FleetWorld Magazine – April 2022

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fleetworld.co.uk

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APRIL 2022

DATA-DRIVEN Top telematics tips to gain back control over your fleet

DON’T MISS OUT

29 MARCH 2022

THINKING BIG Suzuki’s Lee Giddings on the brand’s fleet emergence

ZERO TO HERO Why salary sacrifice for zero emission vehicles makes sense

2022

DRIVEN Mazda CX-5 Vauxhall Grandland Renault Trafic

REGISTER FOR FREE

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Register for free www.greatbritishfleetevent.co.uk

MONEY! FOR NOTHING SECRETS TO SAVING YOUR FLEET MONEY TO BE REVEALED AT 2022

29 MARCH 2022

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Contents 06

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April 2022 fleetworld.co.uk

06 Fleet 15 Csaba Vincze, fleet director, Nissan answers our questions

08 Analysis Willmot Dixon’s legal case

10 At large Alex Grant ponders possibilities for low-CO2 synthetic fuels

12 All around the world

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A global fleet perspective

14 Telematics trends Technologies that can help improve your fleet efficiency

20 Supplier spotlight Ron Santiago, MD, Europcar

22 SWOT Four cars compete to decide the optimal fleet investment

27 Salary sacrifice Ways make transitioning to an EV fleet that bit easier

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32 Incoming Mazda’s first PHEV, the CX-60

34 Driven Mazda CX-5 / Vauxhall Grandland

36 In conversation with Lee Giddings, Suzuki’s fleet boss

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40 Our fleet The FW long-termer stories

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44 Incoming The Volkswagen ID Buzz Cargo

47 Driven New Renault Trafic

48 LCV essentials Van racking and storage solutions

51 Fantasy fleet Vehicles more likely in your dreams than on your driveway

fleetworld.co.uk

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publisher Jerry Ramsdale jerry@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

APRIL 2022

DATA-DRIVEN Top telematics tips to gain back control over your fleet

editor Fleet World John Challen john@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

29 MARCH 2022

THINKING BIG Suzuki’s Lee Giddings on the brand’s fleet emergence

ZERO TO HERO Why salary sacrifice for zero emission vehicles makes sense

2022

DRIVEN Mazda CX-5 Vauxhall Grandland Renault Trafic

REGISTER FOR FREE

Tom Keenan tom@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

business editor Natalie Middleton natalie@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

head of production Luke Wikner luke@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

published by Stag Publications Ltd, 18 Alban Park, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Herts, AL4 0JJ tel +44 (0)1727 739160 fax +44 (0)1727 739169 email fw@fleetworldgroup.co.uk web fleetworld.co.uk

editor Van Fleet World John Kendall john.kendall@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

designers Victoria Arellano Dan Bennett

To subscribe to Fleet World visit: fleetworldsubscriptions.co.uk

editor-at-large Alex Grant alex@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

DON’T MISS OUT

account directors Claire Warman claire@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

Darren Brett darren@fleetworldgroup.co.uk circulation manager Tracy Howell tracy@fleetworldgroup.co.uk

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WELCOME

John Challen

Stay up to date at fleetworld.co.uk

editor

2022

“With a packed conference session, a room full of networking opportunities and awards being presented, a trip to the capital for the Great British Fleet Event will be well worth your while”

Meet and greet at GBFE 2022...

There’s a lot to be said for the likes of Microsoft Teams and Zoom – and I daresay many readers have relied on it over the past two years, for a variety of reasons. Digital video conferencing gives people the opportunity to engage, interact and ‘meet’, which has proved essential when, for much of the past 24 months, it’s not been possible to get together in person.

However, the world is opening up and we’re stepping away from the makeshift office – in many cases – and back into the real world. It can be scary for some people – but it’s big progress.

With that in mind, Fleet World Group is proud to be hosting the Great British Fleet Event on Tuesday 29 March 2022 in London. It’s an amazing opportunity for the fleet industry to come together, catch up and hear all about the latest developments in the sector. IN PERSON! There’s too much going on during the day to cover all of it in the limited space I’ve got here. But with a packed conference session, a room full of networking opportunities and awards being presented, a trip to the capital for the Great British Fleet Event 2022 will be well worth your while.

There’s more information both within the pages of this magazine and also at www.greatbritishfleetevent.co.uk. However, as a taster, the conference will feature a number of sessions related to sustainability, mobility and logistics, the future of fleet and electric vehicles. These are the key topics that are being considered as we move forward and plenty of advice and guidance will be on offer at the event to make sure businesses and fleets are fully prepared for whatever the future has planned for us.

Don’t run before you can walk Talking of the future, I don’t think we’re ready for it, specifically the charging infrastructure for electric cars. My issue certainly isn’t with manufacturers – I think there are some outstanding battery powered vehicles out there, such as the Hyundai IONIQ 5, which was recently voted UK Car of the Year 2022.

But the network of chargers is often woeful. Driving some long distances in an EV recently took planning but, when the chargers I’d intended to use were out of order, I had to go back to the drawing board (or ZapMap). In one case, it meant an extra 90 minutes on a journey and a 3am arrival home.

There’s a lesson there for all of us. Or maybe it’s ‘pick your own cliché’: don’t bite off more than you can chew; don’t run before you can walk.

Or don’t encourage people towards EVs without properly planning how they will keep them going!

29 MARCH 2022

REGISTER FOR FREE

2022

Vehicle tracking that works for you

Find out just how much you can save with Quartix

No auto-renewal | Free mobile app | 1st class customer service

Visit quartix.com/en-gb/ or call 01686 807 607 to schedule a free demo

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2022

THE CONFERENCE SUSTAINABILITY DECARBONISING THE FLEET Natasha Robinson, Joint Head – Office for Zero Emissions USING DATA TO GO GREEN David Savage – vice president UK & Ireland, Geotab DRIVE TO ZERO Joshua Hooper – product category manager, Northgate

MOBILITY/LOGISTICS GETTING THINGS RIGHT POST-COVID Simon Turner – campaign manager, Driving for Better Business THE HUMAN FACTORS OF RISK Rebecca Ashton – head of policy & research, IAM Roadsmart STAYING CONNECTED & MOBILE Paul Tarsey – IoT solutions consultant, Aeris

FUTURE OF FLEET TO 2030, AND BEYOND Ian Featherstone – account manager supply chain, Energy Saving Trust MAKING TELEMATICS WORK, NOW AND IN THE FUTURE Matthew Newman – Trakm8 CHARGING UP THE FLEET Catherine Bowen – senior policy advisor, BVRLA

ELECTRIC VEHICLE

FLEET15 CSABA VINCZE Fleet director, Nissan

What is your ambition in your current job role?

To help UK fleets accelerate the switch to zero emissions with the help from Nissan’s unique expertise.

Biggest challenges facing fleets at the moment?

Meeting customer demand. We have the right products at the right time so we’re in a good position for 2022.

What job did you want to do when you were growing up?

I always wanted to be a racing driver – Formula 1, naturally.

You’re on your dream holiday. Where in the world are you?

Discovering different places across the UK has been a real family adventure for us.

The best takeaway is…?

Indian – you just can’t beat a great curry.

What’s the proudest moment in your career?

Reaching record market share, profit and volume for Nissan in Central and Eastern Europe.

Favourite James Bond?

Daniel Craig – if only because No Time To Die was the first time that we’ve been able to get back into a cinema.

Money no object, what’s the first thing you’d buy?

Something completely unique – a true one-off. For me that’s the Sports concept car or the electric pickup concept we showed as part of our Ambition 2030 plan.

Name three cars in your dream garage?

Nissan Ariya for family duties, Italdesign GT-R 50s for unbelievable performance and a Formula E racing car for weekends.

CHANGING THE EV NARRATIVE David Watts – commercial manager UK & Ireland, Arrival TRANSITIONING TO AN ELECTRIC FLEET Alex Potts – head of sales, BP Pulse ZERO = HERO... SALARY SACRIFICE Thom Groot – CEO, Electric Car Scheme

Don’t miss out!!

29 MARCH 2022 06 fleetworld.co.uk

Night in or night out?

Night out - whenever we can get a babysitter!

What’s your supermarket of choice?

Tesco – great products and service, everything you could possibly need and easy online ordering.

What do you drive?

A LEAF – I’m loving the remote defrost set up and warm cabin in the mornings.

Tea, coffee or other?

All of the above – it’s a busy role!

Books or magazines?

Magazines.

Who is your idol?

A fantastic leader who turned around a factory and saved 2,500 jobs. She was a great hero and a fantastic business person.

Unfortunately, she passed away 15 years ago, but I am privileged that I married her daughter.

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THE

i4 Search: BMW i4

ALL­ELECTRIC

#bornelectric

Mpg (I/100km): Not applicable. C02 emissions: 0 g/km. Electric energy consumption for the i4 model range (combined): 22.5 to 16.1 kWh/100Km / 2.8 – 3.9 miles/kWh. Electric range: 258­365 miles. These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The i4 is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Figures shown are for comparability purposes. Only compare electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post­registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

ANALYSIS Landmark legal win for Willmot Dixon The Willmott Dixon triumph against HMRC paves the way for future grey fleet NIC claims. By Natalie Middleton

W

illmott Dixon has won its appeal against HMRC to reclaim overpayment of Class 1 National Insurance Contributions on cash allowances paid to drivers, potentially vindicating current and future wider fleet claims for NIC relief worth millions.

The case relates to whether the car allowance payment was earnings subject to NIC, and has many links to two previous tax cases The landmark case – expected to prove of interest across the fleet sector – relates to car allowance payments paid by the construction and fit-out

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company to its grey fleet drivers, alongside a reduced mileage allowance payment for business travel.

Willmott Dixon (WD) appealed against HMRC for its refusal to refund Class 1 NICs for the period from 2004/2005 to May 2014. The legal victory, which could open the door to other claims, is the latest development in a series of legal cases between HMRC and fleet operators paying cash allowances to their grey fleet drivers.

The Willmott Dixon appeal was conducted in the First Tier Tribunal Tax chamber some nine months after the Laing case and saw the firm claim that

NIC refunds were due in respect of car allowance payments paid to some of its employees during that period up to the QA, i.e. the 45p per business mile.

Car allowance payments varied by grade of each employee; the more senior an employee, the higher the grade, the higher the allowance. The allowance was intended to cover the general (non-fuel) running costs of a private car, used for business purposes, with a break-even for the employees at around 10,000 business miles. In addition, business mileage payments were paid to reimburse an employee for the fuel costs of actual business miles

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“The case relates to whether the car allowance payment was earnings subject to NIC” driven at HMRC Advisory Fuel Rates.

HMRC’s position was that these car allowances were earnings within the meaning of section 3(1) Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992.

HMRC also argued that the car allowance covered the acquisition of the car, which was not considered as being for the use of the car and therefore did not qualify as RME. HMRC also noted that the car allowance payments did not vary according to mileage and said that business mileage was inconsistent with the grades allocated to the employees and their respective allowances.

But Willmott Dixon said the allowance were not earnings because there was a good correlation between the amount paid and the level of business mileage undertaken, with the odd winner and loser but a fair, consistent and reasonable method with a break-even point at around 10,000 business miles.

THE JUDGMENT In his findings of fact, Judge Popplewell noted that there were winners and losers on the Willmott Dixon scheme and as a result, he took the view that the link was not close enough to say that it was not earnings. But he did say that the cash allowances were RMEs. He added that a similar case brought by Total People in 2012 had set out the relevant principles and that he was bound by it. The judge also noted that he had reached the same conclusion as the judge in another case (by Laing O’Rourke Services Ltd (LOR) in February 2021); that in order to be the Qualifying Amount (QA), the allowances must be RME. But he reached a different conclusion from Judge Bowler in the LOR case and said that a car allowance did not necessarily need to be fully used on business mileage to fall within the definition of Relevant Motoring Expenditure. He also said that mere availability for use or expected future use also brought the car allowance payment into the definition of Relevant Motoring Expenditure, and the appeal was therefore allowed.

THE REACTION Commenting on the judgment, a spokesperson for Willmott Dixon said: “We are pleased that the First Tier Tribunal upheld our claim for historic overpayments of National Insurance. We always firmly believed that our claim was within the spirit as well as the drafting of the relevant tax legislation, so were delighted to see the judge find in our favour.”

THE

iX Search: BMW iX

ALL­ELECTRIC

#bornelectric

Mpg (l/100km): Not applicable. CO2 emissions: 0 g/km. Electric energy consumption for the iX model range (combined): 20 to 21 kWh/100Km / 3 – 3.1 miles/kWh. Electric range: 246­382 miles. These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The iX is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Figures shown are for comparability purposes. Only compare electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post­registration), variations fleetworld.co.uk 27 in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

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AT LARGE “Modern engines are incredible but, without hybridisation, cars such as the GR Yaris will disappear from forecourts within a decade”

Alex Grant

With several pilot projects now underway, could low-CO2 synthetic fuels be about to turn the tide on electrification? Our man isn’t convinced

N

ormally the gloomiest month of the year, my January was brightened by a long overdue chance to try out the Toyota GR Yaris and, predicably, I’m smitten. It’s a hedonistic final fling for the combustion hot hatch, making as much power as the original Porsche 911 Turbo with half as many cylinders, while complying with ultra-stringent Euro 6 emissions regulations. Modern engines are incredible but, without hybridisation, cars like this will disappear from forecourts within a decade.

Or will they? Wander into some corners of the automotive sphere and you might start to consider e-fuels as a potential ‘saviour’ of combustion engines. They promise a lot; synthetic low (or zero) carbon petrol and diesel made from renewable energy, green hydrogen and captured CO2, compatible with today’s engines and avoiding the need for masses of charging points or expensive battery packs. However, the hype seems to be overlooking some sizeable hurdles.

