. Meanwhile UK new car fleet average CO 2 rose by 2.9% to 124.5g/km, marking its second successive year of increase.

FEATURE_Future-Fuels_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:38 Page 2

No single route to market For fleet operators already having to get to grips with fast-paced changes to taxation and car/mobility usership, the rise and fall of diesel has brought a further need to have much deeper knowledge of the different fuel types; as Arval puts it, fleet decision-makers are now facing a new world where they need to become proficient in matching fuel types to specific needs, leading to a steep learning curve.

In fact, the leasing and fleet management giant says that even for its own inhouse experts, constructing choice lists that meet the priorities of individual businesses is not easy because the situation is changing. As a result, it's developed its own Driver Powertrain Compatibility tool to help match fuel type to driver need.

But Arval does highlight that the wealth of options available to fleets provides the potential for better outcomes than ever before, cutting costs for both drivers and the business while also cutting CO2 where possible.

Electric vehicles There may be some conjecture as to who developed the first proper electric car but the technology dates back to around the early 1800s; although it was eventually kicked out of contention with internal combustion engines due to the high costs and low ranges involved.

It’s these same issues that have kept the recently resurged technology broadly in check until recent years but these days there’s no stopping the fast-paced nature of developments, particularly in terms of pricing and range.

Although there were a raft of EVs that launched around 2010, it’s the Nissan Leaf that arrived in December 2010 that’s credited as the first mass-produced EV. Now in its second generation, it’s also the world’s best-selling EV; at the time of going to press, it has just become the first electric car to top 400,000 sales.

But it’s the new Kia e-Niro SUV and the Hyundai Kona Electric that are credited with being real game-changers by setting new benchmarks on affordability and

Nissan Leaf – an EV for the masses

range; as a result of which, both models have already sold out of their 2019 UK allocations already. And Peugeot’s e-208 – its second EV after the Ion – will also shake up the market when it arrives in the summer with its 211-mile range, bringing the fight to the Renault Zoe while spearheading Peugeot plans to “electrify” its entire range by 2023.

There are still considerations involved with opting for electric cars and it won’t be the right choice for every driver, particularly those travelling high mileages, but EVs are becoming a more practical solution; this year has also seen Deloitte predict that by 2024, the cost of owning a battery electric vehicle (BEV) will be on par with that of a petrol or diesel vehicle.

Other benefits include less components that require maintenance, often making servicing simpler and cheaper; data from KeeResources suggests electric cars can be around 70% cheaper to maintain compared to their ICE alternatives.

Charging still presents issues, particularly if the Government is to achieve its goal of building one of the best charging infrastructure networks in the world, as outlined in the Road to Zero Strategy; latest LeasePlan research finds the UK is fifth in terms of deployment of charging infrastructure (18,158), behind the Netherlands (83,196), Germany (37,405) and France (34,558).

As such, the technology is best kept to drivers doing less than 100 miles per day and with easy access to a charging point at home or work.

A further form of EV technology is range extenders. Best exemplified by the BMW i3 range extender – which has actually been dropped for the current i3 – but also planned as an option for Mazda’s first EV, the technology sees the engine only ever used to power the electric motor and never actually drive the car, bringing increased range and therefore a solution to range anxiety.

Diesel Once heralded by carmakers and governments as a ‘wonder fuel’ due to its low CO2, diesel has had a mighty fall from grace; growing awareness of its

The game-changing Kia e-Niro

fleetworld.co.uk • 043

>>

FEATURE_Future-Fuels_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:39 Page 3

FUTURE FUELS

>>

higher particulate and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions has seen it slapped with everything from increased company car taxation and even parking costs in the UK to law suits in Germany enabling cities to ban older diesels.

It’s led to some high-profile announcements by carmakers, including Toyota’s news at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show that it would have no diesel passenger cars on sale by the start of this year, followed by announcements from brands including Volvo and Nissan of plans to start phasing out diesel cars.

And along the way there’s been much disinformation – largely led by the mass media – on the dangers of diesel across the board.

The fact is that there’s a wealth of difference between the performance of diesel engines; as shown by recent Emissions Analytics figures that reveal the latest Euro 6d-Temp diesel models emit, on average, 71% fewer particulates than petrol equivalents (albeit before the deployment of particulate filters on direct-injection versions) in real-world testing while the average CO2 emissions per kilometre is approximately 18% less than the petrols. This adds weight to arguments that governments and cities are over-

The new Kia e-Niro SUV and the Hyundai Kona Electric are credited with being real game-changers by setting new benchmarks on affordability and range.

penalising diesels; not to mention the impact that such policies are having on average CO2 levels.

There’s also work to help secure a future for diesel. Bosch has developed new technology that it says could ensure a future for diesel cars by cutting NOx to “unprecedented levels”.

And for many fleets, diesels remain the most economic option for high-

Mazda's Skyactiv-X merges both compression and spark ignition, boosted by a supercharger

044 • fleetworld.co.uk

mileage drivers, while for van operators, they’re still considered the default choice.

Balance this out with emissions results from Emissions Analytics’ EQUA Air Quality Index and you might find that diesels are still the best option.

Petrol While petrol has spent many years in the shadow of diesel, it’s once more in ascendance, as shown by the aforementioned SMMT stats.

This has been helped by a range of new technologies intended to elongate petrol’s life expectancy and buy it some extra time compared to ULEVs. Recent years have seen a trend for cylinder deactivation and the use of downsized, turbocharged engines – although experts are still split on the long-term reliability of the latter – and variable compression, as used by Infiniti.

Meanwhile Mazda is introducing new ultra-efficient compression ignition technology in the form of its Skyactiv-X petrols. The brand has been vocal for some years on its view that combustion engines will be prevalent for some time and that they offer better prospects for cutting CO2 than EVs due to the way the energy is generated. As showcased

by Skyactiv-X, which merges both compression and spark ignition, boosted by a supercharger.

Debuting first on the Mazda3 and also due on the newly revealed CX-30 crossover, the technology was first announced a year ago when the brand said it could bring better fuel economy than current Skyactiv-D diesels.

The result of all these developments are fuel and CO2 figures that bring the fight closer to those of diesels; helped by petrol cars’ lower purchase prices and concerns over the future viability of diesels. However, it’s worth noting that ‘knee-jerk’ reactions to switching drivers back to petrols have impacted on new car CO2 and that, on the whole, diesel remains the most cost-effective option for higher-mileage drivers, as backed up by comments from carmakers including Jaguar Land Rover. Meanwhile since the advent of Euro 5 legislation, petrol cars have been subject to a particulate matter limit if equipped with direct injection, prompting the use of gasoline particulate filters (GPFs) from carmakers including Mini and VW Group.

Hydrogen fuel cell Considered by some as the ultimate solution to sustainable motoring, the hydrogen fuel cell market remains nascent with just three models available.

FEATURE_Future-Fuels_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:40 Page 4

Sticking points are the same as with EVs – the relative high costs of the technology and the lack of infrastructure. But pricing is much higher than EVs while there’s only a handful of hydrogen refuelling stations in the UK compared to the 20,060 EV charge points listed on the Zap-Map database as of the start of March.

There are benefits compared to EVs though, not least that refuelling takes the same amount of time as petrols/diesels while hydrogen is also a much greener solution when produced through electrolysis of water with electricity from green power sources such as wind or solar. The fuel cells then convert the hydrogen into electricity to power the car; the only by-product at point of use is water. However, there is an issue with hydrogen being produced by fossil fuels at the moment.

The other current issue is that trials of hydrogen fuel cell cars have been largely limited to operators located in the vicinity of refuelling stations and with a vested interest in trialling the technology, such as University College London which is investigating advanced powertrain technologies, as well as the Hydrogen Hub projects in Oxford and Swindon.

Hybrids The first hybrid car is credited as having been developed by Ferdinand Porsche in 1899 but it’s in the last 20 years that the technology has come to the fore, helped no end by the Toyota Prius, which launched in the UK in October 2000 and, and is now in its fourth generation.

The focus on hybrid has been further exacerbated by the Government’s ambitions to stop sales of conventional petrol and diesels by 2040, as first announced in 2011, while more recently the long-awaited Road to Zero Strategy has established a further ambition for most new cars to be ultra-low emission vehicles by 2030 with no current plans to ban hybrids.

