FleetNews FLEETS EXPECT THEIR COSTSNews TO INCREASE POST BREXIT

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From Alfa Romeo to Volvo, we reveal every fleet car and van dueSpotlight: for Atticuslaunch this year Insight: Fleet software Fleet Accident Repair Fleet in Focus/Award winner: The seven things you Group rebrands with Freedom Group need to know before new service offer and Paul Brown on why investing in a new goal to cut fleets’ costs flexi-rent is the best software system option for his fleet adRocket

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NEWS Cover feature 4 Post-Brexit costs increase expected 7 Lack of policy stunts ULEV growth 8 Terror attacks to hit rental figures 2018 11 No change to first MOT timings 12 Fines management firm ups ante VEHICLE 15 Thousands join ‘mis-selling’ group 16 Fleets ‘nervous’ about diesel LAUNCH REGULARS GUIDE 18 Letters and editor’s Big Picture 20 Opinion: Used cars/Fleet policies 21 Ask Nigel: Signing off 56 Awards winner: FleetCheck 66 Last word: Vicky Brown

CAR/VANC A R / V A N REVIEWSR E V I E W S 58 Volvo XC40 60 DS77 CCrossbackrossback 62 Volkswagenlkswagen TT-Roc-Roc 63 Alfa Giulia road test Get the low down on the new cars and vans 33 worth considering for your fleet this year 64 Long-term reports

26 51 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT Fleet in Focus: Insight: Freedom Group Software FLEET SOFTWARE Important decisions need to be made when Freedom Group’s Paul selecting a fleet management software package Brown says ‘fleets are sick of doing this dance’. He’s referring to end ADD ELECTRICITY. of contract damage In the spotlight: recharges 30 Atticus Innovation THE MINI COUNTRYMAN PLUG-IN HYBRID. Shut up shop or face complete reinvention. Those were the choices facing FARG. Under Mike Monaghan’s direction the To find out more, visit mini.co.uk/business re-named Atticus outfit chose the latter

MINI Fleet & Business Sales

Official Fuel Economy Figures for the MINI Countryman range: Urban 30.1-58.9 mpg (9.4-4.8 l/100km). Extra Urban 45.6-68.9 mpg (6.2-4.1 l/100km).

Combined 38.2-122.8 mpg (7.4-2.3 l/100km). CO2 emissions 49-169 g/km. *Figures are obtained in a standardised test cycle using a combination of battery power and petrol fuel after the battery had been fully charged. They are intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not be representative of what a user achieves under usual driving conditions. The MINI Cooper S E ALL4 Countryman is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that requires mains electricity for charging. †Charging time varies between a minimum of two hours and a maximum of eight hours, depending on the provided fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 3 voltage and battery levels.

FP_FLEETNEW_359409id3337671.pdf 17.01.2018 10:25 NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news