The highest profile project is from Porsche and Siemens Energy. Their worldfirst pilot plant recently broke ground in Chile with ambitions to scale up quickly – the target is 550 million litres of e-fuel production by 2026. That’s not small, by any means, but it is tiny in context. According to the RAC Foundation, the UK consumed 46.9 billion litres of petrol and diesel in pre-Covid 2019, which means our tiny island alone would use up all of that capacity in around four days. Porsche said electric vehicles are its “top priority”, while

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e-fuels will help cut the net CO2 emissions of motorsport, its driver experience centres and sports cars. Hardly mainstream.

Cost is another challenge – volumes are low so prices per litre are very high. In rural Canada, Carbon Engineering is looking to produce cheaper e-fuels by repurposing off-the-shelf equipment, which also makes it quicker to deploy plants all over the world, close to sources of renewable energy. However, cars and vans aren’t at the front of the queue. The company sees trucking, marine and aviation as key markets, as there’s no easy way to decarbonise those vehicles with today’s electrification technology.

Even the oil industry isn’t convinced. In December, Concawe, an environmental research body founded by oil companies almost 60 years ago, put out a detailed rebuttal to a Transport & Environment

damning report into the impact of e-fuels.

Despite concluding that combustion engines using e-fuels made with 100% renewable energy could match the lifecycle CO2 emissions of an EV, the organisation doesn’t see them as a silver bullet.

The report added that EVs use much less energy overall, so electrification is right for cars and e-fuels should be prioritised for heavier-duty vehicles instead.

That’s a hard rationale to argue with.

Scaling up e-fuel production requires vast amounts of renewable energy and comes with its own infrastructure challenges, while also not solving some of the wider problems with combustion engines. If you have an electric, hydrogen fuel cell and a combustion engine car all using ‘fuels’ from renewable sources, all three are potentially zero carbon vehicles, but only one of them will emit harmful pollutants at the point of use. That’s also important.

Turning the regulatory tide on EVs – which are more efficient and emit less CO2 emissions and pollutants compared to combustion engines – seems unlikely, especially as manufacturers look towards a more sustainable production process.

But that’s never been the point. Decarbonising transport is a nuanced, global challenge which requires multiple complementary solutions, perhaps including hydrogen for heavier vehicles and efuels to clean up the legacy combustion engine and hybrid fleet. If that means you can have a GR Yaris (or similar) tucked away for the weekends, then the world will be a brighter place for it.

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Your essential global fleet update

Vinfast signs MOU with Leaseplan at MWC 2022

A

t the recent Mobile World Congress 2022, VinFast announced it had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with LeasePlan. Under the terms of the deal, LeasePlan would become

the preferred partner of VinFast to provide operational leasing, fleet management and remarketing to B2C and B2B customers.

In addition, LeasePlan said it would also offer online leasing solutions and financing options to VinFast’s customers in Germany, France and the Netherlands.

VinFast also committed to ‘fully integrating multiple advanced safety and convenience technologies’ into its vehicles. The intention being to ‘enhance customer experiences and to make smart EVs’ for its customers.

“This announcement with LeasePlan is further evidence of the rapid progress VinFast is making towards its European launch, as well as its commitment to offering optimal financing solutions to customers,” commented Nguyen Thanh Thuy, CEO of VinFast in Europe. “LeasePlan’s reputation and market coverage will be vital enablers for our quest to penetrate a competitive market. VinFast is constantly working to meet all the needs of customers and create a better life for everyone.”

OPINION Thilo von Ulmenstein managing partner, fleetcompetence Group

THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT

T

he main issue that will concern us with increasing intensity over the coming years is climate change.

Governments have already introduced measures, regulations and subsidies that will have a considerable influence on the actions of fleets. One example is the EU’s Green Deal – part of which targets the transport and mobility sector. Meanwhile, there are stricter regulations on CO2 emissions by fleets and the steering mechanisms of CO2 emissions trading. All of this will also have an impact on the operators of vehicle fleets.

If you think you are already going full steam ahead in converting your car fleet to electric vehicles, you might think you’re on the right track. Even if this is true in principle, this measure can only be a starting point. It is foreseeable that the regulatory and control measures will focus beyond the vehicle fleet on other emitting areas in the company.

CO2 emissions from company vehicles belong to the direct emissions listed in the so-called Scope 1 of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. Scope 2 concerns purchased electricity, heat and steam. The most interesting area, however, is the so-called Scope 3, which includes waste disposal, use of sold products, transport and delivery (upstream

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and downstream) as well as business travel and commuting. Scope 3 emissions account for 75% or more of CO2 emissions for many companies. For example, if you look at Apple’s most recent Environmental Progress Report 2020, you can see that mobility in the context of business travel and commuting caused more than 30 times the CO2 emissions, compared with company cars.

Until now, companies have only had to report on Scope 1 emissions. However, the EU Commission’s initiatives are clearly aimed at an expansion that will make all listed companies obligated from 2026.

So, let’s get back to the conversion of the vehicle fleet to electric vehicles. Of course, this is a right and important step. But it can only be the first step on the way to reducing CO2 emissions in the context of mobility.

An Austrian fleet manager, who is responsible for more than 1,000 company cars, said to me two years ago: “I will never achieve the company’s goal of CO2 neutrality with the conversion of the vehicle fleet to electric vehicles alone. To do this, I have to look at all the mobility caused by our company.” He had clearly recognised that we are facing a huge change that requires us to revise our perspective on company vehicles only.

So it’s time to broaden the view beyond the vehicle fleet and develop a comprehensive mobility concept for the company. This means that companies need to be clear about how they can also implement changes in business travel. But above all, they must also focus on the ‘grey fleet’ of commuters or cash allowance takers. Also, examine how these employees can be made offers within the framework of an innovative mobility policy that reduce emissions. The pandemic has already brought about unintentional changes here, leading to a higher proportion of home office work.

Because this avoids commuter mobility.

Embracing this change means thinking broadly. I was impressed to see how, in the context of one of our partners consulting projects in Spain, changes were considered deeply within the commuter population, designing a bundle of measures including job bikes, bus shuttle, business and private car sharing app. To get things started, a permanent mobility committee was established as well as a mobility newsletter.

There are a lot of approaches. Start develop creative concepts to meet challenges – before change is knocking at your door.

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fleet essentials

TOP 10 TELEMATICS TRENDS

The desire – and ability – to have greater control over fleets is increasing, with the industry able to meet these demands through new technologies, systems and innovations. We pick out some of the latest developments across the sector...

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in association with

Simplytrak

INDUSTRY INSIGHT Ian Wood managing director, Simplytrak

1

Knowledge of the networks “There’s a once-in-a-generation change going on with mobile network frequencies, which makes it the perfect time to reassess what functionality you need from tracking systems,” says Raj Singh (left), managing director, Crystal Ball.

“With the phasing out of the 2G mobile network, and the adoption of 4G, rather than 3G as the network standard for the latest, advanced vehicle tracking systems, you need to check how ‘future-proofed’ your system is, but also look at the opportunities for technological and operational advancements this offers your fleet.”

Singh warns that mobile providers are detuning the UK’s 2G network, resulting in a reduction in coverage and vehicles and data ‘disappearing’ off the map, or vehicles appear stationary for long periods.

“Both Vodafone and EE have announced they will sunset their 2G networks in 2025 (within the lifecycle of a vehicle going on fleet this year), while O2 and Three UK have said 2G will be phased out by 2033 at the latest – but this will be sped up by a successful roll-out of 5G across the UK,” he adds.

Crystal Ball’s SmartCam solution, Raj believes, offers fleets a viable option to stay connected.

“SmartCam has cloud-based video recording and tracking and has been in operation for five years,” he reasons. “With 4G capability, it will protect and future-proof your fleet for years to come.”

2

Data management developments

Damian Penney, VP, EMEA, Lytx, acknowledges that telematics systems have become an established means for fleets to gain a holistic view of what’s happening on the road.

However, with the technology comes a huge amount of data to be managed.

“Information on everything from traffic conditions to driver behaviour is being gathered in real-time by nextgeneration devices,” states Penney. “While this is providing plenty of valuable insights, large volumes of quality data have even bigger potential when embracing a preventative approach to risk.

“To achieve this, it’s essential that the commercial fleet industry focuses on collaborating to share and integrate data for the greater good. We’re currently trialling some of the ways this could work in practice in our Lytx Lab – for example, how fleet managers could tap into the external cameras of participating vehicles in other organisations.

“If a fleet manager receives an alert from a driver that there has been an incident on a particular stretch of road, for instance, they can tap into a camera from that vehicle and, combined with nearby CCTV, build a picture on the severity of the incident. This information could then be shared with other fleets and drivers who can be forewarned to avoid debris or seek an alternative route.”

S

implytrak is a long-time member of the tracking sector and has looked to drive innovation and react to customer demands at every turn. When the company was established 17 years ago, the company marketed what would now be considered a basic tracking system. Essentially our technology made the vehicle visible 24/7. At the time, it was what our customers demanded, but the pace of change we have seen in those 17 years has been phenomenal.

Today, most fleets have some form of tracking in their vehicles, whether it's via mobile phones, plug and play, or built-in, such as ours. Our own solution is based around the desire for fleets wanting more security. We believe that a built-in tracking system enables drivers and fleet managers to gain added peace of mind over their vehicles and reassurance that our advanced technology will help them improve efficiency and reduce costs and downtime. It’s important to note, however, that the most important factor is to have some form of tracking system and that customers understand what it can do for them.

At Simplytrak, we believe it is imperative to listen carefully to our customer and – at every possible opportunity – give them the tools that we believe will help improve the way they run their operations. As an example, when an employee is going about their daily work, we can show them real-time traffic information and effectively provide more accurate route guidance.

By adding an algorithm onto our system, we can instantly help customers – and also improving our own product portfolio at the same time. A knock-on effect of that scenario is that the overall level of technology within the tracking and telematics sector is increased, which can further help customers with subsequent product and software updates.

The technology has moved from tracking to immobilisation to camera systems. And now we find ourselves talking more to customers about security.

There is a growing demand for them to be able to secure their vehicles, so we are building that functionality into our existing tracking systems.

The biggest next step in the automotive sector is the electric vehicle – and, at Simplytrak, we are already working hard to meet the needs of our customers. One of the biggest issues is around the charging process – from a security as well as financial point of view.

Having supplied vehicles to their staff, companies are asking us if can introduce functionality that shows how much energy is being used and and what costs are incurred. As Simplytrak products already include a camera and a tracker, the challenge is to adapt the platform to show how many kilowatts are being put in, so that they can reimburse their staff.

But where there are challenges, there are also opportunities. The sector is evolving at a very fast pace and we are committed to meeting the needs of our customers, as they are the most important part of the whole process.

fleetworld.co.uk

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fleet essentials

3

Paperless progress

Covid really brought home the trend towards the digitalisation of fleet management. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the fleet industry had to adopt vehicle telematics systems to monitor fleets remotely and this pattern will continue, believes Thomas Maerz (left), chief development officer, Rivus.

“Approximately 400 million new cars are expected to have some form of connectivity by 2025,” he says. “The UK presents huge growth opportunities with significant advancements in IoT for vehicles (IoV) and impressive telematics capabilities.”

Data is streamlining the fleet management process and with Internet of Things (IoT) becoming part of daily life, it is crucial for businesses to benefit from trends in vehicle telematics to gain competitive advantage.

“IoV and embedded IoT is the next major evolutionary step for fleets,” believes Maerz. “Big Data, such as driver profiling and sharing data between vehicles, opens the door to possibilities like intelligent deployment, predictive maintenance and applying artificial intelligence to traffic management and speed control.

“The latest GSM changes are reshaping vehicle telematics.

5G and LTE-M technology is faster, more reliable, with improved bandwidth and reduced latency,” he adds. “Along with IoT hardware and computing power, 5G technology can unlock new opportunities in vehicle connectivity.”

4

Looking after the older generation

With the ongoing vehicle parts shortage set to rumble on throughout 2022, many businesses are facing up to ageing fleet cohort that is being expected to work harder – and longer – than ever before.

Recognising the importance of harnessing data about those fleets was the key impetus behind Trakm8’s Connectedcare package. Described as a one-stop solution that provides advanced vehicle status and health data insights Connectedcare ensures vehicles are better maintained and, ultimately, deliver maximum return on investment.

The system enables fleet managers to gain remote access to readings directly from the dashboard or instrument cluster. These include diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and dashboard warning lights from fleet vehicles through easy to use web portals and mobile apps.

Among the key insights Connectedcare delivers for fleet managers is real-time vehicle health updates. Capturing this data from fleet vehicles enables trend analysis, allowing for the identification of common faults within vehicles before they become critical, helping businesses to take a more proactive, preventative approach to vehicle maintenance – ultimately keeping key assets running for longer.

Other key features of Connectedcare include battery status alerts. A flat or faulty battery is one of the most common causes of unplanned vehicle downtime, so the Trakm8 solution can run checks that provide in-depth battery health feedback.

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5

Speeding solutions

Just over four years ago, Quartix was granted a Queens Award for Innovation for its SafeSpeed database.

At that point the company posed a fundamental question: What defines a safe speed?

A high rate of fatal accidents take place on rural roads, despite drivers rarely exceeding these roads’ legal speed limit. While important to enforce, a smooth-driving, nospeeding policy alone isn’t always enough to ensure safe driving – context is key. As a result, Quartix developed a better measurement of safety that gives a clearer picture of driving performance.