Sometimes known as hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), parallel hybrids, full hybrids or self-charging hybrids, a hybrid engine will use both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. At low speeds, power will be drawn from the motor but will switch to the engine at higher speeds with the motor able to provide assistance to lighten the load and help reduce fuel consumption. The motor will store energy saved from braking or decelerating under regenerative braking and use it later while most have a second motor which uses the engine as a generator to keep the battery topped up, too. Benefits include reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions; and the technology is best suited to drivers doing more urban mileage as it tends to be more expensive for motorway use.

However, new models are being tuned to help out at higher speeds as well.

The technology is not to be confused with mild hybrids, which only ever use a small electric motor to assist the petrol or diesel engine; saving fuel and emissions when the vehicle is stopped, braking or cruising. Carmakers are increasingly using mild hybrid as a relatively cost-

effective way to help comply with CO2 emissions but their CO2 savings compared to full hybrids are much smaller.

Plug-in hybrids Plug-in hybrids are similar to conventional hybrids in that they have both electric motors and an internal combustion engine, but actually their batteries are larger capacity and can be recharged by plugging into an electric outlet.

The benefits of PHEVs is that they can drive longer miles on electric power alone. For example, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – probably the most well-known PHEV – has an official electric-only range of 35 miles (WLTP city driving), making it suitable for many urban and sub-urban journeys.

Such cars also bring benefits in terms of reduced driver Benefit-in-Kind (and therefore fleet Class 1A NICs), however fleets do need to ensure drivers are using the vehicles correctly. There has been much anecdotal evidence of fleets suffering increased operating costs – specifically fuel bills – due to drivers only ever using the engine and never actually plugging their cars in. And, as warned by ACFO, some contract hire and leasing companies have acknowledged they have had plug-in hybrids returned, with fleets incurring early termination charges, due to poorer-than-anticipated MPG returns.

As such, PHEVs are not necessarily a straight swap for diesels and are best suited to those with mostly urban usage, but with a need to cover longer trips as well.

fleetworld.co.uk • 045

IVIEW_Fiona Howarth_Octopus_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:33 Page 1

FACE TO FACE

The Electric Eight Octopus Electric Vehicles may not yet be a household name, but it’s one that may prove key in the transition to electric vehicles for fleets. Jonathan Musk catches up with Fiona Howarth, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles.

A

ttracting 30,000 new customers a month, Octopus Energy is fast becoming a major player in electricity provision, providing its 450,000+ customers with an enticing blend of planet-friendly power at affordable prices – and it’s only been in business since 2016.

It boasts a customer count around double that of Ecotricity, which was founded in 1996 and offers a similar proposition.

So what makes Octopus so alluring? The name offers a hint: the company has a multipronged approach that includes a variety of enticing options from cars to energy. Octopus itself has been around longer than you might think, having kept a low profile as Octopus Investments, which began trading in 2000 and steadily became the largest solar investor in the UK. Octopus Energy followed suit, and with the fast-approaching global transition to electrified transport, there’s now Octopus Electric Vehicles too.

The latter is headed by former BMW engineer Fiona Howarth, who is acting CEO for the fledgling firm. Howarth is no stranger to the forefront of vehicle technology, having worked on the development of hydrogen-powered cars.

However, while hydrogen may be a possible fuel of the future, Howarth saw batterypowered electric vehicles as a more realistic and exciting proposition for today.

Not just another leasing firm Octopus Electric Vehicles offers several intriguing services for fleets. There’s the more apparent side of the company, which is to lease electric vehicles, while less obvious is the willingness to educate companies on future powertrains, for example by holding free events showcasing the latest crop of electric cars and offering test drives.

However, beyond these there’s a close link with other Octopus ‘tentacles’ provided by both Octopus Energy and Octopus Investments. These include vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and fleet & infrastructure investment.

046 • fleetworld.co.uk

V2G V2G is seen as an important factor in the probable mass adoption of electric vehicles, as it has the potential to provide network-level grid balancing using cars rather than static batteries or costly grid upgrades.

Octopus EVs is working with UK Power Networks, the largest DNO (Distribution Network Operator) in the UK, as part of a consortium that includes the Energy Saving Trust and ChargePoint Services, with the ultimate goal of avoiding a multi-billion pound spend on new electricity infrastructure.

Instead it wishes to change perceptions of power usage amongst users to alleviate stress on the grid with intelligent use of electric cars.

“It’s a £7m, three-year project, with a £3m grant from Innovate UK that essentially offers V2G chargers. At the moment V2G chargers are £8-10k to buy for domestic use. However, we won’t be pricing it as an expensive charger but instead will offer it as a competitive EV charger bundle along with a leased vehicle. In addition, if you plug in at least three times a week before 6pm and [running] overnight, and let us use your battery to do other things with, we’ll give you money back each month.

All of a sudden, your car is starting to work for you.”

The arrangement is predicted to be sold much like a standard car lease and with similar durations, for instance 2-3 year terms. One of the fears of V2G is, however, that if used, the vehicle will be out of charge when you most need it, e.g. in an unexpected emergency situation.

“You’ll still be able to set your minimum threshold for emergency situations, for example you can still ask the car to have 30 miles’ range and ensure a full charge by a set time.”

At the time of writing, Octopus EVs is accepting declarations of interest from businesses wishing to trial the technology under its Powerloop programme.

Investing in fleet Despite the appearance of a company still in its infancy, Octopus is no stranger to fleets, having already footed the bill for the high-profile 200-strong fleet of Jaguar I-Paces being deployed at Heathrow.

For fleets, Octopus Electric Vehicles is looking at how an EV works within a company. For example, if an employee is taking an electric car home to charge, the fleet manager needs to have a way to validate how much electricity is used, which can lead to complications – mostly due to home energy bills not separating car and home energy. Octopus is looking at offering this ability via smart meter data or the home charger itself, both of which the company can install. The implication is that fleets will be better able to determine the energy use of electric cars in their fleets, particularly when charged at a driver’s home, enabling far more accurate reporting on energy use.

Octopus is additionally looking at offering a Transport as a Service proposition, whereby the company will put in place all the necessary electric cars, vans or even buses and associated infrastructure for a fleet. The fleet would then be required to pay for vehicle use on a per mile or per kWh basis.

Additionally, “you end up owning the vehicle after a certain number of miles or kWh. Obviously what’s great about this is there’s no risk associated in terms of utilisation,” Howarth adds. This avoids large upfront costs for fleets wishing to turn towards electrification but which are put off by an initially high investment. “The idea is to remove the obstruction for fleets,” Howarth states.

It’s all about energy Octopus Electric Vehicles now offers electric-vehicle focused electricity tariffs designed for end- and business-users who wish to choose an energy tariff best suited to running an electric car.

Octopus consequently offers an Agile tariff and Octopus Go that both cater for specific needs. Smart meter technology

IVIEW_Fiona Howarth_Octopus_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:34 Page 2

The company will lease a top-spec Nissan Leaf for around £355/month, which proves even cheaper than Nissan’s own current BCH offer.

can play a big role in aiding these systems.

“Electric cars offer a very different profile to a hair dryer or anything else [plugged in]. Using smart meter data, you can see when the car is plugged in and therefore the consumption that’s associated with it.

But you therefore need a smart meter in order to measure that. And although smart meters ping back to the system every half an hour, it’s actually tracking it on a sub-10 second basis,” Howarth comments.

However, how to use that data is where Octopus’ intelligent use of technology comes into play. “You can essentially plug in a dongle that connects to a hub to get the data out very quickly.”

The crux is that Octopus has built up accurate profiles on electric car usage that have facilitated the creation of these tariffs.

Octopus Go, for example, offers a cheap 5p/kWh rate for four hours every night, which the firm says is around 25% cheaper than an Economy7 rate. The company will also install a smart meter if there isn’t one already installed. In addition, Octopus Electric Vehicles has teamed up with charge point provider MyEnergi, which installs smart charge points that automatically charge a plugged-in vehicle at the time of the cheapest electricity rates, negating the need for a user to manually configure charge timing.

Leasing EVs The final major aspect of Octopus EV is its leasing of electric vehicles. To that end, most are available as per a typical leasing company, however Octopus’ close links with the aforementioned energy supply provision means the company will lease a top-spec Nissan Leaf for around £355/month, which proves even cheaper than Nissan’s own current BCH offer. And, because the company is electric-centric, it’s team are on hand to offer advice to interested or on-the-fence parties.

