GreenFleet Magazine 59

FREIGHT & LOGISTICS

2012 GREENFLEET AWARDS

www.greenfleet.net

ROAD TEST

KANGOO MAXI CREW Z.E. Behind the wheel of GreenFleet’s Electric Van of the Year 2012

FINANCE

ISSUE 59

ROAD SAFETY

GEAR UP FOR WINTER

Tips to get you safely through the coming months IN S EW THE N tion

s Congechanges e charg theft rises Fuel anels for p Solar ulances b am

ROAD TESTS SMART FORTWO n PEUGEOT 3008 HYBRID4 n NISSAN LEAF

The new A-Class. Just 13% BIK.* Another added bonus.

A new generation of Mercedes-Benz. Available to pre-order now.

A Daimler Brand

Discover more at mercedes-benz.co.uk/fleet

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for new A-Class range: urban 33.6 (8.4) - 62.8 (4.5), extra urban 55.4 (5.1) - 85.6 (3.3), combined 44.1 (6.4) - 74.3 (3.8) CO2 emissions: 98-148 g/km. *Model featured and based on an A180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY SE

at ÂŁ21,770.00 on-the-road including optional metallic paint at ÂŁ570.00. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Price correct at time of going to print.

FREIGHT & LOGISTICS

2012 GREENFLEET AWARDS

www.greenfleet.net

ROAD TEST

KANGOO MAXI CREW Z.E. Behind the wheel of GreenFleet’s Electric Van of the Year 2012

FINANCE

ISSUE 59

ROAD SAFETY

GEAR UP FOR WINTER

Tips to get you safely through the coming months IN

WS

THE NE tion s Conges change chargetheft rises Fuel nels for pa Solar lances ambu

ROAD TESTS SMART FORTWO ■ PEUGEOT 3008 HYBRID4 ■ NISSAN LEAF R

Comment

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Fuel Duty increase delayed (again) As we go to press, all signs point towards George Osborne freezing the planned fuel duty rise in his autumn statement after coming under pressure from his backbenchers and receiving support from key Liberal Democrat colleagues. The Autumn statement is expected on December 5, and, if the planned rise is indeed frozen, it will be a second victory for the lobbyists.

Partly responsible for forcing the u-turn is FairFuelUK, which claims a 3p increase in fuel duty in January would destroy 35,000 jobs, cut growth in the UK economy by 0.1 per cent and put even greater strain on household budgets.

Fair Fuel UK has been represented by motoring journalist and former GreenFleet Awards presenter Quentin Wilson. who stated: “FairFuel’s meeting with Danny Alexander, chief secretary to the Treasury, went very well indeed. Alexander is a politician with an economics background and rural constituency who clearly understands what high fuel costs do to remote communities and struggling businesses. Unlike so many other MPs and ministers he didn’t trot out the usual dreary stuff about appeasing ‘motoring groups’ or ‘concessions for car drivers’, but simply understood that raising duty means raising the prices of nearly everything we do and buy in the UK.” Fuel duty could well be a sticky topic for the coalition. Earlier this month, Osborne averted a Tory backbench rebellion in the Commons when the Treasury told key campaigners on the issue,

including Robert Halfon (MP for Harlow) that it was listening to its concerns.

Worcester MP Robin Walker wants the Treasury to go a step further by actually cutting duty to ease the burden on families in the region, where prices at the pump remain high.

Angela Pisanu, Editor

P ONLINE P IN PRINT P MOBILE P FACE TO FACE If you would like to receive 10 issues of GreenFleet magazine for £200 a year, please contact Public Sector Information Limited, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055.

GreenFleet® would like to thank the following organisations for their support:

PUBLISHED BY PUBLIC SECTOR INFORMATION LIMITED

226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk EDITOR Angela Pisanu EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Danny Wright PRODUCTION EDITOR Karl O’Sullivan DESIGNER Richard Gooding PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Jacqueline Lawford WEB PRODUCTION Reiss Malone PUBLISHER Martin Freedman KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Michael Kennedy ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich, Lucy Carter GROUP PUBLISHER Barry Doyle REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

Printed on recycled paper

© 2012 Public Sector Information Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. ISSN 1362 - 2541

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

3

Welcome to The Green.

Helping you put sustainability at the heart of your fleet.

Looking for ways to run a greener fleet? Why not visit The Green, the acclaimed sustainability website from Lex Autolease, the UK’s leading fleet management and fleet funding specialist.

Listen to our latest podcast about low carbon vehicles at The Green www.lexautolease.co.uk/theGreen Find free help and advice on sustainable issues, including: • choosing the right vehicles • tax and budget • fuel strategy and how to cut your fuel bill.

Visit The Green at www.lexautolease.co.uk/theGreen today, and see how we can help you run a greener fleet.

Or you can call us for more information on 0800 389 3690.

Contents

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

CONTENTS 07 GREENFLEET NEWS

07

Homeowners turn driveways into London’s EV network; San Francisco algae-biofuel trial; South Central Ambulances fit solar panels

14 FINANCE ACFO Chairman Julie Jenner discusses fleet procurement in relation to low carbon vehicles and their tax implications

14

18 WINTER DRIVING Have you prepared yourself, your staff, and your vehicle for winter? Kevin Clinton from Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents gives advice for driving in wintry weather

24 FREIGHT & LOGISTICS Dr Ross Moloney from Skills for Logistics examines some of the key issues facing the UK’s logistics sector

26 ROAD TEST: RENAULT KANGOO MAXI CREW Z.E. 18

GreenFleet’s Electric Vehicle of the Year, the Renault Kangoo Z.E., is taken for a spin

29 ROAD TEST: SMART FORTWO COUPE PASSION MHD Ian Bond gets behind the wheel of the Smart Fortwo Coupe Passion and soon realises the benefits of driving a small car

30 ROAD TEST: PEUGEOT 3008 HYBRID4 Roland Rendell gives Peugeot’s new diesel hybrid the GreenFleet treatment

33 ROAD TEST: NISSAN LEAF

Roland Rendell jumps in Nissan’s purpose‑built electric vehicle, the LEAF, and discovers the benefits of electric mobility

37 2012 GREENFLEET AWARDS Who picked up a coveted GreenFleet Award this year? We look at the winning fleets and manufacturers that have taken drastic steps to reduce their carbon

42 PRODUCT FINDER

The latest fleet products and service

26 24 33

GreenFleet magazine

www.greenfleet.net Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

5

The facts.

The sporty new Punto TwinAir 5 dr comes with the revolutionary TwinAir engine.

Which means 74.3 mpg, only 98g/km of CO², 10% BIK rating, no road tax and no London Congestion Charge*.

New Punto TwinAir. From just £179 a month for business users only.

Visit fiat.co.uk/fleet for more info.

fiat.co.uk

Fiat, the car brand with the lowest average CO² emissions in Europe†. Fuel consumption figures for the Fiat Punto TwinAir in mpg (l/100km): Urban 57.6 (4.9); Extra Urban 74.3 (3.8); Combined 67.3 (4.2). CO² emissions 98 g/km.

*100% congestion charge discount is based on the current TFL policy which requires registration with TFL and £10 annual fee. Under current DVLA regulations there is no charge for Vehicle Excise Duty in the first year of registration and every subsequent year. Vehicle Excise Duty rates are reviewed annually by the government and are subject to change. Above rentals based on PuntoTwinAir 5dr on Contract Hire payment profile of 3 rentals in advance (equivalent to £537) followed by 35 rentals of £179. All rentals exclude VAT and maintenance.

Based on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges apply. Vehicles must be registered with Fiat Contract Hire before 31st December 2012. Offer subject to status, guarantee and/or indemnity may be required. Fiat Contract Hire, 240 Bath Road, Slough, SL1 4DX. †Source: JATO Dynamics. Based on volume-weighted average CO² emissions (g/km) of the best selling brands in Europe, full year 2011.

ROAD CHARGING

TfL proposes lowering Congestion Charge exemption to 75g/km

NEWS IN BRIEF

GreenFleet News

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Human waste to biodiesel project to improve sanitation

Transport for London is proposing to lower the 100 per cent discount for low emission cars from the current 100g/km to 75g/km.

The changes form part of the new Ultra Low Emission Discount (ULED), which would replace the current Greener Vehicle Discount (GVD). The changes would take affect in July 2013 and provide a single 100 per cent discount from the Congestion Charge for electric and ultra low emission cars and vans that emit 75g/km or less of CO2 and meet the Euro 5 emission standard for air quality.

While the ULED is technology neutral, no currently available diesel car would meet the criteria for the discount as TfL aims to tackle the increasing dieselisation of London’s car fleet. Drivers that will no longer qualify will

be given a two-year ‘sunset period’ before losing their entitlement. Nick Fairholme, TfL’s director for congestion charging, said: “The proposed changes will make the scheme greener and more efficient.”

But BVRLA chief executive, John Lewis, believes that the new emissions threshold has been set too low and is merely a revenue-raising exercise.

“Fleet operators at least have some warning this time, but they should remember that a vehicle that qualifies for a 100 per cent discount could lose it at any stage,” said Lewis.

The changes would also see the penalty charge for the Congestion Charge rise from £120 to £130.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING

Homeowners to rent out driveways for EV parking and charging Electric vehicle drivers visiting in London will now be able to charge their vehicles in private driveways, as part of a new initiative. London homeowners are being offered electric vehicle charge points free of charge. Once the charge points – normally worth £1,500 – are installed on their driveways, homeowners will be able to rent them out to EV drivers who book online at ParkatmyHouse.com.

The new initiative comes as a result of a partnership between ParkatmyHouse. com, energy company SSE, Transport for London’s Source London network, and charge point manufacturer Chargemaster.

At present, electric car drivers cannot book charge point spaces in public places in London. The value of having charge points available at people’s homes is that, electric car drivers will be able to reserve charge points in advance. Chargemaster, in partnership with SSE, expects to install 200 charge points over the coming months, adding to the 800 already in place as part of TfL’s Source London scheme.

A groundbreaking research facility that transforms human waste into renewable biodiesel fuel in Kumasi, Ghana, has been opened. The pilot project involves converting a waste‑processing facility into a bio refinery and using a bioprocess technology for converting the organic compounds present in faecal sludge to biodiesel and methane, two potent sources of renewable energy.

Anthony Mensah, waste management director for the city of Kumasi believes: “The faecal sludge to biodiesel pilot project could potentially address sustainable sanitation and introduce a new dimension into the sanitation value chain, not only in Kumasi but globally.”

Drivers trust EVs for safety, suggests website poll UK drivers believe that electric cars are at least as safe as a typical combustion car, a poll conducted by TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk has shown. It reveals that nearly half of drivers (45 per cent) believe that electric cars are as safe as their fossil fuel counterparts while a further 39 per cent said they thought they were actually safer.