outcomes achieved may change very quickly. able to adapt quickly to maximise any opportunities “Also, it will be important to not commit to any that arise from a new trading regime. And there More than half of fleets expect single remarketing method. There may well be might still be a few years where the current trading FLEET FACTS arguments for quickly altering the disposal strat- conditions as an EU member are extended. AND FIGURES egies that you are using in response to changing “It is a challenging and changing world and circumstances.” Brexit will have an impact,” he said. “But it will OPINION POLL costs to increase post-Brexit The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Associa- also present major opportunities. Businesses What will be the biggest challenge tion (BVRLA) told Fleet News that with nothing must be nimble and alert – and that includes facing fleets in 2018? concrete from the negotiations between the UK within the fleet arena – and move forward as and EU so far, it was unable to offer any advice. opportunities occur. As March 29, 2019, draws closer, the ‘no negative effect’ sentiment is in retreat ACFO, the organisation that represents fleet “March 29, 2019, is when the UK is scheduled operators, was also reluctant to speculate on to withdraw from the European Union. That date which actions fleets might find beneficial with the is a long way off and the reality is that Brexit By Simon Harris with higher discounts and consumer incentives. outcome of the Brexit negotiations still unknown. negotiations are likely to be protracted and could leet operators are lacking clear guid- Sudden economic shifts can have a dramatic It means frustration for fleet operators who, continue much longer than the Government’s ance on how to best prepare for the effect on consumer demand, and while busi- according to some, are wary of how Brexit will two-year forecast in terms of having new trade consequences of Brexit, as current “Brexit is nesses will follow a more stable, planned course, affect their businesses, and have no alternative to agreements in place. talks appear to show little sign of agree- already the appetite for used vehicles will have an effect include in current business plans. “Therefore, fleets must continue to ment over the UK’s future trade rela- on the value of fleet assets. Geoffrey Bray, chairman of the operate against a background of Ftionships with the EU. Vehicle Remarketing Association (VRA) Fleet Industry Advisory what is known and manage Fleet funding 6.3% Other 6% weighing on the However, there is agreement among fleet chairman Glenn Sturley warned the uncertainty Group (FIAG), said: “Fleet assets effectively and effi- experts that leaving the EU will result in increased decision-making of Brexit negotiations is hanging over the economy, decision-makers are ciently. That means Pump prices 27.9% Air quality 25.4% Company car tax 34.3% fleet costs. creating the kind of uncertainty that makes busi- fearful of the outcome continuing to evolve A Fleet News online poll in December showed process within ness planning very difficult. of Brexit. But what a because standing FleetNews view: almost 60% of respondents believe Brexit will some fleets” He said: “In 2018, it is very likely that the ‘B word’ world will look like still while awaiting Company car tax increases, hurt fleet budgets with higher costs. is going to be unavoidable. The issue is that there with the UK outside Will the Brexit’s outcome, volatile pump prices and air This contrasts with an earlier poll in March 2016 Geoffrey Bray, remains such a wide range of potential scenarios of the European NO decision to YES which will take quality concerns are among the where close to the same number (61%) of Fleet Industry Advisory Group – from a cliff edge departure from the EU through Union and, specifi- leave the European many months and biggest challenges facing fleets respondents believed there would be no negative to abandoning Brexit altogether – and the outcome cally, the impact on 41.8% Union increase 58.2% even years, simply this year. One in three (34.3%) effect on fleet costs. A further poll – before the may not be known until the last minute. vehicle pricing and fleet costs? means costs will said company car tax was their referendum – suggested more than half of fleet would push up service, maintenance and repair “As the year progresses and we get closer to in-life vehicle costs, escalate.” biggest challenge, while one in operators wanted the UK to leave the EU, with the (SMR) costs. the deadline for leaving the EU, this uncertainty is is unknown. Colin Tourick, prof- four highlighted pump prices as number backing Brexit significantly higher than Concerns were echoed by Paul Hollick, likely to become more acute and the resulting “However, I am opti- essor of automotive their number one concern. It is the score for remain (51.6% vs 42.8%). chairman of the ICFM, who toldFleet News that impact on the overall economy is more difficult to mistic and, while I cannot manage ment at the clear that both domestic and Since then, trade body Society of Motor Manu- as well as the impact of higher costs through predict. It is not difficult to foresee situations predict the future, Brexit is University of Buckingham international politics could impact facturers and Traders (SMMT) has expressed tariffs, there was potential for delays in new where the economic effects are quite severe and already weighing on the deci- business school, also offered fleet operations and planning for concern at uncertainty over the future trading vehicle and spare parts deliveries due to border sudden, especially if they are accompanied by sion-making process within some advice. every eventuality will be key. structure with the bloc, as well as the impact of customs changes. political instability. fleets. He said: “Businesses should review tariffs on goods crossing EU borders with the UK Brexit was listed as one of the major issues “Against this backdrop, the remarketing industry “Nevertheless, fleet decision-makers must how they fund and manage their fleets now, with This week’s poll: How often do you post-Brexit should the Government walk away facing the contract hire industry in 2018, according must maximise values for used vehicles, realising acknowledge the fact that the UK is not an a view to keeping costs as low as possible. check your vehicle to ensure it’s in from talks without a deal. to senior executives surveyed for the FN50 report them in the quickest time possible. It might not isolated market as far as the automotive industry “That should put them in better stead if the a roadworthy condition? Not only would this potentially increase the cost in 2017. always be easy.” is concerned. The UK is a small market in a global negotiations don’t deliver a smooth Brexit. And if fleetnews.co.uk/polls of new vehicles, especially those imported to the A number of companies pointed out that the The key, Sturley said, was to remain as flexible economy and when the automotive industry is there’s one thing I’d recommend it’s to look at the UK, it would also make UK-built vehicles more effects of the decision to leave the EU had been as possible and to ensure that businesses that making marketing, including pricing, decisions CO2 emissions levels of the cars managers are expensive for foreign customers, dramatically limited so far, but would doubtless have an impact face risks from Brexit sought expert advice to they are made invariably in a worldwide context. putting on their fleets. MOST COMMENTED affecting the competitiveness, and therefore the on both the automotive and finance sectors. ensure they were able to make preparations, “The internet has changed the world and, while “Whatever else happens, CO2 is still likely to be ONLINE viability, of UK car plants. While the devaluation of sterling since the refer- however limited. there are plusses and minuses, generally inter- a key issue when it comes to vehicle taxation, In a no-deal scenario, where trade would fall endum has stabilised to some extent in the mean- “Our view is that this is a time when knowing national businesses are thriving as can be seen national insurance, fuel consumption, running back to World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules, time, the higher cost of imported goods has been what is happening on an almost daily basis is from the level of stock markets in London and costs and depreciation, and will become increas- tariffs would also be applied to vehicle compo- offset to a degree by car manufacturers trying to essential for everyone working in the sector,” said globally.” ingly important as more cities follow London and nents that needed to be imported to the UK, which reignite falling demand for new vehicles in 2017 Sturley. “Factors that affect the remarketing Bray’s optimism stems from fleets that could be introduce low emission zones.” Diesel share of UK new car market to fall to 15%