If your fleet is interested in switching to electric power, Octopus Electric Vehicles’ alternative and comprehensive set of products might be just what the industry needs to tip it over the edge.

fleetworld.co.uk • 047

MASTERCLASS_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:43 Page 1

Contract Hire & Leasing

Our panel of leading suppliers helps you get the most out of your fleet...

Affordable Telematics

Outsourcing you can rely on

Telematics opens up a wide range of fleet management tools.

Connect Fleet from the PSA Group’s Free2Move Lease, highly commended in the Great British Fleet Awards, provides a rich level of useful data for customers, helping them to improve business efficiency. Connect Fleet is available in three packages covering Fleet Management, Eco-Driving and Geolocation. It utilises the Connected box that is pre-fitted to most Free2Move Lease vehicles, usually eliminating additional hardware costs. A Connected box is available for vehicles without one.

Level 1 covers Fleet Management, monitoring vehicle hours and miles travelled. The system also monitors fuel consumption as well as the on-board diagnostics system for mechanical, servicing and maintenance alerts.

Level 2 includes Level 1 and adds eco-driving feedback by analysing driver behaviour, then providing customised eco-driving reporting. This can help reduce operating costs, (by minimising vehicle wear and tear, fuel consumption and emissions) and can assist with duty of care responsibilities.

Connect Fleet Level 3 further adds Geolocation, enabling fleet managers to monitor live vehicle location, while logging routes taken and itineraries. Level 3 also provides geofencing alerts that can be customised. This can record when vehicles enter or leave a particular location to help monitor time-sensitive deliveries, for instance. www.free2move-lease.co.uk/our-services salesenquiries@free2move.com L E A S E 0345 313 3815

Business owners want to devote most of their time to those business-critical tasks that demand careful thought and attention. Yet fleet administration can be a time-consuming distraction from this, which is why it is becoming increasingly popular to outsource this service.

This is where Pendragon Vehicle Management comes in. The advantage of PVM’s outsourcing offer is that you can outsource as much or as little as you want. Our fleet services teams will effectively act as your own internal fleet team; what they look after is up to you. The services you can outsource include fines handling, accident management, downtime and driver communications.

With over 35 years' experience managing complex fleets, FMG are considered experts within our field. Partnering with the ICFM ensures that we are always up-to-date with legislation and can make sure you’re meeting all your legal obligations, giving you complete peace of mind. Our dedicated customer service team will handle your drivers’ queries too, saving you time.

PVM can help you design your optimal fleet policy and manage your vehicle orders for you. We even provide a dedicated account manager to provide expert advice and detailed reporting on fleet performance.

Get in touch to discuss how PVM can help your business. www.pendragonvehiclemanagement.co.uk info@pendragon.uk.com 01332 267 367

Choosing the right supplier involves more than scanning price lists Choice should depend on a wide range of factors such as value for money, quality, reliability and service. How you weigh-up the importance of these different factors will depend on overall business strategy. As every business is different, when sourcing a supplier beware of companies that apply a ‘one-size fits all’ approach to your fleet management and funding needs. Instead look for suppliers who will be ready to offer flexible solutions tailored to your organisation whilst making sourcing the right vehicle their primary focus. With contracts typically 3-5 years, what is bought today needs to flex for the future.

A supplier who demonstrates knowledge of the latest marketplace developments will help ensure that a decision you make today is the right one for your fleet longer-term. Vehicle whole life costs are one of the least-considered but most important factors when it comes to selecting vehicles for a fleet policy.

Having a fleet supplier that provides information that takes into account all aspects of running a vehicle means that a fleet manager can take a look at two models with an identical list price but be able to choose the one that is most cost effective over the vehicle’s life. www.venson.com sales@venson.com 0800 328 0370

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LTT_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:49 Page 1

FLEET

FINAL REPORT FORD S-MAX ST-Line 2.0 EcoBlue P11d/BiK: £36,760 (36%) MPG/CO2: 42.2mpg* / 156g/km** Test MPG: 37mpg

THE S-Max has now departed our fleet, and I’ve been running some figures through the Car Comparator on fleetworld.co.uk to see how it stacks up against its rivals.

As it turns out, this isn’t an easy group to pull together.

In this spec there’s no direct rival, which means looking beyond similar products. Ford has just fitted the same 240hp 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel to the updated Edge STLine – it’s not inconceivable that customers might also be looking at SUVs. However, this means adding four-wheel drive, stepping up to 37% Benefit-in-Kind, and £6,000 extra whole-life costs over three years.

The 191hp EcoBlue ST-Line is a more sensible purchase and broadens the list of rivals. Volkswagen’s Sharan and Seat’s Alhambra both have 179hp diesel engines, but

there’s a hike in contract hire costs for their sliding doors and extra third-row space. As most seven-seat SUVs have four-wheel drive and no space for three booster seats in row two, its biggest potential threat is the fantastic Peugeot 5008 in BlueHDI 180 GT-Line spec. Three ISOFIX points, seven seats, fashionable SUV styling and very similar running costs.

So, while I’d opt for a lower-powered version, I’ve found the S-Max a great companion over the last three months. It’s a throw-everything-in family mover that’s also great to drive, and the only headache has been an intermittent glitch with the electric tailgate. I just hope the market remembers the advantages of MPVs while there are still a few of them left.

Alex Grant

HONDA CIVIC 1.6 i-DTEC EX Manual hatchback P11d/BiK: £24,750 (23%) MPG/CO2: 61.4mpg* / 93g/km** Test MPG: 47mpg

FOUR months into our test of the Civic and its fuel economy never ceases to amaze me – not least when it comes to paying for a full tank of fuel at the forecourt, which is less of an ordeal than it used to be.

Compared to the 61.4mpg* for the Civic’s official combined figure, the 47.0mpg I’m getting may seem a bit paltry but my journey pattern is predominantly in urban and sub-urban settings and quite often with a lot of passengers and luggage on board.

Stretch the Civic’s legs with some motorway runs and you’ll really notice the fuel economy stretch out too; I’ve been getting mpg figures into the 60s without even trying.

OK, this is still a bit small fry compared to last autumn’s MPG Marathon when BBC journalist Paul

Clifton and his daughter Françoise managed to wring out 87.5mpg from the diesel Civic, but it does show that this family hatch can easily be capable of some impressive fuel economies without even going near the Econ button or hypermiling techniques.

And as a result, I’m now starting to take more and more notice of the gearchange indicator, the Ambient Meter – essentially a bar on the dash that goes from white to green if you’re driving efficiently – and the instant fuel economy bar graphic, which always reminds me of a snooker table.

I’m in two minds though about the boot’s ‘parcel shelf’ – which is really just a bit of material that pulls out, roller

blind-style, between two sides. It’s really handy to be able to remove it in seconds if you’ve got something bulky in the boot – and even handier that you don’t need to find somewhere to store it. But it’s not hugely effective at covering boot contents from prying eyes. It also makes me laugh when relatives try to store their coats on it and it instantly sags under the weight. Definite pros and cons to it.

Natalie Middleton *WLTP

** NEDC correlated

fleetworld.co.uk • 049

LTT_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:49 Page 2

FLEET ALPHACITY VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.6 CDTi SRi Nav Bookings: 13 Mileage: 17,279 Test MPG: 53.9mpg

OUR AlphaCity Astra has been putting in the miles this month, from Ally Pally up to Yorkshire and various locations in between, all while remaining a reliable pool car for the team.

I’m yet to try the booking app – my phone’s storage is already maxed out without more apps eating up precious MBs – but the online booking portal is reasonably straightforward and, since the revamp, pretty efficient. It’s simple to book the car and having the link to Google Maps is useful. I have a few minor gripes – like when you make a booking a few weeks in advance and then go to set the end date, it doesn’t

automatically pick up from the start of your booking – as if you could set an end date that comes before the booking start date – but that’s probably splitting hairs and could probably be fixed with a minor tweak from AlphaCity (hint hint).

The Astra itself is still pretty popular in the office. Apple CarPlay continues to provide opportunities to share questionable Spotify playlists with workmates, but even my colleagues – not usually shy when it comes to speaking up about faults – have not come up with too many complaints about the car.