AFR rate increase for LPG grey fleet drivers

Mark Jabbal from Uxbridge, West London, has received over 75 parking bookings at his house since signing up earlier this year to ParkatmyHouse.com. He said: “It’s great to be able add to the services I can offer drivers.”

All the driver needs do is enter the time and place they want to charge and then book the charge point. Ten points have already been installed at spaces listed on the site. The cost for charging an EV is set by the homeowner and added into the overall charge for the space.

HMRC’s latest Advisory Fuel Rates (AFRs), which organisations use as a guide to repay drivers for fuel used on business mileage, have been increased by a penny a mile for LPG vehicles across the three engine size brackets (up to 1400cc Petrol and diesel cars remain unchanged. The rates, which are reviewed quarterly, take effect from December 1.

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

7

DISCOVER NEW ASTRA TECH LINE

HIGH SPEC, LOW P11D Miles more fuel economy, much less impact on your pocket.

THE FEATURES STACK UP • Satellite navigation • DMB radio and cruise control • Bluetooth®, USB and aux-in connectivity • Air conditioning • 17-inch alloys

...AND SO DO THE FIGURES • 99g/km of CO2 • 76.3mpg (Combined cycle) • 13% Benefit-in-Kind* • £19,255 P11D • 100% WDA (first year)* Based on the New Astra hatchback Tech Line 1.7CDTi 16v (110PS) ecoFLEX Start/Stop

Now you can make a big impact on your drivers’ tax bills while they enjoy more of the features they want from a company car. That’s the beauty of New Astra Tech Line. Its low-emission, fuel-efficient ecoFLEX engines deliver genuine cost savings. And with so much high spec equipment as standard, the P11D value is kept agreeably low. So with New Astra Tech Line, more really is less.

Many more models are available; including New Astra Sports Tourer and a wide range of engines.

Book your FREE** 3 Day Test Drive today at www.3daytestdrive.co.uk or call 0870 240 4848†

VAUXHALL FLEET Call 0870 010 0651‡ | visit www.vauxhall.co.uk/fleet

Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). New Astra hatchback and Sports Tourer Tech Line range: Urban 65.7 (4.3)-28.2 (10.0), Extra-urban 83.1 (3.4)-50.4 (5.6), Combined 76.3 (3.7)-39.2 (7.2). CO2 emissions 169-99g/km. * = 2012-13 tax year. General Motors UK Limited does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their particular tax position. ** = Excludes fuel and lubricants; congestion charges; parking and speeding fines and the £250 insurance excess (if applicable). 3 Day Test Drive vehicles are subject to availability and terms and conditions apply. Please refer to www.3daytestdrive.co.uk for full terms and conditions. Drivers must be 25 years or older and is available for Mainland UK only. † = Telephone lines are open Monday-Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm excluding Bank Holidays. ‡ = Telephone lines are open Monday-Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm excluding Bank Holidays. All calls may be recorded or monitored for quality and/or training purposes. All figures quoted correct at time of publication (October 2012) and refer to featured model only (New Astra hatchback Tech Line 1.7CDTi 16v (110PS) ecoFLEX Start/Stop (99g/km)), all features quoted apply to full New Astra Tech Line range. Model shown features metallic paint, optional at extra cost. Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty covers lifetime ownership of first car owner, 100,000 mile limit, annual check required. The warranty excludes wear and tear and serviceable items and the vehicle must be serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s servicing schedule to continue the Lifetime Warranty. Terms and conditions apply. Offer available to all Vauxhall passenger cars, (this offer does not apply to car-derived vans) registered from 1 August 2010.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Nissan LEAF gathering at Silverstone enters the Guinness book of Records A convoy of 225 Nissan LEAFs were driven around the Silverstone to break the Guinness World Record for the ‘largest parade of electric vehicles’, beating the previous record of 218 held by Chrysler in the US. Nissan LEAF owners travelled from as far afield as Aberdeen and Belfast to meet up at the world-famous circuit, and were joined by famous faces including actor Robert Llewellyn, perhaps

better known as Kryten in popular sci-fi comedy Red Dwarf, and ‘Bang goes the Theory’ presenter Dallas Campbell. The cars paraded around the circuit for just over two miles under the watchful eye of the Guinness World Record adjudicators.

Paul O’Neill, Nissan’s product manager for LEAF said: “We thank all the owners who helped us achieve this, we couldn’t have done it without them.”

NEWS IN BRIEF Fuelcard Company warns fuel thefts on the rise

GreenFleet News

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Following two cases of high volume fuel theft in November, The Fuelcard Company is warning hauliers and transport operators to be extra vigilant against thieves. Fuel theft accounted for 64 percent of all thefts from LGVs last year - a 17 percent increase, with the number of incidents expected to increase further as fuel prices continue to rise. The recent thefts of £7,000 of diesel from a large fuel tank at one of North Yorkshire Council’s highway depots and emptying of coach tanks at a transport company in Norfolk, demonstrate the TO READ MORE PLEASE VISIT... varied approaches taken tinyurl.com/c4xtyc3 by thieves.

Energy Saving Trust selects TomTom for driver education programme TomTom fleet management is being used in a driver education project operated by the Energy Saving Trust (EST) in Scotland.

The project will see the EST work with four public sector organisations in a bid to improve fuel efficiency and emissions levels across their transport operations. This will be achieved by using a combination of TomTom technology and the Energy Saving Trust’s Fuel Efficient Driver Training.

ePowerTrucks lengthy low-speed leases

BIOFUELS

San Francisco motorists start algae-biofuel trial Drivers in the San Francisco Bay Area of the US are now able to fill up with an algae‑based biofuel, as part of a month‑long pilot.

Biodiesel B20 is made from 20 per cent algae and 80 per cent petroleum, and can be used by any vehicle that runs on diesel.

The fuel’s algae was grown

by South San Francisco-based Solazyme and already has been used in trials by the military and industrial companies.

The fuel is priced at about $4.25 a gallon, about the same as the average price for diesel fuel in California. “We’re talking about fuels that are offered at standard diesel pricing,” said Bob Ames, Solazyme’s vice president. He added that many automakers oppose allowing a mix higher than 20 per cent, and that the goal is to increase the blend as supply and demand increase over time.

MANUFACTURING

Green car development could create 100,000 new jobs says T&E report The development of greener cars could create over 100,000 new manufacturing jobs across Europe, a new report from sustainable transport campaign group, Transport & Environment (T&E) suggests. Conducted by Dutch consultancy CE Delft,

the new Low Carbon Vehicles: Good for EU Employment report goes someway to dismiss the auto industry’s claims that reducing CO2 emissions from cars would have a negative impact on automotive jobs and competitiveness in Europe.

ePowerTrucks is offering Club Car low-speed passenger vehicles on leases measured in days rather than weeks, aimed to help more companies become familiar and comfortable with EVs, while also filling a market niche. Jerry Hanss, managing director of ePowerTrucks, said: “We have already identified demand for Club Car’s products within our customer base.

The increased flexibility of being able to offer short-term hire schemes opens up additional possibilities and opportunities for an even wider range of individuals and organisations.”

Aixam launches a car that 16-year olds can drive, if they can afford it The Coupe S is a light quadricycle that be driven with a provisional driving licence.

The two-seater uses a 400cc diesel engine to reach a maximum speed of 28mph. The coupe may be unable to filter through traffic like a moped, but its fuel economy of almost 80 mpg is far more akin to that of a motorcycle than a conventional car. However, mopeds have remained a first powered vehicle of choice because they can be acquired and insured for relatively little money. By contrast, the Aixam Coupe costs £9,999 and is expected to cost the average 16-year-old around £2,000 a year to insure.

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

9

EMERGENCY SERVICES

South Central to fit solar panels to ambulance fleet In an attempt to reduce its fuel bill, South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) NHS Foundation Trust is installing 5mm thick solar panels on the vehicle roofs commencing April 2013.

The fleet is currently made up of 200 ambulances and 120 response cars. SCAS hopes to have them all fully equipped with the solar panels over a 60 month period as the vehicles are replaced. They have recently received 36 Ford Mondeo estates on the roofs of which they are placing two 34‑watt solar panels.

These vehicles carry a secondary battery that is used to charge the mobile data technology, medical equipment, blue flashing lights and radio. Some of this equipment provides the driver and the crewmember with details about the incident. The solar panels are to be used to keep

this secondary battery charged.

SCAS spends over £2.5 million on fuel every year and estimates that it will save between 10- 15 per cent by having the solar panels installed. The trust believes that they are at the forefront of installing this level of technology on ambulances in the UK, although smaller powered units have been used elsewhere.

The solar panels will have a tenyear life expectancy. The vehicles are also having a telematics system put in to provide information about the vehicle.

From the beginning of 2012 the trust trialled the new solar panel system on a couple of their cars and it has proved to be most effective. Daylight is converted into voltage by the solar panels with a separate C-Tec regulator located in the boot providing the power for their equipment.

POLLUTION

Efforts to be stepped up to meet EU air pollutant targets’ says EEA report Transport in Europe is responsible for damaging levels of air pollutants and a quarter of EU greenhouse gas emissions. Many of the resulting environmental problems can be addressed by stepping up efforts to meet new EU targets, according to the latest report from the European Environment Agency (EEA). The EEA’s annual report under the Transport and Environment Reporting Mechanism (TERM) assesses the environmental impact of transport across Europe.

There have been some improvements over recent years, although these can be partly attributed to reduced economic activity during the recession. As the economic climate improves, the new EU transport targets should focus efforts to further reduce environmental impacts, the report says.

Although air pollution has decreased over the last two decades, according to the report, it is still a major problem in many areas.

‘Euro standards’ for vehicles have not succeeded in reducing real NO2 emissions to the levels set out in the DOWNLOAD THE REPORT legislation although they have made tinyurl.com/cmjfvz8 substantial changes to air quality.

Andy Eastlake: Keep pluggin’ away

GreenFleet News

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

After nearly thirty years working in the vehicle development industry, never has this phrase seemed quite so appropriate to me. With preparations now well under way for the LowCVP’s tenth anniversary (which we’ll be celebrating with a reception and Awards evening on January 29th ) now is a good time to reflect on what has been achieved so far.

Though involved right from the start, I take over as managing director of the LowCVP at a time when improvements in conventional low carbon vehicles are moving apace. The latest crop of highly efficient diesel and down-sized petrol engines deliver fuel economy we could only dream of a decade ago. The UK automotive industry, through a positive collaboration with, and support from, Government is one of the bright spots in an otherwise bleak economic environment. Against this backdrop of real progress, it is no wonder that the next step changes we have to make in fuels, vehicles and behaviour are more difficult to implement.