In addition to a ‘Driver Score’ that indicates a driver’s level of harsh acceleration and braking, the Quartix system provides a ‘Relative Speed Score’. It does this by capturing the speed of thousands of vehicles every day across the country and intelligently comparing a driver’s speed at any location to the average speed of other vehicles that have travelled that same section of road. National road markings business WJ had success using the Quartix driver behaviour analysis reports in its recent initiative to reduce carbon emissions and fleet costs across its 420 vehicles.

“Quartix driver behaviour reports have saved us £160,000,” states transport manager, Scott Logan. “A 12% improvement in MPG and reduced CO2 emissions, plus fewer vehicle breakdowns and far less workshop hours…

Results like these are precisely why we use telematics.”

6

Make sense of the stats

The use of telematics and data within the fleet industry is evolving, often proving to be a necessity when it comes to improving efficiency, maximising cost savings, managing risk and streamlining operational processes.

“Telematics has moved on from simply allowing fleet managers to know where their vehicles are located – the ways in which fleets are utilising the data is developing,” says Mark Young, account director, AX Automotive.

Monitoring driver behaviour is one such area where the use of data is increasingly central in assisting fleet managers in minimising risk. It is a fact that poor or aggressive driving can result in mechanical damage, road traffic accidents and even injuries or death.

Driver behaviour platforms such as AX Innovation’s AX Connect present data in a very accessible and comprehensible way, enabling fleet managers to identify trends and pinpoint specific incidents and events. “The evidence that the data reveals can be proactively used to implement the necessary driver re-education and training programs,” explains Young.

When it comes to the rise of EV fleets, AX can help. “Increasingly part of a package of services which support fleets, when telematics is adopted alongside seamless First Notice of Loss (FNOL) and incident management processes, such as AX Motor Assist, fleets can really benefit,” says Young.

TELEM_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 18:40 Page 4

in association with

Simplytrak

7

The rising role of reporting

Automotive R&D departments and vehicle manufacturers might be at the forefront in delivering the transport revolution related to electric vehicles, telematics is not far behind and, in some cases, leading the way.

For example, Webfleet Solutions’ Fleet Electrification Planning Report enables fleet operators to identify the internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that could be replaced with EV alternatives.

The report uses telematics insights from incumbent vehicles to allow fleet managers to select maximum daily mileages, as well as criteria including standstill times and road types, to identify a fleet’s EV potential. It gives a clearer picture than the published ranges of EVs based on dynamometer testing, which does not allow for the effect that ‘real world’ factors – such as terrain, load, temperature and driving behaviour – can have on performance.

Meanwhile, charging point concern has been addressed by Webfleet Solutions. A Charger Connection Report provides useful insights into the charging process and vehicle charge levels. It allows operators to charge vehicles at a time of day when tariffs are most favourable and can also minimise battery degradation by ensuring charge levels are maintained between the optimal 20 and 80%.

Finally, inefficient operation is a concern for fleet managers and Webfleet Solutions’ Energy Consumption Report addresses this by providing an analysis of energy usage in kWh, per vehicle, per day.

8

How to prevent drowing in data Efforts to reduce emissions often lead to increases in carbon reporting and the introduction of legislation, such as those curtailing the use of red diesel. To keep up with these escalating efforts to improve sustainability, fleets are being urged to look at the accuracy of their fuel usage data, and how efficiently they can access it.

Many organisations are voluntarily choosing to pursue sustainability reporting. As a result, many fleet managers are finding themselves increasingly in demand for emissions data – both for evidence of sustainability efforts and cost-savings.

Selecting the relevant fleet operations data for a sustainability or emissions report, ensuring its accuracy and using it to make informed, purposeful decisions can appear to be a mammoth task – but technology can help.

ABAX’ telematics solution monitors exact mileage and produces emissions reports. Such data can also be consistently presented year-on-year, arming organisations with evidence of trends and, hopefully, improvements over time. The tracking of fleet vehicles can also provide opportunities for route optimisation, meaning savings in mileage, emissions, time and productivity.

On average, ABAX users save 18.5% on fuel costs, find up to 30 minutes per employee, per day in timesheets. In addition, they are able to analyse driving behaviour for a safer, greener fleet that spends £22.30 less per vehicle, per month.

Intelligent Fleet Management Solutions Simplytrak’s innovative cloud-based vehicle tracking and camera telematics increase safety and cut costs. detailed information on driver behaviour.

www.simplytrak.com

Simplytrak

fleetworld.co.uk

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TELEM_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 18:26 Page 5

fleet essentials

9

Safe and secure

SimplySecure from Simplytrak has a simple aim: making vehicle theft a thing of the past. Drivers, faced with ever shorter times to park, often run to doorways leaving the keys in the vehicle. Opportunists jump in and drive the vehicle short distances before unloading the goods into another van.

The value of the goods often far exceeds the value of the vans. What is more, vehicles stolen using the keys are very often not covered by insurance for any loss.

Simplytrak has developed a bespoke CANbus system based around the company’s vehicle tracking software to support the training and behaviour of courier drivers. If a driver fails to follow protocol and the driver’s door is opened with the keys still in the ignition, the horn will sound, hazard lights will flash, and the vehicle is automatically immobilised. To mobilise the vehicle again, the driver must first contact their head office who are the only people able to remobilise the vehicle in these instances.

The SimplySecure solution can prevent theft altogether. It comes with full vehicle tracking and reporting suite as well as driver behaviour scorecards to improve driver behaviour. Being CANbased the system is installed without interruption to vehicle wiring and with no risk of warranty issues.

10

Ready to switch?

Targa4Electric has been developed by Targa Telematics to analyses a company’s fleet of cars and identify the profitability and environmental efficiency of a potential replacement with electric models.

Evaluating the feasibility and managing the process of fleet electrification is where Targa Telematics can help. Companies can evaluate the potential decrease in emissions across the whole car fleet by using Targa4Electric, which also helps in understanding the economic viabilities of a conversion, such as cuts in fuel costs, traffic charges and carbon taxes.

Targa4Electric functions through the analysis of a car’s historical data, considering a range of variables. Some of these include: average distance travelled; type of driving; and the position of existing charging stations. These variables are part of the assessment which evaluate whether replacing the vehicle with an electric alternative would reduce costs and increase efficiency.

Once the fleet replacement and optimisation project have been completed, Targa Telematics continues to support the customer in managing the electric vehicles. The system provides tools that enable the efficient use of batteries, help sizing and placing the organisation’s charging infrastructure and ensure that the charging procedure is carried out correctly, allowing optimal use also by drivers.

In addition, Targa Telematics assists the fleet manager in managing hybrid vehicles, providing reports on when the car is using thermal or electric propulsion, with the aim to help them achieve their sustainability goals.

And one more...

Evolution with EVs An EV planning technology has arrived on the market and is set to help optimise electric fleets and fleet management. Spark’s EV Fleet Convert provides insight to fleet operators, helping to identify the right vehicle for their needs, meeting the correct specification and validate that the vehicle will be fit for the intended purpose.

The technology has been designed to help keep electric fleets on the move. Indeed, EV Fleet Convert uses AI to account for where the vehicle is going, driver habits and other real-time factors. For example, it monitors battery health, terrain, weather and traffic to accurately predict the energy needed for each route and vehicle. The core application’s interface displays the state of charge of the vehicle’s battery for each journey across a driver schedule, highlighting when and where recharging the vehicle will be required.

Justin Ott, CEO and founder of Spark EV Technology, explains more: “With many fleet managers looking to transition their vehicles from internal combustion engines to electrification, our technology is very timely in supporting as they changeover.

For them, ensuring vehicles can reach their destinations plays a huge role as it can have a detrimental effect on their business.”

18 fleetworld.co.uk

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03/03/2022 17:05:12

IVIEW_Supplier_Europcar_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 16:42 Page 1

supplier stories EUROPCAR Ron Santiago managing director

RENTAL

ON THE RISE

A thriving rental market might be due to coronavirus and lockdowns, but Ron Santiago, MD, Europcar Mobility Group, intends to build on the growth seen over the previous two years

Keeping going through the pandemic was an achievement In the beginning, the airport businesses were decimated and our leisure business evaporated, but thankfully we had a strong corporate backbone of B2B customers. We kept our operations open through our delivery and collection model and I think that was the saving grace for us and our customers. We continued to deliver cars where some of our competitors didn’t and were able to fast-track our delivery and collection app, which meant we could do contactless delivery.

It’s currently a mixture of challenges and opportunities We went from having too many vehicles during covid – when demand plummeted – to now not having enough. The semiconductor shortage has meant we couldn’t get enough new models and

“With the move to hybrid and electric, people want to try before they buy” 20 fleetworld.co.uk

demand has returned. The situation in the fleet leasing replacement sector has meant we’ve been able to them help out, though. We currently have more vehicles rented out to that part of the industry now than we’ve ever had.

We’re hoping that demand from the fleet market will remain It’s not just been caused by a shortage of vehicles. With the move to hybrid and electric, people want to try before they buy. Rental offers the ideal opportunity to do that and we’re seeing the rental duration extend longer and longer.

People also want flexibility – they don’t know if these vehicles are going to be suit them long-term.

Another positive is our delivery and collection service. We’re constantly looking to improve the driver App to make it slicker and we’re also introducing e-bikes, so some drivers can improve efficiency and help the planet.

As we progress, we’re looking at our longer-term subscription offers, but that’s a challenge at the moment because of vehicle availability. But, next year, I think there’ll be more subscriptionbased models coming to market. We see that as a potential strength for us be-

cause we are well-suited to developing that product offering.

Our connected car programme will appeal to fleets We can provide our customers with a lot of information about the vehicle usage, within data protection rules using our connectivity technology. We have 95% of our fleet connected now, which offers a lot of potential for improved fleet management. In addition, we’re able to share our car-sharing business technology with fleets, if they want to manage their pool cars, like their own car-sharing business.

It’s fully flexible and just one of the technology programmes we’re working on.

Although, we can’t ignore there are challenges ahead We have an ambition to move towards a more electrified fleet, but electric vehicles are very tough to source because of the chip shortage. However, we have a high percentage of hybrids and are in the process of installing chargers at locations throughout the network. But the costs involved are an issue, as is the amount of power at some locations. The charging infrastructure is not moving fast enough to keep up with vehicle demand!

F O R T H E D AY A H E A D

NEW ELECTRIC VAN RANGE PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® - Access zero emission zones

WLTP (1) Combined Fuel Consumption for the PEUGEOT electric van range in MPG (l/100km): Combined N/A. CO₂ emissions (g/km): 0g/km.

(1) The fuel consumption or electric range achieved, and CO₂ produced (where applicable), in real world conditions will depend upon a number of factors including, but not limited to: the accessories fitted (pre and post registration); the starting charge of the battery; variations in weather; driving styles and vehicle load. The PEUGEOT electric van range are battery electric vehicles requiring mains electricity for charging. The WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure) is used to measure fuel consumption, electric range and CO₂ figures. Figures shown are for comparison purposes and should only be compared to the fuel consumption, electric range and CO₂ values of other cars tested to the same technical standard.

SWOT

SWOT_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 16:43 Page 1

Simon Harris > SH Head of valuations, UK Vehicle Data

Mark Jowsey > MJ Head of TCO AutoTrader

Martin Ward > MW Manufacturer relationship specialist

Jon Wheeler > JW Head of vehicle valuation services, CDL Vehicle Information Services

Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of four rivals are analysed by the Fleet World quartet of industry experts AUDI Q5 • BMW X3 • GENESIS GV70 • MERCEDES-BENZ GLC

but probably feels longer in the tooth than any of the cars in this group, plus it looks expensive.

MJ The MMI controller has been removed, so touchscreen means eyes off the road longer.

Handling is not the most dynamic.

MW The Q5 has never been a drivers’ car – a bit dull to drive JW Expensive and not as engaging as some competitors.

Audi Q5 40 2.0TDI S Line

STRENGTHS SH Perhaps the most conventionally attractive of this group, with clean cut lines and a solid, high-quality interior.

MJ Consistent and competent with a comfortable ride, Q5 has a quiet refined cabin. Stable Res help underpin success.

MW Looks good, value for

money, plenty of standard equipment on all models.

JW A solid choice for any user, a very well finished interior, cutting edge tech and great driving characteristics.

WEAKNESSES SH Q5 was facelifted in 2021,

OPPORTUNITIES SH Rarer than rivals, so could be appealing for those who don’t want to make an obvious choice, while the Genesis is a step too far.

MJ Q5 reputation is positive, SUV volume in this sector remains strong and Res are stable.

MW So much going for the Q5, it has everything you’d ever need in a large SUV.

issues, there is little against the X3. Updated in 2021 it still looks and feels fresh, although rivals are also good.

MJ The 2.0-litre diesel unit can be a little noisy when driven hard.

But generally, it is hard to fault.

MW X3 has grown over the years, is it just getting too big now? It’s now larger than the original X5.

JW The stiffer suspension set-up is not to everyone’s taste and the high list price is getting close to the ceiling for its segment.

BMW X3 xDrive20 2.0d M Sport

STRENGTHS SH Perhaps the best known car of its type, and a class benchmark in many areas, including efficiency and driver appeal MJ Delivers SUV flexibility yet with a dynamic drive that gives it a saloon car feel.

MW It’s a BMW, so of course it will do well. X3 has always been

22 fleetworld.co.uk

popular with fleets and much sought after on the used market.

JW Dynamic, frugal, engaging and loaded with tech – the wellestablished X3 is the most costefficient model is this line-up.

WEAKNESSES SH Apart from possible supply

OPPORTUNITIES SH Tough to single out opportunities for a dominant player in the market, but BMW’s new discipline in sales volume might make the X3 more appealing than before.

MJ Tough sector competition, but BMW continues to attract new clients.