Jonathon Harker

VOLVO V60 D3 R-DESIGN P11d/BiK: £36,960 (29%) MPG/CO2: 60.3mpg* / 123g/km** Test MPG: 32mpg

THINK Volvo, think safety. The well-being kit fitted to my V60 just adds another level of confidence and admiration to every drive.

A significant option that I’ve had a lot of experience with so far is the Intellisafe Pro Pack, priced at a not-insignificant £1,625. That is a lot, but it includes plenty of kit, the most clever being the semi-autonomous Pilot Assist (which I admit I haven’t had the courage to use). However, proving their worth on a day-to-day basis are the Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Collision Mitigation. Plus, the Park-

050 • fleetworld.co.uk

ing Camera 360º Surround View, just part of the £1,800 Xenium pack. The overhead view was difficult to get on with at the start compared to a standard rear-view camera, but the emergency brake has already stopped accidents with other cars and stray pedestrians, on the move or changing directions.

In other news, the unusually kind weather has meant the Volvo has received its first wash after almost 2,000 miles – could this be the best-looking estate in its class? I think so!

Martyn Collins

LTT_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:51 Page 3

CITROËN C4 SPACE TOURER Flair BlueHDi 160 EAT8 P11d/BiK: £32,295 (30%) MPG/CO2: 58.9mpg* / 128g/km** Test MPG: 46mpg

THERE are many things to love about the Citroën, but I’m probably not the only one who thinks that the software programming could do with a bit of improvement. A few months ago, I recalled how I had managed to inadvertently change the language to French while trying to put the clock back and last month there was another dose of confusion.

Going through various sub-menus to find the range and fuel consumption details was fruitless, until I

remembered the button on one of the stalks that revealed all. Simple once you know (and remember!).

But not as good as putting it somewhere more memorable in the first place!

John Challen

MAZDA CX-3 Sport Black+ 2.0 2WD P11d/BiK: £22,195 (29%) MPG/CO2: 42.8mpg* / 141g/km** Test MPG: 41.5mpg

WHEN it comes to fleet motoring, it’s probably fair to assume that function plays a more important role than form for many drivers. Looking good is important, but the car needs to work for the driver. Our CX-3 has certainly got the form bit of the brief down, especially in Mazda’s stunning Soul Red Crystal metallic paint.

The function? Well, that will depend on your business car needs. Mazda’s compact crossover is a comfortable travelling companion, at least for front seat occupants. But the smooth exterior results in a fairly small load space, just 287 litres with the rear seats up, rising to 1,197 litres with the seat backs folded.

Dan Gilkes

VOLKSWAGEN ARTEON R-Line 2.0 TDI DSG P11d/BiK: £35,430 (28%) MPG/CO2: 50.6mpg* / 116g/km** Test MPG: 52mpg

WHILE sat in standstill traffic, with zero-emissions thanks to the Arteon’s over-enthusiastic stopstart system, I’ve been thinking about its competition. There’s the obvious BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, which is arguably the closest match but demands more money, or you could consider the Audi A5 despite the premium badge difference.

The point is everything I can think of is more upmarket. And, given that mindset, the Arteon seems a bit of a bargain. Ignore those who deride it as a ‘posh Passat’ – it’s true the two cars share components – but the Arteon was so-named to differentiate it, as it truly is different and offers a more luxurious proposition.

And I’ve finally sussed it. Making a conscious effort to engage my own Economy, I’ve uncovered this car’s party piece: coasting. Okay, many cars offer this feature, but the Arteon uses its lithe shape to gently slip through the air like a dart, thus benefiting from near throttle-free driving once up to speed thanks to built-up momentum. This has improved the average MPG considerably to 52mpg; much healthier than the previous 47mpg readout. However, it is slightly frustrating that I’m required to prod the eco button every time I set off, but clearly the results are worth the effort.

Jonathan Musk *WLTP

** NEDC correlated

fleetworld.co.uk • 051

LTT_FW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 14:53 Page 4

FLEET FIRST REPORT AUDI A6 AVANT 40 TDI S line S tronic P11d/BiK: £43,210 (32%) MPG/CO2: 60.1mpg* / 129g/km** Test MPG: N/A

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY electric vehicle charging

THE sadness at the departure of my E-Class long-termer has been tempered somewhat by the arrival of its replacement – an Audi A6 Avant.

Handsomely presented in stunning firmament metallic blue (£685 extra) complemented by a light grey leather interior (a £1,000 option), the Audi looks every inch the business express, helped by a set of 20-inch alloy wheels, which are a £910 upgrade – unfortunately, they also upgrade the CO2 emissions by 5g/km, pushing it a BiK tax band higher. The other external visual upgrade is privacy glass at a hefty £475.

Inside, we’ve opted for the technology pack

(£1,495 – containing upgraded MMI navigation, the brilliant virtual cockpit and wireless mobile phone charging), and the £1,895 comfort and sound pack. All of which brings the price up to £50,560 – plenty of money for what is the entry-level engine in the line-up (the ‘40 TDI’ badge is part of Audi’s new naming strategy – several people so far have asked me if it’s a 4.0-litre under the bonnet).

Initial impressions are good and it’s going to be interesting to compare two key rivals back to back over an extended test period to see if the new A6 is good enough to topple the E-Class at the top of the sector.

Julian Kirk

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

ev cOntract hire, leaSing & Finance GKL Electric Leasing Greener Fleet Consultancy Tel: 01844 852252 www.evcarleasing.co.uk

Lex Autolease

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

VAUXHALL GRANDLAND X Tech-Line Nav Turbo D 130 P11d/BiK: £24,210 (26%) MPG/CO2: 52.9mpg* / 110g/km** Test MPG: 50.9mpg

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Tel: 0141 332 2626

I MUST confess, not many miles have passed beneath the Grandland X’s wheels this month, but that’s partly due to more miles than usual in our AlphaCity long-termer. That said, the Grandland X definitely wins the space race between the two and has been quite brilliant at ferrying people and boxes to meetings in comfort. It’s deceptively spacious inside and the flat-folding rear seat, and wide aperture, show that genuine thought has gone into the design. FW’s editor Martyn Collins compared the Grandland X to its PSA stablemate shortly after it arrived, and I would agree that the cabin perhaps lacks the flair of Peugeot’s 3008, but it certainly can’t be faulted for functionality. At the last count, the trip meter was reading over 50mpg – which suggests that the WLTP figure of 52.9mpg is easily achievable in real-world driving. Our editor is correct too about the gearbox freeing up nicely and the engine really coming into its own now it has a few thousand miles on the clock. Here’s to a few thousand more…

Luke Wikner

www.acvm.com/electric-vehicles

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

driver licence checking Jaama Tel: 0844 8484 333 www.licence2check.co.uk

TMC Tel: 01270 525 218 www.themilesconsultancy.co.uk

Licence Bureau *WLTP

052 • fleetworld.co.uk

** NEDC correlated

Tel: 01442 430980 www.licencebureau.co.uk

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_FW_Mar19.qxp_SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Aug'07 08/03/2019 14:54 Page 2

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY cOnTracT Hire, leasing & finance sgfleet Tel: 0845 154 0721 www.sgfleet.com

Maxxia 020 7520 9450 www.maxxia.co.uk

dailY renTal

GKL Leasing Tailor Made Contracts Tel: 01246 572181 or 01844 852000 www.gkluk.com Zenith Tel: 0344 848 9327 www.zenith.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

0845 2172 608

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 08444 991402 www.venson.com

fleeT managemenT sOfTware

DriveTech (UK) Ltd Tel: 01256 610907 www.drivetech.co.uk

Tel: +3292018040

Sofico NV www.soficoservices.com

Tel: 01792 222133 www.daysrental.co.uk

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

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

Fourways Vehicle Solutions Tel: 0344 8000 385 www.fvsl.co.uk

Alphabet (GB) Limited Tel: 0370 50 50 100 www.alphabet.co.uk

Nexus Vehicle Rental 0871 984 1947 www.nexusrental.co.uk

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

Thrifty Car & Van Rental Tel: 01494 751 550 www.thrifty.co.uk

daysfleet.com

ALD Automotive Tel: 0370 00 111 81 www.aldautomotive.co.uk

risk managemenT

Tel: 01484 551060 www.edriving.com

Tel: 01905 887884 www.bespokedrivertraining.com help@bespokedrivertraining.com

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

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

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

T THE CHANGE

THE

YOUR

BUSINESS

DESERVES

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

C

fleeT managemenT .