The electric vehicle market is only one example of the challenge we face to reduce the fuel consumption and carbon emitted from our cars and vans. All the elements are in place: great products coming to the market; purchase incentives from Government; tax incentives for use; legislative pressure from Europe; sticks and carrots from local and national government; cheap fuel from the energy sector; ambitious long term aims from all stakeholders; and strong advertising push from the sales organisations. But this nascent market is still very fragile and changing the culture of our buying and operating behaviour will not happen overnight.

Our current cars, fuels and the way we live have all developed without us having to think too much about them, but now real choices have to be made by consumers and fleets about vehicle technology, fuel and operating scenarios as a combined package. So information, education and confidence are all critical factors in helping buyers to make the right decisions.

I was heartened to learn recently that Nissan has sold over 42,000 of its electric LEAF model around the World to date, and that sales have recently picked-up. After a slow start, there are reports too that there has been an increase in demand for the Government’s plug-in car grants. While electrification is only one of the routes to our vision of sustainable global efficient mobility it is clearly going to be an important one. We must all continue to lobby and cajole to build this market, so don’t let up and “Keep Plugging away!”

Andy Eastlake was appointed as the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership’s managing director in April 2012. Andy has a strong background in engineering, specialising in powertrain developments. He was formerly Group Head of Commercial and Projects at Millbrook Proving Ground.

The Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership is a public-private partnership that exists to accelerate a sustainable shift to lower carbon vehicles and fuels and create opportunities for UK businesses. Nearly 200 organisations are members, including government, automotive and fuel supply chains, vehicle users, academics and civil society.

The LowCVP’s Tenth Anniversary Reception and Low Carbon Champions Awards takes place on the evening of 29 January 2013 in Central London.

For more information: www.lowcvp.org.uk

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

11

Make the smart choice for your fleet t CO2 GrPN H LN

t 8D" rFUBJOFE GrPN "QSJM

t

t CitZ 4BGety PFEFTUSJBO "JSCBH BOE #MVFUPPUI BT TUBOEBSE

Fuel consumption for the All-New Volvo V40 range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 25.0 (11.3) – 70.6 (4.0), Extra Urban 47.1 (6.0) – 83.1 (3.4), Combined 35.8 (7.9) – 78.5 (3.6). CO2 Emissions 185 – 94g/km. *All-New Volvo V40 D2 (205 tyres) Manual **Exceptional safety features including radar-enabled City Safety and the world’s first Pedestrian Airbag Image shows Volvo V40 D2 SE with optional accessory Ailos wheels, twin exhaust pipes and side and rear air deflectors, fitted post registration.

THE ALL-NEW VOLVO V40

THE ONLY PREMIUM DIESEL 5-DOOR HATCHBACK SUB 95 G/KM

CALL 08457 300 140 OR VISIT WWW.VOLVOCARS.CO.UK/V40 to find out more When you’re thinking about new vehicles for your fleet, just stop and take a look around. The All-New Volvo V40 is a premium 5-door hatchback for those with more individual tastes. Beautifully crafted Scandinavian design and dynamic handling are sure to keep your drivers happy. And when it comes to emissions, the V40 really stands out from the crowd, with innovative Drive-E technologies making it the only premium diesel 5-door, 5-seat hatchback sub 95g/km. Impressive stats, in comparison to the BMW 116d ED at 99g/km and Audi A3 1.6 TDI at 109g/km. So, why not bypass the competition and take your fleet on a different route.

COMPANY CAR DRIVER INFO: Benefit In Kind rates for the 2012/2013 tax year on the All-New Volvo V40 range from 13% to 29%. By way of example company car tax payable being £43.20 to £161.24 per month for 20% taxpayer and £86.41 to £322.48 per month for 40% taxpayer. Monthly amounts are a guide only. Final car tax payable may be lower or higher and will depend on other factors including final list price of car with accessories and options and any employee capital contributions or payments made towards private use. Excludes private fuel. Advice should be taken.

Finance

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

FLEET PROCUREMENT

BEARING IN MIND THE BOTTOM LINE

In calculating optimum fleet replacement cycles, there is no right or wrong answer, with every organisation different. However, fleet operators must also take into account evolving vehicle technology and tax implications, advises ACFO’s Julie Jenner Economic evidence would suggest that UK Plc is slowly moving out of recession and, while increasing fleet activity would appear to support that view, cost remains the single biggest issue facing managers.

The recovery in the UK was gathering steam, said the influential Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development recently, pointing to growth in the last four months – allbeit slow expansion since the country officially exited recession in the third quarter of 2012.

Following the race to extend fleet vehicle replacement cycles in the depths of recession, we are now witnessing a return to shorter operating cycles in some cases as new contracts are written.

This trend will, ACFO believes, continue into 2013 if economic recovery is

maintained but, as with so many things in life and in fleet, it is a balancing act for managers to get right financially.

FLEET REPLACEMENT CYCLES Replacing vehicles at less than four years old potentially avoids the prospect of expensive maintenance costs. Meanwhile, with longer service intervals – 20,000 miles being the norm – it means that if vehicles are replaced at less than 60,000 miles perhaps only two major services may be required (depending also on vehicle age).

In calculating optimum fleet replacement cycles there is no right or wrong with every operation and business different. However, fleet operators must also take into account evolving vehicle technology and tax implications.

d Extendeicle h fleet vent cycles me replace ecession are in the r ing way to a now givrn to much g retu peratin o r e t r o sh periods

14

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 59

Budget 2012 signposted the way ahead for the forseeable future for fleet managers in terms of both benefit-in-kind tax for drivers and corporation tax for businesses. Put simply the future is low emission cars with HM Treasury further ratching down emission thresholds.

Motor manufacturers are introducing ever lower emission petrol and diesel engined cars to the market and that means lower tax bills for drivers and businesses.

Holding on to ‘old’ vehicles undoubtedly means higher tax bills for both.

Additionally, the HR angle should not be ignored. Company cars continue to be highly prized by most employees. Staff driving a four or five-year old vehicle may not look after it as well as they would a new vehicle.

Providing a new car to an employee undoubtedly ticks the HR box but it should perhaps be accompanied with instructions – supported by documentation signed by drivers – that they must take responsibility for keeping the vehicle in good condition.

Historically, many fleets have been fairly relaxed about drivers almost ignoring vehicle condition but this is something that is changing. With economic conditions remaining challenging, delivery of a new vehicle may just be the right time to educate drivers, tighten driver policy in this area and possibly recharge drivers for some or all of the amounts that their carelessness costs their employer.

TAX TALKS As already mentioned, benefit-in-kind tax thresholds will tighten from April 6, 2013 by a further 5 g/km – with a similar increase due in 2014/15 and a tightening of 10 g/km in 2015/16 and 2016/17.

The astronomical tax increase of up to 50 per cent for drivers and related rises in Class 1A National Insurance contributions by employers – penalised for making the right low emission decision – must not be repeated as the government shapes its future vehicle-tax policy.

Meanwhile, also from April next year, the government will extend the 100 per cent first year allowance for businesses purchasing low emissions cars for a further two years to March 31, 2015. But, simultaneously the carbon dioxide emissions threshold below which cars are eligible for the first year allowance will be cut from 110 g/km to 95 g/km, and leased business cars will no longer be eligible for the first year allowance.

Additionally, the carbon dioxide emissions threshold for the main rate of capital allowances for business cars will reduce from 160 g/km to 130 g/km. The threshold above which the lease rental restriction applies will also reduce from 160 g/km to 130 g/km.

That all further encourages the take-up of low emission company cars. But the government must be careful in its approach to vehicle-related taxes.

CAUTION ON THE HORIZON As ACFO has frequently highlighted, measures by the government to encourage the take-up of low emission vehicles mean less money going into the HM Treasury coffers.

The government is known to be studying how it can reform Vehicle Excise Duty to fill a multi-million pound black hole in its finances caused by lower emission cars attracting reduced rates of road tax.

ACFO remains fearful that the government may look to fill its VED black hole by targeting owners of vehicles – including companies – that have already made ‘green’ choices influenced by politically-led policies.

The government already has a track record in this regard having increased benefit‑in‑kind tax in 2012/13 to 15 per cent from 10 per cent for drivers of company cars with emissions of 120 g/km. Additionally, drivers at the wheel of company cars emitting 115-119 g/km saw their benefitin-kind tax bills rise almost 50 per cent with vehicles catapulted into the 14 per cent tax bracket from the 10 per cent threshold and those at the wheel of vehicles with emissions of 100 g/km to 114 g/km moved into the 11-13 per cent tax thresholds.

That astronomical tax increase of up to 50 per cent for drivers and related rises in Class 1A National Insurance contributions by employers – penalised for making the right low emission decision – must not be repeated as the government shapes its future vehicle‑related tax policy.

Instead, ACFO would suggest that the government should look at the rates it applies for higher emission cars in respect of taxes it collects – both in terms of benefit‑in-kind tax and Vehicle Excise Duty.

While highlighting tax issues, ACFO would stress to the government that although its bank account may be lower than usual businesses and consumers are continuing to feel the pinch.

FUTURE FUEL RISES Indications from the government in November that the planned January 1, 2013 3p a litre rise in fuel duty may not occur are to be welcomed.

However, ACFO would go further. Fuel prices are at or close to record levels and, as has been highlighted by the lobby of protest over the next scheduled rise, the UK is in no mood to stomach a further increase. Instead of simply deferring the fuel duty rise, the government should make it clear that it will not increase fuel duty any further in 2013 thus easing corporate, and consumer, budget‑bashing fears.

Finally, motor manufacturers should be applauded for technological advances that have driven down CO2 emissions and improved MPG to extraordinary levels in recent years.

But, with the average price of petrol now almost 7p per litre lower than the average price of diesel, according to website petrolprices.com, the time has perhaps come for more fleets to consider petrol models if they fit into their whole life cost profile.

For example, the petrol-engined BMW 320i is available with emissions of 124 g/km and combined cycle fuel economy of 53.3 mpg thanks to the manufacturer’s EfficientDynamics technology. Additionally, the new Mazda6 due to launch in January will be available with petrol power returning 129 g/km and fuel economy of 51.4 mpg.

For a fleet with the ‘right’ mileage profile, now could be the time when diesel power’s dominance of the fleet sector starts to be reined in. For a particular group of drivers, petrol power may deliver much sought after cash savings in benefit-kind tax and fuel and tax and fuel savings for business.

The fleet industry is forever throwing up new challenges and opportunities, but some things never change. Cost will always be the decisive decision-making factor. L

About the author: Julie Jenner

Finance

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Julie Jenner was re-elected as Chairman of ACFO, the leading UK representative body for fleet decision-makers, in early 2012.

Jenner, key solutions manager at GE Capital Fleet Services and a former fleet manager, has served as chairman since being first elected in 2006. She was elected to the ACFO board in 2003.

ACFO is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year having been founded in 1972. ACFO plays a major role in fleet-related decisionmaking at the highest level in Whitehall while continuing to provide fleet decision-makers with individual help and advice and a wide range of benefits.