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Diesel (ppl) 123.04 ➜

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4 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 5 adRocket

NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news Fleets can’t plan a ULEV future until Government policy is clear

DfT confirms that plug-in car and van grant will be reviewed this April

By Matt de Prez Therefore, the plug-in grant is crucial to leet operators have too many keep the cost of ULEVs at a level which makes unanswered questions to make them both beneficial to the fleet operator and informed decisions about adopting “Let’s get the desirable for the driver. Ultra Low Emission Vehicles Chris Chandler, associate director at Lex (ULEVs), according to the ICFM. right vehicles Autolease, said: “The grant is applied at FDespite the Government outlining its ambi- dealer level so it is taken off the list price of doing the right tious plans to improve air quality and prevent the vehicle, so that, basically, goes into the the sale of new cars without zero-emissions job in the right rental rate. capability by 2040, ICFM chairman Peter “The fleet gets a lower rental rate and the Eldridge says there is not enough information environment” advantage for the driver is they can often get about what is happening in the short term. a plug-in version of a vehicle that may not Eldridge outlined the areas he feels the Peter Eldridge, ICFM have been available in their respective Government could provide better support to grade.” fleets when he addressed more than 70 fleet Eldridge said “drivers will make improved decision-makers at the Go Ultra Low Fleet enough for around 22,000 extra fully-electric environmental vehicle choices if the BIK tax Summit at the Society of Motor Manufacturers cars – but, when questioned, the Department regime is beneficial”, but warned that electric and Traders (SMMT) in London on January 10. for Transport (DfT) would not reveal the total vehicles must not have prohibitive capital and He called for a long-term policy on fuel amount of funding currently available. lease costs otherwise the driver will be types and an end to the current “demonisa- A DfT spokesperson told Fleet News: “The tempted by cheaper conventionally-powered tion” of diesel, so businesses can plan their plug-in car grant will be maintained at the models. strategies against a background of stability. current rates until at least the end of April. “Blending the fleet is the right message “We think the Government is painting a “A further review will be conducted around right at the moment,” he added. discoloured picture at the moment,” Eldridge this time.” “We need to be considering what vehicles told delegates. “It’s within its remit to encourage The spokesperson also confirmed that the are fit for purpose. real fleet industry progress by outlining a clear grant “will remain in some form until at least “Allocating tax loophole vehicles to long-term policy for all fuel types. the beginning of 2020”. drivers is crazy. Let’s get the right “If diesel is so bad why is Euro 6 still a According to Killingley an announcement is vehicles doing the right job in benchmark for low emission zones? The plat- expected “very soon” to outline what impact the right environment.” form needs levelling.” the additional £100m will have on the grant. Eldridge also highlighted the “bizarre” While plug-in cars are expected to company car benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax regime deliver wholelife cost savings of that sees drivers selecting a zero emission up to 70% compared to car in 2017/18 paying 9% tax, rising to 13% in diesel over a typical life- 2018/19 and 16% in 2019/20 – increases of cycle, the contract hire 44% and 23% respectively – before reducing rate or list price of a to 2% in 2020/21, an 87.5% cut. vehicle is still regarded “I’m not critical of the numbers. I’m critical as a major considera- of the pattern. How can we encourage tion for most fleets, members to embrace that pictorial?” he according to a asked. Go Ultra Low In total, 47,263 plug-in cars were registered survey. in 2017, representing just 2.5% of all registra- tions. In Norway, this figure exceeds 50% and Eldridge believes that’s due to stronger government incentives there. Phil Killingley, deputy head of the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), told summit delegates that the plug-in car grant was the UK Government’s “flagship offer” to encourage the uptake of ULEVs. It provides up to £4,500 towards a new fully-electric car, or up to £2,500 off a plug-in hybrid. An extra £100 million of funding was made avail- able in the Budget –

fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 7

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NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news Use of hire vans in terror attacks may result in rental price increase

Anticipated higher insurance costs could be passed on to end-user fleets

By Sarah Tooze leet operators could face a rise in daily A hire van was used to mow down rental prices this year as experts warn people on London Bridge last that insurance costs will increase in June. Eight died and 48 were response to terror attack pay-outs. injured in the attack Bob Baillie, commercial director at FUnited Rental Group, told delegates at the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) industry outlook conference, that rising costs, particularly in the insurance sector following last year’s terrorist attacks in the UK when hire vehicles were used as a weapon, were one of the biggest challenges for rental companies. “The first one on Westminster Bridge, you’re looking at claims costs predicted in excess of £150 million and we as an industry and as the smaller operators, the independents, we have to try to embrace those costs in the insurance and the re-insurance market,” he said. He pointed out that the rental industry has also had to face last year’s vehicle excise duty (VED) changes, as well as general overheads. “There is a lot of education we need to do with “The terrorist atrocities in 2017 have had a customers and we need to wake up to perhaps trying to pass on some of those increased costs significant impact on the insurance costs” to our customers – not an easy task,” he said. Martin Wilson, managing director of Thrifty Martin Wilson, Thrifty Car and Van Rental Car and Van Rental, also indicated that rental prices could rise this year. “The terrorist atrocities in 2017 have had a tial part of all rental companies’ operating costs point for some companies. We believe this could significant impact on the insurance costs for the it seems likely that, ultimately, these increased disproportionately affect smaller operators and rental industry in general,” he said. costs will be passed on to the consumer.” could impact competition and possibly even “As policies are renewed the liabilities borne Rental operators are also concerned that pricing.” by the insurers are being passed on to the rental insurers may be reluctant to provide quotations However, the Association of British Insurers companies; due to staggered renewals it will be in the future. (ABI) downplayed the impact of the terrorist well into 2018 before all rental companies A spokesperson for Enterprise Rent-A-Car attacks on rental vehicle insurance. understand the true commercial consequences said: “There is a danger that some insurers and Ben Howarth, senior adviser for motor and of these vicious attacks.” re-insurers could withdraw cover to the vehicle liability at the ABI, said: “There are lots of He added: “Fleet insurance is such a substan- rental sector, or increase premiums to breaking reasons why insurance premiums may change from year-to-year. The biggest pressures on motor premiums at the moment are Govern- ment changes to the tax on insurance and to the MORE VEHICLE-BASED ATTACKS PREDICTED method used for calculating major compensa- tion pay-outs. An expert in Islamist radicalisation has in Scandinavia, Germany and the UK. He continued: “Insurers will be considering the warned that vehicles will continue to be “I think, unfortunately, we have not seen implications, but it is too soon to say whether used as a weapon in terrorist attacks and the last of vehicle-based attacks either in there will be any impact on the operation of the that the fleet industry must think about the UK or elsewhere across the Continent wider market.” “how to best raise the barriers to or, indeed, in the United States,” said Maher. Anthony Monaghan, transportation and engi- participation”. The BVRLA set up a counter-terrorism neering industry practice leader at insurance In a video broadcast at the BVRLA taskforce last year, following the brokers Marsh, advised rental companies that if conference, Shiraz Maher, a lecturer at Westminster incident, and is working with they faced “greater underwriting scrutiny” they King’s College London and deputy director consultancy firm Westbourne should “work with their brokers to present of the International Centre for the Study of Communications to develop a public affairs insurers with robust evidence of their risk Radicalisation, said the terrorist attack in campaign to demonstrate leadership. management practices”. Nice, France, was “hugely significant”. It is continuing to work with counter- He said: “Firms who are able to demonstrate It demonstrated how effective a vehicle terrorism authorities to demonstrate self- a comprehensive approach to risk manage- could be in an attack of that kind and regulation is best but will co-operate to risk ment, coupled with a good claims record, are inspired others to carry out similar attacks mitigation through data-sharing. likely to receive more favourable terms from insurers.”

