Fleet Transport May 2014

IRELAND'S LEADING COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MAGAZINE

INSIDE

Inside!

REPORTS & REVIEWS: IRHA AGM & Conference • Fleetmatics REVEAL • Irish Rail Road Fleet Seminar • CV Show 2014 • FPS Expo 2014 TEST: DAF Trucks at Millbrook FEATURE: Maxol Lubricants MATERIALS HANDLING: Buying a Forklift TRUMPET CALL: Driver CPC

MAY 14

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Contents MAY 2014

www.fleet.ie | 3

4 News • Eco-Combis can’t cross Borders • Volvo Euro 6 FH16.750 • Vehicle Transporters get a lift from EU • CNH Industrial supports safety campaign • Transland’s new trailers • Kerr’s Tyres gain Montgomery Group contract • Weightlifter at Tip-ex

30 Fuel Prices / Safety Matters

8 Trumpet Call Improvements required for Driver CPC

34 Feature Maxol Lubricants

10 Cover MAN Truck & Bus Technology Days

36 Review II FPS Expo, Harrogate, UK

Contributors: Sean Murtagh, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Jonathan Lawton, Donal Dempsey, Howard Knott, Jerry Kiersey, Rob Van Dieten, HSA, Joe O'Brien, Dr. Betty Maguire, DODS/KTH, Mark Dodd

12 New Fleet I & II 141 registered Renault Trucks, DAF Trucks, Scanias,Volvo Trucks & Mercedes-Benz

38 Awards Fleet Transport Awards Entry Form

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Paul White, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Howard Knott, Joe O'Brien, Paul Sherwood, Hayden Cotter, Tom Cunningham, Donal Dempsey, FPS, Paul Watkins, Diesel Heads Media

16 Report I Irish Rail Road Fleet Seminar, Dublin

Fleet Transport Magazine, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie Subscription Hotline: 094 93 72827 Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Owens, Paula Mullarkey Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney Design: Eamonn Wynne Printed in Ireland

18 Fleeting Shots • Truck Racing • Volkswagen e-load up!

• Kalmar shunter 19 Report II Medical Fitness to Drive Guidelines 20 Test DAF Trucks Group Test at Millbrook

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime/ Green Fleet Management are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Fleet Transport Official Irish Jury Member of the International Truck of the Year Award

Diary Date: Thursday 2 October 2014 FLEET TRANSPORT AWARDS www.fleet.ie follow us on twitter.com/fleettransport

33 Report IV Fleetmatics REVEAL, London

40 Materials Handling Buying a Forklift? Part 1 of 2 42 Finance Cash Flow Planning 44 Legal Changing Times 45 Shipping & Freight Port Portals from Cork, Dublin & Arklow 46 Comment Technology is great!

22 Innovation Unique configuration from Colfix & Volvo Trucks

48 Trailer Latest developments at Faymonville

24 Report III IRHA Conference & AGM, Kilkenny

50 Soapbox Like any good Boy Scout!

25 Review I CV Show 2014, NEC, Birmingham

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Disclaimer: Fleet Transport Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Transport management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers.

The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

32 Health Matters Obesity

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Upward trend of TimoCom’s transport barometer continues in the first quarter.

The transport barometer always drops exactly 13 percentage points at the turn of the year. Unusually, the year 2014 began with resounding success. The freight-vehicle ratio was 40:60, much better than it was at the start of the quarter in 2012 and 2013.

The mild Winter and the early Spring have brought the first quarter of 2014 in the transport and logistics industry to a successful end. And so it will continue, and will ensure that TimoCom’s transport barometer remains in motion. Marcel Frings thinks positively: “When you consider the past months, you can only conclude that the second quarter will be characterised by an increase in freight. We assume that during the month of April the 50% freight share record in the European transport market will be broken. In the following three months vehicle spaces will become scarce - good thing that you are well provided for and can already secure empty vehicle spaces.”

Transport Barometer: Data from 16/03/2014 - 14/04/2014

www.fleet.ie

4 | NEWS 1

No European Cross-Border transport with Eco-Combis… for now

T

here will be no crossB orde r t r a n s por t with longer and heavier trucks in the European Union, following a vote by the European Parliament on a Directive on the maximum weights and dimensions of certain road vehicles. The debate focused on the issue of 25.25m 60 tonnes GVW Eco-Combis, otherwise known as ‘megatrucks’. Up to now, they have only been used in Scandinavia and, on a trial basis, in the Netherlands and parts of Germany.

However, t he Eu ropea n Commission will conduct a comprehensive study on the Eco-Combis/ Megatrucks by 2016, taking into account potential impacts on the use of different transport types (modal split), costs of infrastructure adaption and international competition.

The argument against the Eco-Combis brought some interesting comments such as “These huge trucks are a threat to road safety and also to the environment – not to mention the costs of adapting infrastructure across Europe. Had the Commission conducted a proper impact assessment before producing the proposal, they would have realised this,” said S&D MEP Jörg Leichtfried, the Lead Negotiator in the Parliament.

“Tackling climate change is more urgent than ever after the report presented recently by the United Nations. The EU must reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2)

aerodynamics. Incentives should be provided for trucks using low-carbon technologies, such as electricity or hybrid propulsion systems,” said Mr. Leichtfried.

The report voted on also promotes combined road-rail or roadship transport operations for standard 45-foot containers, while asking the Commission to review existing provisions on combined transport.

Meanwhile, Sweden is preparing for 74 tonnes GVW.

emissions, by 60% in comparison with 1990 levels by 2050, as well as by 20% by 2020. Th is is feasible, but allowing even bigger trucks is the wrong way forward. Heavy goods vehicles are responsible for about 26% of road-transport CO2 emissions in Europe and their fuel efficiency has hardly improved over the last 20 years.”

On the environmental case, Mr. Leichtfried did not mention that two of these Eco-Combis do the work of three standard tractor-unit/trailer articulated combinations and that they operate primarily on motorways and usually during offpeak hours during the successful trials.

“We should gradually shift freight from road to rail as outlined in the white paper on transport. When railway transport is not possible, it is recommended that longer truck cabins with rear aerodynamic flaps on the trailer are allowed, a design which can cut emissions by improving

The Swedish Government is currently in discussion to allow for even heavier trucks. At the Ministry of Catharina Elmsäter-Svärd, preparations are already underway to raise the truck weight to 74 tonnes. Authorities have until 15 August to verify routes for such vehicles.

With this measure the Government aims to strengthen Sweden’s competitiveness and to create more jobs. At the beginning of the 1990s Sweden raised the truck weight gradually from 51.4 to 60 tonnes. The Royal Institute of Technology Stockholm assessed the consequences and concluded that road transport got more competitive on longer distances compared to rail freight (up to 22% per tonne/ km). All in all, the railways market share fell by 1.9 billion tonne/km, to a historic low while the trucks market share reached its high.

Sales of Volvo’s new Euro6 FH16 under way

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he world’s most powerful series-produced truck the Volvo FH series is now available with a new generation of 16-litre engines producing a choice of 750, 650 or 550 hp - all conforming to the latest Euro-6 emission legislation.

In addition to lower emissions, the new engines also offer higher torque at low revs, a more powerful engine brake and quieter operation.

Sales of the Volvo FH16 Euro-6 are now underway, with the 750 hp version boasting 3550 Nm of torque retaining its position as the most powerful production truck in the world. The Volvo FH16 is ideal as a tractor-unit for fast average journey times, heavy combinations and timber haulage, with exceptional demands on driveability and productivity.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

“The Volvo FH16 with Euro-6 engine has the same high reliability, the same fuel consumption, the same power and peak torque as before. But now the driver has access to maximum torque from just 900 or 950 rpm depending on horsepower rating,” says John Comer, Product Manager at Volvo Trucks, UK & Ireland.

All the engines are equipped with I-Shift, Volvo’s automated transmission, although the 550 hp version is available with a 14-speed manual gearbox option, and all engine versions can be specified with Volvo’s VEB+ engine brake. Maximum braking effect has been raised from 425 kW to 470 kW at 2200 rpm, further improving safety and reducing wear on the foundation brakes.

NEWS II | 5

European Parliament supports Vehicle Transporters

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he Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG) has welcomed the recent vote in the plenary of the European Parliament on the revision of Directive 96/53/EC on weights and dimensions of road vehicles. ECG is aware that this long-awaited clarification of rules on the loaded length of vehicle transporters is highly emotional in itself and comes in the midst of the campaign for the European elections.

MEPs still displayed a clear political will to finally give more legal certainty to the vehicle logistics sector.

Despite the many unique technical requ i rements of t he veh icle transportation sector, the existing Directive 96/53/EC does not differentiate fi nished vehicle transporters from any other heavy goods vehicle. Th is is why the revision of Directive 96/53/EC is so critical to vehicle logistics. Specialised vehicle transporters are already allowed on most national territories within the EU. There is no risk regarding road safety or infrastructure capabilities when harmonising their loaded length to 20.75m.

Their total weight is not an issue since it remains

encountered by ECG members across the EU. Th is will allow more cars to be loaded per truck in many cases, thereby improving efficiency and reducing total CO2 emissions. Most importantly it will allow the majority of the sector to continue existing practices without potentially being restricted to a loaded length of 18.75m by the new legislation.

comfortably below 40 tonnes for a typical load.

They have obviously nothing to do with “EcoCombis” which have been the focus of many emotional parliamentary debates so far.

ECG is therefore pleased that MEPs voted massively in favour of harmonising loaded length for vehicle transporters to 20.75m, which resolves the current patchwork of national regulations

According to ECG’s Executive Director, Mike Sturgeon, “The EU prides itself on being the largest, most sophisticated single market on Earth.

The Parliament’s vote has demonstrated that the harmonisation of loaded lengths for car transporters is well within the reach of EU lawmakers. MEPs’ efforts will reduce the number of trucks on the road as well as decrease emissions, congestion, and accidents. ECG hopes that the Transport Council will pay attention to this very clear signal sent by the more than 90% of MEPs who supported the amendments from the TRA N Committee which include a clarification for vehicle transporters”.

CNH Industrial brands support FIA Action for Road Safety Campaign

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asyfi x Rubber Products is well known worldwide for producing innovative solutions for the agriculture, equine and construction industries. The Ballinasloe based company has now developed and produced a number of rubber products for the Road Transport sector. These are marketed as the EasyBrace Mat and the EasyBrace Joist.

The EasyBrace Mat helps to secure loads while in transit. Due to the quality of the rubber, the mats have a high anti-slip coefficient thereby preventing any movement of the transported load. The mats can be placed under the timber skids or att ached to the timber skid whilst in use under loads and can also be used on flat-bed bodies on trucks and on trailers. The EasyBrace Joist is a rubber shoe that fits snugly and securely under timber skids. Both products are re-usable and have long life spans.

Representatives at EasyFix Rubber Products are willing to work with transport operators nationwide to provide tailor made products to meet

their particular requirements.

With load securing coming more into focus by the Enforcement Authorities, the EasyBrace Mat is currently being field tested by P&O Maritime (Ireland) Ltd and is proving its worth for durability and safety.

“I found the EasyFix product extremely strong and it stands the test of time, and at an affordable price,” explained Tom O’Leary, Transport & Logistics Officer, P&O Maritime (Ireland) Ltd. “The specialist equipment we move is in transit to or from sea going vessels which can be very slippy due to salt water. Having tried other foreign made anti-slip mats, they fell apart after some use, so thankfully we found an Irish company based in County Galway that produce a better made product. The EasyBrace Mat works for us and we see great potential for the product in the road transport sector,” added Tom.

Q1 2014 Sales - Heavy Commercials 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

MAKE Scania Volvo DAF Mercedes-Benz Renault MAN Hino Iveco Dennis Isuzu Fuso

MARCH 58 41 27 18 13 12 10 9 0 17 6

QUARTER 1 156 138 133 74 62 46 21 11 3 49 21

% SHARE 21.52 19.03 18.34 10.21 8.55 6.34 2.90 1.52 0.41 6.76 2.90

Totals: March 2014 - 214 vs March 2013 – 214 = + 47 = 28.14% Quarter 1 2014 – 725 vs Quarter 1 2013 – 527 = + 198 = 37.37% www.fleet.ie

6 | NEWS 111

Transland Invests in new Trailers

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n order to comply with the latest legislation, logistics experts the Transland Group has purchased eight new bespoke trailers for its services to and from Ireland.

The new trailers are fitted with cargo nets, strapping for both lower and upper decks, wraparound curtains and a mesh floor on the upper deck to provide better visibility and increased payload.

With the Department of Transport recently introducing new regulations on the height limit of 4.65m for trailers entering the country, as opposed to the standard 4.8m throughout the UK, this has limited many logistics fi rms to single-deck trailers.

Palletways network member, Transland, has reacted to the new regulation, with the introduction of eight made-to-measure, purpose built double-deck trailers from trailer manufacturer Lawrence David. Transland’s latest editions have been designed to offer maximum

flexibility for loading and greater fuel efficiency, while also incorporating the latest Health & Safety guidelines.

Commenting on the investment, Kelvin Jones, Business Development Director at Transland International, said: “The introduction of these bespoke double-decker trailers means that we offer greater efficiency to businesses throughout Ireland compared to any other pallet network.

While the new legislation was a contentious point in the industry, we reacted quickly to ensure our customers continue to enjoy the highest level of service whilst still being competitive.”

Kerr’s Tyres signs 5-Year deal with Montgomery Transport Group

K

err’s Tyres has secured a five-year deal with fellow Antrim based company, the Montgomery Transport Group. The contract, which is estimated to deliver five figure savings over the duration of the deal, will see Kerr’s Tyres supply tyres and provide tyre maintenance, under an innovative Pence Per Kilometre (PPK) programme to several companies within the Montgomery Transport Group including Montgomery Transport, Montgomery Distribution, Montgomery Tank Services and Montgomery Refrigeration.

“PPK tyre contracts can bring many benefits to the road transport industry. The peace of mind that there will be no unexpected spikes in tyre costs across the term of the contract is a huge benefit for any haulier running a medium

to tyre malfunction can have a detrimental effect on the overall profitability of a load. The introduction of preventative maintenance by Kerr’s Tyres, as part of the PPK contract, will proactively manage Montgomery's tyre stock across the fleet and help to drive down the number of breakdowns, reduce the Health & Safety implications of a driver at the side of a road, increase driver productivity and improve overall load profitability.

to large fleet, however, the benefits don’t just stop there,” according to Norman Kerr from Kerr’s Tyres.

In addition to the cost of tyre purchase, the loss of productivity from a vehicle being off the road due

“Every customer is different and it is our job to understand their differing requirements and tailor the right package to suit them”, added Norman. “Having worked with Montgomerys for many years, we feel we are well positioned to provide the right level of service for the Group and are pleased they have awarded Kerr’s Tyres this prestigious PPK contract.”

Weightlifter/PPG needs you at Tip-ex 2014!

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eading up to the annual Tipex Show in Harrogate (from 29/31 May), a unique request has come in from the Weightlifter Group. Have you got any old photos of Weightlifter trailers or PPG Bodies?

If so send them to Mark Nichols at PPG Fabrications, Unit 4, Nene Parade, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, PE13 3YA Tel: 00441945 465311 or e-mail them to mark@ppgfabrications.co.uk for a chance to win a hamper of fi ne foods and wine.

The owner of the oldest vehicle photos of each company’s products will win the hamper and all the pictures will be on display on the Weightlifter stand, number A16, at Tip-ex to be held at the Harrogate International Centre.

Be sure to enclose your contact details and a self addressed envelope to guarantee their safe return. If you can’t send them in advance bring FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

are renowned for their lightweight, durability and longevity.

PPG’s product range gives operators a choice of all types of rigid aluminium tipper bodies, a complete range of tipping trailers, as well as ejectors, blowers and walking floors.

them along to Tip-ex.

Since Weightlifter’s acquisition of United Trailers, PPG Fabrications has expanded its product range to include ejectors, blowers and walking floors, tipping semi-trailers are all constructed on Weightlifter chassis, which

Designs can be tailor-made to suit individual operator’s specific requirements and each and every one is built to the highest possible level of quality. All are constructed from the best available materials to ensure maximum strength, lightweight and durability, by craft smen who take pride in their workmanship.

A measure of the high standard of its products is reflected in the low level of warranty claims the company receives.

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8 | TRUMPET CALL

"Driver CPC should professionalise and enhance truck and bus driving" by Mark Dodd, M.D. Advancedrive

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s we near the end of the fi rst cycle of Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) it is a good time to reflect on CPC, its management and what it has achieved. In fairness to the Road Safety Authority (RSA), Driver CPC came at them shortly after they were established and left them litt le time to prepare. Widespread training in the transport industry was unheard of and for that reason there was huge opposition to its inception from drivers and managers alike.

The RSA set forth and released a tender to establish a CPC syllabus and the winning tenderer produced material that was so weak that all had to be quickly rewritten. The redraft material, though somewhat better, still leaves a lot to be desired. It is far too ‘dry’ and the term ‘Death by Powerpoint’ springs to mind. Training organisations cannot use their own materials without approval from the RSA and if they seek approval for any extra material they must make it available to all other training organisations.