The vibrancy of ACFO is further highlighted by the fact that earlier this year it announced that it was forging closer links with a number of other transport-related organisations to deliver a range of added benefits to members.

Those organisations include the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, the Freight Transport Association and the Institute of Travel and Meetings.

Additionally, ACFO already has a tie-up with fleet manager training body the Institute of Car Fleet Management. Looking to the future, among new initiatives that ACFO wants to pursue in 2013 are monthly webinars that will disseminate a wide range of latest information relating to the organisation’s business notably in relation to its work with a number of government departments and an expanded programme of seminars on topical subjects.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.acfo.org

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

15

MORE GOOD NEWS (AND THE ENVIRON In 2007, BMW introduced the revolutionary EfficientDynamics which increased performance at the same time as improving fuel consumption and reducing CO2 emissions. Other manufacturers were quick to try and follow suit.

Five years on, these two prestigious Greenfleet awards for Fleet Manufacturer of the Year and Outstanding Achievement, both recognising our on-going work in reducing CO2 emissions, suggest the competition is still playing catch up.

For further information on BMW’s award winning range, visit www.bmw.co.uk/awards

Official Fuel Economy Figures for the BMW Range: Urban 13.8-62.4mpg (20.5-4.4 l/100km). Extra Urban 26.2-83.1mpg (10.8-3.4 l/100km). Combined 20.3-74.3mpg (13.9-3.8 l/100km). CO2 emissions 325-99 g/km.

BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.

BMW Corporate Sales

bmwcorporate.co.uk Tel. 0800 777 113

The Ultimate Driving Machine

FOR BMW. MENT.)

MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT

Winter Driving

ROAD SAFETY

WHEN THE WEATHER OUTSIDE IS FRIGHTFUL

With another harsh winter predicted, now is the time to review your organisation’s winter driving policy and prepare yourself and staff to stay safe on the roads, writes Kevin Clinton, head of road safety at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents Have you prepared your car for winter yet?

Longer periods of darkness, snow, ice, heavy rain and freezing fog can make for treacherous driving conditions, so it pays to be one step ahead. Whether you are paid to drive for work or an employer of people who drive for work, it is our collective responsibility to ensure we all play our part in staying safe on the roads this winter.

Before setting out on the road during the winter months, consider whether the journey you are about to undertake is absolutely necessary. It is a good idea to stick to the main roads and ensure someone knows where you are going and your estimated time of arrival. Conditions can change quickly, which is why journeys at this time of year should be approached with caution.

Winter driving checks Are lights clean and working?

Is the battery fully charged?

Is the windscreen clean and washer bottle filled with screen wash?

Figures from the Department for Transport Have you checked tyre condition, (DfT) show that across Great Britain in 2011, 32 tread depth and pressure?

Are the brakes workingkilled correctly? and 3,912 people were injured people were Have the fluids been topped in reported road up? accidents when there was snow Do you have an emergency kit ready? or ice on the road surface.

Is your mobile phone fully charged?

Is your route and destination known to your employers?

To help plan your journeys in advance, it is a good idea to keep up-to-date with weather broadcasts and travel bulletins.

DRIVERS It is important to adjust your driving accordingly to suit the conditions, especially during the winter, when ice and snow make a regular appearance. If it is frosty or icy,

stopping distances will be greatly increased.

We see more people being killed and injured in accidents at times when road or weather conditions are snowy or icy.

Figures from the Department for Transport (DfT) show that across Great Britain in 2011, 32 people were killed and 3,912 people were injured in reported road accidents when there was snow or ice on the road surface. DfT figures also show that six people were killed and 672 were injured when it was actually snowing at the time.

OBSERVATION ESSENTIAL Hazards like reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces mean good observation is essential; if you can’t see the road clearly, you will need to reduce your speed so you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear.

Also watch out for isolated patches and certain gradients which will remain icy when other parts have thawed. A good driver will be on the lookout for these areas. If you drive too fast on a slippery or wet road, your tyre grip will be substantially reduced and the risk of skidding increased.

There is also no substitute for good observations. By easing off the accelerator, you can slow the vehicle rather than braking – a technique which also helps to avoid the danger of skidding (and saves fuel too). Apply smooth gear changes and steering so as not to affect the grip of your tyres on the road surface.

Remember to keep a look out for pedestrians and other road users who may be struggling with the conditions.

Driveralertness is crucial. When the weather is bad and visibility poor it is important to ensure drivers keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front and maintain a safe speed.

the event of an accident, breakdown or getting stuck, and ensure that vehicles contain adequate equipment, such as a shovel, tow rope, and working torch.

In addition to checking that company‑owned vehicles are prepared for winter, and remain in a good condition throughout the season, employers could also provide a checklist to encourage staff who drive for work to conduct all the necessary checks on their vehicle.

If you’re an employer based in Scotland, the Scottish Occupational Road Safety Alliance (ScORSA) – see www.scorsa.org.uk – is a valuable source of information and advice about managing work-related road risk.

VEHICLES At RoSPA, we have issued some winter driving tips (to help you stay informed and reduce the risk of having an accident.

Before setting out on the road, check that lights are clean and working, the battery is fully charged, and the windscreen, wiper blades and other windows are clean and the washer bottle filled with screen wash.

Condition, tread depth and pressure of all the tyres, including the spare is very important. The legal minimum tyre depth is 1.6mm (see ‘tyreSafe urges tyre checks this winter’ panel, right), but RoSPA recommends tyres are changed when they reach 3mm. Consider whether to invest in winter tyres – some maintain a better grip in temperatures below zero.

Check brakes are working as they should do and that fluids are kept topped up, especially windscreen wash (to the correct concentration to prevent it freezing), anti-freeze and oil.

It is also good practice to stock up on de-icer, windscreen wash, oil and anti‑freeze and keep them topped up.

And of course, prepare for the possibility of being stuck. Have a contingency plan and emergency kit ready.

Hazardss such a bility visi reducedpery road and slipmean good s surface rvation is obse ntial esse

EMPLOYERS Employers should consider a winter driving policy for their staff who drive for work. One of the questions will be whether, when conditions are very severe, journeys need to be undertaken at all?

In extremely bad weather it is best to stay off the roads altogether and firms have a duty to ensure that their drivers take heed of any warnings – either from official external sources or from within the firm – not to continue their journeys.

Any journey scheduling should also allow time for sufficient rest stops and drivers should comply with speed limits and not feel under pressure to rush in order to make up for any delays. Employers should review their emergency arrangements with staff so they know what to do in

As well as these advance preparations, which can be made before winter sets in, remember to always clear snow and ice completely from windows, mirrors and lights before you set off on winter journeys.

And, if you do find yourself in trouble this winter, do not abandon your vehicle.

Call the emergency services on your mobile phone or from a roadside telephone and stay with your vehicle until help arrives. Stay calm and try not to panic.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.rospa.com/winterdriving

As the winter nights draw in, TyreSafe is reminding drivers to check if their tyres are legal and safe enough to carry them through the winter months when road conditions become more treacherous and accident levels typically increase.

“The cold and damp conditions mean that roads can easily become slippery and dangerous so it’s essential that your tyres are in the best possible state to cope with this,” comments Stuart Jackson, chairman of TyreSafe.

Drivers heeding TyreSafe’s warning are advised to check three key items to maximise their safety on the road.

Pressures should be checked to ensure they are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended levels.

The condition of tyres should be inspected to ensure they are free from cuts, lumps or bulges.

Finally, tread depth should be checked to ensure it is well above the legal minimum of 1.6mm around the entire circumference of the tyre.

If the safety benefits of adequate tread aren’t enough to convince drivers to check their tyres, they should also bear in mind the possible punitive implications.

Drivers found to be driving on illegal tyres face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points on their licence for each illegal tyre.

“Adequate tread depth is particularly important during the winter as it is essential for safety in the wet,” adds Jackson.

“However, a simple way to check this is by taking our 20p pledge which can be found on our Facebook page. It’s quick, it’s simple and it might just save your life.”

Winter Driving

TyreSafe urges tyre checks this winter

WORK 94g/km CO 2

Introducing the stunning With a class-leading combination of low including a combined fuel

Fuel consumption figures for the Civic 1.6 i-DTEC ES Manual in mpg (l/100km): Model shown: Civic 1.6 i-DTEC ES Manual in Alabaster silver paint at ÂŁ21,095.

PLAY 120 PS

new Civic 1.6 diesel.

CO2 and impressive performance, economy of 78.5mpg.

Urban 70.6 (4.0), Extra Urban 85.6 (3.3), Combined 78.5 (3.6). CO2 emissions: 94g/km.

Improve your CO2 emissions and reduce your fleet costs.

CO2

£ cost Our innovative GreenCARE solution can help you identify your fleet’s CO2 emissions today and support you in reshaping your fleet to minimise your future fleet costs.

GreenCARE is a comprehensive online reporting, analysis and modelling solution, where you can benchmark your fleet’s performance and carbon footprint against our best performing customer fleet – alongside substituting vehicles to establish a more sustainable fleet for the future.

All this can be done at the click of a mouse.

Find out more: Tel: 0870 50 50 100 Email: alphabet@alphabet.co.uk www.alphabet.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

HELPING MEET THE SUSTAINABLE FLEET AGENDA Alphabet’s latest survey of the UK’s top 250 fleet managers highlighted a remarkable fact; 61 per cent of businesses cited ‘sustainability’ of their fleet as a key strategic issue. To put it into context, the issue of sustainability came just a percentage point lower on corporate agendas than the perennial challenge of ‘cost control’.

What does this mean to fleet managers faced with meeting their organisations’ increasing desire to fulfil the environmental agenda? With so much pressure on internal departments, it is often difficult to ringfence the time to deliver on the environmental targets which are increasingly a key part of the CSR deliverable. Another consideration is the knowledge and skill required to establish and implement a sustainable strategy.

That’s why so many organisations are employing experienced fleet advisers like Alphabet to help them to achieve their sustainable objectives. One of the proven tools that Alphabet employs to help businesses to measure and manage their fleet’s carbon footprint is GreenCARE. BENCHMARKING FLEET PERFORMANCE GreenCARE was launched in late 2009 as the industry’s first comprehensive online analysis tool allowing companies online access to the environmental performance of their fleet. Using detailed information on CO2 emissions, vehicle manufacturers, fuel type and engine size Alphabet customers can benchmark their fleet performance and work out where savings can be made with the click of a mouse. The system also allows them to compare their fleet against Alphabet’s ‘average’ and ‘best in class’ performers.