.

.

.

.

. . . . .. .

.

.

.

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

Europcar Tel: 0871 384 0201 www.europcar.co.uk

Fleet Operations Ltd Tel: 0844 567 8000 www.fleetoperations.co.uk

fleeT insurance fuel managemenT

insureFLEET Tel: 0333 202 3133 www.insurefleet.com

TMC Tel: 01270 525 218

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

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

www.themilesconsultancy.co.uk

fleeT cOnsulTancY

claims managemenT

PVS Ltd Tel: 01278 550270 www.puddyvsolutions.co.uk

Opus claim solutions ltd 01905 641664

asseT prOTecTiOn and recOVerY

accidenT managemenT

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

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

euroShell Card Tel: 0800 915 6021 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

CanTrack Global Ltd Tel: 01908 330385 www.cantrack.com

www.opus.claims

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

For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk EV FLEET WORLD Tel: 01727 739160 www.evfleetworld.co.uk

smr Autoserve Limited Tel: 0121 521 3500 www.autoserve.co.uk

TelemaTics & Tracking Airmax Remote Limited Tel: 0333 358 3488 www.airmaxremote.com

fuelGenie Tel: 0345 371 2490 www.fuelgenie.co.uk

Tel: 0345 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk Telogis Tel: 0203 005 8805 www.telogis.co.uk

www.quartix.net Tel: 0870 013 6663

Teletrac Navman Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletracnavman.co.uk www.navmanwireless.co.uk

VeHicle ccTV & safeTY TomTom Telematics Tel: 0208 822 3605 www.tomtom.com/telematics

Parksafe Automotive Tel: 01773 746591 www.parksafeautomotive.com fleetworld.co.uk • 053

THE CV SHOW 2019 30 APRIL - 2 MAY • NEC • BIRMINGHAM THE UK’S LARGEST C OMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW

The showroom for excellence One event. Three days. Build your industry knowledge at The Commercial Vehicle Show 2019 in an interactive way. Explore the latest products and developments in the show halls and discover the dedicated Cool and Workshop zones.

The Commercial Vehicle Show 2019 is the showroom for excellence, providing an ideal opportunity to network and engage.

Visit us at the NEC Birmingham, Tuesday 30th April – Thursday 2nd May 2019.

@TheCVShow

Get your FREE ticket. Register today www.cvshow.com

VFW_Lead-in_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:06 Page 1

March 2019 • vanfleetworld.co.uk

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p62

A T IN G

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ELECTRIC REALITY

TRANSPORTER 6.1

GETTING A GRIP

Renault Pro+ sees growth in the e-LCV sector

Volkswagen updates its popular mid-weight

Peugeot's Partner Grip model road tested

DAN_VFW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:19 Page 1

FROM THE

EDITOR Ready for change

The Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham has to be a must-see event.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles reports that seven in 10 of its UK van customers will be considering an electric vehicle next time they purchase. Likewise, Renault claims that it could have sold far more Kangoo Z.E. vans than it did last year, if supply could have kept pace with demand. It would appear that the much talked about EV tipping point is fast approaching.

Despite the fact that many of the electric vans that we drove for the first time in 2018 have still yet to become commercially available, it does feel as if we are about to see some big changes in the market. Yet, while there are plenty of sticks being wielded, in the form of low emission and clean air zones, there appear to be few carrots on offer in terms of infrastructure investment and assistance for operators. If you think there aren’t many easily accessible charging points for a van, try looking for somewhere to recharge a truck.

For those fleets considering a move to alternative power, this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham has to be a must-see event. With more than 400 exhibitors keen to show their wares and services, the CV Show looks set to be another success. Which provides an interesting contrast to the daily news, where Brexit dominates the agenda and business confidence continues to suffer.

There will always be regular fleet replacement pushing the van and truck markets, though some companies may choose to extend ownership periods or leases. Yet there remains an appetite for innovative new logistics solutions that is hard to suppress and there appear to be plenty of companies keen to press on with business.

We’ll be previewing the show in full in the April issue of Van Fleet World, highlighting why a visit to the NEC at the end of the month could be time well spent for many fleet managers. Van Fleet World will also be present at the show, on stand 4A34.

Dan Gilkes VFW editor

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B U I LT T O K E E P Y O U R B USI N E S S M OV I N G F O RWA R D D i s c o v e r m o r e a t f o r d . c o . u k /n e w - t r a n s i t - c u s t o m o r c o n t a c t t h e F o r d B u s i n e s s C e n t r e : 03 4 5 7 2 3 2 3 2 3 | f l i n f o r m @ f o r d . c o m

C0 2

COMBINED MPG

187- 161g/k m

39.2 - 45.6

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the New Transit Custom range: urban 36.2 - 40.9 (7.8 - 6.9), extra urban 41.5 - 48.7 (6.8 - 5.8), combined 39.2 - 45.6 (7.2 - 6.2). Official CO2 emissions 187 - 161g/km.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Directive and Regulation 715/2007 and 692/2008 as last amended), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. Information correct at time of going to print.

NEWS_VFW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:15 Page 1

THIS MONTH IN FLEET www.vanfleetworld.co.uk

FOR A FITTER VAN FLEET NOW

VAUXHALL OPENS VAN BUSINESS CENTRE NETWORK

Vauxhall has appointed a network of 65 Van Business Centres, across the UK, offering enhanced sales, aftersales and service. All of the Van Business centres will display the full range of Combo Cargo, Vivaro and Movano vans, with vehicles available for test drives.

The company has trained van-specific sales consultants, to ensure that the dealer offers the right van to meet the individual customer’s requirements. Courtesy vans will also be available to keep customers on the road while vans are being worked on.

The Van Business centre network will use national, all-inclusive pricing, to offer full transparency. Customers will be offered overnight drop-off and pick-up availability and vehicles can be booked in 24-hours a day, seven days a week. When pre-booked, 90-minute express servicing will also be available.

“This important change demonstrates our commitment to looking after the needs of our LCV customers, by delivering a service level that matches our outstanding product range, said Derek Wilson, Vauxhall’s LCV director.

Our nationwide network of van experts will deliver the highest standard of skills and expertise, whilst also helping business users save time and money.”

Reduce your current fleet costs with more efficient vans and fixed-price maintenance plans designed to help boost your bottom-line profit.

HOW FIT IS YOUR VAN FLEET? FIND OUT AT LEXAUTOLEASE.CO.UK/ VAN-INTELLIGENCE

COMMERCIAL CHOICES The Shogun Sport Commercial and the Outlander PHEV Commercial have joined Mitsubishi’s UK LCV line-up. The Shogun Sport Commercial replaces the previous Shogun Commercial, popular with the Highways Agency and other emergency services. It boasts a 1,920mm long load bed that is 1,000mm wide between the wheel arches and 1,040mm high. The 4x4 truck has a payload of 605kg and can haul a trailer up to 3.1-tonnes in weight.

The 4x4 is based on a high trim level version of the Shogun Sport SUV, boasting heated leather seating, a 360 camera, LED headlamps and a DAB radio with Bluetooth. It

also comes with Forward Collision Mitigation, Blind Spot Warning and Trailer Stability Assist. Prices start at £32,504.

For those more concerned with emissions, Mitsubishi is also offering a Commercial version of its latest Outlander PHEV hybrid 4x4. Eligible for the Plug-in Van Grant, the Commercial is based on the Juro trim level, with a full height bulkhead behind the front seats. The load area is 1,650mm in length and 1,000mm between the wheel arches and the Outlander can carry up to 510kg in payload. The Outlander starts at £39,250 before the PiVG.

NEWS_VFW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:18 Page 2

SECURE ACCREDITATION Van Vault has updated its secure storage solutions with the launch of eight new models, accredited by Secured by Design, the UK police standard. All of the key areas of attack have been strengthened, including a cross bar reinforced lid. The VaultLock locking system sits deeper within the body, shielded by a hardened steel plate. The storage units also come with an anti-theft fixing kit, to ensure they can be properly secured to the vehicle floor.