One area that could be improved dramatically is the subject of Eco-driving.

Savings of an average of 10% can be made by drivers who learn to drive economically with litt le loss of time. Of course the ideal scenario for ecodriver training is in-vehicle, not classroom, measuring diesel consumption over a given distance but this will not happen in the short term.

Drivers should be presented with examples of various truck and bus manufacturer fleet management packages and how they seek to support drivers to improve fuel consumption. Actual case studies would also be of great benefit as drivers generally respond more positively to and engage with actual rather than abstract figures.

Administration on the RSA side has been inefficient. We have had several instances of records not uploaded and to our frustration the RSA will always insist that it is correct until it is proven wrong. Such was our frustration at one point I made an official complaint that calls or emails were going unanswered. From then on any emails sent generated an automatic reply to the effect that they were too busy to answer it but would reply within 5 days. One we sent in October 2013 was eventually answered in January 2014.

Anecdotally the quality of trainers is still quite poor and after six years this is worrying. A friend of mine recently attended a Module 4 where the instructor asked at the start if the class ‘knew about tachographs’. The trainer then decided to skip that section entirely and spend 7 hours on the remaining material. Of all subjects a good trainer could spend a day on tachograph and driver’s hours alone, and it is a subject that always engages the whole class, even experienced drivers. Th is particular trainer had not come from a professional driving background and was probably uncomfortable with the subject.

In terms of achievements CPC has changed transport industry culture to the extent that there is now general acceptance of regular training amongst drivers.

Notwithstanding radio phone-in programmes where the negative point of view seems to always prevail, I have noted a marked difference of att itude from drivers who attend CPC. They are in general more engaged and will now readily admit if they have learned something. The rush out the door at days end is also thankfully a thing of the past.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Drivers CPC should professionalise and enhance truck and bus driving but it will only do so if it is improved upon and regularly updated.

It must be relevant and delivered by instructors who know what they are talking about, have an interest in the subject matter and can instruct in a competent manner.

The RSA needs to manage the process Mark Dodd M.D. Advancedrive proactively and not mistake quality for the quantity of visits to training centres. The material needs to evolve and develop to be more relevant and up-to-date and above all trainers and drivers opinions should be taken more seriously by the RSA. Mark Dodd is Managing Director of Advancedrive which provides Advanced Driver Training in the Fire and Ambulance Services. He started his working life as a professional driver before becoming a trainer, and is RSA Approved to teach all 6 Modules of Driver CPC. Mark previously lectured in CPC in Road Haulage and Passenger for Sligo IT and Roscommon VEC. He also worked with the Review Group who rewrote Module 2 CPC and is a recipient of an RSA ‘Leading Light’ award. Outside of Ireland, Mark worked in the Sudan, India and Mongolia delivering driver and instructor training on behalf of Scania CV Sweden. Contact details +353862511402 mark@advancedrive. ie www.advancedrive.ie

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10 | COVER

MAN Truck & Bus Trucknology Days 2014 - Munich

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ast year MAN Truck & Bus Trucknology Days attracted over 3,500 visitors. Based on the success of the 2013 event, MAN estimated that around 4,500 would turn up for Trucknology Days 2014 – but they got it wrong. Over the two days more than 7,000 arrived at the Truck Forum building in Munich to sample what the Bavarian manufacturer had to offer, and what it offers is ‘something for everyone’.

The Forum allowed MAN to exhibit an array of vehicles from its truck and bus ranges and provide customers and guests the opportunity to drive whatever they wished. For the event MAN had assembled a total of 170 trucks to cover a wide cross section of the models it produces. The list covered the regular road transport and distribution sectors, plus construction, emergency response, heavy haulage, agriculture and forestry vehicles. Also on hand throughout the event were a collection of body builders and equipment suppliers eager to demonstrate their products.

A short distance from the Truck Forum building is the MAN Truck & Bus Test Track, and here anyone who wished to drive the truck of their choice were facilitated whether they had a licence or not. Th is included MAN’s heavy haulage range and the impressive 25.25 metre long Eco-Combis.

Within the test facility MAN has its own off-road area, so anyone with a special interest in MAN’s construction range could spend some time in the sandpit and attempt some of the more dramatic manoeuvres that are fun to do - in someone else’s truck! For those of us with the appropriate licence, a more sedate driving experience was available with the Profi-Drive Team and their collection of TGX models for the on-road test drives.

the short distances between farms, fields and or storage areas which can provide immediate benefits.” It believes standard road legal trucks can operate at higher weights and speeds when delivering from the “edge of the field” to processing plants. To this end MAN has developed a number of modifications which can be applied to its vehicle range. One example is a TGS modified to run with 455/65 wide tyres at the front and 600 wide singles at the rear and still operate as a road truck as it remains within the 2.50 m wide restriction. Other options include MAN’s selectable hydraulic 4x4 system ‘HydroDrive’ which delivers the traction of a 4x4 without the increased weight of a conventional 4x4 and keeps the same turning circle as a standard 4x2. The tractor units can be modified to pull either trailers or semitrailers and operate a variety of PTOs. MAN’s interest in the agricultural and forestry sector is by no means new, the company itself produced farm tractors from 1938 to 1963. Indeed MAN engines are still widely used by equipment manufacturers in the agri and forestry sectors. One of these engines on display at the Munich event is the engine used by Krone to power its BiG X 1100 forage harvester. The MAN D2862 is a V12 with a displacement of 24.2 litres and with rated nominal power of 1,100 hp (816 kW).

At shows like Trucknology Days there are always interesting and novel ideas on display. One that caught our eye was from the Italian company ‘CIFA.’ Its futuristic looking concrete mixer with a 9 cm3 drum was mounted on a MAN TGS 35.440. The unusual design is more than just styling, a closer inspection revealed the drum was powered by a rechargeable battery. CIFA’s ‘Energya’ Plug in Hybrid system can be fast charged in 18 minutes from a three phase point. When on the move the batteries are recharged by either

While the event featured all the standard road-going trucks from the MAN catalogue, the 2014 Trucknology Days set out to focus on a number of special applications, namely emergency response vehicles, and the ever widening agricultural sector.

MAN has earned a respected reputation for producing quality fire tenders and support vehicles. So Truck Forum was a great opportunity for the company to highlight the latest version of its TipMatic automated transmission. The new version of TipMatic was specially developed for emergency vehicles to allow for the different driving style needed when ‘on call.’ If the new ‘Ds’ mode is selected the updated soft ware alters shift patterns to account for the truck suddenly decelerating to negotiate a hazard. Then when the driver suddenly accelerates, the driveline will quickly deliver maximum torque to the road wheels to smoothly and instantly increase road speed. On the return drive the normal D mode for on road, or Dx for off-road is selected and the vehicle drives as a normal TGL or TGM. MAN believes the agricultural and forestry sectors can deliver areas of growth and feels there are many opportunities for “utilising trucks for FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

MAN EURO6

COVER | 11 a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS), an onboard generator, or with a PTO. The system was first shown at Bauma last year and CIFA says Energya is the world’s fi rst plug in hybrid mixer, and claims 30% reduction in fuel consumption over the standard diesel operation and a significant reduction of 10 decibels in noise levels.

Apart from the MAN Group products on display, many of the trailer and equipment producers were also showing their wares. One discovery we made was at the Schmitz Cargobull stand. Taking pride of place was a Ferroplast refrigerated box on a Schmitz chassis. What made this different was that on the front bulkhead the fridge motor was made by Schmitz Cargobull.

Schmitz announced its move into manufacturing fridge units at the last IAA in Hanover and sees benefits for its customers by providing a complete trailer package.

With 170 vehicles to choose from we were spoilt for choice. However on this occasion we selected the less dramatic option and chose to drive with MAN’s Profi-Drive team. Apart from the attractive bright yellow livery gleaming in the sunshine the other attraction were the trailers. In particular we were lured by the opportunity to drive the Euro 6 version of the TGX 18.480 towing a well fi nished tri-axle ‘Willig’ road-barrel. When arranging test drives and demonstrations, manufacturers usually opt for the standard semitrailer and if road tanks are used they are usually the bulk powder variety, so the chance to run with a liquid tank was a welcome change.

MAN Fire Tender

MAN Agro Truck

The combination weighed in just under the 40 tonne legal limit, and the 480 hp MAN handled this without difficulty. As the TGX delivers its 2,300 Nm of torque from a low 1,000 rpm, moving the tank from stopped was smooth, and the transmission shifted quickly enough not to lose momentum. As a rule automated transmissions work well with the particular demands of liquid transport, and we found MAN’s 12-speed shifted promptly and precisely to account for the load. Th roughout this drive we never felt the need to override the transmission’s choice of ratio.

When the drive in the TGX 480 was finished we opted for a run in the typical German truck and trailer combination with an ‘A’ frame drawbar. This TGX came with a similar driveline to the 18.480, though with 40 hp less. Both the 18.480 and the 26.440 were powered by MAN’s 12.4 litre D26 Euro 6 engine and were noticeably quiet and smooth.

MAN CIFA Mixer

The TGX range has served MAN well and while it is accepted that the cab is beginning to show its age, it remains a pleasant truck to drive and is not always afforded the credit it deserves. Since its launch it has remained popular with drivers and remains on par with many of its contemporaries. Some updates would improve its appeal and ensure it remains serviceable.

The MAN Trucknology Days highlights how manufacturers have adapted to the economic downturn. It has to some degree had a positive affect on their business model, making them more innovative, and driven them to seek out new areas of business and create new opportunities. For MAN Truck & Bus it has widened the company’s product range and widened its customer base.

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

www.fleet.ie

12 | NEW FLEET I

Space Age Renault Range T taking off!

B

ill Cullen, the well-known personality in the Irish motor trade had a saying “you won’t notice a new car on the road until hundreds are sold.” Relating that philosophy to the truck sector is a little different when it comes to the new Renault Range T as this new flagship has a presence of its own. And they are selling in big numbers too!

Primeline Logistics, headquartered at Ashbourne Business Park which specialises in providing

end-to-end sales and supply chain solutions within Ireland and the UK has purchased two new Renault T430 4x2 tractor-units from Setanta Vehicle Sales (Dublin) sporting a striking new livery.

Meanwhile, one of Renault Trucks Ireland’s dealers, Joe Curran Commercials (Oldcastle, County Meath) has delivered two new T460 6x2 tractors to County Monaghan haulier, BM Transport Ltd. A key factor in BM Transport’s

purchase decision was the excellent track record of the company’s 19 Renault Premium Long Distance trucks and the fuel economy potential of the new Range T and BM Transport's new units, which went on the road in February and will cover 180,000 km per year, undertake general haulage across Ireland and the UK using a variety of equipment including euroliners, flat trailers and box vans. Both units are on a two-year, full repair and maintenance contract with Joe Curran Commercials.

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’Dwyer Transport proudly displays the colours of the Premier County on the new DAF trucks and Schmitz Cargobull trailers following major investment by the Litt leton, County Tipperary fi rm. The six new DAF XF 105.460 Euro 5 ATe 6x2 tractor-units with Super Space Cabs plated for 46 tonnes GVW and supplied

by DAF Truck Services, Cork, will pull 14 refurbished trailers from Schmitz Cargobull UK. O’Dwyer’s motto – “Service; we give it - Satisfaction; you get it,” will ring true with the new DAF trucks also!

Pic: Hayden Cott er

Wright Group Brokers t/a Wright Insurance Brokers is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

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14 | NEW FLEET II

Two more new Scanias for DG McArdle

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hese two new Scania R440 4x2 top line tractor-units join DG McArdle International Ltd’s impressive fleet, recently purchased from McElvaney Motors, Monaghan. The deal continues the long-standing business relationship between McElvaneys and the Dundalk, County Lough family run transport fi rm.

DG with trucks for many years and can attest to the fact they are an incredibly professional ‘outfit’,” stated Adrian McElvaney, pictured at the handover with David, Donal and Gerard McArdle.

McArdle’s modern fleet consists of 50 tractorunits and 120 trailers which specialises in the transportation of freight throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe.

“We are delighted that DG McArdle has once again chosen Scania. We have been supplying

CDS invests in Volvo’s Gold Contract

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ptime assurance was one of the perquisites of Clare Distribution Services (CDS) in selecting Volvo Trucks and Irish Commercials (Naas) when expanding its fleet. The purchase of two new Volvo FH 460 tractor-units and seven new Volvo FE 250 rigids, comes with Volvo’s Gold Contract maintenance package combined with the guarantee of unrivalled support offered by Irish Commercials, secured the deal.

“As we deliver for clients’ customers who are operating in the very competitive FMCG sector, we cannot risk an unscheduled reduction to our vehicle numbers and therefore vehicle reliability is vital. Only Volvo offers a 100% uptime guarantee. Whilst it was a strong independent feature in terms of our decision making on the tractor-units, coupled with the unrivalled fuel efficiency, fi xed costs offered by the gold contract and the full transport solutions and general aftermarket back up offered by Irish Commercials – it was one decision that was relatively easy for me,” stated Mark Clare, of Clare Distribution Services and is seen as a long term investment.

Commercials, Naas headquarters (following the visit to its Galway branch) were these two recent sales to Sean McMahon and Moyglare Sand & Gravel. Kells, County Meath based Sean McMahon Warehousing & Distribution purchased this new high-spec FH16.750 6x2 tractor with XL Cab while Moyglare (Kilcock) has added to its strong Volvo fleet with this new FMX 8x4 tipper.

Meanwhile, pictured at the recent Volvo Trucks Roadshow at Irish

Seven new Actros on South East Trail

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istinctive orange livery on the six new MercedesBenz Actros 1848 LS tractor-units which have joined the fleet of Carroll Freight will certainly make them stand out from the crowd. They are supplied

by Somers Commercials, main dealers for MercedesBenz Commercial Vehicles in the SouthEast, of which Carroll Freight, based in Tullow, is a long- standing customer. Commenting on the deal, Pat Kenny, Somers Commercials, Camolin, said, “We are proud to supply these new multi-award winning Actros to Carrolls, knowing the reputation the Actros has gained in terms of comfort, driving dynamics and most importantly, fuel economy.”

AMT Engineering’s new Sprinter – Fit for Purpose

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lan Treadwell, proprietor of AMT Engineering Castlebellingham, County Louth has taken delivery of the new model Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 416 LWB, (current Continental Irish Van of the Year) from Stephen Finnegan, Commercial Sales Specialist at Gilmores Commercial Vehicle Centre, Kingscourt, County Cavan.

A MT Engineering specialises in truck and trailer bodybuilding, agri and general engineering, root choppers, sandblasting, mobile welding and general fabrication.

Somers Commercials, also sold this third new Actros 2545 LS tractor-units to Roche Logistics, Rosslare in the space of twelve months. Operating for over 30 years, Roche Logistics is one of Ireland’s leading specialists in transport, logistics, warehousing and supply chain management, providing a global service with depots in Rosslare, Dublin, Mullingar and Swansea.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

IMPORTANT NOTICE Reminder for All Professional Bus and Truck Drivers

DON’T FORGET YOUR ANNUAL DRIVER CPC TRAINING DAY All professional truck and bus drivers (those who drive for a living) must have a current Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC).

If you held a full truck driving licence before 10th September 2009 you had ‘acquired rights’ to drive a truck professionally for a period of five years from that date, that period is up on 9th September 2014. From 10th September 2014 you must carry your truck drivers CPC Card when driving professionally.

In order to continue driving professionally you must have completed all of your Driver CPC periodic training by this date.

Important If you drive trucks and buses you need to attend six days of refresher training in each five year period.

If you have not already completed your CPC training in full please contact an RSA approved Driver CPC Training provider straightaway to ensure that you can complete all of the required training in good time. You should aim to complete your CPC training before the end of July to ensure that you receive your Driver CPC Card by 9th September 2014.

If you are not sure about the status of your CPC training you can check your training record, up-date your contact address and details by visiting ‘MY CPC’ or the RSA website. In addition, if you hold a digital Tachograph Card you can apply for your Driver CPC Card through ‘MY CPC’.

For more information visit www.rsa.ie Tel. (096) 25000; or locall 1890 50 60 80

16 | REPORT I

Iarnród Éireann Road Fleet Safety Seminar, Inchicore, Dublin

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arnród Éireann’s Inchicore Railway Works site due west of Dublin City is steeped in history. Established in 1844 by the Great Southern & Western Railway, the vast 73-acre site remains the headquarters for mechanical engineering and rolling stock.

While the train and bus construction elements have ceased, the facility is still a hive of activity. Within the cut stone-walled listed buildings, management and staff continue to practice Iarnród Éireann’s philosophy of looking after the welfare of its employees. Th is was clearly evident at the Infrastructure Management (IM) Road Fleet Safety Seminar hosted by the Road Fleet Department last month.

“Road vehicle safety is one of our primary objectives and we engaged with a number of State bodies such as the Road Safety Authority, Health & Safety Authority and an Garda Síochána to make representations to a group of senior managers and relevant members of their teams in a collective awareness Seminar to address driver safety. In addition, there are additional guest speakers from other transport bodies to support us in assuring that driver safety is paramount,” explained Thomas Heffernan, Road Fleet Manager (Engineering) in the lead up to the event.