In late 2010 GreenCARE was updated, adding sophisticated scenario planning. This allows fleets to plot how changes to their vehicles, such as adjusting manufacturer and model, engine size and fuel type affect the fleet’s performance in terms of CO2 emissions and MPG. Using the results fleet managers can build a realistic fleet policy and plan how to phase out certain vehicles over a set period to reduce CO2 emissions, improve MPG and therefore reduce business cost. In turn this supports users in complying with company goals and CSR requirements – an increasing concern for many fleet managers.

Significantly, GreenCARE also saves managers time. Their fleet data is pre-loaded into the system, enabling them to quickly analyse their fleets using a series of graphs or data exported

Written by Alphabet

Alphabet’s GreenCARE was developed to enable its customers to review the environmental impact of their fleet both historically and currently.

Advertisement Feature

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

“The predictive modelling function is really attractive to users as it allows fleet managers to remodel their fleet online and understand what would happen if they changed their vehicle mix” Nigel Trotman, strategic fleet consultant, Alphabet into excel spreadsheets. Nigel Trotman, strategic fleet consultant at Alphabet, commented: “GreenCARE is a really exciting proposition for managers as it helps them to understand and manage their fleet’s carbon footprint.

The predictive modelling function is really attractive to users as it allows fleet managers to remodel their fleet online and understand what would happen if they changed their vehicle mix. This is very unique in the industry and available to all Alphabet customers.”

Late in 2011 GreenCARE was enhanced further by offering light commercial vehicle (LCV) operators access to the same reporting and analysis capabilities, helping them

make better-informed decisions when it comes to the management of their fleet.

In summary GreenCARE was developed to enable customers to review the environmental impact of their fleet both historically and currently. GreenCARE provides proactive support and guidance to our customers in order for them to meet their corporate environmental responsibilities and potentially reshape the future of their fleet. L FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0870 50 50 100 Email: alphabet@alphabet.co.uk www.alphabet.co.uk

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

23

Freight & Logistics

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

SKILLS & TRAINING

WORKING ON THE LOGISTICS WORKFORCE

The impending driver shortage of Large Goods Vehicles (LGV) is one of the most pressing issues in the logistics sector, reports Dr Ross Moloney, director of intelligence and strategy at Skills for Logistics The UK logistics sector has slipped to tenth position from eighth place in 2010, according to the 2012 Logistics Performance Index. The UK’s overall ranking in the Index, developed by the World Bank, fell due to decreases in all six indicators from which the LPI score and rank is calculated. These indicators include logistics competence, tracking and tracing and timeliness, which are directly dependent on the skills levels of the logistics workforce.

Given that the UK is just 25th in the world in terms of the amount of staff training carried out by logistics companies, this should be seen as a call to arms.

WORKFORCE ISSUES There are approximately 200,000 logistics employers in the UK employing some 2.2 million people – that’s one in 12 of the UK workforce. With half of the sector’s existing employees deemed to fall below minimum qualifications – which is five good GCSEs

24

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 59

– levels of training in the sector must be raised if the UK is to climb the international competitive league. In addition, the sector needs to recruit 500,000 people by 2017, partly because of growth and partly due to an aging workforce that will soon be stopping work.

One of the most pressing issues is the impending Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) driver shortage. In April 2012, Skills for Logistics published the report titled ‘A looming driver shortage? The evidence behind the concerns’, which shows that there are substantially more vacancies than candidates seeking an LGV profession.

The concern is that 16 per cent of LGV drivers are aged 60 or above so retirement

over the next five years is expected to leave a replacement demand for 48,000 drivers. However, there are fewer people taking LGV tests and over the last four years there has been a 31 per cent decline in the number of individuals passing their test.

One t os of the m ogistics l g n i s s pre s the issues i GV driver SEEKING OUT NEW TALENT ing L Across the logistics impend ge: there are sector we have to shorta ntially more become a little more substa cies than imaginative in terms vacan dates of solutions, such as recruiting from new talent candi

pools, such as people leaving the armed forces, which presents is own set of challenges and providing a bridge between military and civilian life. The overall figure for women working in the sector is approximately 23 per cent, compared with

an all sector average of 45 per cent – so it’s lamentably low. In transportation there is an even greater imbalance: just one per cent of LGV drivers and five per cent of van drivers are female. Figures for logistics workers from ethnic minorities are also low. In England, individuals from a Black, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) background make up four per cent of the workforce.

resource, as they have to apply to decisions on investments such as materials handling equipment or trucks. Craft Skills Groups chaired by the relevant trade association or professional institute and comprising real operators with ‘on‑the‑ground’ experience can have a critical role to play in determining skills needs, initiating solutions and driving them forward.

The concern is that 16 per cent of LGV drivers are aged 60 or above so retirement over the next five years is expected to leave a replacement demand for 48,000 drivers. However, there are fewer people taking LGV tests and over the last four years there has been a 31 per cent decline in the number of individuals passing their test. The sector needs to recruit 500,000 people by 2017.

THE GREEN AGENDA Environmental sustainability is another challenge for the logistics industry.

Companies will increasingly pay for decarbonising the supply chain and this will call for particular skills sets relating to compliance and environmental audits.

Collaboration will become an increasingly important skills set: you can collaborate with your customers and with your suppliers – for example, a vehicle returning to a depot having delivered to a store could pick up from a supplier.

COLLABORATIVE OPPORTUNITIES The next level up is to collaborate between supply chains on routes and counterbalancing flows. A further level of sophistication is where you start looking for collaborative opportunities with the competition – ‘co-opetition’.

But you need the skills set at the supply chain management level and the industry has not been training people in these skills, which are essentially communication skills.

CHANGING MINDSETS Action is also required to change industry mindsets. Creating a ‘Guild’ to give operatives a body to belong to will play a part in raising the self esteem of people working in the sector. We must also move smaller employers away from expecting the state to carry out our training for us.

We don’t expect the state to re‑rack our warehouse, or replace our vehicles for us, so why should the state be expected to develop our most important resource? We need to move towards working with a subsidy by the state to enhance one of the most critical investments a company can make – and that’s in its people.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.skillsforlogistics.org

About Skills for Logistics

Freight & Logistics

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Skills for Logistics (SfL) is the Skills Sector Council (SSC) for the freight logistics and wholesaling sector (The Logistics Sector).

SfL works alongside companies in the UK that are involved in moving, handling, storing and wholesale of goods. SfL is licensed by government to tackle the skills and productivity needs of employers in the logistics and supply chain sector.

The UK Logistics Sector is worth £93bn to the economy and the 196,000 companies operating in the sector employ one in twelve of all the working people in the UK. Established in 2003, SfL’s mission is to enable employers in the logistics sector to gain competitive advantage by developing workforce skills. It also aims to deliver a more productive and efficient low carbon UK Logistics Sector, enhancing UK competitiveness in the global marketplace.

SfL’s ambition is to ‘open the doors so that logistics skills potential can be released, enabling people and organisations to do amazing things.”

This drives SfL’s vision ‘to deliver the best skilled workforce in the world.’

CAREER PROGRESSION There also needs to be career pathways for logistics and career progression in organisations. The ‘Professional Development Stairway’, created by Skills for Logistics, which offers clear career opportunities across ten different career pathways that run from unskilled new entrants up to Global Supply Chain Director, can help to make people aware that it is not just about gaining individual qualifications, but that there are pathways to progression.

There has been a lack of suitable investment in vocational development in logistics as opposed to mandatory training, such as health and Safety.

To improve this situation, companies must have the same quality ofdecision making relating to the development of their human

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

25

Road Test

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

RENAULT KANGOO MAXI CREW Z.E.

A REALISTIC ELECTRIC OPTION FOR VAN MAN

Roland Rendell climbs inside the Maxi Crew variant of the GreenFleet Award winning Renault Kangoo Z.E. and finds it to be roomy, rangey and responsive October 11th 2012 saw the Renault Kangoo Z.E. electric van crowned as the GreenFleet Electric Vehicle of the Year at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, and I thought it was only fitting to see what all the fuss is about. I was delighted to be offered a choice of variants – the Van, the Van Maxi or the Van Maxi Crew. I didn’t know such a line-up existed in full electric versions, so decided to try the biggest variant – the maxi crew van.

At first glance, it’s the sheer size of the thing that jumps out at you, and my first thought was: “Surely this cannot possibly operate on just electric?”

At 4.59m long, it’s longer than the standard van, but has five generous seats, plus room in the back for 1.33m (length at floor level) of load space with the seats up. The rear passenger bench is a 60/40 split-folding seat, so can help increase the load capacity further, but would subsequently reduce the number of crew it can carry. But, there’s certainly enough room for the tools and kit of a work crew.

26

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 59

The Z.E. badge on the back, together with the recharging flap on the front, are the only electric giveaways – most would fully expect it to be a diesel van. It has a kerbweight of 1,572kg, which is 162kg heavier than the standard model. 260kg of that is the lithium-ion 22kwh battery. The payload is an impressive 650kg, spread over its 3.08m wheelbase, and all of this weight is carried on 195/65 R15 low resistance tyres.

The other striking thing about this van is that it comes with full glazing (that’s brochure speak for windows all round), meaning it’s nice and bright inside, adding to the spacious feel. Driver and right-hand

Charging the Renault

man (who is actually on your left) access the vehicle through normal doors, but the rest of the team have the luxury of sliding doors.

I always look forward to getting in and seeing how well I fit don’t fit. And, I must say, this is very impressive. I could be sporting a ‘60s Beehive and still have room for a Trilby. Unbelievable stuff. The roomy perception is aided by the way the roof arches out over the dashboard, with the glazing lending an almost bubble-like feel.

Looking around you have the typical high‑mounted gear selector. With this being electric, it’s an auto box, making it ideal for Van Man, especially around town. Above, it is the stereo system and climate control, and then recessed above that is the screen that houses the sat-nav. Through the steering wheel are the three dials I have come to recognise on the

Road Test

Three in the back: The Maxi Crew variant boasts five seats

‘electrified’ dashboard on all of the Renault Z.E. range. There’s a simple gauge on the left of the instrument panel that indicates the battery’s level of charge, speedo in the middle, and the one to the right shows how energy is being used. Blue is normal running, dark blue means regenerative charging is occurring and red means you’re driving like a loon.

As is usual, turn the key three quarters of the way around, the dashboard lights up and then wait. After a second or two, there’s the usual beep and you complete the turning cycle to fire her up. And – nothing.

Not a sound. I’m used to it now though.

RANGEY ECO MODE I drive off in Eco Mode, selected via a button down to the right of the steering wheel, which Renault claim can improve range by as much as 10 per cent by restricting the motor’s performance.

As with all EVs, the acceleration is great, is delivered by a 44kW motor, and gives you the equivalent of 59bhp and 167lb/ft of torque.

Apparently, Renault research shows that most van drivers do less than 62 miles a day, so the 106 mile range should be plenty for daily use. It’s speed limited to 81mph.