“The upgraded range underwent considerable research and rigorous testing, to ensure it provided customers with a product that helps secure tools and makes the working day easier,” said Deborah Hunt, marketing manager at Van Vault.

Van Vault claims that last year there were 280,000 tool theft crimes across the UK, with a break-in taking as little as 10 seconds. It says that the average tool value left in tradespeople’s vans is around £2,880.

IN BRIEF Vito gets connected

FOR A FITTER VAN FLEET IN THE FUTURE

Mercedes-Benz Vans is introducing a 2.0-litre diesel engine to the Vito range, initially in people-carrying Tourer models. The four-cylinder engine will offer 136bhp, 163bhp or 190bhp, with the promise of reduced emissions and fuel consumption. The company is also introducing many of the digital services that have been available on the latest Sprinter to the Vito sector. With a factory-installed SIM card the vans will be able to offer a range of connectivity packages and fleet services.

Plenty to see here Despite a drop in business confidence, the light commercial vehicle market remains buoyant. That is reflected in the popularity of the Commercial Vehicle Show, which is almost sold out, boasting more than 400 exhibitors keen to show their latest vehicles, services and systems.

This year will see a whole range of electric Volkswagen vans on show, with four new vans and trucks from MAN, a new compact van from Toyota and the global launch of Vauxhall’s latest Vivaro.

The CV Show takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from April 30 – May 2.

Reduce your costs on the road ahead with the help of our expertise in compliance, emissions reduction, driver safety and future-proofing.

Last mile deliveries Ford is working with Gnewt by Menzies Distribution to trial a digital parcel delivery service. A cloud-based software system, called MoDe:Link identifies the optimum place for a van driver to park near multiple drop-off points. Pedestrian and cycle couriers then take the deliveries from the van for the last mile of the journey.

HOW FIT IS YOUR VAN FLEET? FIND OUT AT LEXAUTOLEASE.CO.UK/ VAN-INTELLIGENCE

IVIEW_Renault_VFW_March19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:20 Page 1

FACE TO FACE

Electrification Demand for electric vans is outstripping supply, Renault UK brand manager Steve Wilson tells Dan Gilkes.

enault UK sold more than 350 Kangoo Z.E. electric vans last year, more than double the 2017 total. That number could have been much higher, if the company had been able to get its hands on more vans, as more than 10,000 Kangoo Z.E. vans were sold in 2018 across Europe. Certainly, he is confident of a similar increase in sales this year, if the company can meet the expected demand.

“I would of thought we will at least double that, but unfortunately lead times are currently up to six months,” said Wilson.

The Renault factory in Mauberge that assembles all Kangoo models is already ramping up to produce 50% more Z.E. vans this year, though it would appear that it is battery supply that is proving the limiting factor.

“The customers know how good the vans are, our dealers know how to service them, we just need to get more of them,” said Wilson.

To date, around 60% of last year’s orders were for the longer Kangoo Maxi Z.E. which offers 1.0m3 of additional load volume, but 25kg less payload than the shorter model. Both vans share the same driveline and battery, offering a realistic 124 miles of range.

“The total cost of ownership is good, with far lower service costs,” said Wilson.

“Fully charging Kangoo Z.E. is just £3£4 for 120 miles.”

While Kangoo Z.E. was originally offered with a choice of purchasing or leasing the batteries, all models are now sold complete, with a five-year/60,000mile battery warranty to provide reassurance for buyers. Renault also now provides a battery repair service, so that instead of replacing the whole battery pack, it can replace one or more of the 48 cells, to deliver full performance at a more affordable price.

With Kangoo Z.E. performing well, Renault also launched Master Z.E. at the end of last year and the first deliveries to customers are expected in April or May. Sales are expected to be relatively low for

R

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the first 12 months, with larger fleets and local councils among the early adopters.

Renault has once again taken the lead in the sector, with many manufacturers showing electric vans of this size but few actually on sale yet, apart from the likes of Iveco, LDV and BD Auto.

“It gives the range that we say it does, 75-80 miles in the real world,” said Wilson. “In 20 years, electric will be the dominant power source.”

It is perhaps unusual to see a manufacturer pleased with a downturn in sales, but that has been the case with Renault, as it has restricted its sales to profitable, longer-term customer streams.

“Last year was a very good year for us, demand remained strong,” he said.

“Our volumes were around 16,000, down from just under 20,000, but that was where we had planned to be, with sustainable business. We’re not just pushing volume out, we’re looking for good, long-term and repeat business.”

The company has also been focussed on building its Pro+ dealer network, with 70 of its 155 dealers now achieving the business centre accolade, up from 35.

Pro+ dealers sell cars as well as vans, but the focus is very much on business use and Pro+ dealers will have LCV experts and demonstrators on site to meet the needs of local businesses.

Some of the dealers are looking at mobile service vans, while Renault has launched a Lifetime Roadside Assistance offer, based on the vehicle rather than the owner, so long as the van is serviced by a Renault outlet. With facelifted Trafic and Master vans due by the middle of the year, and a growing range of electric vans on offer, the company seems set for another strong year.

ADVTL_CitroenVans_VFW_Mar19.qxp_Layout 1 08/03/2019 14:45 Page 1

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The practical, efcient and comfortable New Citroën Berlingo Van features large load volumes, easy access and numerous in-cabin options, including Extenso® Cab for 3 seats and longer loads and Crew Van versions. Available in two sizes – M and XL – New Berlingo Vans boasts payloads of up to 1,000kg. It's powered by the PureTech 110 manual petrol engine, as well as by a range of BlueHDi diesel engines including the latestgeneration BlueHDi 130, which can be twinned with the new EAT8 automatic gearbox. Here are just some of the specication highlights: 1 With technologies new to the LCV segment, such as an Overload Indicator* – the very rst application of this technology in a vehicle of this type – the high-tech model is equipped with 20 driver assistance systems that make everyday life easier. Features which may be specied

include a Colour Head-up Display, Automatic Electronic Parking Brake, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop Function and Active Safety Brake. Also available are four connectivity technologies, including Citroën Connect Nav and Wireless Smartphone Charging.

2 New Berlingo Van’s Surround Rear Vision system enhances visibility around unglazed rear doors and is particularly useful during manoeuvres in tight areas.

3 New Berlingo Van also offers a bespoke solution to a broad range of requirements with two sizes, M and XL, measuring 4.40m and 4.75m long respectively. Two dedicated versions – ‘Worker’ and ‘Driver’ – are available to suit different customer needs.

'Worker' is more adapted to rough terrain, featuring Grip Control® with Hill Descent Assist, under-body protection and increased ground clearance. While 'Driver' focuses on optimising acoustics and comfort for operators spending longer behind the wheel.

4 Automatic Electronic Parking Brake: A feature that automatically activates when the engine is switched off, automatically releases when the vehicle moves forward, and can be used manually as well.

5 The Extenso® Cab offers class-leading versatility and modularity, seating three people in row one. The central seat can be converted into a desk, while through loads at floor length of up to 3.44m on XL versions can be fitted in.

6 Grip Control® with Hill Descent Assist: Providing grip in all conditions, Grip Control® adapts the traction of the front wheels to the type of road surface.

Drivers select one of five modes, Standard, Snow, Mud, Sand or ESP OFF, using the thumbwheel on the central console. Combined with Grip Control®, Hill Descent Assist maintains the van at a reduced speed when descending steep inclines.

7 8-inch touchscreen with Citroën Connect Nav: The latest-generation 3D connected navigation system with a host of advantages, boasting voice recognition for controlling navigation, phone and media functions without the driver having to take their eyes off the road. Connectivity is enhanced by Citroën Connect Box, tted as standard across the range. It offers SOS & Roadside Assistance, as well as enabling activation of telematics packages offered by Free2Move Connect Fleet.

Find out more at business.citroen.co.uk or call Citroën Fleet line on 0800 285 1705 *Available later in 2019.

NEWS_VW_VFW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:21 Page 1

U P DAT E VOLKSWAGEN COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Changing requirements

Volkswagen is gearing up for an electric light commercial vehicle revolution, says Dan Gilkes.