The well-attended Seminar held at the on-site Conference Centre focused primarily on the driver throughout. Other topics covered included ‘vehicle collision and impact on the company, its driver and other road users,’ ‘dealing with the day-to-day challenges presented, while driving for work’ and the ‘importance of health and fitness to drive.’ In welcoming delegates and guest speakers, Thomas Heffernan commented on the “immense strides” the company has made in improving driver safety by investing in training and providing better equipment. He highlighted the dangers employees have to face maintaining over 2,400 track kilometres 5,292 bridges and 1,052 level crossings. An in-depth logistics plan is implemented backed up

by Safety Stations at each Railway Station around the country. Ongoing training courses are held that cover safe systems at work, driver development plus guidance on the safe use of vehicles and equipment. Working under varying weather conditions is also part of the safety programme. Dealing with emergencies is also of paramount importance in having the trained staff and properly equipped vehicles available 24/7. Four members of staff have qualified as RSA adi Approved Driver Trainers and following the conclusion of the Seminar, they were presented with Certificates. Another initiative undertaken is with employee Laura Eustace, who loves circuit racing. She sends home the message, “no matter what you drive, your safety is my safety,” in a poster campaign depicting Laura in her race suit and helmet and then dressed in casual clothes. A specially created video shot at Mondello Park was relayed at the Seminar.

Panel of guest speakers at the Irish Rail Road Fleet Safety Seminar FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Kay Doyle, Iarnród Éireann’s IM Head of Safety who officially opened the Seminar continued on the theme mentioned by Thomas that “Safety matters to everyone – everyday” and that the company encompasses road safety and track safety in its operations – “Both are as important as each other,” she stated. To emphasise the Safe Driving practices installed, risk assessment is carried out as a preventative mechanism and should any incident occur, thorough investigation and report methods are in place. While the company ensures that the vehicles used are roadworthy, the driver has to share responsibility in using seatbelts, being fit to drive (physically and mentally) and remain focused on the job in hand. “Shift workers are recommended to take regular breaks, plan journeys and share the driving, if necessary,” stated Kay. Vincent Corcoran, Road Fleet Safety Executive in the IM Safety Department presented details of the trends encountered by the company over the past four years and with the implementation of various awareness and training programmes, accident and incident statistics have decreased.

Some serious incidents were reported with recordings through photographs and a video provided.

Michael Rowland, Director at the Road Safety Authority began his address by complimenting Iarnród Éireann on the progress made on its Driving for Work policy implementation. He highlighted the importance of managing the driver panel and their fleet of vehicles that are involved in daily business operations. “Over a third of all accidents involve vehicles that are used for Driving for Work (DFW), therefore an improved safety management culture is required,” he said. Michael then revealed some startling figures in that 47% of Irish companies have no DFW policy, with 62% offering no information on this issue to their employees while 67% provide no training at all. Another high figure of non-compliance was also stated in that 77% of businesses have no procedures to reduce kilometres driven where teleconferencing and use of public transport could be a viable alternative.

Legislation issues were then outlined and the various agencies involved.

One aspect highlighted was the liability of Company Directors in being responsible for employee safety, which includes a Driving for Work policy.

Advice was then given on a DFW programme consisting of 5 key steps: 1) Develop a DFW policy; 2) Planning; 3) Putting into practice; 4) Measuring performance; and 5) Reviewing this performance. “Safety is the key part of company culture, it should be planned and measured,” said Michael.

Killer behaviours include speed, which is a factor in every collision, while non-use of seatbelts and the consumption of alcohol and drugs are high

REPORT I | 17

risk factors, according to Michael. “Driving while tired is another major issue, and it is often compared to a drunken driver, which affects up to 20% of shift workers,” he added. Phone use while driving is also another no-no, increasing the risk of an accident four-fold, “Switch Off before you Drive Off ” is their current campaign on this matter.

Tom Fahey, who heads up CIE Group investigations is on call 24/7 should any incident happen to instigate a systematic inquiry to discover and examine the facts of the accident. Th is involves a study of the scene, interviewing all involved, fi lling out all the documentation and more often than not, preparing for a court appearance. In giving examples of some of the tragedies involved, many incidents remain in his mind, especially the devastation caused to family members. With regard to damage to infrastructure such as railway bridges, these incidents are still happening and the consequences are serious, particularly if a train is derailed.

Mark Dodd, M.D. at Advancedrive commenced his address by explaining hazards and poor driving habits and that up to 95% of all crashes are down to human error – and up to 80% involving driver error. He has heard all of the many excuses used in the aftermath, some often humorous. “But its down purely to attitude – this is where we have a problem as everyone thinks that they are the best driver in the company. Intolerance, if unchecked causes stress, and leads to bad decisions,” he explained. “Att itudes affect the way drivers react to hazards, be it an active hazard or potential hazard.

Drivers need to self reflect and take responsibility for their own actions.

When you are driving you are a driver,” were Mark’s abiding words. The use of driver education tools such as driver training or on-line applications are very worthwhile exercises, claimed Mark. Driver acceptance on these policy changes has to be considered, however.

Tadhg Crowley, Safety & Environment Manager, Fleet & Technical Training, ESB Networks looks after a major and broad ranging fleet of vehicles. With over 1,900 of its vehicles covering 50,000 kilometres or more, the company has now entered its third phase of a Road Fleet Safety Plan. The objective is to “control our most serious hazards,” he said. The programme is overseen by the company’s Road Safety Bureau, which is the steering group for other divisions within the company to work under in this ongoing project. Th is covers feedback from accidents, education and awareness together with preparing/publishing driver and equipment operational safety documents and handbooks. A number of risk reduction methods have been implemented, such as ‘must wear seatbelts’ philosophy, a Reverse In – Drive Out Parking regime, as well as a 60-Second Vehicle Walkaround Check, to mention a few. Having the correct licence for the vehicle driven was another area checked, which included putt ing a sticker on each vehicle’s windscreen describing the actual licence required.

Enforcement audits are also undertaken regularly, taking in seatbelt usage, and loading procedures, while feedback from drivers assists in improving the specification of the vehicles going forward. Advanced driving courses and a young driver development programme have been introduced. The fruits of their collective labour have delivered outstanding results with incidents reduced by over 180 cases in ten years. Tadhg concluded by stating the long history of road safety within the ESB, and with strategic alliances formed with the RSA and HSA, this practice will continue.

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

Deirdre Sinnott , Senior Policy Inspector, Work Related Vehicle Safety, Transport & Storage Sector with the Health & Safety Authority also praised the Iarnród Éireann Road Fleet Safety team on their initiative in hosting this event and addressing work related vehicle safety issues.

Managing vehicle risks at work is all about protecting the worker from harm,” she said. “That includes activities in the workplace and while out on the road.” Deirdre directed a few questions to the audience such as: How they got to work? What equipment was on board? And how they got back home? “Working in or around railway lines is a dangerous occupation, as road space is minimal,” she emphasized and listed some statistics such as the high rate of reported deaths and injuries related to the workplace.

“In 2009 alone, over 94 years in work time was lost due to workplace accidents.” Driving for Work was again cited as a high-risk occupation, with kilometres driven, time spent at the wheel, weather conditions, driver behaviour, vehicle condition all to be taken into consideration. Deirdre then touched on load safety and security mentioning that whatever is carried, it’s precious cargo! Numerous advisory documents are available on the HSA website (www.hsa.ie) catering for all aspects of Safe Systems Management.

Superintendent Con O’Donoghue from the Garda National Traffic Bureau gave an interesting insight to the primary causes of collisions, with inappropriate speed one of the main reasons as videos shown demonstrated.

“Impaired driving through drink/drug intake or even fatigue are other factors,” he said. Mobile phone use is high on the driver distraction list too, according to Con, with vehicle maintenance and load security two additional areas of concern that can cause accidents.

Dr. Declan Whelan, Chief Medical Officer at Iarnród Éireann provided a comprehensive Occupational Health Service to the 11,000 employees within the company. He is Chairman of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland Working Group in Traffic Medicine tasked with developing Medical Guidelines on Fitness to Drive for Ireland. In listing the high-risk category of employees in the workplace, the commercial vehicle driver is at the top, with company reps on the second tier and staff drivers occasionally behind the wheel at low risk. Using UK data, Dr. Whelan described a Risk Matrix calculating the chance of an accident occurring versus the consequences (outcome) of an accident. Bottom line is that according to this sum, 1 in 20,000 professional drivers will cause harm to others in one year.

On the legal obligations for Driving for Work policy, the company must protect their employees and the public by ensuring compliance to the Rules of the Road, etc. “Reducing that risk can be done by selecting the correct vehicle, having drivers trained, licenced and medically fit, avoiding unrealistic delivery or sales calls targets, banning mobile phone use while driving and putt ing a company driving policy in place,” he added. The physical and mental condition of the driver must be regularly assessed, he advised, to reduce risk. Additional information and statistics were then presented on medical assessments and the fitness to drive aspect of their company policy, a topic that is already in the planning stage for next year's IM Road Fleet Safety Seminar.

www.fleet.ie

18 | FLEETING SHOTS

MANinBlack has a mixed weekend at the BTRA season opener

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ixed fortunes for former British Truck Racing Champion Dave Jenkins when he took his #MANinBlack MAN TGS race truck to Brands Hatch for the first round of the British Truck Racing Championship.

Dave, fresh from his Channel 4 TV exploits in the close season, which included an appearance on “Speed With Guy Martin” travelled with his team to the Kent circuit with a completely new but as yet untested chassis set up.

Friday practice saw Dave and the team gett ing to grips with the new set-up posting some good times, which ultimately saw Dave ultimately coming home in third position. “The truck is showing some good pace and giving good drive out of the corners,” said Jenkins.

A determined drive from Dave in Race 2 saw him lining him up for a pass on the last lap only to suffer a prop shaft failure, which caused him to retire from the race with only a few corners to go. When the team recovered the truck back to

his way through the field, rising to 9th place by the end of the race.

the paddock it soon became apparent that they were in for a long night with the prop shaft having caused major damage to the gearbox and diff. A great effort was made by the crew, accompanied by a number of other teams, all working through the night to get the #MANinBlack ready to race on Sunday.

Dave took his place at the back of the grid for Race 3 making good progress up to 4th position, only to spin off after a clash and return to the track in last position. Dave once again set about making

Race 4 saw another difficult race but with some very good speed coming from the TGS, Dave climbed his way through the field to fi nish 5th. He saved his best drive until last on the very sunny Sunday afternoon. From the green light he was in determined mood, quickly making his way through the field to take up 2nd place.

Unfortunately his celebrations were cut short upon finding out that he had incurred a 5 second penalty for exceeding the track limits which saw him drop to 3rd place.

“We had a great weekend racing with the truck showing some really good pace, it’s just a shame the results didn’t go our way,” reflected a disappointed Jenkins.

The team now turns their attention to gett ing the truck ready for the next round at Pembrey on 17/18 May.

Volkswagen e-load up! concept vehicle

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n Berlin Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles presented a further idea on its theme of ‘urban commercial mobility’: an electrically powered city delivery van called the ‘e-load up!’. It has four doors, four wheels and despite very small outer dimensions, lots of space inside. A cargo management system enables the interior to be configured in many ways.

The e-load up! is small, inexpensive to maintain, flexible and environmentally friendly. It is a light commercial vehicle in the best sense of the term.

It is based on the passenger car version of the Volkswagen e-up!, which is available to order now in certain markets. Given the right level of

demand, a commercial vehicle version, such as the e-load up!, could be available soon. Compared to the passenger model the cargo capacity of

the load up! has gone up from 951 to over 1,400 litres. Th is urban delivery van weighs 1.164 kg and can carry a total load of 306 kg – which certainly ought to be enough for any pizzas or parcels! It is powered by an almost silent electric motor with maximum power output of 60 kW/82 PS. Continual output is 40 kW/55 PS. Maximum torque is at 210 Nm, available from the very first revolution and it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h within 12.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 130 km/h. The lithium-ion battery integrated into the floor has a storage capacity of 18.7 kWh. Thanks to the low vehicle weight, the e-load up! can travel up to 160 kilometres (NEFC) on a single charge.

Kalmar’s new generation terminal tractor at Mid-America Trucking Show

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almar introduced a new Ottawa T2 Terminal tractor/shunter at MidAmerica Trucking Show held recently in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. Designed and developed for the North American market, the new Kalmar Ottawa T2 is a thoroughly purpose-built terminal tractor for superior performance, productivity and serviceability, according to Chris Booth, Vice President, Terminal Tractors. “Th is is a true milestone in the company’s nearly 60-year history of

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

making terminal tractors, carrying on Kalmar’s tradition of durability and reliability with innovative design and performance features.

With features like a strengthened chassis, faster fi fth-wheel lifting, safety enhancements and easier serviceability, the T2 will enhance the demanding task of spott ing trailers by bringing more order, control, and efficiency to the process.”

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

REPORT II | 19

New Medical Fitness to Drive Guidelines launched for Bus & Truck Drivers

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he launch of Sláinte agus Tiomáint Medical Fitness to Drive Guidelines for bus and truck drivers by the National Programme for Traffic Medicine is a significant step forward in efforts to develop and maintain researched-based guidelines that support medical professionals when they are assessing a patient’s medical fitness to drive.

licence. It might mean that you have to see your doctor more often to check that your condition is well managed or it might mean that there are some restrictions placed on your driving.”

Allaying concerns that the new guidelines will result in drivers losing their licences, Mr. Declan Naughton Director of Driver Testing & Licensing, RSA added, “It’s vital to stress that no driver should fear or be concerned about losing their licence as a result of these new guidelines. In fact the opposite is the case. The guidelines have developed clear information on medical fitness for such drivers. Th is means that both health professionals and drivers will now have a much clearer understanding of their obligations. Importantly the guidelines set out clear protocols as to how any medical issues can be better managed to ensure a driver’s livelihood and safety on our roads.”

Sláinte agus Tiomáint are guidelines for assessing medical fitness to drive for Group 1 drivers of motorcycles, cars and tractors, and Group 2 truck and bus drivers. The launch of guidelines for Group 2 drivers follows the publishing in February 2013 of standards for Group 1 drivers which have now been updated in the latest Sláinte agus Tiomáint Medical Fitness document.

The National Programme for Traffic Medicine was established by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI) in 2011. Its aim is to provide highquality, research-based policies and standards to help doctors and licensing authorities promote safe mobility in Ireland. It is led by Professor Desmond O’Neill, National Programme Director for Traffic Medicine and Consultant Physician in Geriatric and Stroke Medicine, Tallaght Hospital Dublin and Professor of Medical Gerontology at Trinity College Dublin.

All bus and truck drivers (known as Group 2) will continue to be required to submit a medical report with their application for a driving licence, whether it is a fi rst time, renewal or exchange application. All drivers holding a valid licence are required to notify the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) should their health deteriorate or change in a way that would impact on their ability to drive safely for a period of time longer than 6 months.

The new guidelines ref lect the fact that as professionals, bus and truck drivers require a higher standard of physical and mental fitness than drivers of cars and smaller vehicles, due to the long hours they tend to spend behind the wheel as well as the size of the vehicles they operate.

Speaking at the launch, Professor Desmond O’Neill said, “The new guidelines allow drivers with well-managed health conditions to continue to drive safely. As a driver, if you’re unsure about whether or not you should report a medical condition, you should seek advice from your doctor or health professional. It is important to remember that if you report your condition, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will lose your

With regards to the role of fleet managers and operators in ensuring their drivers are compliant, both Professor O’Neill and Mr. Naughton noted that while Sláinte agus Tiomáint are guidelines rather legal requirements, they were confident that professional fleet managers would be proactive in taking the practices outlined on board. “I have little doubt that fleet managers will support this initiative,” said Professor O’Neill, adding “It is rare that we have a problem with people who work with fleets.”

The Sláinte agus Tiomáint Medical Fitness to Drive Guidelines can be downloaded from the Road Safety Authority’s website www.rsa.ie.

Professor Conor Keane, RCPI; Professor Desmond O’Neill, Director, National Programme Office for Traffic Medicine, RCPI / RSA and Declan Naughton, Director of Driver Licensing and Testing at the launch of the Slainte agus Tiomáint Medical Fitness to Drive Guidelines for bus and truck drivers, known as Group 2 drivers. The updated guidelines have been draft ed following a public consultation process with these drivers and their associations.

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

20 | TEST

DAF Trucks at Millbrook Proving Ground ‘Less trucks today than 60 years ago’

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he 700 acre expanse of the Millbrook Proving Ground near Luton, with over 60 kilometres of assorted paved roads and a selection of off-road circuits provided DAF Trucks the opportunity to show off its full Euro 6 range to the invited guests. The ride and drive event gathered a selection of on road LF, CF, and XF Series models, plus off-road versions of CF. With a variety of power options and transmission types collected in one location, direct comparisons could be easily made between the different models.