JW Well established as one of the most popular premium SUVs in the market. If Audi can get physical vehicles on UK soil, it’ll pull volume away from key competitors.

THREATS SH As the third-placed model of the German three, Audi must also feel vulnerable to Volvo, Jaguar, Alfa and others.

MJ Declining A4 sales may be reducing the flow of prospects.

Huge competition way beyond just those here.

MW Always been ultra-popular, new and – especially used – a solid choice, but are there just too many around now?

JW New players in the segment are entering the market with cheaper, attractive, and well spec’d models that are capturing consumer interest.

MW Being lighter and more efficient than competitors, the X3 will appeal to even more user-choosers.

JW A great success story for the brand. With the addition of electrified powertrains there’s a solution for fleets and private buyers.

THREATS SH Probably the strongest proposition here but, like the others, being diesel could be vulnerable to future local clean air zones.

MJ In this sector diesel makes perfect sense at high mileages, but BMW’s iX3 BEV is sure to take sales if availability allows.

MW X3 is more practical than plush, which may put some off.

JW In such a competitive sector it’s hard to keep on top with so many models fighting it out over price point and market share.

SWOT_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 16:43 Page 2

“A valid alternative to a Jaguar or German product. Genesis will rapidly evolve into an EV-brand”

in the cut-throat premium sector when so much rests on image.

Promising early signs though.

MJ Higher kerbweight means a solid rather than sporty feel.

Lower mpg and higher CO2 mean bigger costs and increased BIK/Employers NI and VED. MW 2.2 Diesel engine not the smoothest and Genesis will have an uphill struggle for recognition.

JW High CO2 figures, insurance ratings and lower claimed mpg figures than the key rivals hold it back. No electrified option yet.

Genesis GV70 2.2D Sport Line

STRENGTHS SH A high-quality package for a new brand with eye-catching looks and strong performance.

MJ Excellent levels of equipment and a very high-quality interior.

The five-year warranty and roadside assistance package will appeal to many.

MW High quality, and a high

level of standard specification.

JW Stylish, appealing and offers buyers a luxury alternative to the premium German rivals. High end interior and an aggressive price point stand out.

WEAKNESSES SH Hard to become established

the X3, which increases the relative BIK tax burden for drivers, despite a P11D price advantage.

MJ Multimedia screen is not the biggest. Nor the freshest product, with its replacement due to arrive fairly soon.

MW Servicing costs can be higher for a Mercedes-Benz than its rivals, best to check before you buy.

JW Starting to look a little dated and not quite as refined as some of the modern competition, which is reflected in the GLC’s residual values.

Mercedes-Benz GLC220 AMG Line

STRENGTHS SH Special feeling interior design makes it stand out from the crowd and advanced diesel engine is strong on refinement.

MJ Conservatively styled, but with a purposeful SUV look, the interior is a quality environment, and the brand is highly aspirational.

MW There’s a GLC for everyone

OPPORTUNITIES SH Online sales model, keen pricing and fair residuals. Genesis plans to keep used cars off the market until 2024, giving greater control of RVs. MJ A valid alternative to a Jaguar or German product. Genesis will rapidly evolve into an EV-brand.

– a great looking SUV, with good design throughout.

JW Premium quality and style, the GLC is quiet and comfortable with competitive running costs and a high-quality interior.

WEAKNESSES SH Not quite as good on CO2 as

OPPORTUNITIES SH Pence per mile depreciation and SMR a little lower than for the X3, the former partly because of a lower P11D. MJ Brand loyalty will support sales until the new car arrives.

MW A handsome car that stands

MW Genesis offers hassle-free ownership with five-year warranty, breakdown cover, collection and delivery servicing.

JW As a well-established brand in global markets Genesis has a natural growth approach in the UK.

THREATS SH While it appears good value and well equipped – offsetting its high-ish CO2 emissions – GV70 remains vulnerable to fleet CO2 caps.

MJ Rejecting a traditional Dealer network model may concern some prospects.

MW Breaking into any sector with a new brand or name is always going to be difficult, however good the product is.

JW The UK premium SUV market is dominated by the Germans, making it difficult for the GV70 to gain traction.

out in the crowd. Its design makes it a real crowd-pleaser.

JW The potential of some great deals as the model approaches end of life will certainly attract consumers. Expect a new GLC towards the end of the year.

THREATS SH Mercedes-Benz’s strategy of dominating the premium sector has weakened RVs a little. A difficult area to turn around.

MJ GLC drivers are very likely to choose another, but this group shows that the competition is very strong.

MW Practicality and driving dynamics maybe not as good as others in this sector.

JW The GLC was once the go-to model, but it’s tough to compete with the newer competitors when the model is so late on in its lifecycle.

fleetworld.co.uk

23

SWOT

SWOT_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 16:44 Page 3

1st SH 1st MJ 1st MW 3rd JW 1st

2nd SH 2nd MJ 4th MW 2nd JW 2nd

3rd SH 4th MJ 3rd MW 1st JW 3rd

4th SH 3rd MJ 2nd MW 4th JW 4th

24 fleetworld.co.uk

Simon Harris > SH Head of valuations, UK Vehicle Data

Mark Jowsey > MJ Head of TCO AutoTrader

Martin Ward > MW Manufacturer relationship specialist

Jon Wheeler > JW Head of vehicle valuation services, CDL Vehicle Information Services

THE VERDICT BMW X3 xDrive20 2.0d M Sport OTR: £46,970 P11D: £46,370 Fuel: 47.9mpg CO2: 154g/km RV: £21,996 (47.44%) BiK: 35% SMR: £3,723 Fuel costs: £8,615 Insurance: £4,893 Finance: £6,260 NI: £6,655 VED: £1,505 Cost per month: £1,558

Standard equipment: DAB, BT, USB Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Automatic climate control Front and rear parking sensors Heated front seats M Sport suspension Options: Metallic paint: £695 Harman Kardon audio: £820 Panoramic roof: 1,190 Technology plus pack: £2,400

Genesis GV70 2.2D Sport Line OTR: £41,800 P11D: £40,850 Fuel: 40.0mpg CO2: 186g/km RV: £18,444 (45.15%) BiK: 37% SMR: £3,380 Fuel costs: £10,541 Insurance: £6,063 Finance: £5,515 NI: £6,257 VED: £1,875 Cost per month: £1,558

Standard equipment: DAB, Bluetooth, USB Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Multi-zone air conditioning 14.5-inch Navi screen Sport suspension Cat 1 alarm Options: Innovation pack: £4,190 21in alloys: £1,310 Metallic paint: £750 Sunroof: £1,460

Audi Q5 40 2.0TDI S line OTR: £45,445 P11D: £44,835 Fuel: 44.8mpg CO2: 165g/km RV: £20,603 (45.95%) BiK: 37% SMR: £3,028 Fuel costs: £9,419 Insurance: £4,893 Finance: £6,053 NI: £6,868 VED: £1,535 Cost per month: £1,558

Standard equipment: DAB, BT, USB Apple CarPlay/Android Auto 12.3-inch touchscreen Amazon Alexa integration Three-zone electronic climate control Reversing camera Options: Storage package: £225 City Assist pack: £500 19-inch alloy wheels: £1,750

Mercedes-Benz GLC220 AMG Line OTR: £45,210 P11D: £44,600 Fuel: 44.8mpg CO2: 166g/km RV: £21,844 (48.98%) BiK: 37% SMR: £3,079 Fuel costs: £9,419 Insurance: £4,749 Finance: £6,021 NI: £6,832 VED: £1,535 Cost per month: £1,512

Standard equipment: DAB, Bluetooth, USB Apple CarPlay/Android Auto 10.25-inch touchscreen Keyless go Reversing camera Active bonnet

Options: Metallic paint: £715 Special paint: £925 Trailer coupling: £750

MASTER_SalSac_EVFW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 16:46 Page 1

SALARY SACRIFICE

It is easy being Green, with Tusker

Education is the key to salary sacrifice success

More and more, organisations are realising the need to reduce their environmental footprint and offering a Tusker salary sacrifice scheme enables the company to provide the opportunity for mass market employees to access lower or zero-emitting vehicles.

The scheme works very well with electric cars, with many more affordable than their diesel or petrol equivalent models. Not only is the scheme therefore helping lower the UK's emissions, but it’s also supporting the Government’s Road to Zero strategy.

Tusker’s salary sacrifice scheme supports the recruitment and retention of staff too, which in the current market is so important for businesses. With increased competition in the workplace for employees, companies providing a salary sacrifice scheme can retain staff but also attract new talent because of the power of the salary sacrifice offering.

With Tusker, the scheme also provides protections for employees with comprehensive early termination, redundancy, and long-term sickness protection so employees or employers are not penalised in the event of unforeseen changes.

With a current fleet of over 20,000 cars, Tusker has been providing this employee benefit to a growing customer base for more than 14 years. We have over 900 salary sacrifice customers including NHS Trusts, Councils, and many corporate businesses including British Airways, EDF and AstraZeneca.

There are three words that are key to ensuring a successful green salary sacrifice scheme: education, education, education. This is fundamental to ensuring maximum employee engagement and encourages optimal employee take-up. Our electric vehicle salary sacrifice schemes have around 12% employee take-up in the first year, compared to an average industry take-up of around 6%. Why do we get double the take-up of our competitors? Because we put so much emphasis on educating employees in the types and models of EVs that are available to them, including, obviously, cost, tax and, just as importantly, range.

To ensure that we provide employees with all the relevant information they need to make the right decision regarding their, typically, first electric car, we fact check all the range information supplied by the OEMs. You'd be surprised how often this is overstated by as much as 30% - which can be the vital difference between making the journey with juice to spare, and running out of power frustratingly short of your destination. We’d like to see manufacturers break range down into two categories: for motorway driving and for urban driving, as this would give a more realistic picture of the actual range that was achievable, and do much to remove employees’ range anxiety.

Contact Tusker Team T 0333 400 1010 E hello@tuskerdirect.com W www.tuskercars.com

Contact Andrew Leech T 0300 302 0626 E Andrew.Leech@fleetevolution.com W www.fleetevolution.com/

SALSAC_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:10 Page 2

salary sacrifice

in association with

Transitioning to EVs The shift to electric vehicles is something all fleets will be embracing sooner or later. Some might be sceptical or hesitant, but many still might not realise about the salary sacrifice option, which has been designed to make the move easier for all parties. By John Challen

T

he salary sacrifice initiative is not new, however the past few years have thrust it into the limelight as drivers look to switch over to electric vehicles before the 2030 deadline. Add in rising fuel costs and more and more people are investigating the possibilities.

Right now, there are numerous routes to go down – with a number of products offered by a wide range of industry specialists. The evidence is clear: the big switch to electric vehicles is snowballing. With that in mind, here are a selection of what the different players are offering drivers.

IMPROVEMENTS ALL OVER “We’re seeing a demand landslide for EVs in the UK,” says Fiona Howarth, CEO, Octopus Electric Vehicles. “In 2021, 12% of new cars sold were EVs, almost double the rate in the previous year. Drivers are waking up to the benefits of switching to electric - many of the old myths and barriers for adoption have gone.”

Howarth isn’t surprised by the trend.

“Drivers can now choose from over 50 different EVs that travel over 150 miles on a single charge, which is plenty when we do just 20 miles a day on average.

“Public chargers have rolled out at pace. Their numbers have doubled in

INDUSTRY INSIGHT W

ith a current fleet of over 20,000 cars, 95% of which are on salary sacrifice, Tusker has been providing this employee benefit to a growing customer base for more than 14 years. During that time, we’ve put over 60,000 vehicles on the road. We have over 900 salary sacrifice customers including NHS Trusts, councils, and many large and small corporate businesses including British Airways, EDF and AstraZeneca.

Salary sacrifice supports the recruitment and retention of staff, which in the current market is so important for businesses. With increased competition in the workplace for employees, companies providing a salary sacrifice scheme can retain staff but also attract new talent because of the power of the salary sacrifice offering.

Our research shows that the majority of our drivers would not have opted for a new car without the scheme, and with the average age of the car our drivers’ move from being over eight years’ old, we are helping drivers access newer, safer, more economical and more environmentally friendly vehicles.

This also helps companies address grey fleet issues as it reduces the number of drivers driving their own car on company business.

The strategy for Salary Sacrifice, which includes the

the UK in the last two years and there are now twice as many locations as petrol stations. It’s also more affordable – the average driver can save £1,000 a year on fuel costs if they use an off-peak electricity tariff such as ‘Octopus Go’ to charge at home.”

The Octopus CEO also cites platforms such as the Electric Juice Network as helping to make public charging hasslefree for both drivers and fleet managers. “One card allows access to over 189,000 charge points across Europe, with more being added daily, consolidating all fees onto a single bill,” she explains.

Paul Gilshan, CEO, Tusker

reduced BiK rates currently available for electric vehicles, means those on lower salaries can access EVs for the first time.

It also allows Tusker to provide this benefit to those not offered a traditional company car where a higher salary or job role is a pre-requisite to a vehicle.

As a result of the way the scheme is set up, well over 70% of Tusker’s fleet are 20% taxpayers ensuring that this audience who haven’t been catered for with company car benefits previously, now have access to affordable electric vehicles.

We have seen more ‘cash for car’ drivers taking advantage of salary sacrifice, because it offers them a fixed price, allinclusive car, enabling them to get into a new Electric Vehicle more cost effectively than if they were to buy or lease the vehicle as a retail driver.