Driving this van is simplicity itself – it handles as you’d expect, which means a fair amount of body roll through the corners and understeer if you go into bends too quickly. The ride is quite bouncy, but then, it was an empty van designed to carry up to 650kgs of cargo. The van also features regenerative braking, which is activated as soon as the driver lifts off the throttle.

Regular readers remember what I’ve said before – driving an EV requires a slightly different approach and style, which can be a little bit alien at first. The subsequent engine braking is so aggressive that the van’s brake lights are activated automatically, which is good for the ‘tailgaters’ so common on the road these days.

Unlike internal combustion engines, electric vehicles are at their most efficient when being used in cities and in heavy traffic. At a standstill, an electric motor doesn’t use any energy, and constant low-speed running means improved efficiency. That means the Kangoo Z.E., in all its ‘general van’ guises, is probably best suited to ‘delivery van’ tasks. I have yet to see a delivery van that also carries five people, so the Maxi Crew model is more for your local maintenance type operations, where a company sends its workforce out locally.

Renault Kangoo Maxi Z.E.

CHARGING The big question that the modern-day fleet manager wants answers to are How quick can I charge it and get it back out and operational? and How much does it cost? A standard daily battery charge takes between six and eight hours, when using the recommended wall‑box charge point. By scheduling charging at off-peak times, owners may be able to further reduce their vehicle running costs by taking advantage of cheaper energy tariffs, depending on their energy provider. Renault can provide an optional EVSE 10 Amp battery charging cable which can be used with a normal 240V domestic supply. This will allow the vehicle to recharge, but it will take longer (up to 11 hours for a full charge).

In the colder months, you can make sure it’s all nice and toasty, before you get in. There is a setting on the climate control function that allows you to programme the heater to come on at a set time while the vehicle is charging. This means it heats it nicely for you first thing, but most importantly, it does

so drawing power from the electricity supply, not from the vehicle battery. So it doesn’t affect the charge at all. Smart thinking.

There’s hat gt a settinyou to allows me the program come on to heater time while at a set ehicle is the v ing charg

TOP SPEED: PRICE:

81mph £18,592 (after Plug-in Grant)

BATTERY LEASE: RANGE:

from £60 per month up to 106 miles

COST On the money side you are looking at £18,690 plus VAT, bringing it in at £22,428.

However, earlier in 2012 the Government announced that the EV grants were to be extended to commercials, so the manufacturer’s OTR price, after the PIVG (Plug-In Van Grant) is £18,592. Although the cost price is cheaper than any of the Z.E.’s rivals (come to think of it… are there any?), as with all Renault’s EVs, you then have to add the battery hire cost. Over a three-year contract, you are looking at £60 per month if you do no more than 6,000 miles, and up to £87 per month for up to 15,000 miles a year.

In summary, the Renault Kangoo Maxi Crew van is more expensive up front than its diesel sibling, but the 20 per cent Plug-In Vehicle Grant discount takes the sting out of the tail. It could still make a lot of sense for businesses with daily operations that fall within the van’s range on a single charge (and its 650kg payload). And as most managers have an extremely good handle on how their vehicles are being used, this shouldn’t prove difficult to calculate.

Maintenance is also claimed to be 20 per cent lower than a standard van – no oil changes, no filters, no timing belts. But in your calculations, don’t forget the cost of installing a dedicated charging point. It’s surprisingly good to drive and really versatile, so the Kangoo Maxi Crew Z.E. could be a great inner city workhorse – as long as the maths works out. L

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

27

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

91 Station Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 7LT Fax: 01895 449961 | www.qdellhr.co.uk | twitter@lhrcars

28

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 59

SMART FORTWO COUPE PASSION MHD

Road Test

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

THE SMART CHOICE Agile, easy to park, fuel efficient, it doesn’t take long for the bijou Ian Bond to realise the benefits of driving a small city car

Compact and quirky, the external appearance of the Smart takes some getting used to, with its ‘cut-off-at-the-back’ design. That said, once inside my next impression was ‘wow’.

The interior design of the Smart is very pleasing. It is a comfortable car with a clear and easy‑to‑read dashboard display. The rev counter and clock are positioned separately from the rest of the display and there is a touch screen for radio/CD display, sat nav and DVD. On first inspection you might wonder where the CD actually goes in but once you press the eject button the whole screen cleverly comes forward and tilts revealing the CD/DVD and SD card slots.

FEEL GOOD FACTOR The ignition key slot is positioned unusually next to the gear stick which I found a little hard to get used to initially. Although automatic you do have to change up the gears too, either by gently pushing the gear stick up or by using the ‘flippers’ on the steering wheel, which personally I found much easier.

In fact, it does feel a little different when you first start driving but after just a few minutes you realise that not only is it easy to drive but also very enjoyable.

There is something about driving this car that makes you feel good about it and even the passengers I had at times commented about how

much they liked the car. There are various menu options on the display to give you your instant and average fuel consumption. For this size of car it also comes with a number of ‘extras’, including air conditioning, touch screen navigation and Bluetooth.

Another interesting feature is the panoramic roof with sunblind which makes a massive difference in the comfort and enjoyment of the drive, and gives the feel of more space.

The rear window is released via the key remote and the back opens up to reveal the boot, which although not big is more than adequate for average loads. What’s more, the passenger seat folds right down for extra loading space.

It also contains a storage compartment in the tailgate which contains a first aid kit and a few items you may need (even an ice scraper).

it when you’re driving. But you do of course notice the benefit when squeezing into those small parking spaces.

I found that petrol consumption to be excellent; bearing in mind most of my journeys were short ones with a number of stops I still achieved just over 50mpg.

As far as driving is concerned I found it to handle the road well.

For a small car it was remarkably smooth with the exception of going over speed bumps, which you soon learn to go over slow. In fact, for a one litre, three cylinder engine, once you’ve moved away and get into second gear it is nice and nippy and has the feel of a bigger car. A very enjoyable driving experience.

All in all, I would recommend this car for fleets that do a lot of ‘running around’ and with average loads (obviously smaller if a passenger is being carried). For me, definitely the ‘smart’ choice. L

For a e, ngin small e e moved u’v once yo nd get into away a ear, it is nice g second ippy and has and n feel of a the car bigger

SAFETY FIRST Safety wise it comes with a number of features you’d expect in a far bigger car, such as hill start assist, crash sensors, belt tensioners, and automatic door locking when the vehicle is in motion.

Although you’re in a small car it doesn’t feel like

Smart Fortwo Coupe CO2:

98g/km

MPG (combined): ENGINE: PRICE:

65.7 999cc, 3 cylinder £10,250

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

29

Road Test

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

PEUGEOT 3008 HYBRID4

DIESEL HYBRID ENTERS THE LION’S DEN

Well-upholstered road tester Roland Rendell gives Peugeot’s new diesel hybrid the GreenFleet treatment and chews over its extras with his old mucker none other than Fifth Gear’s Jonny Smith

When Peugeot head office decided to tinker with diesel hybrid technology, it promised to be the start of something significant.

Let’s look at the figures: 200bhp, 99g/ km CO2 output. These are figures you wouldn’t expect to exist in the same sentence, but they do, in the form of a well-finished crossover.

The one that arrived at my door was officially called Vapor Grey.

The 3008 Hybrid4 looks the part on the outside, and it doesn’t let you down internally either – it’s spacious, with a very well-styled centre console and dash. The gearstick is raised, and sits in front of the climate control centre. Above that is the main bank of ‘twiddlies’ that control the sat-nav, stereo and information system on-board. To the right, through the

steering wheel, are your dials. Finally, back at the base of the console is the main dial that allows you to specify your driving mode, and there are four to choose from – ZEV, Auto, Sport or 4WD modes. ZEV (Zero Emissions Vehicle) mode lets you drive on the electric motor alone, and you can travel at up to 31mph for maybe two miles provided there is enough battery charge. When I start the car up, the sat‑nav raises from the top of the dashboard like something out of Thunderbirds. Add to that the head-up display above the dials, which gives you your speed, and you really do feel like you’re in something from a movie.

I select Auto on the ‘robotised manual’ six‑speed gearbox, which uses standard manual internals but can shift automatically.

de ZEV mo ive on dr lets youtric motor the elec velling up to ra alone, t for two miles 31mph ded there is provi h battery enoug rge cha

Beefed-up: 3008 sits above the 308 hatchback in Peugeot’s compact medium range

30

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 59

PADDLE SHIFTERS Gear shift comes via familiar paddle‑shifters on the steering wheel or by the central selector lever. In Auto mode, the 3008 HYbrid4 does what it thinks is best for the circumstances, which will often include moving off silently from a standstill, with the engine cutting in smoothly once you are under way.

The diesel and electric motors can work independently or together, to assist acceleration or provide a limited four‑wheel drive mode. It uses a diesel engine to drive the front wheels and an electric motor to propel the rear wheels.

A diesel engine is about 30 per cent more economical than petrol, mainly because you need less fuel to generate the same amount of energy. Therefore, a diesel hybrid should be more frugal than a petrol hybrid, but until now, no-one has mass-produced one because of the cost – a diesel engine being more expensive to make than a petrol equivalent.

Road Test

Main dials display status of emissions and gearbox

NO SLOUCH So what we now have here is a 2.0-litre diesel engine delivering 163bhp and 300Nm of pulling power, and the electric motor a maximum of 37bhp and 200Nm, this car can accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.1 seconds.

Its top speed is 118mph, and as a result, buyers won’t be frustrated by the lack of pace, particularly when trying to overtake at motorway speeds. And if you don’t push it, the fuel economy and mpg can be there as well.

Around corners the 3008 is composed, with easy, controlled steering. The stiff suspension means there’s little body roll, but this does bring about issues with ride quality. Because the interior and seats are spacious, you can find yourself rolling around a bit, especially if you’re out in the country, driving through twisty lanes. On a long stretch though, this car does come alive.

TRIP TO ROCKINGHAM I had the pleasure of visiting the home of the GreenFleet Arrive’n’Drive – Rockingham. This

Winning technology: 3008’s well-finished cockpit has Thunderbirds-style sat-nav, gearbox paddles and head-up display

me is the trip monitor. It gives you instant mpg feedback, in five minute intervals, set out in bar-chart style. And after half an hour or so, I have seen it slowly climb from the low-40s up to somewhere between the 60 and 80 mark. So, as I found with the 208 in Scotland, Peugeot are quite accurate with their figures. In truth, this car seems to float effortlessly along like a butterfly, and before I knew it, I was in Little Scotland (Corby).