First on the agenda was a presentation by Ray Ashworth, Managing Director of DAF Trucks UK. Mr. Ashworth gave an insight into the current trading position of the American PACCAR Group as a whole, and DAF’s operation within the Corporation. "Along with DAF Trucks, the PACCAR Group also includes the Kenworth and Peterbilt brands, and Group performance throughout the recent downturn has been quite remarkable. We must remember that just before the downturn, manufacturers were required to invest heavily in product development to meet the Euro 6 emission standards. Yes, PACCAR suffered as did everyone else, yet the Group consistently returned a net profit and in most segments increased market share. Forecasts for the coming year are better than one would expect and the company looks set to deliver another solid performance."

Ray believes that one major problem facing operators today is congestion.

He supports this premise with some interesting figures on vehicle volumes today, compared to the volumes in 1950 (see table). He stated, “trucks don’t cause congestion, there are less trucks on the road today than there were 60 years ago.” He notes that over the same period trucks have delivered a 400% increase in productivity, and a 20% improvement in fuel consumption.

Concluding his presentation Ray mentioned the new EU regulations proposing an increase in vehicle dimensions, “The proposals will provide a 7-10% saving provided, we don’t have 35 million cars on the road, because the trucks must get to the speed to make the efficiencies work.” He called for better planning about how we use the roads to allow us to make the designs savings. “However,” he stated, “It is all about 2020, and that will be a challenge for all manufacturers including DAF. All manufacturers have invested billions of euro in new truck designs for Euro 6. To get to a new cab design for 2020 will be a challenge for everyone. At the moment there is no sign of a Euro 7 on the horizon,” he added.

many forms including Space Cab which provides additional driver comforts while remaining lighter. Especially with the new PACCAR MX11 which shaves about 180 kgs of the empty weight, making it very att ractive for payload sensitive transport operations.

Having the option of the new MX 11 litre developing in this case 440hp (320kW) will suit many operators, and the Space Cab comforts will suit the drivers equally as well. Th is version driven came with the now standard 12-speed AS Tronic transmission from ZF, which has been much improved, and now performs better than previous versions. In truth there is litt le to choose between the CF and XF models, and in reality it will mainly come down to individual work cycles.

Another model we were particularly interested in was the new LF. The Euro 6 LF comes with a choice of two new engines - the 4.5 litre 4-cylinder PX5, or 6.7 litre 6 cylinder PX7. In total there are seven power ratings from 150 hp to 310 hp (112 kW to 231kW). LF is a small truck that has always been good to drive and performs beyond expectations. Since it was fi rst launched it has grown in stature, and proved to be a competent truck for the tough distribution sector, where vehicles are not always treated with the greatest respect.

We decided to run two versions of the 4.5 litre LF Series, the fi rst being the 180 hp with a 6-speed AS Tronic. DAF Trucks has upgraded the interior, and the cab is a well fi nished workplace with all the features necessary to make life easy for the delivery driver. The truck has a solid feel more in keeping with the larger DAF models, yet remains light to the touch and very responsive. Without doubt the AS Tronic transmission is a benefit to the busy distribution sector and leaves the driver free to deal with the important issues when delivering in the urban jungle. Driving the LF over the city centre route at Millbrook, it was easy to appreciate the driveability of the unit without the mind numbing traffic. The truck is quiet, smooth and with careful use of the engine brake the drive was effortless and relaxing.

With so many trucks to choose from, we had to be selective, having driven DAF’s flagship XF model on previous occasions. So this time we opted for other examples from the Eindhoven catalogue namely the LF and CF Series models. Ray Ashworth had made particular mention of the MX 11 engine in the CF tractor units and it was to this we went fi rst.

The CF Series may have been originally developed as a fleet truck targeting national distribution work, however, the popularity of the model has outgrown its original job specifications, and now DAF offers the model in FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Ray Ashworth, Managing Director of DAF Trucks U.K.

TEST | 21

We feel the distribution sector is one which has the most to benefit from automated transmissions, and Millbrook is the perfect venue to test this theory out. Along with the Town Centre mock-up, Millbrook has a number of routes that simulate driving on Alpine roads, with increasing levels of difficulty. After covering all three Alpine routes in the LF 6-speed AS Tronic, we opted to run the same routes in another LF with a 6-speed manual.

Apart from the manual transmission the second LF was a 210 hp version with a curtainsider body. As the degree of difficulty increased so did the degree of difficulty for the driver and consequently the stress on the driveline. Both the 180 and 210 hp power units were able to handle the hills, though without doubt the AS Tronic allowed the LF180 to handle them a litt le more gracefully.

Interestingly the bodywork on both models was supplied by DAF Trucks, built at the end of its production line at Leyland. Th is departure into bodybuilding has a lot to offer operators regarding ‘EC Whole Vehicle Type Approval.’ The idea is well suited to standard high volume orders for straight box or curtainside bodies. Because Leyland DAF Trucks completes the necessary fitt ing out, it means the LF units can leave the factory ready to go. The bodies are designed with a focus on improving aerodynamics resulting in a good looking truck into the bargain.

While the opportunity was available we headed to the construction area of Millbrook to try out DAF’s CF 8x4 with the new off-road soft ware programme. Over quite a demanding course, we tried out the various modes and found the eight-wheeler untroubled by any of the uphill gradients and the powerful engine brake made the steep descents very controlled. Most manufacturers now offer an off-road programme for the construction sector and DAF’s version will ensure CF retains its significant market share in this specialist sector.

The interior and exterior styling updates for DAF’s Euro 6 range, has given the marque an appealing and att ractive new look. We feel the new MX11 engine offers operators a viable lightweight alternative to the larger 13 litre which will keep DAF’s customers satisfied while att racting newcomers to the brand. The improvements to LF enhances its car like qualities, Text: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

and the wide choice of Euro 6 power options will ensure its appeal to the distribution sector. With the Euro 6 LF DAF has extended service intervals and estimates that the particulate fi lter will run for 320,000 kms before cleaning is needed. Now that its Euro 6 line-up is complete, it's time for DAF Trucks to start again - and develop yet another new series for 2020.

Vehicle Type

1950

2013

Cars

2,095,000

27,040,000

Vans

457,000

3,294,000

Buses

123,000

107,000

Motorcycles

725,000

1,105,000

Trucks

451,000

384,000

Total

3,851,000

31,930,000 www.fleet.ie

22 | INNOVATION

All you need - is another axle

*Innovative Road Maintenance Vehicle from Colfix & Irish Commercials/Volvo Trucks

I

n the never ending struggle to keep Ireland’s road network fit for purpose, road maintenance specialists Colfi x now battle the elements and tightening budgets armed with a new weapon - the first of its kind in Europe.

The truck is powered by a 13-litre Euro 5 460hp with Volvo’s Engine Brake (VEB) and linked to Volvo’s 14 speed manual transmission with range change and splitter. A manual transmission was preferred as it allows the use of crawler gears, important for this type of operation. Also important for the work cycle are Power Take Off ’s (PTOs) and the Volvo is fitted with both engine and gearbox PTOs.

Colfi x Dublin Limited was established in 1926, and since then the company has grown to become a leader in the research and development of technical services and products for road maintenance.

With its vast experience in this area it realised an opportunity to increase efficiency and reduce costs by designing a new surface dressing unit with selfloading facilities. The new road paver was to be like no other and demanded some innovative engineering solutions from the equipment suppliers.

The FM also comes with electronically controlled rear air suspension, maintenance free front suspension, and power steering cooler. With all the above plus EBS and cruise control, the driving should be as comfortable as any regular spec Volvo. The workmanship and finish of the truck and bodywork deserves a mention and the combination looked striking in the yellow Colfi x livery at the unveiling in Carton House, Maynooth.

The project set out to marry the two separate elements of truck and bodywork. The bodywork was to be supplied by Schafer Technic which has decades of experience in the design and supply of road surfacing equipment and was an obvious choice for Colfi x. The bodywork chosen by Colfi x was the latest Schafer Technic OB Vario selfloading road dressing machine.

For the transport element of the new unit, Colfi x commissioned Irish Commercials in Naas to supply a truck suitable for the task.

The starting point was an 8x4 Volvo FM with 6.0 metre wheelbase, which was then upgraded to a 10x4 configuration by adding an Estepe Axle midway along the chassis. Adding the extra axle was necessary to allow for the Schafer bodywork to be fitted and remain within specifications.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

The launch day included a number of interesting presentations on the latest issues, techniques, and best practice in the road maintenance industry. After the presentations the invited guests were able to watch a road dressing demonstration by Colfi x who had a wide selection of their vehicles and equipment on display.

Mounting the self-loading Schafer Combi road surfacing bodywork on the Volvo allows one driver operation and the unit can dress the road in a single pass. This provides significant savings in machinery and man-hours. Apart from the extra axle, additional equipment for the surfacing operation includes a multi-camera system and a 4.3 metre wide extendable spray bar.

Colfix deserves credit for investing in equipment at a time when infrastructure and road maintenance budgets are being reigned in. The new Volvo FM 10x4 Combi will immediately join the already impressive fleet, and begins to operate for Colfi x on various contracts in Ireland and the UK. Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

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24 | REPORT 1II

IRHA Annual Conference 2014

T

his year’s IRHA Conference was held at Hotel Kilkenny, with over 400 guests attending the Gala Banquet. Guest Speaker Leo Varadkar, T.D., Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport congratulated the Executive Committee on their re-election and their professionalism in the manner they represented members in the difficult but important legislative and compliance negotiations. IRHA President, Eoin Gavin, having successfully negotiated the implementation of the Essential User Rebate on Diesel (a revenue neutral legislative change for the Exchequer, but of significant benefit to compliant hauliers), is now tackling the high annual road tax charges in an effort to protect the industry as some major transport companies are relocating their headquarters to foreign shores.

The event had an outdoor exhibition section with a variety of trucks and trailers that drew much interest over the three day event. Renault Trucks Ireland had a selection from its new flagship Range T on display. Sean Loftus, Managing Director, Renault Ireland stated that initial reaction to the new model was excellent, emphasising what hauliers want is a competitively priced, premium vehicle that offers excellent fuel economy and low whole life running costs. Renault Trucks has an in-house finance division offering flexible and highly competitive rates. A broad dealer and service network has been established throughout the country with the technical expertise to back up customer requirements. Martin Ryan of Martin Ryan Haulage (Cappamore) who was in attendance, stated the new purchase of a new Renault Range T with two more on order was based on dealer backup and reduced total cost of ownership.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Mercedes-Benz Actros came out on top.

Eoin Gavin, IRHA President & Leo Varadkar, T.D., Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport

Joe Crann, Managing Director, Westward Scania was also present and complimented the IRHA in the professional manner it represented its members and how it is tackling the big issues. Scania customer, Collins Transport (Cork) had a new tractor-unit on display, a vehicle of choice in a business that operates in the bulk milk collection sector that demands reliable and strong units. Joe stated the Scania success has achieved in Ireland is down to two factors, the unbeatable product and the strong dealer network.

Mercedes-Benz had two new Actros models on exhibit with long standing customer Dungarvan Transport (Waterford) which has purchased twelve of the latest model Actros. According to Tomas Horgan, Managing Director, the main reason behind the investment was down to dealer support, model reliability and vehicle fuel economy. Tomas stated that the company had assessed a range of vehicles best suited to their work profile and the

Volvo Truck dealers, McCarthy Commercials, (Cork, Kilkenny & Limerick) had five units on display with the FH Series, the 2014 Truck of the Year alongside the 1984 Truck of the Year F10, on show. Company boss, Michael McCarthy stated that the new Euro 6 tractor-units are in demand by many International hauliers. This was confirmed by Michael Dixon, (Dixon International, Dublin) and John Downey, (DJD Downey, Cork) both in attendance at the event.

John Downey mentioned that his business, DJ Downey Ltd is 85 years in operation this year, and along with customer and staff focused events planned, the family firm will also be ordering a special new Volvo flagship to celebrate the anniversary.

Also on hand in and around Hotel Kilkenny was John O’Mahony, Sales Manager, Truck Services Cork with two new DAF XFs showcased. DAF Trucks has excelled with major fleet sales to OwnAccount customers (Musgraves/An Post) and award winning hauliers such as Macroom Haulage Ltd (Cork). He said the high level of interest made at the Conference makes this a must attend event.

John’s no nonsense approach to customer care is appreciated and has helped build a strong customer base as explained by Fintan Caulfield of Caulfield Transport, (Cork & Dublin) a national network distributor of white goods. “You don’t waste time with John, he is a man of his word so that’s as good a referral any truck salesman will get.”

Text & Photos: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

REVIEW I | 25

Commercial Vehicle Show 2014, NEC, Birmingham

A

nother year, another CV Show at the NEC, Birmingham. The annual showcase for all things ‘commercial vehicles’ is gett ing bigger, especially in recent years following the economic crisis. For the 2014 event, three halls featured everything from zero emission vehicles to the latest phase of Euro 6 powered trucks. Noticeable on this occasion was that there were less bigger stands and more smaller sized exhibitors. Conspicuous by their absence were Volvo Trucks, DAF Trucks and

Scania but it was good to see Renault Trucks making a welcome return. Central to Hall 5 were a number of world premieres from van brands such as GM Opel/Vauxhall, Renault and Citroen (full details of same in our Fleet Van & Utility supplement). Over the next few pages, highlights from the show are detailed, clearly demonstrating that business confidence is recovering nicely in the road transport industry. As usual, the Fleet Transport crew were there to soak up the atmosphere.

Mercedes-Benz The triple-star brand’s presence was bigger than usual with its new flagship heavy haul range called the SLT taking all the limelight. On display was the Arocs 4163 SLT 4-axle tractor unit for heavyduty construction type operations. Everything else Mercedes-Benz or Fuso Trucks was there too from Citan, Vito, Sprinter, Canter, Atego and Actros plus 34 vehicles lined-up in the outside exhibition area adjacent to Hall 5, where its indoor exhibits were staged.

Renault Trucks With no direct involvement with European Truck Racing, it was back to the bread and butter stuff for Renault Trucks. On their fi rst appearance at the NEC for many years, the French brand had reason to show-off . Starting at the top the flagship model, the Range T showed its futuristic design in the best light ….. and colours! Examples of the Range K & C construction line-up were also present as well as the revamped distribution models.

MAN Truck & Bus Elsewhere in this edition, MAN Trucks’ full line-up of Euro 6 trucks is featured in our cover story. Here too, Euro 6 was to the fore. The big focus was on its efforts to reduce Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and operation. Alongside, was a comprehensive line-up of its complete range of vehicles covering the key weight ranges and varying applications. MAN Truck & Bus is now under control of the VW Group as is sister brand Scania.

CV Show, NEC Birmingham C

Iveco A lot of speculation relating to whether Iveco's all-new generation three Daily range would make its world premiere here. But it didn’t! Well, not in Hall 4, but at a special lunch to 300 invited guests.

Visitors had to be satisfied with latest versions of existing models from the Stralis, Trakker (plus Dakar Rally version) and Eurocargo, now all with Euro 6 powertrains that use SCR-only technology to regulate exhaust emissions. The new Daily panel van and light truck will be launched later this year, sporting a futuristic new look both inside and out.

Isuzu Trucks Euro 6 was very much the theme at the Isuzu truck stand. Two versions of its new lighter N75.150 7.5 tonner with two power options, the 5.2 litre 190PS and 3.0 litre 150PS were premiered. Assembled near Verona in Italy, the 150PS variant is 200kg lighter than the N75.190 in Euro 5 guise and caters for longer and faster average speed journeys, while the 150PS is ideal for payload critical, stop-start, local distribution operators.

Zepro “Installation of our revised f lat platform retractable lift is now more flexible,” stated Des Farrell, representing Zepro UK, the Irish owned arm of the tail-lift provider within the TSS Group.

Des also mentioned the new ZHD-300-155, its new heavy-duty cantilever, which requires minimal maintenance. Also on display was the new improved tuck-away lift with a new style mounting system.

www.fleet.ie

26 | REVIEW 1

Continental Tyres Conti EcoPlus and Conti Hybrid are the fi rst new products from Continental Tyre’s goods vehicles range, with the former providing ‘class leading’ fuel saving performance and coming from the ‘A-Label’ for fuel efficiency and retreadability.

Conti Hybrid is a new regional tyre, designed to cope with long-distance runs with stop-start urban driving. Improved mileage performance was a priority here too. Continental’s sponsorship of the Brazil World Cup was strongly branded.

Goodyear With total cost of ownership top of the agenda at transport companies, Goodyear acknowledges that fuel-efficient tyres are much in demand and believe that its FuelMax tyre can offer savings to fleet operators. Its KMax range, launched at the same time as the FuelMax last September was developed for improved mileage performance without compromising on fuel efficiency and traction.

Michelin Solutions Welcome to ‘Effi fuel’ by Michelin Solutions – a new product from the division recently established by the French tyre brand. According to Paul Davey, Commercial Director at Michelin Solutions, Effi fuel brings together a range of fuel-saving levels to help transport operators to reduce their fuel consumption over a targeted period within four years. Michelin Solutions, working with selected partners that will provide eco-driver training, on board telematics and tyre management will reach that goal.