Vetting your salary sacrifice supplier before appointing them is vital. Providers like Tusker, with over 22 years’ experience, have large numbers of customers and specific processes in place to support drivers and organisations offering salary sacrifice. Choosing a provider who has experience and salary sacrifice as a core focus is going to make the difference compared to those offering salary sacrifice as an additional product, or for those new to the market.

fleetworld.co.uk

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salary sacrifice

in association with

“Employers will save on NI payments on salaries alongside a lower charge on the BiK element, while employees will save more on NIC” “Salary sacrifice schemes allow drivers to typically save 30-40% of their monthly car costs, while they drive a brand new EV. Our offering allows employees the option of a home charger, maintenance and insurance cover, as well as a dedicated team to help them pick their dream car,” says Howarth.

SALARY SACRIFICE SEARCHES As a relatively new player in the market, The Electric Car Scheme believes it has the ability to come at salary sacrifice from a fresh perspective. The company has seen searches for employee benefits linked to electric cars increased five-fold over the last 12 months,” according to Thom Groot, co-founder. The Electric Car Scheme has now fielded over 65,000 requests for cars since starting its beta and is now open to all UK companies.

“The service is designed specifically to be a ‘no-brainer’ for companies from 10 to 500 employees,” he explains.

“Benefits include the risk of an employee not being able to continue with their car being completely covered – and expert HR and finance support being easily accessed through a dedicated account manager. We also support the company’s employees, helping to select and order the best car lease for them, saving anywhere between 30-60% on the cost of leasing a new electric car.”

IMPROVING GREEN CREDENTIALS As well as obvious financial benefits, there is the important ‘green’ element to the salary sacrifice schemes, something that isn’t lost on Neal Francis, divisional managing director, Pendragon Vehicle Management. “For employers, the schemes represent an opportunity to take a step forward in terms of talent acquisition, employee satisfaction, improving green credentials and meeting sustainability goals,” he says.

“By encouraging employees to opt for low emission, hybrid or fully electric vehicles, drivers are only charged the benefit-in-kind on the vehicle, providing savings for the amount of salary sacrificed. For fully electrified vehicles, the BiK rate is only 1% for the 2021/22 financial year. The rate will rise to just 2% in 2022-23. This is a tax advantage that makes salary sacrifice an effective perk for drivers wanting to switch to an electric vehicle.”

The NIC rise in April this year will also give an additional boost to salary sacrifice schemes,” reckons Francis.

“Employers will save on NI payments on salaries alongside a lower charge on the BiK element, while employees will save more on NIC. “Administering a vehicle salary sacrifice scheme can be viewed by employers as challenging or non-core, however TAX INCENTIVE Low BiK rate for EVs (2% in the 2022/23 tax year) makes salary sacrifice an effective perk for drivers wanting to switch to an electric vehicle.

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when working closely in partnership with the in-house experts at Pendragon Vehicle Management, these items can be addressed early on in the process and together schemes can be effectively and efficiently implemented.”

BELIEVE THE HYPE “Salary sacrifice schemes are the ideal way of getting company employees into electric cars ahead of the ban on the sale of new ICE cars in just eight years’ time,” says Andrew Leech, founder and managing director of Fleet Evolution.

He believes there are several myths surrounding salary sacrifice schemes that can be immediately dispelled.

“The first is size. Our smallest client has just three employees. Our scheme is suitable to businesses of all sizes, large or small, and delivers all the benefits associated with running a company car at low cost and minimum risk.”

Another myth is that salary sacrifice schemes are high risk to employers.

“There is a notion that employers could be left with cars if their employee leaves, is made redundant, or can’t make the repayments,” explains Leech.

“Many schemes offer insurance against all of these eventualities, but they normally take six months to kick in. Under our scheme, the employer only has to give one month’s notice before we will take the car back with no questions asked.”

Myth number three relates to schemes being difficult to operate and administration heavy. “Nothing could be further from the truth,” states Leech. “We handle all administration - everything from fines to employee recharges. In fact, our largest client, Unipres with whom we have 70 cars, spends just 45 minutes a month of admin connected with their scheme as we take all of that burden away.”

GOING THE EXTRA MILE Salary sacrifice is growing in popularity, not surprisingly, as it is an ideal way to provide employees who would not normally qualify for a company car – or those who have opted out in favour of a cash allowance – with cost-effective access to fully maintained, zero-emission vehicles at no extra cost to the business.

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SALSAC_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:11 Page 4

salary sacrifice

Fleet Alliance says it can build on the savings and benefits that salary sacrifice offers with a panel of up to nine funders. As a result, maximum value is delivered to employer and employee by selecting the lowest cost.

“This facility is available to all – but we are finding it is proving highly popular with small and medium sized businesses who would not normally be able to benefit from a solution of this nature,” says Andy Bruce, CEO, Fleet Alliance.

“We are also providing access to eFleet – our cloud-based fleet management system – free of charge to salary sacrifice customers to help them manage their fleet administration more efficiently,” he adds.

“Under our scheme, an employee effectively leases the car for two to four years with no deposit and all costs – including maintenance, insurance and breakdown cover – are included within the employee’s monthly salary sacrifice payment.”

in association with

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE The one remaining barrier to widespread EV adoption can be the initial purchase price, which is higher than the equivalent petrol or diesel car.

“While the lower total cost of ownership for EVs can help narrow this gap with internal combustion vehicles, it is the incredible tax efficiency of EVs that has helped the widespread adoption of EVs by business drivers,” reasons Paul Gilshan, CEO, Tusker. “Low BiK rates

coupled with the wider acceptance of Salary Sacrifice schemes have allowed motorists to benefit from savings which can run into the thousands over the lifetime of a car’s contract.

“Tusker is delighted that the benefits of salary sacrifice can be just as beneficial for lower rate taxpayers as they are for company car drivers,” adds Gilshan. “This situation allows more employees to access the benefits of new, safer and greener vehicles that they otherwise wouldn’t have been eligible for, nor able to afford.”

With the ban on petrol and diesel cars coming into force in just eight years, Gilshan says he is is confident that the EV landscape will change dramatically within this time. “With all global manufactures currently engaged in the production of EVs, the range of available vehicles will be wider each year, which has got to be a big positive for drivers,” he concludes.

ADVTL_Europcar_FW_Mar22_v2.qxp_Layout 1 15/03/2022 16:57 Page 1

ARE YOU READY FOR THE CAZ REVOLUTION? Research commissioned by Europcar Mobility Group UK found that over 87% of fleet managers believe their business will be impacted by the growing number of Clean Air Zones (CAZ) across the UK. And the cost implications of this could be considerable. he challenge is how to build and manage a fleet that meets CAZ and London ULEZ requirements, but is also flexible and costeffective. And all while vehicle supply is constrained. Having the ability to manage costs and ‘flex’ fleet by using rental, short and long-term, in response to fluctuations in demand will be key.

Having access to the latest electric vehicles, without having to make long-term financial commitments, will be also crucial.

Responding to these challenges, Europcar is not only increasing the share of green vehicles in its fleet. It is also making a significant investment in vehicle charging at the Europcar network around the UK as well as taking an innovative approach to cutting down emissions in its operations, with the use of e-bikes for drivers delivering and collecting vehicles.

To download the white paper: ‘Clearing the air: Are fleet managers ready for the Clean Air Revolution?’ visit www.europcar.co.uk/business

T

IN NUMBERS...

For 89% of businesses a quarter or more of their fleet need to enter a Clean Air Zone more than once a week Just under 30% of businesses had not calculated the potential cost for their fleet to enter a Clean Air Zone or the extended London ULEZ 40% said that they intend to use long-term/flexible rental as a way of increasing the number of ‘Clean Air Zone friendly’ vehicles in their fleets

Europcar adds 100 LEVC VN5 Vans to commercial fleet Demonstrating its clear intent to deliver electrified and flexible transport solutions for commercial vehicle users, Europcar added 100 London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) hybrid electric VN5 vans to its Vans & Trucks fleet at the start of 2022.

Available for long-term rental from its Vans & Trucks locations across the UK, with a particular focus on the cities where Clean Air Zones are in force or scheduled for 2022, this new fleet addresses an urgent need amongst commercial vehicle users.

They give businesses the flexibility to ‘try before they buy’, without having to commit to lease or outright purchase,

giving them the chance to really understand how electric will work for them and their drivers. Long-term rental of the VN5 also provides important financial flexibility while the UK economy remains uncertain. Plus, crucially, the VN5 gives customers a compliant solution eliminating the need to factor in additional costs for entering Clean Air Zones.

The VN5 is a truly innovative workhorse that delivers great storage capacity as well as the flexibility of LEVC’s eCity Range-Extender to eliminate the range anxiety that is holding back many commercial vehicle users from moving to electric.

Europcar has availability for immediate delivery so call the team now on 0371 384 0140.

www.europcar.co.uk/business advertisement feature

INCOMING

SPOTLIGHT_Mazda_CX-60_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 16:58 Page 1

MAZDA CX-60 PHEV What is it? Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid When is it available? Late 2022 Biggest changes? Everything – it’s all-new!

Fleet appeal? PHEV tech in Mazda’s most powerful road car

Plug-in and play Mazda’s first foray into the PHEV playground comes as a SUV with 322hp and 500Nm. That power comes from a combination of Mazda’s 2.5-litre petrol engine, a 100kW electric motor and a 17.8kWh battery. As a result, the new CX-60 will be the most powerful Mazda to hit the road. The hybrid setup enables up to 39 miles of combined cycle EV miles and up to 42 miles when in the city. Performance?

Zero to 62mph is dispatched in under six seconds.

Come inside The interior of the CX-60 boasts, according to Mazda, “the very highest standards of craftsmanship combined with new technologies and human centric ergonomics to deliver a premium interior rooted in Japanese heritage”. In other words, there is plenty of quality materials, especially when you move up the range.

For example, the flagship Takumi grade features maple wood and Nappa leather, embracing ‘Musubu’ – the art of binding.

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SPOTLIGHT_Mazda_CX-60_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 16:59 Page 2

Driving desirability

VERDICT

Driver engagement and vehicle dynamics were attributes when creating the CX-60. Key elements in achieving this goal were a frontengine, rear-wheel-drive setup, Mazda’s SKYACTIV scalable architecture and a double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension setup. The manufacturer’s Kinetic Posture Control technology further helps stability when cornering.

PHEVs get a mixed reception, especially amid a growing number of full electric models entering the market. However, Mazda fans and followers will be keen to try out the new SUV, which should fare well in a fiercely competitive market.

Knowing the larger CX-80 is set to follow by 2024 could give extra confidence in this car being a hit.

Safe and sound Drivers and passengers will benefit from a wide range of assistance systems onboard CX-60. For example, debuting on the car are a next-generation 360° monitor (See-Through View), hill decent control and adaptive cruise control, which works with traffic sign recognition.

Three trim grades will be offered – Exclusive-Line, Homura and Takumi – while packs for convenience, driver assistance and comfort are available. Higher-end models have the option to specify a panoramic sunroof.

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ROAD_Mazda CX-5_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:00 Page 1

ON TEST

Mazda CX-5 One of Mazda’s key fleet models gets an overhaul. Olly Benn explains more

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he CX-5 has been a big success for Mazda since it launched in 2012. A combination of competitive RVs and the burgeoning demand for SUVs meant that demand was not in short supply. Today, CX-5 represents around 25% of the total sales within Mazda UK. With SUVs accounting for 65% of the company’s sales, it is expecting in the region of 9,000 CX-5 sales in 2022.

Mazda recognises the changing world of hybrid and electric models ahead, but also remains committed to ICE customers. There’s no hybrid, instead the Japanese manufacturer has opted to stick with its impressive SKYACTIV petrol and diesel offerings. Those looking for a petrol CX-5 will have the choice of a 163hp 2.0-litre (manual and auto) or 191hp 2.5-litre engines. The diesel range covers a 148hp, 2.2-litre unit and a 181hp variant. The latter is offered in 4WD spec, alongside the 2WD models.

The new CX-5 features five trim levels: SE-L; Newground; Sport; Sport Black and GT Sport. The best-seller is expected to be the Sport, which is offered with both diesel and petrol options. Those drivers wishing to stand out a bit more can opt for the GT Sport, with its one-colour exterior and high-quality interior. Inside you will

find Nappa leather, woodgrain and other luxurious materials.

All CX-5s feature a 10.25-inch centre display unit, which is linked to the latest version of Mazda Connect infotainment.

Alongside that sits a ‘multi-information display’, mounted within the right-hand dial of the instrument binnacle. Featuring

“With SUVs accounting for 65% of the company’s sales, Mazda is expecting around 9,000 CX-5 sales in 2022” a 4.6-inch display it shows key information related to vehicle performance and infotainment. Drivers of Sport, Sport Black and GT Sport models benefit from a larger, 7-inch TFT dial set. Those three ranges also come with a windscreenmounted display, incorporating traffic sign recognition, navigation and vehicle status details.

The 2022MY CX-5 also sees interior improvements in the seats and steering wheel. In the case of the former, body

support and comfort levels have been upgraded, while Sport versions feature an eight-way adjustable power system with two memory presets. Helpfully, they allow for the automatic adjustment of the headup display. Steering wheels on Sport, Sport Black and GT Sport models get a heated rim, while the switches are laid out in a row for improved functionality.

Another improvement to note is the addition of Mi-Drive, Mazda’s intelligent drive technology, available on petrol automatic models. Using this system, drivers can select the most appropriate drive mode, depending on the road type, conditions and speed limits.

Safety-wise and an updated range of Mazda’s i-Activesense safety systems, including Cruise & Traffic Support (CTS). This feature helps reduce driver fatigue by assisting with accelerator, brake pedal and steering operations when stuck in traffic.