David Hanna, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle’s head of fleet EV strategy, states that seven in 10 of the company’s LCV customers say that they are likely to buy an electric van next time around. This booming demand is changing VW’s approach in the UK. Where, initially the firm had intended to have 12 electric van dealers, 48 of the firm’s 71 Van Centres have now indicated that they want to be part of the electric network.

This group of dealers covers far more than just the London ULEZ or the growing number of CAZ areas. To help those customers that are considering a possible move to electric drive, Volkswagen has developed a fleet portfolio tool, that allows businesses to input operational data and assess whether an EV would work for them.

The e-Caddy will be the first electric VW van to arrive, in the longer e-Caddy Maxi form initially. Powered by a 38.8kWh battery, the van should deliver a 160-mile range, with a payload of 639kg. It will be followed by the eTransporter, in 2020. This too will be offered in long wheelbase form first, with the e-Transporter available with a choice of 38.8kWh or 77.6kWh power packs. These will give customers the choice between a 134 mile range and 1,180kg of payload, or 250 miles of

062 • vanfleetworld.co.uk

travel with a reduced 695kg load-carrying capability. Though already trialled by some UK customers in left-hand drive form, it looks like the e-Crafter won’t now be available in right-hand drive form until early 2021, due to increased demand from left-hand drive markets.

Volkswagen is not forgetting its traditional customer base in the push to electro-mobility. The company is opening additional authorised repair centres around the UK, now up to 26 outside of the 71 Van Centres. It has also taken on 50 apprentices within the network and is developing bespoke aftersales solutions.

Dealers have also been investing in the mobile service van fleet. There were 10 Crafter-based service vans at work in 2018, but that will rise to more than 30 by the end of this year. Some dealers will also opt for Transporterbased vans as well as those built on Volkswagen will update the Transporter model this year, with a mild facelift and an increase in technology.

The van adopts electromechanical power steering, to allow use of a wider range of electronic driver assistance systems. The most powerful 2.0TDi engine also gets a boost, up to 199hp, while electric drive will join the line-up next year.

There is a redesigned dash with a 10.25” display on people-carrying models. The driver can choose between different configurations, to

the new Crafter.

In an overall van market that was down slightly last year, Volkswagen continued to prosper. Its sales were up by 1.3% against 2017, enough for the company to maintain its number two position in the UK market under 5.0-tonnes.

Caddy sales were down, but that was in part due to not supplying the British Gas contract last year. Transporter sales on the other hand continued to grow, while Amarok also saw a sales increase.

The new Crafter, which is now finally available in front, rear and all-wheel drive, also saw sales improvement.

According to director Carl zu Dohna, the focus for Volkswagen this year, is to prepare the network for the arrival of electric vans, to increase conversion sales and to further improve the firm’s aftersales service. suit their preferences. The vans will also incorporate a SIM card, to deliver a range of online services.

“The specification of standard features for the Transporter 6.1 has been significantly upgraded,” said Heinz-Jurgen Low, board member responsible for sales and marketing.

“Standard features include electric windows, central locking, electrically-adjustable and heated mirrors, new H7 headlights, interior lights with LED technology and a radio system with Bluetooth hands-free.”

ADVERT_EVFW website_Oct18.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2018 20:29 Page 1

For all your fleet electric vehicle needs and to stay up to date with the latest news and developments, visit

evfleetworld.co.uk @EVFleetWorld

EV Fleet World

ROAD_Peugeot-Partner_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 16:02 Page 1

DRIVEN

Peugeot Partner Grip L1 BlueHDi 100 With extra ride height and enhanced traction, the Partner Grip is ideal for site work, says Dan Gilkes.

Leafing through the brochure for the latest Peugeot Partner, there certainly seems to be something for everyone.

With Partner now based on PSA’s EMP2 chassis, which also forms the basis for many of the group’s SUVs and people-carriers, the compact vans are more car-like than ever.

They also benefit from a host of optional electronic driver assistance and safety systems, capable of turning the humble LCV into a smart office space or, in long-wheelbase form, a high-volume delivery vehicle.

There is still a model for those who don’t need all of the latest electronic gadgets though, for businesses that require a tough, hard-working van capable of handling anything that can be thrown at it. That model, in the Peugeot line-up, is called the Partner Grip.

It is based on the S trim level, which includes remote central locking, a full bulkhead, electric windows and door mirrors, auto headlights and daytime running lights, along with a DAB radio with Bluetooth and a single sliding side door.

To that, the Grip van adds PSA’s electronic Grip Control with Hill Descent Control, underbody protection, a tyre pressure monitor, 16” steel wheels with Michelin mud and snow tyres and an

064 • vanfleetworld.co.uk

additional 30mm of ground clearance. It also comes with a more comfortable driver’s seat, the Multi-Flex folding passenger seat with load-through bulkhead, front fog lights with a cornering function, additional load securing rings and LED lighting in the load area.

Grip Control is an electronic system that optimises traction, whatever the terrain. The driver has a rotary control in the cab to select road, snow, offroad and sand settings and the system does the rest. It’s not all-wheel drive, but with the rugged tyres and extra height, it should get you across a construction site or along a forestry track without any problems.

The Grip specification is available with the 75hp or 100hp engines in the shorter L1 model, or with the 100hp engine in the L2 van. It only boasts five forward ratios, but the 100hp van handles longer distances, cruising happily on the motorway and tackling cross country mileage with ease.

Despite its all-terrain pretensions, it also rides and handles well.

The van offers an impressive payload of 1,050kg, with a standard load volume of 3.3m3. This can be extended to 3.9m3 with the Multi-Flex seat and bulkhead hatch.

Our test van also featured optional Surround Rear Vision, which puts a 5” monitor where the rear-view camera would normally sit. This is fed by both rear and passenger side cameras,

delivering three views that can be toggled between. This includes using the monitor as a standard rear-view mirror, offering a blind spot monitor down the passenger side of the van and as a reversing camera when manoeuvring. At £975 it’s not a cheap option, but it does work very well.

SPECIFICATION MODEL Peugeot Partner Grip L1 BlueHDi 100 BASIC PRICE £18,015 ENGINE 4-cyl 1,560cc POWER 100bhp @ 3,750 TORQUE 254Nm @ 1,750 WEIGHTS (Kg) GVW 2,370 KERB WEIGHT 1,320 PAYLOAD 1,050 MAX TRAILER WEIGHT 1,000 DIMENSIONS (mm) LOAD SPACE LENGTH 1,817 LOAD SPACE WIDTH 1,550 LOAD SPACE HEIGHT 1,236 WIDTH BETWEEN W/ARCHES 1,229 LOAD VOLUME (m3) 3.3 COST CONSIDERATIONS FUEL TANK CAPACITY 50 litres ADBLUE TANK 17 litres COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION 65.7mpg CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS 111g/km OIL CHANGE 1 years/16,000 miles WARRANTY 3 year/100,000 miles

THE VERDICT The Partner Grip should appeal to those fleets looking for a go anywhere van, with real carrying capacity.

RATING

MASTERCLASS_VFW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:23 Page 1

Daily Rental

Our panel of leading suppliers helps you get the most out of your fleet...

Long-term rental releases cash flow

How to avoid ULEZ charges for your business vans

Based in Wilmslow, Cheshire and with depots around the country, office fruit delivery company Fruidel supplies premium fruit baskets to help companies boost productivity, enhance wellbeing and promote a healthy workplace. With ambitious growth plans, the company wanted a flexible transport option that didn't involve tying up capital on outright vehicle acquisition.

Europcar Advantage for Vans was the answer. The company has signed an agreement for Europcar to supply more than 40 Mercedes Sprinters, all liveried with the Fruidel brand.

Stephen Bohen, Founder & CEO, Fruidel, explains: “As our business expands so do our transport needs. We’ve grown at an unprecedented rate and the flexibility of Europcar’s long-term rental service has enabled us to double the size of our fleet in line with this demand. We’re due to take on 20 more Vans in 2019 without the significant outlay that would’ve come with acquisition.

“Long-term rental provides Fruidel with all of the advantages of an ‘owned’ fleet but with these additional benefits bundled into one price. The clarity that this gives us means that we’re in a great position to make informed financial decisions to plan for the future growth of the business.” www.europcar.co.uk/business/van-hire businesssolutions@europcar.com 03713840140

Businesses operating vans in London only have a few weeks to prepare for the introduction of ULEZ on 8th April 2019. Even vehicles that were LEZ compliant before may not be exempt from ULEZ charges, but if you act quickly, there is still time to make the transition to compliant vans.