Riken Tyres A new mid-range tyre product was presented from Michelin. Branded Riken, it is developed for the truck, bus and coach sectors. Already, popular in France, Germany, Spain and throughout Eastern Europe, the range includes two primary applications; Extengo, for long and short journeys and Gripstar for combined use on-and off road for construction applications. All Riken tyres are made in Europe and developed to suit our climate and road conditions.

Continental VDO Under its VDO brand, Continental has supplied a range of digital tachographs, each version providing additional information for f leet operators, ensuring the most benefit can be generated. Forensic Analysis is now also offered as Product Manager, Peter Needham explains, “We now have the option to download Special File (S-File) data out of the unit when the vehicle is in a collision. Th is information is vital for accident analysis.“

Jost An interesting highly efficient airflow system called SDR was presented by Jost. Th is patented SDR aerodynamic roof diffuser reduces air turbulence at the rear of the vehicle by more than 50%. The SDR can be installed easily on the rear frame of a truck body, trailer or semi-trailer. “The initial cost of the SDR roof diff user is recovered after only a few months, as it creates less air swirl and air resistance, resulting in substantial fuel savings of up to 4%,” stated Jost UK Sales Director, Michael Johnson.

Stoneridge “Save both time and money with our tachograph solutions,” stated Victoria Tramma, Marketing & Central Sales Manager at Stoneridge in introducing the brand new SE5000 Exakt Duo2 digital tachograph. Apart from the existing benefits as the One Minute Rules and real-time updates on drive and rest times, the latest product also has an improved Period of Availability (POA) setting, while distribution truck operators can calculate Working Time Directive (WTD) elements.

Thermo King Showcased on the Thermo King stand were the latest SLXe Whisper Pro Trailer refrigeration units and new generation CryoTech units for both truck and trailer. Available in single and multitemp versions, both solutions are PIEK-certified, delivering quiet operation, uncompromised performance and low environmental impact.

Increasing demands on reducing noise, emissions and shifting deliveries outside of peak traffic hours has led to these innovative developments.

Tranzaura and TachPro Tranzaura, which develops and markets tachograph analysis soft ware and electronic defect reporting systems has partnered with TachPro, one of the biggest suppliers of driver, vehicle, and tachograph technology to offer UK fleet operators Tranzaura’s Tranz-Safety realtime defect reporting system. With the alliance, Mike Price of Tranzaura (pictured with Douglas Higgins, left) aims to make TranzSafety the number 1 defect reporting system in the UK.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

REVIEW I | 27

Harris Hino The Harris Group (Dublin) is a regular exhibitor at the CV Show promoting Hino, the heavy truck division of Toyota. Last year, Hino produced 130,000 trucks for global markets. At the show, there were three versions of the 300 Series 7.5 tonne chassis/cab (which is the lightest in its class). Also there was its best seller, the 32 tonne/4-axle 700 Series tipper, which is also available in tractor-unit form. One of the big advantages with the Harris Hino service is that trucks ordered can be supplied very quickly.

Fuller Tanks/VanHool Regular exhibitors at the CV Show, Fuller Tanks had major news to announce with its appointment as sole UK & Ireland representatives for the renowned VanHool range of tankers and trailers.

Headquartered in Belgium, VanHool is also an independent manufacturer of buses and coaches and offers an extensive range of high quality semi-trailers, specialising in the transportation of foodstuff s, chemicals, gases, bitumen, etc.

Examples of same were on display.

SDC Trailers SDC had a presence at both the CV Show and the Multimodal event located next door with a total of 11 trailers from their vast portfolio of box vans, curtainsiders, tippers, skeletals, platforms, urban and extended length trailers. Particular interest centered on its new Curtainsiders and its innovative Autoliner Car Transporter which was placed outside the NEC Centre. Other stands had SDC products displaying their wares. SDC has production facilities in Ireland and England.

Brit European As one of the leading operators of dual-fuel (Natural Gas – CNG) trucks, Brit European exhibited at the CV Show as part of its 90 th anniversary celebrations. It showcased the many partners involved that increase the Crewe, Cheshire, company’s efficiencies such as Microlise (telematics), Shell (fuel), Pirelli (tyres), H&H (linings and hoses), SDC Trailers and MercedesBenz Truck dealer, Enza Motors, which provide its CNG powered trucks.

Manitou Manitou was one of the Show exhibitors to hold a Press Conference on the eve of the event. There we were informed that the French company posted a €1.2 billion turnover through its various brands covering Industrial, Agri and Construction sectors. Launched was the TMM, its new truck mounted masted forklift that is lightweight and available as a 4-way version. Eamonn Bolger heads up sales here.

Telogis Gergio Barata, General Manager, EMEA Teleguis explained at the Press gathering that the US company specializes in providing GeoBase geospatial platforms. In other words intelligent integration of location technology, information and services. Telogis Appointment is its latest development to aid express couriers with e-commerce demands. Appointment is part of the Telogis Planning Suite.

ABS Burton Mat Summerfield’s gleaming MAN TGS racing truck took pride of place at ABS Burton’s stand.

Based in Walsall, ABS supplies trailer and truck parts, braking systems and suspension components. Pictured right is Mat Summerfield with Paul Worldridge, Fuchs Lubricants, one of his other sponsors, as he challenges for yet another British Truck Racing Championship title.

Petro-Canada Lubricants Supplying primarily to the trade, Petro-Canada Europe Lubricants Ltd is making in-roads in this ultra-competitive industry. The Irish market is covered through its Northern Ireland dealer Lubricants Distribution. Petro-Canada prides itself in going beyond today’s standards in that its lubricants are made from 99.9% pure base oil. Th is helps customers optimize performance, productivity and profit. Pictured are Scott Wainwright and Herman Conraidie.

Shell One of the most interesting presentations at the pre-event Press Conferences was from Shell which outlined fi ndings from a recent customer survey. Its Fuel Matters 2014 study found that 67% single out improving their drivers fuel efficient skills as the most effective way to reduce fuel consumption. However, 46% fell powerless to capitalize due to lack of resources in personnel, funds and information.

www.fleet.ie

28 | REVIEW 1

Hankook Tyre Solutions is what Hankook offered here highlighting its ‘alphatread’ Bead-toBead Retread range and Smartflex, its new All Season Truck Tyre range for various road conditions. Also presented was e-cube MAX truck tyres and TH22 trailer-tyres with Varta LT, its light truck product. Hankook’s 24 hour breakdown service Road Assist 24h launched in 2012 has been further enhanced.

Valeo Supplying original equipment spare parts to trucks, coaches, buses, agricultural vehicles and light commercials, Valeo develops innovative products and systems that contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions and towards intuitive driving. Last year the Group generated sales of €12.1 billion and invested 10% in R+D. One of its car division, Valeo Vision Systems has a manufacturing plant in Tuam, County Galway.

GT Radial GSR225, the latest generation steer axle from GT Radial made its European debut. Designed to perform in both regional and long haul operations. Also on show for the fi rst time was the new GDR690 GT REETread, a regional drive axle tyre, and the new GAM831, an all position tyre for mixed service applications while the GAU861, is its urban bus tyre.

CV Show, NEC Birmingham C

Aeolus Tyres Th is Chinese tyre manufacturer had one of the more impressive stands in Birmingham.

Distributed in the UK through Kings Road Tyres, Aeolus offers a full range of steer, drive and trailer tyres in all sizes. Describing its products as premium budget, it counts the Royal Mail amongst its customers.

Alfatronix / Ashfield Communications Wicklow based Ashfield Communications is Irish agent for Alfatronix, a manufacturer of power converter, 24v power supply and DC power supplies including the new PowerTector range of programmable low voltage disconnects. Robin Heather from Ashfield Communications and Claire Phillips from Alfatronix were on stand.

TomTom Telematics New hardware on display on the TomTom stand where the telematics and navigation specialists showed the new Pro 82 series device. The Android based device has a ruggedised 7” display and features a host of built in applications including signature capture, split screen capabilities and of course access to TomTom’s extensive range of 3rd party apps.

CV Show, NEC Birmingham C

GreenChem The launch of more frugal and cleaner Euro 6 engines is good news for AdBlue suppliers such as GreenChem, with a likely increase in volumes with the introduction of AdBlue into vans, mini-buses and cars. So, more business than usual then!

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

BPW Much more than just an axle manufacturer, these days, among the products being showcased on BPW’s stand was the ECO Air tank manufactured with reinforced fibre glass plastic saving up to 60% in weight. Also featured was the ECO AIR COMPACT, a new suspension system, while landing legs, panel doors and aluminium wheels were also on display.

Terberg DTS Two interesting new products from Terberg DTS (UK) with the RT403 4x4 RoRo shunter tractor and Kinglifter truck mounted forklift making their debuts. Designed for heavy-duty port and industrial applications the new tractor-unit features Mercedes-Benz and ZF transmission drivetrain that delivers more power, more torque with less fuel usage. Meanwhile the latest Kinglifter truck mounted forklift is light and versatile and fits all popular makes of trailer.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney & Cathal Doyle

McElvaney Motors Just some of McElvaney Motors Deals Done in 2014. More to follow....

Congratulations to all of our customers on the t purchase purc of their new Scania trucks!

For further details of Deals Done to o Date, check out www.McElvaneyMotors.com McElvaney Motors Exit 5, M50 0 North Rd, Finglas, Dublin 11 | T: 01 836 1044 Dublin Road, Monaghan | T: 047 81596 | sales@McElvaney.com

30 | FUEL PRICES (WEEK 18) / SAFETY MATTERS Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Country

Currency

95 Lead Free

98 Lead Free

Diesel

Albania

ALL

199.00

-

188.00

Lithuania

LTL

4.66

4.76

4.50

Andorra

EUR

1.249

1.307

1.135

Luxemburg

EUR

1.339

1.391

1.198

Austria

EUR

1.359

1.490

1.316

Macedonia

MKD

79.50

81.00

67.00

Belarus

EUR

0.692

-

0.700

Moldova

MDL

18.47

18.87

17.67

Belgium

EUR

1.642

1.695

1.451

Montenegro

EUR

1.370

1.400

1.270

Bosnia-Herzegovina

BAM

2.35

2.50

2.40

Netherlands

EUR

1.821

1.889

1.499

Bulgaria

BGN

2.52

2.70

2.56

Norway

NOK

15.73

16.48

14.39

Croatia

HRK

10.74

-

9.94

Poland

PLN

5.37

5.64

5.34

Czech Republic

CZK

35.50

-

35.43

Portugal

EUR

1.621

1.738

1.385

Denmark

DKK

12.15

12.55

10.67

Romania

RON

6.26

6.80

6.28

Estonia

EUR

1.309

1.349

1.289

Russia

RUB

34.00

-

33.95

Finland

EUR

1.663

1.667

1.499

Serbia

RSD

150.90

-

153.90

France

EUR

1.549

1.594

1.339

Slovakia

EUR

1.442

-

1.338

Georgia

GEL

2.15

2.22

2.17

Slovenia

EUR

1.477

1.504

1.366

Germany

EUR

1.538

1.636

1.385

Spain

EUR

1.418

1.539

1.331

Greece

EUR

1.665

1.817

1.334

Sweden

SEK

14.73

15.23

14.57

Hungary

HUF

417.00

-

434.00

Switzerland

CHF

1.759

1.812

1.850

Ireland

EUR

1.559

-

1.479

Turkey

TRY

5.05

5.05

4.36

Italy

EUR

1.787

-

1.678

Ukraine

UAH

15.00

15.60

15.00

Kosovo

EUR

1.20

-

1.19

UK

GBP

1.297

1.389

1.362

Latvia

EUR

1.295

1.337

1.269

USA

USD

-

-

1.049

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Falls from vehicles Forklift Pre-Checks Forklift Safety Pedestrian Safety Reversing Safety

Falls from vehicles, even from a relatively low height can result in serious injuries, yet most falls are easily preventable. The majority of falls from vehicles occur whilst people are: • Accessing or egressing the vehicle • Working at height on the vehicle or load platform.

Forklifts can be dangerous: they account for 25% of injuries at work. Many workplace accidents involve people being hit or run over by forklift trucks (typically when the forklift is reversing) because the driver did not see them. Owing to their size and

weight, injuries resulting from forklifts are generally very serious. Accidents involving them are often caused by poor supervision and a lack of training.

Pedestrians can be exposed to potential harm in their own workplaces from vehicle movements, falling objects, or slips, trips and falls. Particular attention should be paid to visitors and visiting workers, e.g. delivery drivers, who are unfamiliar with workplace operations. It is very important that visitors are supervised and controlled from the time they enter a workplace to the time they leave.

In Ireland, a recent analysis of fatal accident statistics showed that reversing activities were involved in 11% of all fatal workplace transport accidents. Reversing incidents that do not result in injury can result in costly damage to vehicles, plant, equipment and premises. Most of these incidents can be avoided by taking simple safety precautions.

These videos and other FREE resources can also be accessed via the HSA’s Work Related Vehicle Safety land page: htt p://www.vehiclesatwork.ie

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32 | HEALTH MATTERS

Obesity – “He dug his grave with his teeth”

O

besity – a condition not a disease – is the nemesis of the long distance professional driver. A person is defi ned as being obese if his/ her Body Mass Index (BMI) is 30kg/m2 or more. The BMI is a figure which relates the person’s weight to their height and the normal is 20 to 25.

is a living tissue, which requires a blood supply to keep it alive.

Th is entails the laying down of literally miles of arteries and veins and is a major burden on the heart, which has to pump blood through these extra vessels. Th is extra work increases the blood pressure, and the heart muscle enlarges. This will eventually lead to heart failure.

The World Health Organisation has deemed obesity to be a national crisis in the United States, as it affects about 30% of the population. Sedentary stressful jobs tend to produce obese individuals, and professional drivers are at high risk for this condition, which basically results from an imbalance between the amount of food consumed and the (too litt le) exercise to burn it off .

The pancreas, as well as being compressed, also works harder.

Very often it too will fail and result in the development of Type 2 Diabetes. Th is is another minefield, which when neglected leads to further deterioration of

Th is usually comes down to lifestyle behaviour and working environment. Many professional drivers are constantly under time pressure, and life tends to be that of minimal exercise and quick meals at truck stops. For these drivers, fast food seems to be the only option, and there has been found to be a link between fast food and obesity.

It has been found that the life expectancy of a truck driver in the United States is only 61 years, compared with the average life expectancy of 78 years, a loss of seventeen years of life. Th is figure takes into account the fact that 50% of truck drivers were overweight or obese. It follows therefore, that diseases resulting from obesity are causing this loss of living years. These diseases are mainly diseases of the heart and circulation, followed closely by diabetes, osteoarthritis, gallbladder problems, sleep apnoea, depression and skin problems.

As well as reducing their own lifespan, severely obese long distance drivers were more likely to be involved in a crash than drivers with a normal BMI. Although the crashes were minor, the survey also found that a minor crash predicted more serious crashes later.

Excess fat is bulky and has to be stored somewhere. In males it is usually stored in the abdominal cavity, where it displaces the heart, pancreas and other internal organs. As well as causing mechanical pressure on these organs, fat

health.

The sheer mechanics of the load on weight bearing joints is interesting. In the hip and knee, joint forces are 1.5 times body weight when walking on level ground. Th is means that when a person who weighs 12 stone is walking along a path, the forces on his joints are the same as that of an 18 stone person standing still.

Other activities place greater forces on the joints – gett ing up off a chair increases the force to 2 or 3 times the body weight, as does going up or down the stairs and this increases with running or jumping to 4 or 5 times body weight.

The extra burden of weight leads to wearing away of the joints, and as the bones rub against each other they result in pain and arthritis.

Th is in turn leads to inactivity, which prevents further exercise, leading to a sedentary lifestyle and further weight gain. Individuals do not become obese overnight and equally will not become slender rapidly. Diet and exercise need to be addressed, and a long-term plan together with a medical check up is essential.

A gradual approach to weight loss is possible for everyone, and is sustainable in the long run. For those who are overweight, why not target one or two fattening items in your diet, which are unnecessary, i.e. butter and sugar, and cut them out. Th ink of it as a prolonged period of Lent, and weigh yourself after six weeks – you might be pleasantly surprised.

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FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

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REPORT IV | 33

Fleetmatics - REVEALing the future of telematics

S

tanding out from the crowd in an increasingly busy telematics sector isn’t easy, but for one Irishturned-global company, it’s a challenge to be met head-on. Fleetmatics, the leading provider of mobile workforce solutions for service-based businesses has just launched a new suite of soft ware-as-aservice (SaaS) products that the company believes will become a must have for businesses looking to effectively manage their fleets.

The SaaS business model, whereby soft ware and associated data is centrally hosted on the cloud and can be accessed from any computer, or via tablets and smart phones is rapidly increasing in popularity. Rather than having to physically install proprietary soft ware on customer systems, the SaaS model allows for easy set-up and return on investment.

Fleetmatics’ SaaS model also allows the company to collect and analyse high-value data points from across its customer base.