8 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk

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NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news

First MOT a year later might have put some testers out of business As you were – Government keeps first MOT at three years, not four

DVSA given green light to use test fee income from vans to cover cost of enforcement

By Gareth Roberts ments. Although we did not have major concerns he fleet industry has welcomed the about increasing the first MOT test deadline for Government’s decision to keep the cars from three to four years, we did express first MOT at three years, rather than “[Safety] must serious misgivings about applying this to vans.” four, after raising safety concerns Fleets had raised particular doubts about the about the change. always be a proposed extension to the first MOT for vans, TThe Department for Transport (DfT) had especially for class seven vehicles. Official statis- primary argued that the three-year test, introduced in tics suggest the average mileage for a car 1967, was out of step with most of Europe, where consideration presented for its first MOT is 32,000 miles, four years tends to be the benchmark. compared to around 70,000 miles for vans. However, ministers admitted last week that when making In fact, in the BVRLA’s consultation response, the majority of responses they received to a changes to it called on the Government to reduce the first consultation held last year, were against the MOT requirement for class seven vans to one proposals on safety grounds, with respondents MOT requirements” year. “We also said that we would like to see a arguing that any potential savings for motorists targeted increase in van enforcement, aimed at were outweighed by the risk to road users. Gerry Keaney, BVRLA removing non-roadworthy vehicles from UK Roads minister Jesse Norman said: “Although roads and penalising those operators who flout modern cars are better built and safer than vehicle safety regulations,” continued Keaney. when the MOT test was last changed 50 years Any move to undertaking the first MOT at four The Government had suggested increasing the ago, there has been a clear public concern that years could have undermined the financial class seven MOT fee in the consultation to help any changes don’t put people’s lives at risk.” viability of garages, resulting in closures. That pay £2 million a year towards the cost of targeting Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) findings could have had a major impact on fleets, particu- unsafe vans by the DVSA. suggested that extending the first test from larly those that rely on local independent garages Currently, enforcement action is paid for out of three to four years for cars and vans would for maintenance requirements.” general taxation, but the DfT recommended that increase road fatalities by between two and four Figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards van operators cover the costs in the same way a year, with an additional 21 to 39 serious injuries. Agency (DVSA) for 2015/16 – the latest available HGV operators do, with the cost of enforcement Welcoming the decision to maintain the current – show that MOTs for class three and four vehi- paid via its testing fee. regime, John Pryor, chairman of fleet repre- cles – cars, vans and small passenger vehicles However, it has also ruled out making any sentative body ACFO, told Fleet News: “Vehicle – had an initial fail rate of 36.8%. changes to test fees. Instead, it said it will amend safety is paramount. Today’s cars have variable The highest rate of failure was in class seven regulations to allow the DVSA to use test fee service intervals so the current MOT means they – goods vehicles from 3.0-3.5 tonnes. Their initial income from light goods vehicles on compliance are inspected by a qualified technician at least fail rate was 46.8%. work relating to these vehicles, which is already annually from three years of age, otherwise they This compares to a fail rate for trucks of 18%. the case for HGVs. may not be checked for several years.” The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Asso- Norman said: “While the changes proposed in The consultation also heard that extending the ciation (BVRLA) said it was pleased to see the this consultation will not be taken forward at this first MOT from three to four years could have Government had listened to fleet concerns time, further research will take place in the near forced some garages out of business. around safety. Chief executive Gerry Keaney future. This work will help ensure the MOT test Pryor said: “It is important that there are said: “[Safety] must always be a primary consid- remains robust and appropriate to the evolving garages nationwide to undertake MOT testing. eration when making changes to MOT require- needs of the road transport sector.”

fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 11

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NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news Solutions firm looks to bring fines management into the 21st century THE NEW

All Fleet Services will accelerate its online fines management service in 2018 WHEN OTHERS By Stephen Briers nostics and servicing needs, including recalls. It ll Fleet Services is looking to is working with several manufacturers and two migrate its fines management “Our target breakdown providers to help them improve their GO LEFT, customers across to a new digital services, but will also offer a portal for fleets and system, Fleet Fine Online, which it is to digitise drivers that will enable them to book a car in for launched last year. maintenance via an app. AThe admin solutions provider worked closely 30% of fines “This is part of the ‘now society’ – access to all GO RIGHT with trade bodies British Vehicle Rental and the information instantly,” Scobie said. “It’s about Leasing Association (BVRLA), British Parking by the middle prognosis and proactively managing a vehicle Association (BPA) and Independent Parking of 2018” before it goes into a downtime situation.” Committee (IPC) to create the service, which, He added: “We are working with five manufac- claims managing director Dave Scobie, “brings Dave Scobie, turers most capable of providing this service today. fines management into the 21st century”. All Fleet Services We are also looking at telematics providers to He said: “We process 300,000 fines a year and supplement where we are not getting the our target was to digitise 10% by the end of 2017 connected information. We expect to roll the and a total of 30% by the middle of this year. multiple congestion charges,” Scobie said. “We product out to more manufacturers as they Eventually everyone will migrate across.” work to educate the fleet user with a real-time become ready to provide the information we need.” All Fleet Services expects to increase the dashboard where fleets get immediate notifica- All Fleet Services has built into the platform number of fines it manages to 450,000 by the tion of fines and advice on how to contest.” intelligent rules that consider service level end of the first quarter of 2018, by increasing the He urged more fleets to contest parking agreements, including booking timescales. It number of vehicles under management from charges, but added: “You have to be aware of provides a ‘best guess’ date for servicing that the 400,000 to 650,000. The company is targeting the whether you have a good chance of success. We dealer can agree or reject. FN50 leasing providers, rental organisations can provide the information and the online “If they do reject it, we manage the dates with and larger fleets which process their own set-up makes it easier to do it.” them,” Scobie said. “But if they don’t do the work, parking charges. All Fleet Services will shortly launch Connected it affects their ability to be given work in the “We also work with them on fines reduction, Car Online, a new service to harvest data from future. We manage the process and the expecta- such as driver profiling, repeat offenders and in-car technology to provide information on diag- tions of the fleet.”