IN BRIEF WHAT IS IT? C-SUV HOW MUCH? from £22,945 ECONOMY? 35.3-50.4mpg EMISSIONS? 147-182g/km Key fleet model 2.0-litre Sport Interior quality; standard equipment No hybrid option; road noise 7-word summary Upgrade welcomed for a core Mazda product Also consider Ford Kuga / Kia Sportage / Škoda Karoq

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ROAD_Vx_Grandland_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:00 Page 1

ON TEST

Vauxhall Grandland Plug-in hybrid technology and upgrades inside and out for the mid-size SUV. By John Challen

S

tellantis announced its ‘Dare Forward 2030’ mid-term plan in March, with – naturally – a huge emphasis on what is will be bringing to the market from an EV perspective. From Vauxhall’s point of view, that means all-new fully electric models and the next generation of existing products going over to battery-power only.

That, however, is for the future – at the current time, the UK brand’s big current news is the latest generation Grandland (no X anymore). The original model, introduced in 2018, performed admirably in the market, shifting 70k units in what is a very competitive market.

The range for the new model has been massively simplified. While Grandland X offered six trims and 27 derivatives, Grandland (no X) goes for three and 11 respectively. There’s a clear distinction between the trio, with base model Design offering value, GS Line representing a more sporty proposition and Ultimate adding a bit of luxury. Vauxhall expects the bulk of the orders for Grandland to be GS Line (60%), with Ultimate accounting for 30% of the business.

Externally, there are a number of upgrades to the overall appearance of the car, but it’s inside where drivers will really appreciate the improvements. Vauxhall’s

PurePanel (as part of the PureSense package) comprises two large screens – the main 12-inch instrument cluster (7-inch in Design) and a 10-inch central one angled towards the driver. Not only does it provide a lot of information across the

“CAP reports stronger residual values for new Grandland, compared with the outgoing model” dual displays, but those details are presented in a clear and easy-to-navigate way. Helpfully, there is also a strip of physical buttons for easy access to features that are used regularly.

As part of PureConnect, all the new cars feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, while wireless charging is standard on Ultimate models.

While PureConnect aids connectivitly, PureSense is all about safety features such as lane keep assist, blind spot alert and speed sign recognition. Grandland is also the first Vauxhall to offer a night vision system – available as cost option on the car. The technology’s camera detects animals and pedestrians up to 100m in the

distance.

Grandland is built on Vauxhall’s EMP2 platform, which offers a base for petrol, diesel and hybrid offerings. Vauxhall says that the new Grandland aims to build on the current increasing market share for PHEV, the battery-electric version of the car being offered in GS Line and Ultimate trims.

From a fleet point of view, the Hybrid-e makes a lot of sense. Featuring a 13.2kW battery that can be fully charged in under four hours, the car can travel up to 39 miles using only electric power.

CAP reports stronger residual values for new Grandland, compared with the outgoing model. There’s an increase from 41% to 46%, depending on model and powertrain choice, which should make it an attractive proposition for fleets. A clear and competitive pricing strategy – starting at just over £25k for the base petrol and £33,765 for the PHEV – will also help.

IN BRIEF WHAT IS IT? C-SUV HOW MUCH? from £25,535 ECONOMY? 45.6-192mpg EMISSIONS? 31-146/km Key fleet model 1.6-litre Plug-in Hybrid-e Rear space; clear displays; good RVs Interior noise; intermittent stop-start 7-word summary Competitively priced SUV with much to admire Also consider Peugeot 3008 / Volvo XC40 / Hyundai Tuscon

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IVIEW_Suzuki_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:03 Page 1

In conversation

Opportunity knocks Lee Giddings, national fleet sales manager, Suzuki, details the brand’s big plans for the fleet business growth and electrification

36 fleetworld.co.uk

Who’s Lee Giddings?

Before moving to Suzuki five years ago, Giddings spent 12 years at Toyota. The first decade of that time was spent in a variety of fleet roles, before moving to area fleet sales manager.

He joined Suzuki as manager of contract hire, leasing and motability, before taking up his current role of national fleet sales manager a year ago. Giddings says his main objective for the brand is to ensure Suzuki Business is the best fleet department in the industry to do business with.

Growing up in London, Giddings now lives with his wife, two children and bulldog puppy in Surrey. Away from the office, he enjoys most sports, particularly Formula 1.

IVIEW_Suzuki_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:04 Page 2

“A lot of end users we hadn’t spoken to before – including some big public sector fleets – are now suddenly engaged with us” Traditionally Suzuki hasn’t been hugely strong in fleet. So what’s changed?

Since I joined Suzuki, in 2017, we’ve gone from doing very little in fleet to delivering – in a ‘normal’ year – about 10,000 units across all fleet channels. We’ve probably come a lot further than many anticipated, in a short space of time.

I think the potential now is getting into the SME market and core end-user fleets.

We’re working on a strategy plan to make that happen, which involves being more visible in the fleet market, by supporting events, for example.

How is the business coping with the current supply issues?

This year is going to be massively affected, but we should see some normality back towards the end of the year, certainly going into Q1 2023. But, in terms of lead times, we’re in a positive position, compared with a lot of brands.

We’ve always had such good lead times of two or three weeks, for example, on most models – and now we’re closer to three months. So sometimes, internally, it feels terrible. But if you look at some examples out there, we’re doing pretty well.

What is that plan to reach more SMEs? The main thing is a strong focus on an area that hasn’t been on our radar previously. We’re also working on a new CRM system, some detailed industry data and working with the leasing industry to help push the product.

How have those lead times helped attract fleet customers?

What we’ve seen is a lot of opportunities come our way – opportunities that we probably weren’t receiving prior – obviously word has got out that our supply isn’t too badly affected. When that became common knowledge, we found a lot of end users we hadn’t spoken to before – including some big public sector fleets – are now suddenly engaged with us.

If 10,000 fleet units is a good year, what’s the potential future target?

Our goal, as a brand, is 50,000 units a year across fleet and retail. In 2018, we touched on 40,000, but then everything scaled back and covid took over. We hope to be working on a 15,000-unit/year target in the future. It’s also a case of making sure that volume is in the right places. We can easily go out to a rental company and buy a market share, but that does us no good. We do extremely limited volume in terms of rental, anyway.

IGNIS

What are the most important Suzuki models for fleets?

We’ve got the biggest range we’ve ever had with the introduction of the Toyotabased products Swace and Across. We’ve also still got Vitara and Swift, but the S Cross has just been a revelation for us. It’s done far better than anyone thought it would and has become a really important car for for all channels.

We’ve tried to look at what models work well in each segment of fleet. So, for example, Ignis works very well in public sector salary sacrifice channels, but also Across is a fantastic product for that too.

ACROSS

IN Number of models 7 Best fleet seller Vitara SZ-T 2WD.

S-CROSS

Total sales for 2021: 20,976 units (retail and fleet) – 5,906 units to fleet.

Next model launch Vitara hybrid (March 2022) and S-Cross Hybrid (late 2022).

What are the biggest challenges the company faces?

Initially, it’s the supply constraints – we are in a positive position, but it’s still not ideal for us. We’re having to manage things internally and also manage customer expectations. But hopefully by the end of this year, we’ll say goodbye to that problem. The next biggest challenge is electric because we don’t have a full EV at the moment, unlike most brands.

There aren’t that many small EVs – they do tend to be more premium and the volume is typically driven by Tesla. We have to make sure we just don’t lose any ground, because some fleets are already moving to electric only.

What EVs can we expect from Suzuki?

I don’t know for certain, because I’m only seeing full details of what is planned for Japan, but I would imagine a small one and maybe a mid-size EV to start with.

How else is Suzuki helping fleets?

The whole total cost of ownership element is a huge focus this year. We’ve just recruited for a cost of ownership analyst to join the brand to really emphasise that focus. It previously sat in an area where it probably didn’t get the attention it deserved, so we’re bolstering the numbers and resources there.

We’ve also revisited the Suzuki Business Partners. We had 30-40 dealers, – or key business partners – but the setup was a bit complicated. We’ve simplified that and now just call them direct sales partners. That helps because they can build better relationships with their customers and mutual customers in the leasing industry.

PROFILE FLEET FACT Suzuki offers all the onboard technology you need as standard as well as highly fuel efficient powertrains.

Aims for the future Develop further awareness of our brand with 100% hybrid availability as standard for the passenger car range. Demonstrate cost of ownership savings with hybrid adaptation.

fleetworld.co.uk

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LTT_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:15 Page 1

ON FLEET SEAT IBIZA 1.0 TSI FR 95ps FIRST REPORT

THE NUMBERS P11D £19,720 BiK* 29% I £92 (20%) /£184 (40%) ECONOMY 47.9-51.4mpg CO2 EMISSIONS 124g/km ON FLEET 50.1mpg

Y

ou might have noticed a theme developing with the FW Fleet, reflecting the broader shift in the fleet industry.

That’s right, electrification, and the latest addition to the fleet – Audi’s e-tron – is another full EV. So I appear to be bucking the trend and eschewing both a plug and any form of hybrid system for

a conventional ICE engine, albeit one with impressive efficiency.

Meet our new long-termer – Seat’s sharply-styled Ibiza in FR trim – offering 95PS from its 1.0litre TSI petrol engine, 124g/km CO2 emissions, around 50mpg on the combined cycle and BiK (rated at 29%) of £92 per month for a 20% taxpayer.

All of which adds up to an appealing package which, despite not having the option of plugging in and avoiding the current spiralling petrol prices, makes a lot of financial sense.

For starters, its list price of £19,720 is competitive, and for this, the equipment levels are good. The 9.2-inch touchscreen

sat-nav system works particularly well, especially when it comes to finding said petrol stations, and the comfort levels, despite the FR model only being available with the “sport” suspension, rather than the SE trim’s “comfort” suspension, are really very good.

Yes, the ride can feel firm – and will be even firmer if you opt for the £900 extra FR Sport – but the seats are great and the driving position is spot-on for me. I’m nearly 6ft, so this does mean rear legroom in the back behind the driver’s seat is a little compromised, but then Seat’s upsizing customers always have the option of the Leon.

Luke Wikner

AUDI e-tron Technik 50 quattro FIRST REPORT

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y last long-term test report was a farewell to our Audi Q7 plug-in hybrid – a car that left us fairly underwhelmed thanks to the compromises it asks you to make.

The same can’t be said of our new Audi long termer – an allelectric e-tron. Designed from the ground up as an EV, it combines the space and all-wheel drive security of an SUV with zero tailpipe emissions driving.

Our test car is the entry-level 50 quattro model, which means 230kW of power, rather than 300 in the ‘55’ models. But power isn’t the be-all here – even in 50 trim it’s quick enough to get yourself up to speed with other traffic easily (impressive when you consider the e-tron’s kerb weight of nearly 2.5 tonnes!).

Trim-wise, Technik specification brings pretty much everything you’d expect as standard, such as climate control, leather seats and 20-inch alloy wheels, plus the lovely virtual cockpit.

38 fleetworld.co.uk

THE NUMBERS P11D £61,120 BiK* 1% I £10 (20%) /£20 (40%) RANGE 192 miles ON FLEET RANGE 145 miles ON FLEET 2.0mpkWh

There’s a lengthy options list to choose from, of which our car has been treated to metallic paint (£750), upgraded fourzone climate control (£825) and the combined ‘comfort’ and

‘sound’ packs at £1,895 which add advanced parking assistance, Bang and Olufsen stereo, reversing camera and heated front seats.

The only other item I wish had

been ticked was the virtual wing mirrors (£1,250) which replace the bulky side mirrors with tiny pods on which cameras are mounted which stream live images to tiny screens in the doors – not essential, by any means, but an interesting bit of future technology.

It’s early days with the e-tron, but this already feels like an EV without compromises – it’s really roomy inside, every switch and screen is familiar to any other Audi model, while charging via my PodPoint home charger is simple (and the Audi app means you can check on progress remotely).

Julian Kirk

*2021/22 Tax year – Benefit-in-Kind tax cost per month for 20% taxpayer / 40% taxpayer

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for more reports visit

fleetworld.co.uk

VAUXHALL MOKKA-e SRi Nav Premium Auto

aving a home charger installed has definitely made a big difference to the convenience of an electric car, but I don’t think I’d go as far to say it’s a total game-changer.

Certainly, even if I couldn’t

H

have a home charger, I’d be pushing for an EV anyway; based on the savings in fuel costs but also the driving experience and the desire to be part of the growing EV movement.

The fast-growing number of

public chargers is really transforming the EV experience too.

I’m also quite enjoying incorporating charging into journey planning; the speed of today’s charge points means that you don’t need to stop for long and the variety of facilities at charging locations means you’re generally spoilt for choice for things to do.

But definitely make sure you’re not reliant on a particular charging location being in operation and available when you arrive; a particular example being the recent storms where I’ve heard of drivers turning up to locations to find they were out of action.

I continue to love the fact that the Mokka-e’s exterior looks set it apart – and that the interior matches for striking looks, even if the black headlining is a little sombre. The dashboard is well laid out and I love the inclusion of physical controls for the climate control and infotainment volume, alongside the touchscreen and steering wheel-mounted controls.

THE NUMBERS P11D £34,880 now £31,880 BiK* 1% I £6 (20%) /£12 (40%) RANGE 201 miles ON FLEET RANGE 145 miles EFFICIENCY 3.2mpkWh

I’m also highly appreciative of the elevated seating position, supporting visibility. While the chunky pillars do mean that rear visibility is a little constrained, there’s a wealth of ADAS kit to support safety.

Although my everyday driving tends to be around town, where the Mokka-e’s light steering and manoeuvrability come into their own, I’ve now carried out a lot of longer-mile journeys and can really vouch for the Vauxhall’s comfort here, supported by a relaxed ride and a lack of wind noise. Quiet and refined motoring that’s also zero emission.