Using this data it can then benchmark against historical data and see how the customer is comparing against similar businesses. To date over 52 billion data points have been gathered by Fleetmatics, ensuring high quality benchmarking analysis.

The three new products now launched

by Fleetmatics are designed to provide vehicle tracking solutions for all sizes of companies, from those with a couple of vehicles right up to large corporations with fleets of thousands.

Fleetmatics REVEAL is a GPS vehicle tracking solution designed for smaller fleets.

As well as basic tracking it also monitors driver behaviour and measures workforce productivity.

For larger f leets with a mobile workforce Fleetmatics REVEAL+ can handle complex organisational structures and large numbers of users, and can offer an open API for easy integration with existing back-office systems.

The third new product, Fleetmatics WORK is a mobile field service management solution designed to manage customers, jobs, schedules, invoices and fieldworkers. It integrates with Fleetmatics REVEAL to provide additional insight into workforce productivity, while the mobile app lets field workers see and manage full job details when out of the office.

The new products contain a number of new and unique features to aid fleet managers achieve greater efficiencies. These include Places; using easily created and categorised geofences or location points, customers can enhance driving tracking capabilities. Additionally in an industry

fi rst, through a patented “hot spot” algorithm, the soft ware can suggest corrections to geofences based on customer driving activity.

Another feature allows alerts to be easily tailored so that users only see ones that are relevant for them.

Another feature is Timeline, offering a visual, interactive representation of vehicle activity.

Customers can scan activity for multiple vehicles at a time, identifying exceptions such as late starts, early fi nishes, long idles or long stops and drill directly down to the incident details. The level of interactivity and drill down capabilities of this feature sets a new standard for the industry.

The new products are fully smartphone compatible with apps available for Android and iPhone as well as a tailored iPad version.

Recognising that the best way to save money on fleets is through more productive drivers, REVEAL allows the flexibility to organise the account and vehicle insight by either vehicle or driver. Th is is especially useful in fleets where drivers are constantly moving between different vehicles.

REVEAL also allows fleet managers to directly translate vehicle performance data into operational costs, making it easy to identify where savings or efficiencies need to be made.

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie www.fleet.ie

Headquartered in Dublin, but now a fully international operation with offices in Boston, Reading and Australia, Fleetmatics is also operational in Mexico, Canada and the Netherlands. With over 600 employees and publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange, it is an Irish success story, as demonstrated by the ground-breaking new features on its new REVEAL products. Fleetmatics has recorded back to back Best Innovation Award wins in the annual Fleet Transport Awards in 2013 and 2014.

34 | FEATURE

Complete Fleet Solution from Maxol Lubricants

E

fficiency is paramount in the haulage sector and across the road transport industry in general. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are constantly investing in new technologies and methods to improve fuel economy and overall performance.

Free On-site Fleet Survey: Maxol Lubricants offer a free On-site Fleet Survey Service throughout Ireland's 32 counties. A member of the team will survey your site, discuss your business requirements and advise on the best products for you specific fleet. To arrange your free On-site Fleet Survey call Maxol Lubricants today on +353 (0) 1 806 0300.

Behind the scenes Maxol Lubricants is anticipating and reacting to these developments, supplying fully approved engine oils designed for today’s and tomorrow’s vehicles. The new range of Maxol Turbosynth LSP Plus (TLSPP) engine oils is the complete solution for mixed fleets, according to Owen O’Neill, General Manager, Maxol Lubricants. “Th is range of dedicated HGV engine oils come fully approved by leading OEMs including Volvo Trucks, Renault Trucks and MAN Trucks and are developed for use in Euro IV, Euro V and Euro VI engines,” he explained. “Oil made easy is our goal at Maxol Lubricants and we strive to help our customers fi nd the best products for their individual needs. The Turbosynth LSP Plus range covers such a broad range of vehicle makes and models that it can in essence service an entire mixed fleet. For hauliers and other HGV operators this means less product requirements, less margin for error and more results,” added Owen.

Benefits of Maxol Turbosynth LSP Plus: The TLSPP range has been specifically developed for heavy duty diesel engines operating under the toughest conditions all year round. These oils have been formulated for use in Euro IV, Euro V, and Euro VI engines in combination with diesel fuel with a low sulphur content. Maxol TLSPP oils are low SAPS and suitable for all engine types with or without particle fi lters and exhaust catalysts.

• • • •

Chris Haynes (right) congratulates Owen O’Neill (left) on the 100th Smart System delivered into the Irish Market.

Dixon International and Maxol

Fully approved by leading OEMs Developed for Euro IV, Euro V & Euro VI Engines Specially engineered for mixed fleets Available in 5L, 20L, 200L, 1000L and Bulk

The Smart Choice for AdBlue Since 2005 Maxol Lubricants has been GreenChem’s sole Irish distributor of AdBlue, the exhaust emission after treatment that’s used for Selective Catalytic Recirculation (SCR) systems for Euro IV – Euro VI engines.

As one of Europe’s leading producers of AdBlue, GreenChem is fully certified and well recognised across the Continent. Like Maxol, GreenChem is keeping abreast of the industry and bringing new and innovative solutions to market.

The AdBlue Smart One by GreenChem is designed to streamline your AdBlue management. Supplied, fitted and managed by Maxol Lubricants the Smart One is the ideal solution for any fleet. Th is unit is installed on-site and has a storage capacity of 2,900 litres. It comes complete with a submergible pump, 6 metre length hose and a built-in tank telemetry system so Maxol Lubricants can monitor the levels on behalf of its customers and refi ll the tank to ensure it doesn’t run dry. With more commercial vehicles using the SCR system from vans to trucks to buses and with the advent of Euro VI engine emissions regulations, a constant and consistent supply of quality approved AdBlue is imperative.

Commenting on the Smart One, Chris Haynes, Managing Director, GreenChem said: “The Smart One is an all-inclusive solution for any fleet. It has been well received in the Irish market and combined with the excellent service offered by the Maxol Lubricants Team we are confident that customers won’t look back to the old way of IBCs once they make the switch.”

Th is GreenChem product is an affordable, accessible and reliable way to store and pump AdBlue. GreenChem Smart systems can be equipped with a built-in heating system, a smart locking device and can also be connected to your existing fuel management system.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Dixon International is one of the leading logistics and distribution companies in Ireland and one of Maxol Lubricants’ long standing customers. Running a mixed fleet of Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Scania and DAF Trucks, the Swords, County Dublin based company has over the last three years won the Fleet Transport International Haulier of the Year and the Irish Haulier of the Year 2014 title. Michael Dixon, Managing Director, Dixon International recently spoke about his experiences with Maxol Lubricants: “Maxol has supplied lubricants and AdBlue for our trucks for some years now. We currently have 109 trucks delivering across Ireland and Europe and we trust Maxol to advise on the best products for our fleet. They take the hassle out of our lubricant and AdBlue requirements allowing us to focus on other aspects of the business. We have been very impressed with their product range and customer services and would defi nitely recommend Maxol as supplier to any haulage fi rm”.

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36 | REVIEW II

FPS Expo 2014

O

nce again the Yorkshire Dales’ town of Harrogate played host to the annual Federation of Petroleum Suppliers (FPS) Expo, the showcase for the oil distribution industries in the UK and Ireland. Three of the main halls at the HIC (Harrogate International Centre) were fi lled with many new exhibitors alongside well-established regulars. At this year’s show, organisers FPS launched its new training programmes for tanker drivers which sees it offering a complete ‘one stop shop’ driver training service.

of industry professionals and saw Alex Longman of NWF Fuels, Bangor in Wales win the coveted Driver of the Year Award sponsored by FPS Insurance Manager, OAMPS Petrochemical. The Depot of The Year Award was won by Kinmel Bay a Certas Energy UK Ltd depot. “In 2014/15 the FPS also hopes to work more closely with oil distributors in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and I am pleased to see the appointment of Nick Hayes, our new FPS Ireland representative,” stated Mark at the function held at Harrogate’s Royal Hall.

“The FPS now offers all the training tanker drivers need, including CPC, ADR and PDP training, making it easier and more cost effective for oil distribution companies to ensure their drivers are trained to the highest standard and continue to drive in the safest possible way,” commented FPS Marketing and Events Manager, Dawn Shakespeare.

Planning has now begun for the 35th FPS EXPO which will again be held at the Harrogate International Centre on 22 & 23 April 2015.

are pleased with the feedback we have received from visitors and exhibitors. Th is event is highly regarded both within and outside the industry, and we were pleased to record an increase in both exhibitor and visitor numbers for FPS EXPO 2014 and we hope to build on this in 2015 and 2016.”

As per every year Fleet Transport made the trip over to meet and greet the Irish exhibitors and others. Plans are afoot to host a similar event in Ireland soon.

The show ended with the glittering FPS Awards Dinner where FPS President Mark Nolan of Nolan Fuel Oils addressed a packed audience

On the success of the show Dawn added: “We

Herbst Soft ware Killian Kirrane and Sean Fitzgerald were on hand once again to advise customers on what Herbst has to offer relating to fully integrated management and accounting solutions for the oil distribution business. “If you have been using the same soft ware system for the last five years, its time to change,” said Killian.

Envirostore UK Tank specialist Envirostore is another Irish owned company that has expanded across the Irish Sea, offering many types of storage tanks for every customer including bespoke designed products. Among the new products on exhibit were AdBlue tanks, which will be in more demand with Euro 6 engine emission legislation spreading to vans and cars.

Brunel Promotions Mike and Sue Tyack had a fine array of promotional products for companies to target new (and existing) customers. Visitors to the show were presented with samples of their wares. “You name it, Brunel can supply it. Promoting your business 365 days – that’s the motto!”

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Scania

DAF Trucks

MAN Trucks

T r u c k M a nu fa c t u r e r s ex h i b i t i ng:

REVIEW II | 37

Harrogate International Centre - 9/10 April Nationwide Transport Breakdown Services Ltd (NTBS) Aaran Smith and Stuart Brown represented the 27 year old company that provides a breakdown service second-to-none across the UK and Ireland.

NTBS, which has many Irish customers, operates a true Pay on Use service from its Control Centre in Manchester which is manned 24/7. Agents in Ireland provide back-up over here.

FPS R ECRU ITS REPRESENTATIVE

IRELAND

FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers) the trade association for the oil distribution industry across the UK & Republic of Ireland has just appointed Nicholas Hayes to the position of FPS Ireland Representative.

Road Tankers Northern/Lakeland Road Tankers Northern is a multiple winner of the FPS Tank Builder of the Year with a solid portfolio of industry proven rigid tank designs.

The Barnsley based company is in collaboration with a UK University to develop a new advanced design Aluminium Rigid Road Tanker that is currently on field trials.

Reynolds Logistics Leading fuel and lubricant distributors across Ireland and the UK, Reynolds Logistics has invested in a number of new tanker trailers supplied by Magyar, Road Tankers Northern and LAG, like the one on display alongside company representatives, John Clarke and Mark Owen.

Nick’s appointment means that the FPS now has a dedicated representative and office in Ireland to meet the growing needs of the FPS membership both at Local and Government level across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Valero With sites across the UK and Ireland Valero is one of the world’s largest independent refi ners and marketers of fi nished oil products. At stand B29 representatives present explained about how the fi rm’s supply network can support customers reliably and at competitive prices.

Tokheim Ireland For over 30 years Tokheim is a top provider of dedicated retail, commercial and fleet fuelling solutions. “Our breadth on offer aims to give you choice, this consists of four core elements, Dispensers, Systems, Service and Construction,” explained Clive Leadbitter, Commercial Business Development Manager.

Nick is a past-President of the FPS and long standing industry professional having run his own oil distribution business for over 26 years and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and industry contacts. Nick’s aim will be to be the voice of FPS members in Ireland with Government Agencies and other bodies and he also hopes to increase the FPS membership.

He will over the next few months be meeting with all the FPS members in Ireland to gain a further insight into their issues and concerns and will be helping to organise dedicated FPS events in Ireland.

Volvo Trucks

Mercedes-Benz

FPS Chief Executive Mark Askew commented on the appointment: “Nick’s appointment is key to the FPS work we undertake across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The FPS has established relationships with many Government bodies providing its members with a collective voice for the industry at national levels by advising on how best to meet increasing enforcement of legislation, lobbying to find solutions to problematic regulations, encouraging members to take a positive approach towards regulations applicable to the industry, improving the reputation and standing of members, strengthening market support, and offering services to assist members in optimising their business efficiencies and promotes best practice.”

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

“Nick together with myself will help build on many of these initiatives and also introduce many more. With Nick’s appointment the FPS hopes to have a bigger voice and more presence in the country.” www.fleet.ie

38 | AWARDS

FLEET TRANSPORT AWARDS Irish Haulier of the Year 2015 The leading Awards Programme for the Irish Road Transport and Haulage Industry

Rotterdam came to Dublin

Fleet Transport, in association with Rosslare Europort, is delighted to announce the launch of its 2015 Awards programme. Ireland's largest Awards event for the transport sector promises to be even bigger and better in 2015, with 16 qualifying categories covering every aspect of the industry. If you are a Road Transport Operator in Ireland, however big or small, entering the Fleet Transport Awards is the ultimate way to increase recognition of, and gain a higher profile for your company. The simplest way to enter the awards is online at www.fleet.ie. Alternatively a hardcopy application can be downloaded from www.fleet.ie.

The Fleet Transport Awards 2015, celebrating excellence in the road transport industry, will take place on Thursday 2 October 2014 at Citywest Hotel, Dublin. In addition to numerous awards recognising all areas of the industry, the ‘Irish Haulier of the Year 2015’ and the ‘Irish Truck of the Year 2015’ awards will be presented at this national event, bringing together commercial vehicle brand distributors and road transport operators operating the length and breadth of Ireland.

Over the years, the Fleet Transport Awards have been widely supported by the industry, not just from the leading operators in the country but also from small relatively unknown firms, demonstrating that companies of all types and sizes are recognised and awarded. Whether you operate or manage a large, medium or small sized company your application will be welcomed. This is the only awards programme that is truly supported by the whole transport industry.

Why Enter?

Winning an award will have a direct commercial impact on your business by not only retaining existing clients, but also in securing new business.

In the current economic climate it is more important than ever to differentiate your company from the competition and a Fleet Transport Award is an independent stamp of approval, which is highly valued by customers.

Entering the awards is also the best way to demonstrate your company’s commitment to the specific area of the road transport industry in which you operate and to be associated with management excellence and best practice. Companies that reach the finalist stage will gain extensive recognition and profile building opportunities during 2015 and beyond through Ireland’s leading commercial vehicle magazine, Fleet Transport.

This year, as an added bonus on the publicity front, the awards event will be televised and featured on SKY in UK & Ireland, which has a potential audience of 14 million viewers.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

AWARDS | 39 What category can my company enter?

• • • • • • • •

National Haulier of the Year International Haulier of the Year Own Account Transport Operator of the Year Owner Driver Haulier of the Year Regional Transport Operator of the Year Best Van Fleet Award Livery of the Year Safety Award

• • • • • • • •

Innovation Award Environment Award Customer Service Excellence Award Women in Transport Award Pallet Network Member of the Year Fleet/Transport Manager of the Year Technician of the Year Services to the Transport Industry Award

You may enter as many of the following categories as you wish. A full description of each category is included on the attached Application Form.

The overall title of Irish Haulier of the Year 2015, sponsored by Rosslare Europort, will be selected from one of the category winners.

What do I need to do now? ……….. 3 simple steps!

There are 3 simple steps in the entire process to complete your submission.

STEP 1 - Enter online The easiest way to enter is online at www.fleet.ie which takes approximately 5 mins. Alternatively complete the attached form.

STEP 2 - Submission After receipt of your entry form you will receive a number of questions related to the category/categories, which your company has entered. All information submitted as part of this process is handled in the strictest confidence and is protected under the Data Protection Act. STEP 3 - Important dates for your diary Please reserve the following dates in your diary now: • 3 and 4 September - Interviews - Finalists will be announced in August and the precise date and time of interview confirmed • 2 October - Fleet Transport Awards Questions? iI you would like to discus any aspect of the process please contact our Awards Team at: E-mail: awards@fleet.ie or Tel: 094 93 72819.

Entry Form Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Position: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Company Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Company Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Telephone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mobile: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. of Vehicles: . . . . . . . .

Category Entering - please tick boxes National Haulier of the Year International Haulier of the Year Own Account Transport Operator of the Year Owner Driver Haulier of the Year Regional Transport Operator of the Year Best Van Fleet Award Livery of the Year Safety Award

Innovation Award Environment Award Customer Service Excellence Award Women in Transport Award Pallet Network Member of the Year Fleet/Transport Manager of the Year Technician of the Year Services to the Transport Industry

‘I have read and understood the terms and conditions of entering the Fleet Transport Awards 2015’.

Signature: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Please send completed Entry Form plus additional material by Friday 27 June 2014 to Competition Secretary, Fleet Transport Awards 2015, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo. Alternatively it is much simpler and quicker to enter online at www.fleet.ie.