While there, I hooked up with my old mate, Jonny Smith, from Fifth Gear. I knew that he was familiar with the technology, as I had seen his review of the DS5, so we sat and chatted over the different aspects of this car. We discussed the extra’s that comes standard on this car, such

You wouldn’t expect figures of 200bhp and 99g/km in the same sentence. But they appear in the diesel hybrid 3008. A well-finished £26,995 crossover, it is powered by a 163bhp, 300Nm 2.0-litre diesel engine which is supplemented by an electric motor with 37bhp and 200Nm. meant 80-odd miles on the M11 and A14, the perfect journey to see if the claimed 74mpg is achievable. As a stickler for following the letter of the law, and not breaking the speed limit, I am unable to tell you if it reaches 118mph at the top end, but the car is certainly no slouch. The cruise control is handy, and I set the limit to 70mph. And now it’s time to start taking notice of the technology on offer.

One option on the 7” screen shows a diagram of the car, and indicates where the power is coming from, or going to. When it’s working at 70mph, it’s all about the diesel engine. But as I approach the back end of two lorries sitting side by side, doing 56mph, I have to ease on the brakes. They’re regenerative and you immediately see the power being redistributed back in to the electric motor. The final screen that interests

as stop/start, climate control, tinted windows, rear parking sensors, cruise control, a speed limiter, automatic headlights and wipers, alloy wheels and USB and Bluetooth connectivity.

Overall, we’re both quite impressed.

A BIT OF EVERYTHING During my testing, which covered a mix of roads and traffic conditions, I averaged 52mpg. The economy you achieve will be heavily dependent on how and where you drive the car, so do make sure you try it before assuming you’ll achieve the quoted figures. At 99g/km of CO2 this means exemption from the London Congestion Charge, free road tax and inexpensive company car tax. It’s good around town, and great on a long stretch. Where I see a potential market for this model is the emergency services. The 200 horses give you

Driving mode can be selected by dial on centre console

the power, the hybrid technology is good for the neighbourhood patrols. In a nutshell, it’s uncomplicated and it’s got a bit of everything.

The Peugeot 3008 HYbrid 4 is on sale now, with prices starting at £26,995 for the 99g/km model, and when you add up all the other costings, over its life-cycle, I’m beginning to think it could be worth it. L

Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 VED:

A

CO2:

99g/km

BIK:

13%

MPG (combined): PRICE:

74 £26,995

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

31

NISSAN LEAF

Road Test

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

LIFE IN A LEAF

GreenFleet’s shapely Roland Rendall jumps in Nissan’s purpose‑built electric vehicle, the curvy LEAF, and unearths the numerous benefits of electric mobility I was looking forward to finally getting behind the wheel of GreenFleet’s 2011 Electric Vehicle of the Year, the Nissan LEAF, as until this point I’d only ever been a passenger.

Push the Start button and you are greeted by a nice little jingle, rather than the purr of a conventional internal combustion engine. As with all EVs, it’s silent, and I have heard that when designing this car, the boffins in Japan realised that the windscreen wiper motor made more noise than the one powering the car!

There’s an easy, seamless progression from standstill to full speed. If you floor it, as I tend to do with any EV, purely out of curiosity, you get pulled back in to your seat as the acceleration is phenomenal. In fact, Nissan equates the torque of the LEAF’s motor to that of a 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine. Oh yeah!

There is a ‘distance to depleted’ meter, which

50:50 weight n tio distribun the betweeear gives dr front an LEAF an the ndling ideal hance bala

estimates how far you will be able to travel based on current driving style – drive hard and you’ll notice a very swift drop in range.

In its more natural environment around town and on A-roads, the LEAF can easily keep up with the flow and proves more than capable in terms of performance. The steering is very light, but the car is still responsive and agile around corners. The placement of the battery gives a relatively low centre of gravity and the 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear, gives the LEAF an ideal handling balance.

After buzzing about with plenty of stops and starts, it’s time see how the most crucial part of owning an EV unfolds – the recharging. The LEAF’s 24kWh battery is supposed to be able to carry the car a potential 110 miles. While that is undoubtedly achievable, I did not manage it, but that’s probably because of the way I’d driven it. You almost need to completely re‑educate yourself in driving style, but once you do, you will reap the benefits.

Charging the LEAF at home will take 11-12 hours using a UK standard wall socket. A home charging unit will reduce that to 7-8 hours, and a rapid charger can achieve an 80 per cent charge in less than 45 minutes.

I leave it overnight for a total recharge. My drive to work can be done in minutes, so were I to do nothing other than commute, I wouldn’t need to charge it again for six weeks.

At £25,990 after the £5,000 government subsidy, the price may put potential buyers off.

But this is when the long-term savings need to be looked at. Charging the LEAF should cost you just £2 in electricity, and if you only get 80 miles on a charge then your average monthly charging costs will be £25. Compare that to an average petrol bill of £165 and the road tax exemption and the savings really do start to add up.

Think carefully about how you’re going to use the LEAF, before you buy, but if the usage stacks up, I would certainly go for it.L

GreenFleet’s Electric Vehicle of the Year 2011, the Nissan LEAF

Nissan Leaf TOP SPEED: PRICE:

90 mph £25,990 (after Plug-in Grant)

CHARGE TIME: 11-12 hours (standard wall socket) RANGE:

between 80-110 miles

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

33

2012 WINNERS

2012 GREENFLEET® AWARDS

IT’S NOT EASY BEING GREEN...

The great and the good of the environmental motoring industry gathered at the Emirates Stadium to hear the winners of the 2012 GreenFleet Awards announced at a glittering awards ceremony

2012 GreenFleet Awards: the winners

2012 GreenFleet Awards

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Driver Training Company of the Year sponsored by Big Green Book Winner: Energy Saving Trust

IT Innovation Award presented by GreenFleet Winner: Trimble - TVG-660

“How green can you be?” asks awards host Alistair McGowan

The Awards, which took place on October 11, were presented by comedian and impersonator Alistair McGowan, who returned to front the event for the second year and had the audience in fits of laughter with his repertoire of observations and celebrity impressions.

BMW picked up two hotly-contested categories.

As well as topping the Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year category for the fifth year running, the German marque scooped the Outstanding Achievement Award for its EfficientDynamics enhancements. Back in 2007, BMW introduced a pioneering series of refinements which have been responsiblefor a vast reduction in CO2 levels across its range.

More than one million vehicles worldwide are already equipped with these improvements as standard.

BMW scored two 2012 GreenFleet Awards victories: Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year and Outstanding Achievement Award for its green EfficientDynamics technologies

Awards judge Ben Lane said: “With all its fleet accomplishments, BMW continues to innovate low emission power-trains and bring new car concepts to production; 2013 will see the launch of the all-electric and ‘connected’ i3 Concept, with the i8 electric hybrid sports car (104mpg and 66g/km CO2) following in 2014. The BMW i sub-brand also includes new models of car access such as the new DriveNow car share scheme.”

The hotly-contested Industry Innovation Award was presented to Vauxhall for the truly innovative Ampera. What sets the Ampera apart from other EVs is its range extender, a small 1.4-litre petrol‑fuelled engine/generator which powers the electric motor (but not the wheels).

According to European Test Cycle (ECE R101) figures, the Ampera achieves 235.4mpg and combined tailpipe emissions of just 27g/km.

Those commended for the Industry Innovation Award include Travel de Courcey, which is the first bus operator in the UK to invest in fast-charging electric buses. In June, the company launched the first three on a shuttle service in Coventry. Each vehicle is powered by more than 200 hi-tech batteries which can be fully charged in 40 minutes.

Electric charging points installed at the park enable all three buses to run at peak times.

Also commended was the intelligent software inside ABB’s Terra Smart Connect Duo (TSCD) E

Industry Innovation Award presented by GreenFleet Winner: Vauxhall Ampera

Leasing Company of the Year sponsored by CleanDrive Winner: Automotive Leasing

City Car Manufacturer of the Year sponsored by Green Motion Winner: Peugeot

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

37

Superior fleet service Our track record is in delivering: • An excellent employee experience for your company car drivers • A complete funding package including salary sacrifice and ECO schemes • Unbeatable commercial vehicle expertise • A unique proposition across cars, LCVs and specialist HGVs Talk to us to find out more.

www.hitachicapitalvehiclesolutions.co.uk 08444 632 900 superiorservice@hitachicapital.co.uk

2012 GREENFLEET® AWARDS  charger, which balances the available power enabling simultaneous AC/DC charging of two vehicles. This means a significantly higher throughput. A 20kW full charge takes around 60 minutes, and TSCD’s slim design can be wall mounted – no planning permission needed or landlord’s consent is needed.

The Electric Vehicle of the Year Award went to the Kangoo Z.E., a fully fledged and available commercial EV which has the same dimensions as the internal combustion model but is powered by a 22 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivers a combined-cycle range of 170km.

NEW CATEGORY A new category, Private Hire/ Taxi Company of the Year was topped by Climate Cars, which has over 100 Toyota Prius hybrids and has recently added fully electric Fluence to its fleet. One of its largest clients now has a Fluence on site with a dedicated parking bay next to the charge point.

Private Sector Fleet of the Year (below 250 vehicles) went to Coca‑Cola Enterprises. Following a wide‑ranging technical evaluation, the Coca‑Cola Direct Store Distribution Fleet introduced 14 dedicated biomethane gas-powered HGVs into its North London operation earlier this year. This locally‑sourced fuel is landfill derived from household waste, enabling the capture of latent energy recovered from rubbish. The efforts of Coca Cola’s fleet manager Darren O’Donnell were also recognised – he picked up the Private Sector Fleet Manager of the Year Award. Darren joined Coca-Cola in 2005 as fleet engineer, and was promoted to his current role in 2007 with responsibility for logistics fleet management. Transport

carbon reduction is a specific to his personal objectives, and emissions have become an integral part of his departmental KPI reporting. The fleet comprises 225 vehicles that completed 44,534 multi-drop journeys during 2011, with an annual transport carbon footprint of 5,600 tonnes of CO2e. Darren managed the introduction of a fleet of 14 biomethane gas-powered HGVs into the North London operation in early 2012. This locally-sourced fuel is derived from household waste, enabling the capture of latent energy recovered from rubbish. Green practices developed within warehousing fleet operations have seen hybrid and hydrostatic drive systems significantly reduce carbon.

Darren is also looking into lighter HGVs, and hydrogen fuel cells to power fork‑lift trucks.

Supermarket giant Tesco win the Private Sector Fleet (above 250 vehicles) category. It’s ‘F Plan’ carbon reduction diet is built on four simple ‘f’ pillars – fuller pallets, fuller trucks/containers, fewer miles and fuel economy. A restructuring of the distribution network saw a reduction from 36 depots to 26 depots, getting product closer to the shops and reducing road miles.

Introducing driver coaching tools delivered a five per cent reduction in fuel consumption, and reducing vehicle topspeeds from 56mph to 50mph also saved a further five per cent.