Natalie Middleton

VOLVO XC60 Recharge PHEV T6 AWD DE-FLEET REPORT

THE NUMBERS P11D £55,395 BiK* 15% I £139 (20%) /£277 (40%) ECONOMY 100.9–113.0mpg CO2 EMISSIONS 55-64g/km ON FLEET 71.3mpg

o it’s goodbye to the XC60, after an extended stay on the Fleet World fleet. How will we look back on our time with the midsized SUV? Fondly, on the whole.

There is no getting away from the fact that Volvo does so many things right when it comes to building desirable cars. Sure, there’s the safety aspect that has been ingrained on the majority of

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people, but there’s much more to these Swedish machines than that.

In the case of the XC60 Recharge, there’s comfort in the seats, clever storage solutions and a large clear central screen with decent functionality. Never underestimate this last point because there are plenty of vehicles where a simple instruction can require far too many steps and time.

The powertrain is actually a sensible option for many occasions. A few journeys made recently have got me thinking about range anxiety – not in the Volvo, but if I was embarking on them in an EV. Cars that, in some cases, lure you into thinking you can get to your destination, but only if you make a few compromises along the way. That’s fine,

but many drivers aren’t ready for that step.

The plug-in hybrid gives you the option of using electric power, but with the added safety net that you CAN travel over 200 miles without running out of ‘fuel’. And you CAN drive the exact route you want to at whatever speed you want to (keeping to the laws of the land, of course…).

Before the XC60 departed, its little brother, the XC40 Recharge showed up, making for an interesting twin-test. The smaller car might be more fun but, as a daily driver, I’d take the XC60 any day of the week.

John Challen

fleetworld.co.uk

39

LTT_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:20 Page 3

ON FLEET RENAULT CAPTUR Iconic E-Tech Hybrid 145 Auto ou can read plenty about the effectiveness of hybrid and plug-in hybrid drive systems in any number of magazines. The story, in all cases, is what sort of driving you will be using them for.

There is also the aspect of preparing us for the electric car that you are most likely to drive in the future, by gaining an impression of what electric cars are like to drive while retaining the convenience of a petrol engine.

The hybrid system in the Captur seems to be well thought through. Like any hybrid system, it is at its best in stop/start traffic, but I find it interesting how often it switches into electric drive on motorways too.

The system is controlled from an automatic type selector which replaces the gear lever, supplemented by a couple of dashboard switches. To drive forwards, select either “D” or “B”. “D” is the normal automatic drive mode and “B” is the same but with additional regenerative braking. This can help to charge

Y

THE NUMBERS P11D £23,630 BiK* 26% I £105 (20%) /£210 (40%) ECONOMY 56.5mpg CO2 EMISSIONS 114g/km ON FLEET 51.8mpg

the hybrid system more quickly if you want to maximise electrical driving. It is also useful for controlling downhill speed and

when driving in stop/start traffic.

With practice you hardly need to use the brake pedal. The dashboard switches are for “Eco”

mode, which will adjust settings to maximise fuel economy and also “EV”, which will select electric only drive while there is enough hybrid battery power to provide it.

The system is easy to use and switches seamlessly between electric and petrol drive. My only criticism is when the system switches into petrol drive for hill climbing, when it can choose a low gear and rev harshly, which seems unnecessary. Assuming you would choose the hybrid Captur to provide good fuel economy, it’s a winner with diesel-like levels of fuel consumption.

John Kendall

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY Webfleet Solutions Tel: 0208 822 3605 www.webfleet.com

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

Geotab Tel: 0800 0885482 www.geotab.com/uk

EV CONTRACT HIRE, LEASING & FINANCE Herd Group Tel: 01372 747333 www.herdgroup.co.uk

GKL Electric Leasing Greener Fleet Consultancy Tel: 01844 852252 www.evcarleasing.co.uk

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com/electric-vehicles

FUEL MANAGEMENT

SOGO Tel: 01908 101100 www.sogomobility.co.uk

Lex Autolease

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

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

NORTHGATE

Windsor Vehicle Leasing

Venson Automotive Solutions

Tel: 0330 042 0903

Tel: 01753 851 561

Tel: 0800 328 0370

www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk

www.wvl.co.uk

www.venson.com

Fleetmaxx Solutions Tel: 01227 936 936 www.fleetmaxxsolutions.co.uk

BP Fleet Solutions

PRINT + ONLINE

TELEMATICS & TRACKING

Tel: 0345 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

TMC

Tel: 01270 525 218

RISK MANAGEMENT

EV FLEET SOFTWARE

EV CHARGING SOLUTIONS

EV DAILY RENTAL

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

Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Mobilize Power Solutions UK Tel: 07973 874344 power-solutions.mobilize.co.uk

Herd Group Tel: 01372 747333 www.herdgroup.co.uk

40 fleetworld.co.uk

PRINT + ONLINE

themilesconsultancy.com/tmc-e

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_FW_Mar22_ARI.qxp_SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Aug'07 08/06/2022 11:44 Page 2

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY CONTRACT HIRE, LEASING & FINANCE

DAILY RENTAL

GKL Leasing Chesterfield: 01246 572181 Princes Risborough: 01844 852000 www.gkluk.com

0845 2172 608 daysfleet.com Windsor Vehicle Leasing Tel: 01753 851 561 www.wvl.co.uk

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

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

ARI

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

Tel: 0844 8000 700 www.arifleet.co.uk

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

RISK MANAGEMENT

TMC FOD Mobility Group Tel: 01274 714745 www.fodmobilitygroup.com

themilesconsultancy.com/risk

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Tel: 0141 567 0561 www.arnoldclarkrental.com

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

Europcar Mobility Group UK Tel: 0871 384 0140 www.europcar.co.uk/business

Tel: 01270 525 218

Brightmile Tel: 0203 514 5925 www.brightmile.io

Reflex Vehicle Hire Tel: 0330 460 9913 www.reflexvehiclehire.com

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

FLEET MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Sofico Services UK Ltd Tel: +44 1684 423 166 www.sofico.global

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

DRIVER LICENCE CHECKING

TMC Tel: 0800 808 5611 www.edriving.com

Tel: 01270 525 218 themilesconsultancy.com/ driving-licence-checks

Licence Bureau

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 0330 094 7817 www.venson.com

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

www.licencebureau.co.uk

FLEET MANAGEMENT

REARGUARDS

FLEET INSURANCE ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Total Motion Vehicle Management Tel: 0116 248 8160 www.totalmotion.co.uk

Tel: 01442 430980

Bluedrop Services Ltd Tel: 01706 658 587 www.bluedropservices.co.uk

Richard Grant Mouldings Ltd Tel: 01525 853888 www.rgmautomotive.co.uk

FUEL, FUEL CARDS, FLEET SOLUTIONS

SMR Autoserve Ltd Tel: 0121 803 5796 www.autoservefleet.co.uk

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0345 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

q p_Layout

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

ONT COV

ER_

_Nov20.qxp_

Page 1 20 17:53

HING FL

FLEETS

KNOW NEED TO

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challengin esedrivers’ thHow mental health came

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Selsia Tel: 0333 444 5500 www.selsia-vac.co.uk

TELEMATICS & TRACKING Airmax Remote Limited Tel: 0333 358 3488 www.airmaxremote.com

From fle et polic ies to SM relearning R... the basic s for EVs g times

fo Top tips

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

ACCIDENT MANAGEMENT

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

1 05/05/20

21 19:4 5 Page 1

_FW EV+VFW

09/11/20 Layout 1

ASSET PROTECTION AND RECOVERY

Webfleet Solutions Tel: 0208 822 3605 www.webfleet.com

usness

T HECKLIS

FLEET C

ABAX Tel: (+44) 1733 907 583 www.abax.com

FE IVERS SA KEEP DR

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TH EVs For ED WI Mu stang Ma SPEd ch-E GET UP TO Jaguar E-P ace // F-P Hyundai ace Tucson PLA N CitroëLE MOBILITY n C4 XIB FLE A SEAT Leo HAVE n TA FLEET DA CESS TO EASY AC

Included with this issue...

THE BEST Great Bri IN FLEET tish Fleet Guide 2021 cel ebrat

EXPERT

ADVICE,

INSIGHT

& THE BEST

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OF FLEET

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Geotab Promote your Tel: 0800 0885482 www.geotab.com/uk company here

Astrata B.V. Tel: +31 402348484 www.astrata.eu

fleetworld.co.uk

41

JOHN_VFW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:23 Page 1

John Kendall VFW editor

EU rule changes that could affect your fleet...

“This May brings an important rule change for businesses transporting goods in the EU using a van”

The UK’s departure from the EU does not mean that we are no longer bound

by EU regulations. As part of our agreement with the EU following the UK’s departure, some changes will still apply to us and here is a good example.

May will be here before we know it and that month brings an important rule change for businesses transporting goods in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland using a van – or van and trailer. The change will only apply to vehicles or vehicle and trailer combinations used to transport goods for hire or reward with a gross weight between 2,500kg and 3,500kg from 21 May 2022. Hire or reward means where the vehicle operator is either paid or receives payment in kind for carrying goods for other people.

The rule will not apply to vehicles carrying goods used in support of a business. For example, a plumber or electrician carrying parts and equipment used to carry out work for themselves will not be covered by the new rule.

Vans and vans with trailers that are affected by the rule change will need to obtain an international operator’s licence from 21 May 2022.

Van operators who work solely in the UK will not be affected by the changes. If you are not sure whether your operations will be affected by the changes, seek legal advice. If you are already a member of an organisation such as the Road Haulage Association or Logistics UK, they should be able to help you.

Government information on the changes can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/transport-goods-in-and-out-of-the-ukusing-vans-or-car-and-trailers-from-21-may-2022 (scan the QR code left) Looking further ahead, vehicles affected by the change in rules will also need to be fitted with a tachograph, but this will only be a requirement from 1 July 2026, so you can relax for now.

Stay up to date at vanfleetworld.co.uk

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PREVIEW_VW_ID_Buzz_VFW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:24 Page 1

COMING SOON

Volkswagen ID Buzz It may be 21 years since the Microbus concept at the Geneva Show first appeared but the production vehicle that it inspired has now made its debut. The ID Buzz is Volkswagen’s first all-electric bus and van range, there will be no petrol or diesel variants. Van models are expected to go on sale this October

T

he eye-catching design draws on design cues from the ID.3 and ID.4 car models and also the Type 2 Transporter van launched in 1950 with its rounded front and high waistline. The ID Buzz Cargo, as the van variant will be known, appears to be a model that overlaps the physically smaller Caddy and the Transporter 6.1, with a payload of 600kg initially and 3.9m3 of cargo space, only marginally greater than the Caddy Maxi’s 3.7m3. There is more to come though, and a longer variant will be added to the range, although it is not yet clear when that will be. The wheelbase measures 2,988mm with minimal overhangs front and rear, so with the van launch scheduled for October, it will probably be 2023 at the earliest before the longer variants make an appearance.

Speaking of measurements, the ID Buzz Cargo will be 4,712mm long overall, around 1,938mm tall and 1,985mm wide (81mm wider than a Transporter T6.1).

VW has not provided any further load area dimensions yet, but it will be able to accommodate two Europallets.

The batteries are set low in the sandwich construction floor, helping to keep the centre of gravity low. Both passenger and cargo variants are equipped with a 77kWh battery which drives a 150kW (201bhp) electric motor. Range is estimated at around 250 miles. Unusually, the motor drives the rear axle, similar to the

44 vanfleetworld.co.uk

original Type 2 Transporter. Without the restrictions of drive shafts to the front wheels, ID Buzz Cargo will offer a turning circle of 11.1m.

As you might expect, the batteries can be charged from a 7kW wall box or from a public rapid charge point. Using a DC rapid charger, VW claims that a battery with 5% charge remaining can be charged to 80% in 30 minutes. The vehicle is also equipped with a “Plug and Charge” function when it becomes available.

Using this system, ID Buzz would be able to take advantage of bi-directional charging, which would allow it to connect to a household electrical network and share unused energy, using a dedicated DC bi-directional wall box.

The cab will be available with either single or double passenger seat and finished in the black and greys familiar to van drivers. ID Buzz Cargo will feature a digital instrument display that moves with the reach and rake adjustable steering wheel. A large multifunction display, similar to that available in other VW LCVs, is mounted in the centre of the dashboard, incorporating satellite navigation controls, heating and ventilation and other functions. Features of the prototype model displayed include a locking glovebox and a variety of storage spaces in the cab.

As well as the “Plug and Charge” function, the latest generation ID software will

IN BRIEF

WHAT IS IT? Medium van HOW MUCH? £TBA LOAD VOLUME? 3.9m3 PAYLOAD? 600kg RANGE? c.250 miles DRIVE? 201bhp battery electric motor driving the rear wheels WHEN? October 2022

bring new assistance systems, including the “Car2X” local warning system, which will be fitted as standard. “Car2X” will use signals from other cars and from the transport infrastructure to warn of future hazards. “Travel Assist with swarm data” will be an option, permitting partially automated driving across the entire vehicle speed range and assisted lane changing on the motorway for the first time.

Another feature will be a memory function for automated parking on a previously saved route.

Van Fleet World will bring you further information on the ID Buzz Cargo closer to the launch date.