Tel: 094 93 72819 Fax: 094 93 73571 Email: awards@fleet.ie Terms & Conditions: • • • • • • • • •

Any licensed Haulier or Own Account Transport Operator is eligible to enter in the Fleet Transport Awards 2015, established to honour excellence in operation or services to the transport industry.

Entries must be received by 27 June 2014 and will not be returned. There is no entry fee.

All entries will be treated in strict confidence and are judged by a panel of experts from the industry.

Confirmation of receipt of entries will be sent out to all applicants.

The completed entry form can be accompanied by a 1000 word document outlining further details on your company and its operations. Photographs and customer testimonials can be included.

The finalists will be published in the September edition of Fleet Transport Magazine.

Shortlisted candidates will be called for interviews on Wednesday 3 September and Thursday 4 September. A five minute video or Powerpoint presentation, although not essential, will be welcomed on the day of the interview.

Presentation of the Awards will take place on Thursday 2 October 2014 at an Awards Gala Dinner at Citywest Hotel, Dublin.

The decision of the Adjudication Panel is final and no correspondence will be entered into afterwards.

www.fleet.ie

40 | MATERIALS HANDLING

Buying a Forklift?

(Part 1)

Don’t just look at the price, it's ‘whole life’ cost that matters!

Overview Deciding on the power source, fi nancing, new versus used, and whether to own or rent are just some of the considerations. Many buyers are tempted to select a lift truck solely based on its price, but without determining ownership costs over the truck’s life, many companies end up paying much more than the initial investment. If you have been using forklift s for several years then it is somewhat easier, as your drivers can provide information about what the working environment requires and you will have some knowledge of operating costs. If you’re in start-up or expansion mode it can be more complex.

Internal Combustion or Electric Understanding the differences between electric and engine powered (IC – Internal Combustion) forklifts is a good starting point. Electric lift trucks are primarily suited to indoor use in warehouse applications because they do not emit fumes. 3-wheel Electric counterbalance and reach trucks have good manoeuvrability and can work in smaller aisles than 4-wheeltrucks, allowing for more storage capacity. Outdoor lift trucks normally use diesel or gas (LPG) and are also typically equipped with pneumatic tires, which are more suitable to uneven outdoor surfaces, than cushion or semi-solid tyres. In the past, electric trucks were not capable of performing as well as engine trucks but the gap between the two types has narrowed significantly.

Reliability of the electrical components and the introduction of DC drives has added to their popularity.

Linde Reach: Electric Reach trucks are typically used in warehouse racking systems in aisle widths of 2.5m – 2.7m

W

ith so many forklift s available in the market, it can be very time consuming to sift through the information and make the right purchasing decision. However understanding which lift truck is right for you can save your company money. In this first of a two part feature we look at the options available and highlight the features and benefits of each.

Bendi Aisle: Articulated forklift s have become increasingly popular due to their ability to work both in narrow aisles and outdoors.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Internal Combustion Lift Trucks Engine powered trucks are primarily used outdoors due to their emissions and ability to operate in inclement weather. Gas powered units can be used indoors, but proper ventilation is necessary. Particulate fi lters and catalytic converters also help in this regard.

Pros: • Lower initial purchase price than comparable capacity electric trucks (20% to 30%).

• Quick and easy to refuel – reducing downtime.

• No need to recharge batteries.

• Can be used outdoors in bad weather and unpaved surfaces.

• Slightly better performance capabilities compared to similarly electric trucks.

Cons: • Higher cost-per-hour to operate compared to electric trucks, due to fuel and maintenance costs.

• Generate more noise.

• Fuel-storage requirements.

• Emissions from the engines.

Combilift: Multidirectional Forklift s and Sideloaders are ideal for handling long loads

MATERIALS HANDLING | 41 Electric Lift Trucks Electric trucks are typically used indoors because they produce no emissions and therefore eliminate the potential for health and safety concerns.

Pros: • Lower cost-per-hour to operate than IC units. Cost of battery charging is minimal compared to the cost of fi lling the tank with gas or diesel.

• Quiet operation.

• No emissions.

Cons: • Higher initial purchase price than IC trucks.

• Slower acceleration and travel speeds than IC units.

• Needs a battery charging or storage station.

• Requires approximately 8-12 hours to recharge and cool down the battery before use, unless using fast charging or have replacement batteries.

• Normally cannot be used outdoors for extended periods in inclement weather.

• Uneven or broken surfaces could damage components prematurely.

There are several types of electric trucks, each with its own uses, benefits and drawbacks.

Articulated Mast Trucks: Rotating or articulating mast trucks looks quite like standard sit-down counterbalance lift trucks, but their masts can rotate right or left by more than 90-degrees, allowing them to work in narrow aisles. Articulated trucks have become increasing popular as they are said to combine the features of both counterbalance and reach trucks with the ability to work in aisles as narrow as 1.6m – 1.8m. They are available in Electric and LPG and can be used both inside and outdoors. They cost approximately 50% more than Reach trucks.

Order Pickers and Turret Trucks: These Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) trucks are designed to mechanically handle full pallets or manually handle racked products that are smaller than pallet size. They elevate both the load and driver to the required height, which can be in excess of 14m. Th is enables the operator to pick full pallets or individual smaller items in different locations, to make up a customised pallet ready for delivery. VNA trucks are usually wire or rail guided when used in very narrow aisles. They are one of the most expensive types of forklift truck and need considerable amount of space and time to transfer from one aisle to another. A special smooth floor surface is required and they are normally supported by counterbalance or powered pallet trucks at the receiving/ despatch areas. Aisle width is usually 1.6m – 1.8m

Jungheinrich VNA: Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) forklift s can Powered Pallet Trucks: These trucks are also be used in aisles as narrow as 1.5m and at heights in excess known as ‘walkie’, or ‘rider’ pallet trucks.

Counterbalanced Trucks: The counterbalance of 14m.

Operators walk behind the ‘walkie’ version, is probably the most common and readily which is useful for moving loads in confi ned available type of sit down forklift which is areas. The ‘rider’ versions are useful for moving loads over longer distances available in both IC and electric. These trucks are mostly used in yards while the operator stands on a small platform. However they are only and warehouses with lift ing capacities ranging from 1.0 to 10.0kgs. capable of moving loads at ground level.

Counterbalance trucks typically lift loads to heights not exceeding 8.0m but need at least 3.0m-3.5 of aisle width.

Stackers: Stackers are masted trucks that the operator walks behind.

Stackers are used to handle pallet-sized loads that are stacked into lowMulti-Direction and Side loaders: These specialist trucks are most level rack positions. commonly used for handling long length loads such as wood, PVC or metal products. They enable the materials to be transferred through doorways Reach Trucks: Reach trucks are narrow-aisle trucks specifically designed and can save storage space as it is not necessary to rotate the load through for pallet storage and retrieval. They are fitted with outriggers (legs) which 90 degrees, when placing it in a racking system. Safer handling is also straddle the pallet and a moving mast or scissor att achment that allows achieved as it eliminates the need to travel with the load elevated to avoid operators to pick up a load and then retract it over the outriggers. The obstacles or other stored material, which also restricts visibility. operator usually sits at 90 degrees to the load and these trucks are not suited to moving loads quickly over long distances. Traditionally they Part 2 of this feature (Fleet Transport - June edition), will look at some of have small hard nylon wheels which require a smooth surface to work the key questions to ask when buying a forklift and examine the various finance options. efficiently, although some manufacturers now offer versions with larger semi-solid tyres to allow outdoor use. Reach trucks are available for lift heights up to 13 feet and can operate in 2.5m - 2.7m wide aisles.

Hyster Counterbalance: Electric and engine powered Counterbalance forklift s are common place in most industries.

Text & Photos: Joe O'Brien - joe@fleet.ie

Mitsubishi PPT: Powered Pallet Trucks are really useful tools for moving pallets in confined spaces at low levels. www.fleet.ie

42 | FINANCE I

Cash Flow Planning

A

s discussed in previous articles the emphasis on cash flow management in a business is both the most important function but also the least productive function in the general administration of the business. Without cash, regardless of short term or medium term profitability the business cannot function. If the business is properly financed (the right level of working capital in the business in lieu of current turnover, finance obligations and both supplier and customer credit terms) the concentration on running the business should have less emphasis on daily cash flow issues, however, strong attention must be paid to debtor/ creditor control and proper and realistic cash flow forecasts encompassing all fi xed term finance obligations.

Proper fi nancial planning in transport means that you will have a business that is profitable. Th is profitability is accurately assessed monthly and all turnover/expenses are forecasted ahead, this forecast being updated and reviewed monthly as the business environment changes. Once you have this core piece of information (and bear in mind they are fi nancial projections subject to change), then the optimum fi nance structure is constructed around this, putt ing in place adequate short, medium and long term fi nance.

Starting with long term fi nance options, investment by shareholders (shareholders equity) and also long term loans (example; mortgage on premises), banks now look at 75% maximum loan to value ration and a repayment term of 15 years maximum. What the banks are actually saying is that any future capital purchase by a business will only be possible if liquid funds are in the business or the business owners have personal funds to invest. Currently there are opportunities to invest in capital assets at favourable costs as surplus development assets come to market, but only a business that has the repayment capacity to cover such borrowings from current operations will be considered.

Medium term finance covers term loans and leasing/HP finance. Normally this is for a maximum term of seven years and while previously fi nance houses were fi nancing 100% of asset value, this is now no longer the norm unless the business is fi nancially strong and the fi nance institution has recourse to additional security. In-house finance houses attached to vehicle manufacturers have entered the market, promoting sales of their brand through competitive finance rates and the willingness to finance the asset in full. Other asset finance product/finance houses are also in the market over the last 4 years offering high rates and deposit gained from combining equity in the new asset and a second-hand asset that is free of fi nance. Low risk to these fi nance houses but costly funds. Medium term funds could also be available from an external investor, normally this is never seen in transport unless itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a family investment, as the transport sector's low margins and high risk involved will not att ract any Dragonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Den investment.

Short-term working capital funds are the crucial element of the fi nance structure of the business. Adequate cash to operate the business, the ability to purchase at favourable rates because of payment ability, credit worthiness, and the fact that adequate cash in the business, properly managed, allows concentration on business profitability and development as opposed to cash flow firefighting, are key ingredients in the success and long term survival of a business. Low or negative profit margins will give rise to cash shortages, but a profitable business that is expanding can also experience cash flow issues because of the payment structure for inputs (example; labour and fuel) and payment terms from customers, which on average are 45 days or longer. An adequate overdraft is vitally important but as you know an overdraft should return to the black during the trading year (min 30 days or penalties). If the bank sees your use of the overdraft as a medium/long term liability it now will advise this to be moved to term loan, further pressurising cash flow as you are forced over a period in effect to reduce credit available to your business.

Increasingly banks are offering Invoice Discounting as a tool to transport businesses to free up cash in their debtor books and give the business adequate working capital to run the business. Used correctly Invoice Discounting

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

can be a cost effective tool to get working capital for a sector that is deemed high risk. Most business owners associate Invoice Discounting with the old product called Debt Factoring (in effect the sale of monies owed at a discount to debt collectors). With Invoice Discounting the control remains within the business, cost of funds can be lower than term loan, used properly the administration burden is reduced, and while the Invoice Discounting provider will impose audits on the business only relating to how you use Invoice Discounting, most of these controls should be in the business anyway. Your use of Invoice Discounting is not conveyed to your customers. It's ideal where tight cash flow and business expansion are issues, and used wisely can give rise to business development that is hampered by lack of liquid cash.

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Text: Donal Dempsey - donal@fleet.ie

FINANCE II | 43

AIB Commercial Finance Limited

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common issue for many Irish companies, regardless of sector or size, is effectively managing cash flow. For over twenty years, AIB has been working within the transport sector to provide a convenient and cost effective cash flow solution through Invoice Financing.

According to David Avery (pictured), Head of Business Development, AIB Commercial Finance Ltd (AIBCF), the growth of this sector is directly aligned to the growth of the Irish economy, "We invest time at the start of every relationship with our clients to fully understand their needs and how we can best work together.

We have been able to identify key issues that the haulage and logistics sector faces and provide solutions that are convenient and cost effective.

By providing access to fi nance when it is needed most, our customers are given flexibility to manage their fi nances and focus on the growth potential of their company."

to utilise this type of fi nance too, "The Irish Invoice Finance market is worth €1.3bn, with approximately 2,000 businesses across all sectors using this fi nance as a source of funding. If Ireland follows the trend set in the UK and Europe, I believe we will see far more Irish companies take advantage of the opportunities presented by Invoice Finance in the future."

Avery believes that "for businesses, especially those in growth mode, Invoice Finance is an excellent funding source and can be used to finance sales to export customers as well as those based in Ireland."

Cashflow For many businesses Invoice Finance has become integral to their cash flow management and is increasingly seen as a convenient and cost effective solution.

Highlighting the benefits, David advises: "Invoice Finance is designed to help smooth cash flow, providing flexible fi nance that can grow in line with growth in sales. In simple terms it converts trade debts into cash, which in turn can enable business expansion."

"Invoice Finance can typically release more funds than other sources of finance, it’s confidential and the client retains full credit control. Importantly, it allows you to promptly pay fuel suppliers thus improving your company’s payment reputation and can potentially unlock suppliers’ sett lement discounts offered. Conversely, it also allows you to extend longer credit terms to your customers, making you more competitive," argues David.

Invoice Finance is a funding solution that has worked well throughout Europe and Avery believes that Irish businesses operating within the transport sector will increasingly continue

Simple and Effective Avery believes Invoice Finance couldn’t be simpler or more transparent. “Businesses simply invoice their customers for goods sold or services provided as usual. They advise their Invoice Finance provider of the level of invoices raised in any given day, week, month, or as often as they like. At AIB our clients do this via our secure, easy to use, internet site. They can then request payments against these invoices, up to an agreed

percentage, which is called a ‘prepayment’ or ‘advance’ rate.

"AIBCF customers can use our real time system to make cash available as soon as they raise invoices to their clients. When an invoice is assigned, funding is available to your business and requests for funds, received before 11am Monday to Friday, will be in your bank account for the same day," Mr. Avery explains.

Clients choose when and how much to draw down, controlling the availability and cost of their facility. They also retain full control of their debtor collections process.

Avery adds, "The transport sector already represents a significant proportion of our existing client base including, long haul and short haul transportation specialist transportation, logistics management and warehousing."

"We know every business is different, with its own individual needs, so we work closely with our clients, ensuring Invoice Finance meets their specific business requirements. We strive to do this by ensuring that the facility is correctly structured on day one and then ongoing through our dedicated Relationship Management team," David concluded.

For more information please contact David on 01 772 4488 or at david.g.avery@aib.ie

www.fleet.ie

44 | LEGAL

The times they are a ‘changing’

U

ntil comparatively recently public concern about the presence of commercial vehicles on the roads was largely directed to the actual vehicles. The presence of an articulated vehicle on a public road was sufficient to make any ‘ordinary’ motorist complain about the size of the vehicle, the noise it was making, and the damage that was being done to the road it was using. The fact that it might be difficult to overtake simply added fuel to the flames.

Curiously, it was the vehicles that att racted the criticism rather than the drivers or the operators.

It was as if the vehicles were travelling without any human assistance, and were individually responsible for the trouble and inconvenience caused to other road users.

In more recent times, as reports of the prosecution of drivers and operators have appeared in local and national papers for offences connected with the use of commercial vehicles, the public have come to recognise the fact that there are individuals who can be identified as being responsible for any harm that may result from the use of a commercial vehicle of any size.

Notwithstanding this changed perception it is still the drivers who are on the front line as it can be difficult for an Enforcement Authority to show the connection between the operator’s actions and the alleged offence committed by the driver. It continues to be true that the driver is the, so called ‘soft target’. In the case of a serious, perhaps fatal, accident when a driver is brought before the court, the fact that the operator has not been prosecuted has not gone unnoticed. Th is is particularly true in cases in which the accident has att racted wide attention.

The problem, from the prosecutor’s point of view, stemmed from the fact that there was no relevant offence known to law apart from an obscure common law offence, which was available in a case in which reckless mismanagement could be shown.

In 2013 the ‘Corporate Manslaughter Bill’ was given its first reading, which, if it becomes law, will enable companies and their ‘high management agents’ to be prosecuted if a company decision can be identified as the cause of a serious accident with substantial penalties. In this case a failure to make a decision will be no less blameworthy than a positive decision.

The problem, from the operator’s point of view, is the new responsibility that an operator will have for each driver’s ability to drive on a day-to-day basis. As with any other member of the public a driver is entitled to drink, and of course, take recreational drugs. The fact that alcohol stays in the blood for some time is well known and a person who drives on a Monday morning after a heavy weekend risks losing their licence. A friend or an employer may advise more caution, but will feel no responsibility. The driver of a commercial vehicle who makes an error can cause a fatality and, in the event of an investigation, a word of caution from a friend is unlikely to seem adequate.

An employer should be able to produce letters (which should be current) sent to each employee reminding them that they should not attempt to drive if they have any reason to think that they may still have alcohol in their blood, and they should be required to speak to a manager if they have any doubt about their condition.