Tube Lines, which is responsible for maintaining and upgrading the London Tube network, won the Public Sector Fleet (above 250 vehicles) category. Emissions have been reduced by 25 per cent since 2009 through intensive vehicle and driver management at Tube Lines, a founder member of the Freight Operators Recognition Scheme. It operates E

as “2012 heat seen gr of low es examplest practice b carbon s shown why and ha K leads in the U nt fleet efficie ment” manage

2012 GreenFleet Awards: the winners

2012 GreenFleet Awards

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

LCV Manufacturer of the Year sponsored by Michelin Winner: Fiat Professional

Private Hire/Taxi Company sponsored by Cordic Winner: Climate Cars

Private Sector Fleet (+250 vehicles) sponsored by Alphabet Winner: Tesco Distribution

Private Sector Fleet (-250 vehicles) sponsored by Fleetmatics Winner: Coca-Cola Enterprises

Private Sector Fleet Manager of the Year winner Darren O’Donnell (centre) celebrates with Alistair McGowan (left) and David Room from sponsors Elektromotive (right)

Public Sector Fleet (+250 vehicles) sponsored by Enterprise Rent-a-Car Winner: Tube Lines

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

39

A NEW WAY TO REDUCE YOUR FUEL COSTS Would you like to save up to 10% off your commercial transport fleet fuel costs? By analysing your fuelling, vehicle and driver data and creating easily actionable reports, it shows you exactly where and how your fleet can save fuel.

Shell FuelSave partner also has a wealth of features to support effective fleet management, including: ■ Track and Trace your vehicle ■ Fraud prevention by reconciliation of fuel purchases to fuel consumption ■ Tachograph data downloads (with optional remote data download if required – no need to physically download data from each vehicle) ■ Web-based platform so you can manage your reports from anywhere ■ Continuous improvement - Shell FuelSave Partner is updated three times a year with new features as a result of customer feedback Interested in finding out how we can help you save on fuel consumption and fuel costs?

For a limited time only, for fuel card customers new to Shell, we will match your current fuel card price and give you 20 Shell FuelSave Partner boxes free for 6 months.* Try Shell FuelSave Partner and the euroShell Card, and see how we can help you save on your fleet costs.

To find out more please contact us on 020 7934 8686, Info-shellfuelsavepartner@shell.com or visit www.shell.co.uk/sfsp. *Terms and Conditions apply. Offer on a first come, first served basis. Sign up for a minimum of 10 euroShell cards, and minimum fleet size 50 HGVs. Limited number of boxes available.

2012 GREENFLEET® AWARDS

2012 GreenFleet Awards: the winners

2012 GreenFleet Awards

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

Public Sector Fleet (-250 vehicles) sponsored by Automotive Leasing Winner: City of London Council Public Sector Fleet Manager of the Year winner Graham Telfer (centre) collects his award from Alistair McGowan (left) and GreenFleet marketing manager Colin Boyton (right)

 a diverse fleet to provide a wide range of services – over 1500 vehicles total around 15 million km per annum. Five per cent of the fleet uses alternative fuels including electricity, LPG and hybrids. Overall, the car fleet averages an impressive 114g/km of CO2.

Green Motion, a four-time GreenFleet Rental Company of the Year Award winner picked up the award again this year. The comnpany has proven it is passionate about providing the most fuel efficient and least polluting vehicles for the purpose of rental, and strives to include the very latest technologies, such as all electric and range extender vehicles, in its offerings. 2012 has seen the UK network expand with locations servicing major airports and key metropolitan areas as far south as Exeter and as far north as Edinburgh. Despite the continuing tough climate, Green Motion has demonstrated that corporate customers are willing to play their part in reducing CO2 emissions, and has seen a growing trend for demanding the choice to go green. It is also the only vehicle rental company in the UK to guarantee customers the opportunity of renting congestion charge exempt vehicles and/or hybrid only vehicles. This remains an industry first. The company continues to drive down emissions and is now firmly focused on being the world’s first rental company to operate average CO2 of under 100g/km.

Light Commercial Vehicle Manufacturer of the Year went to Fiat Professional for its range is available with Bi-Link suspension, Start&Stop, eco:Drive Professional software and state of the art MultiJet diesel engines. eco:Drive Professional allows acceleration, deceleration, gearshift and speed information to be saved onto it automatically. Van drivers can enter various parameters such as the load, and by analysing the impact on efficiency can adopt appropriate behaviour. such as alternative routes etc.

Public Sector Fleet Manager the Year went to Graham Telfer of Gateshead Council. Many pioneering fleet programmes that Gateshead is involved in see its fleet manager Graham Telfer make the GreenFleet Awards shortlist

once again. Together with its partners, Gateshead continually strives to explore new green technologies. This commitment has seen the introduction of a range of groundbreaking initiatives that have benefited local authorities across the North East and reduced the Council’s carbon impact. A serious player in environmental fleet management and a LCVPP panel member since inception, Gateshead’s recent electric focus sees the council operate 10 Smiths electric Transits, four Ashwood Hybrids, two Mitsubishi iMIEV pool cars and a Nissan Leaf. In 2012, Gateshead’s transport department was successful in achieving ISO 14401 status. It is in the process of installing 16 electrobay charging posts throughout the borough.

RECORD AMOUNT OF ENTRIES Colin Boyton, marketing manager of GreenFleet, said: “Once again the industry has delivered. This year we have received a record amount of entries from across the sector. Firstly, the OEMs and industry suppliers have continued to deliver innovative vehicles, products and services that can assist in running a more efficient transport operation. And then there’s the fleet managers themselves. 2012 has certainly seen great examples of low carbon best practice and has shown why the UK continues to lead in efficient fleet management. I would like to thank all those that too part, both the entrants and the sponsors, as without them, we would not be able to show the rest of the UK, and indeed the world, what a great job they’re doing. We look forward to seeing everyone at the Arrive’n’Drive, Scotland and Awards events next year too.”

FURTHER INFORMATION The GreenFleet Awards has successfully been run by PSi, publishers of GreenFleet magazine, since 2005. For further information on all winners and commended entries, as well as photography from the event, visit www.greenfleetawards.co.uk

Rental Company of the Year presented by GreenFleet Winner: Green Motion

LGV Manufacturer of the Year sponsored by Shell Winner: Iveco

Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year sponsored by Rockingham Winner: BMW

Electric Vehicle of the Year sponsored by EDF Energy Winner: Renault Kangoo Z.E.

Volume 59 | GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE

41

Product Finder

DEDICATED TO PROMOTING A CLEANER ENVIRONMENT – www.greenfleet.net

CONTRACT HIRE

Days Contract Hire Swansea Road Garngoch Swansea SA4 4LL Tel: 0845 815 0019 contracthire@days.co.uk www.dayscontracthire.co.uk Days Contract Hire is a unique independent contract hire company servicing private and public sector clients across the UK. Specialists in providing bespoke fleet funding and management solutions for clients of all shapes and sizes.

FLEET MANAGEMENT AND FUNDING

Lex Autolease Blake House, Hatchford Way, Birmingham B26 3RZ Tel: 0800 389 3690 marketing@lexautolease.co.uk www.lexautolease.co.uk Lex Autolease is the UK’s leading vehicle management and funding specialist. We have in excess of 300,000 vehicles currently under management, making us the UK's largest leasing company. But it’s through delivering world class customer service and developing a true partnership with businesses and public sector organisations, to help them face the challenges of running a fleet, which gives us our competitive edge.

SAFETY MANAGEMENT

CONTRACT HIRE

CONTRACT HIRE – ELECTRIC

Fleetdrive

Fleetdrive Electric

Harleyford Marina, Henley Road Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 2DX Tel: 0800 1971297 sales@fleetdrive.co.uk www.fleetdrive.co.uk Fleetdrive specialise in helping businesses with 5 – 80 cars or light commercials get best value and great service. Our services include contract hire, finance lease, maintenance, accident management, risk management and rental tied together with our online management system.

Harleyford Marina, Henley Road Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 2DX Tel: 0330 303 2020 sales@fleetdriveelectric.co.uk www.fleetdrive-electric.com Since we helped to fund the first Tesla back in 2008 Fleetdrive helped businesses ensure they are using the most suitable vehicles available, information about charge points etc. We can help with demonstration vehicles if you are considering electric cars or vans.

FLEET MAMAGEMENT REPORTING

PRIVATE HIRE/COURIER SERVICES

Alphabet

QDell LHR Express Cars

Form One, Bartley Wood Business Park Hook, Hampshire RG27 9XA Tel: 0870 50 50 100 alphabet@alphabet.co.uk www.alphabet.co.uk

91 Station Road West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 7LT Tel: 01895 444333 service@qdelllhr.co.uk www.qdelllhr.co.uk Located near Heathrow airport, airport runs are our speciality, we offer a meet and greet service where uniformed representatives monitor flights, meet your VIPs and escort them to a waiting vehicle. Electric hybrids.

Diesel hybrids, electric vehicles are included in our fleet. We use biofuel made from 100% recycled cooking oil.

GreenCARE is Alphabet’s comprehensive online reporting, analysis and modelling tool designed to help customers reduce their CO2 emissions, fuel and fleet costs, while benchmarking performance against ‘average’ and ‘best in class’ fleet performers. Speak to us today to find out more about how GreenCARE can help to reshape your fleet.

ADVERTISERS INDEX

The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service

GreenRoad Fleet House, 8-12 New Bridge Street London EC4V 6AL UK Tel: 020 7822 8563 www.greenroad.com GreenRoad is the leader in driver performance and safety management for fleets. The GreenRoad Driver Improvement Loop™ uses technology-based, personalised driver self‑improvement to transform driving culture and deliver the best drivers. Proven across over 70,000 drivers worldwide from all industry segments, GreenRoad dramatically reduces crashes, fuel consumption and emissions so customers realise positive ROI within months.

42

GREENFLEET® MAGAZINE | Volume 59

The AA 32 Alphabet 22, 23, 42 Automotive Leasing 36 BMW 16, 17 Citroën 34, 35 Days Contract Hire 42 Fiat 6 Fiat Professional OBC Ford 10 Fleetdrive 42 Fleetdrive Electric 42 Green Road 42 Hitachi Capital 38 Honda 20, 21 Lex Autolease 4, 42 Mercedes IFC Qdell 28, 42 Renault IBC Shell 40 Vauxhall 8 Volvo 12, 13

A QUICK PLUG FOR THE NEW 100% ELECTRIC RENAULT KANGOO VAN Z.E.

Van of the Year

It’s What Van’s van of 2012. And it’s the first electric van to be crowned International Van of the Year. Pretty impressive as it went head to head with vans across every category. But with a range of 106 miles* and low running costs, it’s easy to understand why. Visit renault.co.uk/ze *New European Drivng Cycle (combined).

DRIVE THE CHANGE Terms and exclusions apply. Warranty up to 4 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Service 48,000 miles. See Renault.co.uk/4+ for details. For Finance, guarantees and indemnities may be required. Finance, subject to age and status, provided by RCI Financial Services Limited, PO Box 149, Watford WD17 1FJ.