ADVERT_GBFE_ITT_halfs_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:26 Page 1

2022

THE CONFERENCE SUSTAINABILITY DECARBONISING THE FLEET Natasha Robinson, Joint Head – Office for Zero Emissions USING DATA TO GO GREEN David Savage – vice president UK & Ireland, Geotab DRIVE TO ZERO Joshua Hooper – product category manager, Northgate

MOBILITY/LOGISTICS GETTING THINGS RIGHT POST-COVID Simon Turner – campaign manager, Driving for Better Business THE HUMAN FACTORS OF RISK Rebecca Ashton – head of policy & research, IAM Roadsmart STAYING CONNECTED & MOBILE Paul Tarsey – IoT solutions consultant, Aeris

FUTURE OF FLEET TO 2030, AND BEYOND Ian Featherstone – account manager supply chain, Energy Saving Trust MAKING TELEMATICS WORK, NOW AND IN THE FUTURE Matthew Newman – Trakm8 CHARGING UP THE FLEET Catherine Bowen – senior policy advisor, BVRLA

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHANGING THE EV NARRATIVE David Watts – commercial manager UK & Ireland, Arrival TRANSITIONING TO AN ELECTRIC FLEET Alex Potts – head of sales, BP Pulse ZERO = HERO... SALARY SACRIFICE Thom Groot – CEO, Electric Car Scheme

Don’t miss out!!

29 MARCH 2022

ADVERTS_half_Motormax_TVL_VFW_Mar22.qxp_Layout 1 15/03/2022 17:27 Page 1

ROAD_Renault_Trafic_VFW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:29 Page 1

ON TEST

Renault Trafic LL30 Blue dCi 150 Business Panel Van A comprehensive redesign for a familar face in the fleet market, says John Kendall

W

ould Renault have imagined that it would manage to get 22 years of life out of a modern van design? Probably not. A new van could be making its appearance later this year, one that will also have an electric power option but, for now, the company has introduced quite a comprehensive re-design to freshen up a familiar face.

The latest Trafic gains from a redesigned front end, including new front bumper, bonnet, grille and standard LED headlamps. Inside there’s a new dashboard and gear lever and there’s more storage space in the cab with up to 84 litres. As before there are two lengths, two roof heights, as well as panel vans and crew vans with seating for up to six.

Engines are based on the same 1,997cc four-cylinder turbodiesel but with a range of revisions. All are fitted with stop and start systems and there is a new variant of the engine, the least powerful 110hp version badged dCi 110 which generates 300Nm of torque at 1,500rpm. This engine is only available in Business trim and with a six-speed manual gearbox. The dCi 130 provides 10hp more than its previous equivalent with 130hp and 330Nm of torque at 1,500rpm. This engine is available with Business, Business+ and Sport

trim. The engine is also only available with a six-speed manual transmission. Both the dCi 150 and range-topping dCi 170 are available with either the six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch automated transmission (EDC), with the dCi 170 engine reserved for Sport and Sport+ models.

Business+ models upwards feature Renault’s eight-inch EASY LINK display screen, offering Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, as well as DAB, Bluetooth and USB. Sport and Sport+ models also get satellite navigation.

Our Blue dCi 150 LL30 manual model features the longer wheelbase option with standard height roof. It came with a long list of options from wireless smartphone charger to metallic paint.

We recorded 38.9mpg on test, a good figure compared with the 39.8mpg official combined. As always with our tests, the figure was obtained by keeping to LCV speed limits. The 150hp engine would be plenty powerful enough when fully laden.

Nothing that Renault has done to the interior over the years can really match the ingenuity of the original dashboard design, but the latest version does a good job. It is very much in keeping with the latest Renault car models, using similar switchgear, instrumentation and controls.

It looks neat and functional – just the job for a van. The additional storage spaces are welcome, such as the deep dash top bin with two USB charge points. The wireless charging pad was well though out too, angled forward to stop the phone from sliding out. The door mirrors are now larger, providing a better rearward view than before.

Round the back, the load area hasn’t changed over the years, offering a large practical space with plenty of load lashing points. Our van had a single near-side sliding door and had been fitted with ply lining to protect the panels. The low floor height is an attraction if you are loading manually and a single catch means the doors can easily be opened to 180 degrees.

Renault had fitted the van with additional slam locks to provide better security.

IN BRIEF WHAT IS IT? 4x4 Pickup HOW MUCH? £28,400 (ex-VAT) LOAD VOLUME? 7.8m3 PAYLOAD? 1,116kg ECONOMY? 39.8mpg (WLTP combined) DRIVE? 150hp @ 3,500rpm / 350Nm @ 1,500rpm, 2.0-litre turbo-diesel

VERDICT The Trafic may be getting on a bit, but the refreshed design, new engines and up-to-date equipment disguises it well, which shows what a good design the van was when it first came to market.

vanfleetworld.co.uk 47

OUTFITTING_Racking_VFW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:31 Page 1

LCV essentials

OUTFITTING Providers of racking, storage systems as well as beacons, graphics and other equipment, have been facing new challenges in addition to the pandemic years. The arrival of electric vans on the market has brought new pressure to reduce the weight of ancillary systems such as racking.

Here is what some of the main players in the market are doing to overcome the hurdles...

SYSTEM EDSTRÖM System Edström has introduced products designed in particular for electric vehicles. Van racking suppliers have had to change their products to meet new constraints on space and weight.

The module design that System Edström uses gives the company the flexibility to fit its systems to any vehicle, regardless of size or power source.

By using lighter and more sustainable materials, the company has also been able to improve its environmental performance. Its recent Green Report highlighted the progress the company has made in this area.

System Edström has also invested heavily in its UK operation. As part of a redevelopment of its headquarters in Corby, the company has increased its workshop capacity and warehouse space.

Commercial director David Sawford said: “This has allowed us to greatly expand the amount of stock we hold on site, so the team can fulfil the many orders we receive quickly and efficiently.”

BOTT

The Bott Group manufactures and supplies vehicle racking and conversions as well as workplace systems and workshop equipment. With production facilities across Europe and global importers, Bott has a worldwide service network.

The company offers a full and comprehensive van conversion service, with more than 40 years of industry experience. The company says its aim is to fully understand the needs of all stakeholders, before delivering a compliant, durable and reliable solution for every customer.

Bott provides a full range of tailored services, including van racking, lighting, auxiliary power, communication equipment and vehicle graphics. As a Logistics UK Van Gold Partner, the company supports the drive towards improved operational standards, working with like-minded industry partners.

The scheme keeps the company up to date with changes in legislation and best practice guidelines. Bott can then advise its customers accordingly.

Bott has also turned its attention to the effect that electric vehicles and alternative fuels are having on fleet operators. This includes assessing challenges such as payload, range, or the battery draw of planned additional onboard equipment. This enables the company to support its customers with appropriate vehicle choice information and operational handovers. Bott’s team of dedicated aftersales service engineers are on hand should an issue arise.

THE ROOFBOX COMPANY The Roofbox Company has supplied its Dropracks system for car roof-top fitting for some years. Now, the company, which is based in Cumbria has developed Dropracks XL, designed for medium vans.

The system has been designed to enable loading from ground level.

Using a crank handle system, the rooftop racking can be slid out, then wound down from the roof to a height where items can be safely loaded without the need for a ladder. The racking is designed to carry up to 80kg and offers a 1,500mm-long loading platform.

During winding up or down to roof level, the system will automatically lock in place if the winding process is paused, ensuring it can’t be moved in either direction without using the crank handle. Once wound up to roof level, the rack can be easily slid back into place on its frame, where it will be latched securely for transit.

Dropracks XL needs a set of roof bar feet, at extra cost, with a fitting kit as necessary, to attach them to the van roof.

Any accessory, such as a pipe carrier, that has T slot fixing bolts will work with the slot that runs along the top of the Dropracks bars. Dropracks is priced at £1,450 and will be available through UK and Irish distributor John Jordan.

For all the latest LCV updates... vanfleetworld.co.uk

48 vanfleetworld.co.uk

VFW SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Mar22.qxp_VFW SUPPLIER DIRECTORY_Aug'07 15/03/2022 17:32 Page 1

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY CONTRACT HIRE, LEASING & FINANCE GKL Leasing Chesterfield: 01246 572181 Princes Risborough: 01844 852000 www.gkluk.com

TELEMATICS & TRACKING

RISK MANAGEMENT

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

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

Geotab Tel: 0800 0885482 www.geotab.com/uk

fleetworld.co.uk

0845 2172 608

PHVC Minibus & Fleet Suppliers Tel: 01489 580333

FOD Mobility Group Tel: 01274 714745 www.fodmobilitygroup.com

Webfleet Solutions Tel: 0208 822 3605 www.webfleet.com

Selsia Tel: 0333 444 5500 www.selsia-vac.co.uk

FLEET MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE Bynx Tel: 01789 471600 www.bynx.com

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental Tel: 0141 567 0561 www.arnoldclarkrental.com

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

Europcar Mobility Group UK Tel: 0871 384 0140 www.europcar.co.uk/business

FULL LISTINGS ONLINE AT fleetworld.co.uk

ACCIDENT MANAGEMENT

daysfleet.com

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

Full listings online at

DAILY RENTAL

ABAX Tel: (+44) 1733 907 583 www.abax.com

www.phvc.co.uk

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

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

PRINT

+

ONLINE

Arnold Clark Vehicle Management

Tel: 0141 332 2626 www.acvm.com

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

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

Venson Automotive Solutions Tel: 0330 094 7817 www.venson.com

BP Oil UK Ltd Tel: 0345 603 0723 www.bpplus.co.uk

ELECTRIC VEHICLES EV FLEET WORLD Tel: 01727 739160 www.evfleetworld.co.uk

FULL LISTINGS ONLINE AT fleetworld.co.uk

DRIVER LICENCE CHECKING

FLEET MANAGEMENT

TMC Tel: 01270 525 218

Total Motion Vehicle Management Tel: 0116 248 8160 www.totalmotion.co.uk

SUPPLIER DIRECTORY

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

www.themilesconsultancy.co.uk

vanfleetworld.co.uk 49

FANTASY_Morgan_FW_Mar22.qxp 15/03/2022 17:41 Page 1

FANTASY FLEET

MORGAN THREE WHEELER Price £54,000 (at end of production)

MOBILITY OUTSIDE THE BOX

F

2022

13:24

Page

1

This is for two main reasons: 1) It’s easily the worst handling car money can (or could, as it’s just gone off sale) buy and 2) That doesn’t matter because that’s what makes it fun.

See, its 2.0-litre, 82.5bhp (62bhp in later cars) is wonderfully torquey and causes the whole car to shake at idle. It makes a big, silly noise that causes children to point and, because you’re barely above the ground, 30mph feels like a billion. Its steering is unassisted, which makes low-speed driving hard work. And you’ll have to do lots of that because its turning circle is dreadful.

It’ll understeer into corners, unless you dip the clutch, which’ll make it oversteer.

Its five-speed manual gearbox is a joy to use and the pedals are decently spaced so you can use its lazy motor for some heel and toe downshifting. There’s nowhere to put anything – and, if it rains, you’ll get wet because there’s no roof. And once the fuel gauge dips below 20%, you’re knackered because the claimed 40-litre fuel tank is a lie, but the upshot of that is you’ll never pay more than £25 to brim it – or maybe you will, based on the direction fuel prices are going!

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21/01/

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50 fleetworld.co.uk

NEXT ISSUE

> > >

THE RESULTS

1

Engine 2.0-litre V Twin Power 82.5bhp

ew things have the power to draw attention away from a Ferrari, to make phones appear from nowhere, or to generate as many questions along the lines of ‘what is that?’ quite like the Morgan Three Wheeler.

The Three Wheeler, launched in 2011, is a spiritual successor to the first vehicle the Morgan Motor Company built over a century ago. Morgan’s founder, H.F.S. Morgan, didn’t fancy riding horses around the Malvern Hills, thought motorbikes were too dangerous and cars too expensive. So he made his own three wheeled runabout that was easy to fix, cheap to run and didn’t poo in the street.

His little creation took off, and Morgan was born. The old motors became family transport, sports cars, and even won races. It fell out of favour in the 1950s, when customers decided they wanted more wheels.

The newer version remains faithful to the original – powered by a motorcycle engine, low weight, low maintenance, small footprint (still no poo). Rather than being a means of serious transport it’s more of a toy – and a hilarious one at that.

yout

words Alex Goy

(the 0.5 is important)

0-62mph 6.5 secs (with a tailwind)

Connectivity Some Bluetooth headphones or shouting Seats Two Roofs None Likelihood of making it onto the fleet? 3/10

The bad doesn’t matter though, because the good means you laugh like Zippy all the time, even in the wet. As it’s such a bizarrelooking thing, people want to know about it, or tell you about your missing wheel, which makes them (and you) happy.

Morgan’s just replaced the Three Wheeler with the Super 3 – a slicker, less biplane-ish three wheeled silly thing. It’s cool – and will turn heads – and, if it’s anything like its predecessor, it’ll be the best thing ever.

ADVERT_GBFE_FW_Mar22.qxp_Layout 1 15/03/2022 17:37 Page 3

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ELECTRIC

FLEET DREAMS HOW TO MAKE AN ELECTRIC FLEET A REALITY AT

29 MARCH 2022

New Nissan ARIYA A Force of Wonder

Our next-generation 100% electric crossover With just 2% BIK* EXPLORE IN OUR LIVE SHOWROOM AT NISSAN.CO.UK/LIVE-SHOWROOM

Model shown ARIYA 87kWh Performance e-4ORCE with optional two-tone metallic paint.

ARIYA range 223-310 miles. CO2: 0g/mile. *BIK figures are based on HMRC’s quoted rates for tax year 2022/2023 (whilst not expected HMRC may withdraw or change). Information does not constitute financial advice. You may want to seek advice from a tax advisor. WLTP figures shown are based on internal testing and are pending final homologation in 2022 WLTP figures are for comparability purposes. Actual real world driving results may vary depending on factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted after registration, weather conditions, driving styles and vehicle load.