Failure by an operator to have in place checks designed to ensure that drivers are always safe to drive, with a record of those checks, might amount to evidence that a company’s management has been so indifferent as to be the foundation for a case of Corporate Manslaughter.

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Sometimes an investigation will unearth the fact that an employee’s excessive drinking or drug taking is well known within the company. Knowledge of that sort must never be ignored, and records of any disciplinary action must be retained.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Text: Jonathan Lawton - jonathan@fleet.ie

SHIPPING | 45

Port of Cork hits the TV screens

O

n Monday evening, 28 April last, TV3 aired the fi rst of four one hour weekly episodes of ‘Cork Mega Port’ a ‘fly on the wall’ documentary series on the port and its activities. The series has been planned to give an exciting insight not just into the everyday operations of the port, but is also intended to highlight the port’s importance to the region and its necessity as a gateway for trade both in and out of Munster.

Commenting on the series which was four months in the making, Cork Port CEO, Brendan Keating said, “While the series shows everything the port is involved with, from operations, to maintenance, the cruise business, community initiatives and our recent port development plans, it has been the level of enthusiasm from staff that has really shone through and we are very proud to share this with the people of Ireland.”

The airing of the series coincides with the submission to An Bord Pleanála by the company of its Port Development Plan which is very heavily focussed on the Ringaskiddy area. Also, in following through on the publication over the last couple of years of a number of Port Master Plans, some of the other port companies, including Dublin, Dun Laoghaire and Galway have also submitted planning applications to the Board. The planning process

for these ‘critical infrastructure’ projects does not allow for general public objections and submissions, but the Port of Cork believes that the airing of the ‘Cork Mega Port’ series will help inform public debate.

Rotterdam came to Dublin

R

enewing a tradition that had lapsed during the last few years of recession, the Port of Rotterdam, through its Port Promotion Council, brought a significant number of representatives of the port and of companies that operate through the port to Dublin on April 10. The Dublin event was attended by exporters, importers and many involved in the shipping and forwarding sectors here.

In introducing the series of presentations on the Port of Rotterdam and the major developments underway there, Managing

Director of the Rotterdam Port Promotion Council, Ms. Marjolein Warburg said, “With fourteen regular liner services a week, the bond between Ireland and the Port of Rotterdam is strong. The diverse Irish market is interesting for Rotterdam. Ireland mainly imports oil, oil products, chemicals, means of transport and machinery while its chief exports are dairy produce, food, pharmaceuticals and waste.”

She went on to say, “But in turn, the Port of Rotterdam also has a lot to offer Ireland, situated between the Irish island and the rest of Europe.

Rotterdam serves as a hub, thanks partly to good hinterland connections, a complete range

of services and a sizeable short sea and feeder cluster.”

Following up on the Dutch speakers at the event was Geraldine McAlester, the Customer Service Manager, Exports at the Diageo International Supply Centre based in Dublin. From there, Diageo ships 20,000 containers a year with product destined to 150 countries carrying €1 billion worth of product. For Diageo, Rotterdam is a vital link through which most of its twenty carriers operate.

Arklow Shipping builds BIG

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ounty Wicklow based Arklow Shipping has moved significantly from its traditional coastal shipping activity with the building of the fi rst two of a fleet of deep sea bulk carriers each with a capacity to ship up to 47,000 cubic metres of grain. The ‘Arklow Spirit’ and ‘Arklow Spray’ are the largest cargo vessels sailing under the Irish flag since the collapse of Irish Shipping Ltd. in 1984. The vessels have a fully laden operating speed of 14 knots and like the rest of the Arklow Shipping fleet will trade on the open market rather than running on fi xed scheduled routes. The ships, like the six vessels of their ‘M’ class fleet which were launched over the last four years, were built in South Korean yards. The ‘M’ class vessels each have a grain capacity of 18,000 cubic metres.

Dutch yard Ferus Smit B.V. has also been busy building vessels for Arklow Shipping. Their ‘Arklow Bank’ and the five other vessels to follow in the ‘B’ class fleet have a new hull design that will improve environmental and loading efficiency with a longer and sharper waterline which reduce wave resistance even in rougher conditions.

Arklow Shipping Ltd, though founded in its present manifestation in 1966, is a continuation of the family run shipping operation out of County Wicklow ports going back into the days of Coastal Schooners working throughout Northern European waters. Management of the company is split between the Arklow Head Office and an office in Rotterdam. Some thirty of the vessels in the fleet are registered in Ireland, while the other fourteen carry Dutch registry.

Exceptional Loads Services Ltd. Specialist Services to the Heavy Haulage Industry • PERMITS • ESCORTING • ROUTE PLANNING • ROUTE SURVEYS Tel: 0402 31229 Fax: 0402 31257 Mobile: 087 2549601 Website: www.wide-loads.com Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

www.fleet.ie

46 | COMMENT

Technology is great but who pays for it?

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ou have to smile sometimes, even if that smile is a bit weak.

Picture the scene, it was coming up to eight o’clock on a chilly Spring morning on a normally pedestrianised, Paris street not far from the Eiffel Tower. A bunch of us were standing watching a fishmonger, the driver of a delivery truck that was being unloaded into his shop and stall, a fi re tender driver and a significantly large Gendarme all yelling at each other. We were out there because we had been awakened by the hotel fi re alarm going off accompanied by the smell of smoke. The fi re crew were there to deal with the incident and, reluctantly the fish truck moved on a few metres. As it turned out, it had been no more than a small fi re in a ‘smoking’ bedroom and the only damage was to that room.

From where I'm sitting Howard Knott

The irony of the situation was that a number of us had come from various points around Europe and were staying there while participating in a ‘La Milo’ Partners meeting in the French capital. The whole issue in this project is Sustainable City Logistics and the free movement of goods and services required within cities. While much focus has been on moving parcels and packages, large and small, nobody had really thought about the free movement of service vehicles such a fi re tenders, which must be the ultimate ‘just in time’ delivery vehicles. It would be unfortunate were City Traffic Managers to decide that the proliferation of small electric vans or tricycle type vehicles could mean that deliveries to buildings situated in side streets could be permitted and that therefore the carriageway through those streets could be reduced appropriately, while forgett ing about fi re tenders and the like.

The ‘La Milo’ project has been developed by fourteen partner organisations and is being co-funded with European Regional Development funding through INTERREG IVB. As initially envisaged the project’s focus was to be on the last mile and fi rst mile delivery aspects of international freight movement throughout North-West Europe. It was to fi nd a better way than to have gas guzzling trucks clogging city streets, something that is no help to anyone. The answer, then, is quite simple and logical; all of the trucks are brought to Distribution Centres (DC) located at the city fringes and the goods transferred via the DC to smaller low carbon vehicles.

Helped by funding from the project, exactly such a system was established in three Dutch cities. Maastricht is one of these, an old city with a lot of narrow streets and a mix of large and small shops. The carrier truck comes to the DC with goods for a number of shop drops, to offload them there; they are sorted and delivered using electric or hybrid vehicles along with goods from other carriers and at a time that suits the receiver of the goods. It all sounds perfect, the trunk carrier saves a lot of time, and the customer gets his goods when it suits him best, the city is spared noise and air pollution, something that is really good for citizens and tourists alike.

However, a major catch has emerged. In most cases stock for shops is bought on the basis that the supplier will arrange and pay for delivery as part of the deal. The city centre shop is telling his suppler that he wants the goods delivered to the DC and not into his shop. That’s fi ne for the supplier, but now the question emerges as to who is to pay for the extra handling and the local delivery. Logically, it would be the shop, but, then the supplier is gett ing haulage costs savings. At the Paris meeting I came up with the notion that the shipment terms should be changed from being ‘free delivered consignee’ to ‘free delivered terminal’. I am not sure how that one will play.

The Paris based partner, ‘The Green Link’ comes at this in a different way. He has started to develop a small network of city centre depots from which he operates a fleet of battery assisted tricycles fitted with cargo boxes of about one cubic metre. In this case he does the deliveries on behalf of carriers including TNT and his costs can be offset by the trunk carriers against their total delivery revenue.

Technology is great, gett ing the money end of it to work, that’s the catch.

FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

ALL-SEASON

48 | TRAILER

Faymonville Trailers - CombiMAX Faymonville plays its 'Joker' with its new CombiMAX Range

T

he Faymonville company began making agricultural equipment in a small forge in Rocherath Belgium in the 1960’s. It produced its fi rst semi-trailer later that decade and realising a niche for specialised transport equipment, moved into making dedicated trailers for the transport of glass products. In 1988 the company expanded and moved to the present site of Bullingen. Today Faymonville employs over 600 people and has added production plants in Goleniow (Poland), and Leitzweiler (Germany) to its portfolio.

Although the company produces some standard trailers, the Faymonville name is synonymous with the design and manufacture of exceptional equipment to transport payloads from 100 tonnes to an incredible 5,000 tonnes. Nevertheless we are well aware that size isn’t everything, and today flexibility and efficiency are key factors.

Tracking Faymonville’s fi nancial standing is interesting. Its turnover in 1988 was €3.15 million, which gradually increased to a high of €185 million in 2008. As expected turnover then fell to a low of €120 million in 2010, and has since steadily risen with projected revenues for 2014 expected to achieve €185 million - a return to 2008 levels. Because the company indirectly relies on large infrastructure projects, it is a reasonable indication that European and world economies are somewhat stabilising as Faymonville General Manager Alain stated; “countries that have not sold a trailer over the

last five years are now selling again.” Alain was speaking at the launch of Faymonville’s new CombiMAX modular trailer system, which is expected to boost the company’s turnover even further.

Alain explained; “when developing the new CombiMAX we started with our MAXtrailer range and discovered most customers need special aspects, although they don’t mind a standard trailer. So we produced a standard trailer based on the MAXtrailer range that can be specialised.” He continued; “this is a unique and global semi-trailer concept.”

W hile the development of CombiM A X demanded complex engineering solutions the idea in principle is quite simple and logical. The project objective was to produce a trailer based on a modular format to transport loads from 50 to 250 tonnes, is easy to use, and can operate at a minimum road speed of 30 kp/h. The result means less investment for the customer, and greater flexibility for their operations.

Simplified production techniques with greater use of standard components across the model range will also realise efficiencies as Sales Manager, Arnold Luxen informed us “currently there are over 250 variations of pendle axle alone.” From now on, components such as pendle axles whether they are 17.5t or 19.5t will use the same parts. Customers should also see benefits from this move as maintenance costs will be reduced.

only increase overall length by one axle spacing.

Th is means it can be possible to complete empty return journeys without escorts and permits so reducing costs. The telescopic beams can be added between any two CombiMAX modules, and will connect with the selection of drop decks, spacer decks and side by side extenders.

The CombiMAX system can now offer what Arnold calls their ‘Joker.’ The Joker is a single axle platform that can be inserted to the front or back of a combination if a load is estimated to weigh out just over the permitted axle limit. It is a clever idea and greatly increases the flexibility of the system at a minimal cost.

Of course the immediate question that springs to mind is cost. How does CombiMAX compare and where are the savings to be found? Arnold explained; “if the cost of a Variomax trailer is 100% then a ModulMAX would be 150% CombiMAX then equates to 115%.”

Due to the nature of the work “trailers were previously designed to order - now we will configure to order” said Alain Faymonville.

“Customers can configure the individual solution for each transport challenge.” Th is can now be done online with the new Faymonville Configuration programme. The system allows customers to work with their local dealer and customise CombiMAX to any particular cargo.

By entering the load weight and dimensions, the programme will calculate what trailer specifications are necessary and will include tolerances for axle weights and bending.

One of the main features of CombiMAX was the development of ‘one neck technology.’ So regardless of what axles are used, pendle or knuckle axles operating on either hydraulic or air suspension could be connected to the one universal gooseneck. In addition, the one neck technology allows the three traditional couplings of compression joint, hook adapter and extension systems to be combined on the one trailer.

Alain Faymonville, General Manager FLEETTRANSPORT | MAY 14

Possibly the most important feature enhancing the flexibility of the CombiMAX is the ability to extend the trailer length by adding beam sections.

The telescopic removable beams are hidden in the central chassis of the trailer and when closed

Arnold Luxen, Sales Manager

TRAILER | 49

After the presentation it was time to view the new product in action.

Sitt ing in the closed position and hitched to a MAN TGX 6x2, the 14axle CombiMAX is an impressive sight. Though when extended to its full (exhibited) length of 33.335 metres - it is quite magnificent. Moving out of the garage and around the demonstration area showed how well the trailer responds and follows the tractor. When transporting the largest and heaviest of loads it is obvious that driving the vehicle is a challenge, however the correct operation of the trailer is also a demanding task and arguably just as critical. With this in mind Faymonville was conscious that operating the trailer should be simplified, allowing drivers to be trained on CombiMAX with minimal levels of instruction. Th is aspect was clearly shown on the day by the demonstration team.

However, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to travel to Belgium to see the Faymonville range. Just off the M2 at Ashbourne, County Meath is where you will fi nd Ashbourne Truck & Trailer, the approved agents for Faymonville in Ireland.

The company has a respected reputation for offering practical advice to customers in this specialised transport sector. Joe and Sarah Mooney at Ashbourne T&T, have a real understanding of heavy transport work in Ireland, and the experience necessary to configure trailers appropriately.

Th is understanding, combined with the resources and configurator tools available on-line in Belgium means trailers can be specified to the exact requirements for Irish operators.

The CombiMAX is an excellent example of engineering innovation, and Faymonville believes operators in this specialised sector will appreciate the efficiencies the system can bring. The company has set a sales target of around 400 units per year and is confident it will achieve this objective.

At the Bullingen facility there is an air of confidence and competence, which comes from a deep understanding of what it is doing - and a pride in what is produced. Th is possibly arises from a respect for its heritage and tradition, which goes back to the days when Faymonville was respected as the village blacksmith - and continues today as a respected producer of exceptional trailers worldwide.

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

www.fleet.ie

50 | SOAPBOX

Be Prepared

U

nfortunately, I missed the 41st AGM of the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) due to a long booked vacation to Singapore. The fl ight was in two parts with the second leg by Airbus A380, an amazing aircraft that alas cannot land in Dublin. By the bye, coming into Dublin passengers are asked to report to the Department of Agriculture office if they have been on a farm, whereas coming into the Singapore the announcement is to warn passenger that the Sovereign City-State does not tolerate drugs and enforces the law with corporal and capital punishment. I could write a lot about Singapore, maybe we should be looking there instead of Boston?

Back to Terra Firma, I was sorry to miss the annual IRHA AGM& Conference as there was a real buzz at last year's 40th and I felt that the Minister for Transport’s address was very much in touch with the industry. If you have been going to IRHA AGM’s as long as I have you begin to realize that some Ministers wouldn’t know the back of a lorry from the front, and that the Transport Portfolio was given out primarily to those who had to get something by way of a Ministerial car to keep the punters somewhere sweet. Courtesy of the IRHA, I got a copy of this year’s Ministerial Address and I think that Minister Varadkar is up there with the best of them. He has yet to prove he is the best but I know he’s working on it.

Next on the agenda is UK’s Road User Levy and the Minister’s comments on it. Minister Varadkar is obviously more than familiar with the RUL and the fact that the Taoiseach raised the issue with Prime Minister Cameron means he is well briefed by his Transport Minister. The tenor of the Government’s approach is to look for exemptions or part exemptions within Northern Irish roads and the logic of gett ing an exemption on the A5 which has been cofunded by the Republic, is sound. However if anyone, member or non-member thinks that the UK Government is going to row back on something its own haulage industry has lobbied for, for the best part of twenty years, they are deluding themselves.

The IRHA is an organisation that represents primarily small businesses and its punch in the past has always revolved around the quality of leadership.

It has packed a tremendous punch in its current phase achieving the Essential User Rebate (EUR), which is a major fi nancial benefit to the industry. However like in so many things the Association has achieved in the past such as VAT on tolls, it seems to be a case of “eaten bread soon forgotten” by those who ask, “sure what is the IRHA doing for me, sure they do nothing” when asked to become a member. That “nothing” is putt ing money in every truck operator’s pocket every day. Delegations to meet MLA’s in Northern Ireland will say exactly what is wanted of them to make sure they don’t lose votes, Ochón agus Ochón they cry to all who come to them but it doesn’t amount to a hill of beans and is a waste of time on the RUL. My point is this, the RUL has been on the cards for four years, that was the time to lobby the Irish Government for a way of neutralizing it because the British never would. That cost neutrality can come from charging the 41 percent of the non-National registered trucks that come into Dublin Port every day the same rate, likewise the Northern Irish based hauliers which cross the Border every day and use their rebates through the RUL to reduce the cost of the truck’s annual road tax. Th is is the official policy of the IRHA, it will take longer to achieve than any of us would like but it will win the batt le.

The IRHA is totally dependent on members and would be members for the amount of resources they can put into any issue, for example, the EUR succeeded because the IRHA got the support of an active membership.

Despite the Association raising the issue, it seems the membership did not become alert to the RUL until it actually came into force. It takes time and effort to “Be Prepared”.

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