A savvy way to mitigate the impact of ULEZ on your van fleet is to hire your vehicles. Northgate offers customisable Euro 6 compliant vans on a minimum term or flexible basis to suit your needs. One simple cost includes servicing, maintenance, road tax and breakdown recovery.

If you need to dispose of your existing vehicles, try our ‘We Buy You Rent’ scheme. Offering a fair market value, Northgate will buy your existing vans, injecting cash back into your businesses, and provide you with new, compliant rentals.

If you prefer to own your vehicles, then you can sell your old van and buy a newer Euro 6 van in a part-exchange through Northgate and Van Monster.

The clock is ticking and so if your business cannot afford to ignore the ULEZ financial charges, get in touch now. No matter what your requirements are, Northgate is committed to keeping your business on the road. northgatevehiclehire.co.uk 0330 1089 175

Mitigating the ULEZ cost through effective logistics planning We have found that many companies in and around London are looking at different ways to mitigate the cost of the Ultra-Low Emission Zone which is coming into effect from April 8th. Using an LCV on routes, where typically an HGV had been utilised, is one of the options which could reduce both fuel costs and the ULEZ charge as Euro 6 vans will be exempt from the charge as they offer the most up to date fuel saving technology.

Of course this approach won’t work for everyone and does rely heavily on the transition of HGVs travelling into the zone switching to LCVs. If this can be done by still only using one vehicle then significant cost savings can be achieved; even switching one HGV route by using two LCVs will still achieve savings.

Using a rental supplier such as Thrifty means there is no costly outlay required to increase your fleet with additional Euro 6 compliant vehicles. Our rental model will allow you to test alternative logistics strategies without committing capital for new fleet that may not be required on a permanent basis. www.thrifty.co.uk sales@thrifty.co.uk 01494 751500

fleetworld.co.uk • 065

ROAD_Ford Transit Connect_VFW_Mar19.qxp 08/03/2019 15:27 Page 1

DRIVEN

Ford Transit Connect Auto Ford's eight-speed automatic is good, if you can afford it, says Dan Gilkes.

With automatic transmissions becoming an increasingly popular option in the light commercial market, Ford is

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offering an eight-speed box on the Transit Connect.

Available in Base, Trend and Limited trim levels, though not on the Sport van, the auto can be had with the 100bhp or the 120bhp versions of Ford’s 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine.

As a £1,200 option it is unlikely to take over from the six-speed manual gearbox soon, which is a shame, because the eight-speed auto is a bit of a gem in this application. It smoothly swaps gears, provides rapid acceleration and delivers a stressfree driving experience that leaves the driver free to concentrate on the road.

The auto has a regular selection lever, with manual override buttons in the head, rather than paddles on the steering column. These work well enough, but unless you really want to change gear yourself they won’t get much use. Despite having so many ratios, the box seems to predict your needs well and is rarely caught out in the wrong gear if you need to accelerate.

You might expect with eight gears that at least the top two would be for higher speed cruising only, but the box gets into top at fairly conservative speeds, making the most of the 1.5-litre diesel’s strong torque.

That said, the automatic struggles to match the manual in terms of fuel consumption, with a still respectable 55.6mpg against the manual’s 60.1mpg.

Likewise, the CO2 figure climbs from 123g/km for the manual 100bhp model, to 135g/km for the auto.

Ownership costs aside though, the auto further improves what is already a class-leading van.

SECTOR Small van LOAD VOLUME 2.9-3.6m3 PAYLOAD 579-865kg CO2 123-146g/km

RATING

VFW SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Mar19.qxp_VFW SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Aug'07 08/03/2019 14:56 Page 1

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY daiLy rentaL

contract hire, Leasing & finance

risk management

taiL Lifts

fLeet management software

Nexus Vehicle Rental 0871 984 1947 www.nexusrental.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

DriveTech (UK) Ltd Tel: 01256 610907 www.drivetech.co.uk

Penny Hydraulics Tel: 01246 811475 www.pennyhydraulics.com

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

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

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

Ratcliff Palfinger Ltd Tel: 01707 325571 www.ratcliffpalfinger.co.uk

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

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

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

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

Full listings online at

fleetworld.co.uk accident management

Europcar Tel: 0871 384 0201 www.europcar.co.uk

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

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

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 08444 991402 www.venson.com

cLaims management teLematics & tracking

Tel: 01792 222133 www.daysrental.co.uk

Fourways Vehicle Solutions Tel: 0344 8000 385 www.fvsl.co.uk

Teletrac Navman Tel: 0345 604 8813 www.teletrac.co.uk www.navmanwireless.co.uk

0845 2172 608 daysfleet.com

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

Tel: 0345 055 8555 Ctrack www.ctrack.co.uk Telogis Tel: 0203 005 8805 www.telogis.co.uk

opus claim solutions Ltd 01905 641664 www.opus.claims

fLeet management

TomTom Telematics Tel: 0208 822 3605

Alphabet (GB) Limited Tel: 0370 50 50 100 www.alphabet.co.uk

www.tomtom.com/telematics

Zenith Tel: 0344 848 9327 www.zenith.co.uk

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

stePs

AMBER CONNECT Tel: 01789 774413 www.amberconnect.co.uk

www.quartix.net

CanTrack Global Ltd Tel: 01908 330385 www.cantrack.com

Tel: 0870 013 6663 ALD Automotive Tel: 0370 00 111 81 www.aldautomotive.co.uk

Fleet Operations Ltd Tel: 0844 567 8000 www.fleetoperations.co.uk

AVS Steps Ltd Tel: 01939 235900 www.avssteps.co.uk

Full listings online at fleetworld.co.uk

fueL management

van Liners

driver Licence checking

United Vanliners Ltd Tel: 01778 561900 www.unitedvanliners.co.uk

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

TMC

vehicLe cctv Exeros Technologies Tel: 020 8303 1188 www.exeros-technologies.com

Tel: 01270 525 218 www.themilesconsultancy.co.uk

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0845 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk • vanfle 2018 mber Septe September 2018 • vanfleetworld .co.uk September 2018 • vanfleetworld.co.uk September 2018

CE L EBR

euroShell Card Tel: 0800 915 6021 www.shell.co.uk/euroshell

rld.co.uk • vanfleetwo

C ING CE L EBRAT

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For more information, please contact Tracy Howell on 01727 739160 or email tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

p70 p72

p70

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6 x 2 = MASTER

p72

p73

p73

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E-CRAFTER

MASTERCLASS

Renault Trucks' 6.0tonne 6x2 van takes on a 7.5-tonne truck

Volkswagen joins the electric van club

Advice for LCV fleet telematics & tracking

MASTERCLASS

Advice for LCV flee he t telematics & trackin g

S ERCLAS MAST LCV fleet

for acking Advice tics & tr telema p72 p7

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ucks'' 6.0T Trucks Ren lt Tr Renau takes onne 6x2 van e truck ne 5-tonn 7 7.5-ton on a 7.

E-CRAFTER

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SUPPLIER DIRECTORY

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Fuel economy and CO2* results for the New MG3 Exclusive. Mpg (l/100km) (combined): 42.3 (6.7). *CO2 emissions: 140 g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. *There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. Models shown: MG3 Exclusive with Hello Yellow paint at £12.795 on the road (OTR), MG3 Exclusive with Ruby Red paint at £13,340 OTR and MG3 Exclusive with Laser Blue paint at £13,340 OTR. OTR prices include VAT where applicable, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and 12 months’ Vehicle Excise Duty. Prices are correct at time of being published and are subject to change without notice. Please see your local dealer or visit MG.CO.UK for details. * Excite and Exclusive only. ** Exclusive only. ^ Applies to New MG3 Excite 1.5 DOHC VTI-tech on 6+47 profile with an initial rental of £750 followed by 47 monthly rentals of £125 excl. VAT and Maintenance. Available at participating dealers until 31st March 2019. Based on 8,000 miles p.a. Excess mileage charges apply. Subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Ts&Cs apply. Finance by Maxxia Limited, MK16 9QB. Applicants must be 18 or over. Errors and omissions accepted. ^^Applies to 20% tax band.