TECHNOLOGY PROVIDES TRANSPARENCY FOR AUTO WINDSCREENS Auto Windscreens will be adopting video- introduction of the plant team to expand its based condition reporting from CitNow to offering. enhance and aid transparency with clients. Auto Windscreens managing director From this month every technician will be Rupert Armitage announced the partnership able to video the vehicle while they are alongside Gordon Grant, global sales pre-repairing the glass. This footage will director at CitNow, at its end-of-year then made available, ensuring security and innovation conference. transparency on every vehicle inspection. Armitage said: “We pride ourselves on Auto Windscreens’ The announcement follows Auto being innovative and providing the best Rupert Armitage P11D FROM £22,095 Windscreen’s year-long education campaign service. CitNow is well respected within the (right) shakes on the BiK FROM 22% | CO2 FROM 104G/KM | UP TO 70.6MPG around advanced driver assistance systems industry and we’re delighted to have aligned new partnership with (ADAS) as well as the implementation of a ourselves with it, to help us provide a more CitNow’s Gordon Grant From business journeys to a weekend adventure, Grandland X takes you whichever way ‘technician tracker’ and, most recently, the seamless journey for our clients.” you choose to go. With plenty of room for five, serious comfort, connected technology and safety features that include lane departure warning, forward collision alert* and automatic emergency braking*, go your own way with Grandland X. Isn’t life brilliant. We’ll keep your fleet working for you Pre-book your Grandland X 3 Day Test Drive today. Talk to us today about Business Breakdown Cover Visit threedaytestdrive.co.uk Call 0800 294 2994 or visit theAA.com/business Fuel consumption information is official government environmental data, tested in accordance with the relevant EU directive. Grandland X range fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km): Urban: 44.1 (6.4)-60.1 (4.7), Extra-urban:

57.6 (4.9)-80.7 (3.5), Combined: 51.4 (5.5)-70.6 (4.0). CO2 emissions: 128-104g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. 2017/18 tax year. Vauxhall Motors Limited does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their own tax position. Grandland X 12 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk Elite Nav 1.2 (130PS) Turbo Start/Stop model illustrated (P11D of £26,445) features Topaz Blue two-coat metallic paint (£565), silver-effect roof rails (£150) and black roof and door mirrors (£320), optional at extra cost. 3 Day Test Drive terms and conditions apply and vehicles are subject to availability. Please call 0330 587 8221 for full details. All figures quoted correct at time of going to press (January 2018). * = Standard on all models except SE.

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NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news

Legal firm believes buyers might be able to claim a ‘realistic’ 25% of purchase price Thousands bid to join legal group alleging mis-selling of used cars

More than 4,000 have registered interest in pursuing ‘lack of history’ claims

By Gareth Roberts were returned at a later date to be sold off. housands of buyers of ex-rental and However, the adverts did not state that the cars former fleet cars have signed up to were previously used for business purposes legal action after claiming they were “There seems to and, for that reason, the ASA concluded that FCA mis-sold their vehicles. have been a deliberate breached its code of conduct. The Harcus Sinclair law firm told Parker said that they were in the process of TFleet News that less than two weeks after asking decision not to tell examining the claims of complainants, but early used car buyers to register their interest in its indications suggest that people have been mis- used car mis-selling group action, more than people [about the sold vehicles. 4,000 people have been in contact. vehicle’s history]” He said: “There seems to have been a delib- Damon Parker, head of litigation at Harcus erate decision not to tell people [about the vehi- Sinclair, said: “I’m surprised by how many people Damon Parker, Harcus Sinclair cle’s history]. But whether that’s a conspiracy, or have come forward saying they didn’t know [their just people in the dealership not knowing, vehicle’s history].” remains to be seen.” Following a ruling from the Advertising Stand- Leaving out significant details breaks the ards Authority (ASA), dealers now have to and verifying MOT history can all offer peace of Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regu- disclose the full history of a car before selling it, mind to car buyers,” it said. lations (2008), and the amount owed depends on including whether it was previously used for The warning comes after an ASA ruling on how serious the case is, and how much it influ- lease, hire or fleet purposes. Glyn Hopkin and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles UK enced the purchase decision. This is because the ASA considers it to be (FCA) in October 2017. In that case, the ASA In theory, successful claimants could claim up critical in influencing a consumer’s transactional considered that because FCA was the previous to 100% of a used vehicle’s purchase price back decision in buying a vehicle. registered keeper for the vehicles, it was reason- from the vendor, but Parker believes a more The implication is that used car buyers might able to expect records showing how it had used realistic readdress would be 25%. be deterred by a vehicle with a rental or company them while under its ownership as a fleet Consumer regulations give protection from car history, favouring one with a private owner. operator, including whether they were driven by ‘misleading action’ and Parker explained it was If that’s the case, it could have implications for multiple users. important first to establish whether not telling rental and fleet car residual values. Furthermore, because Glyn Hopkin was an the consumer a vehicle’s history is an ‘action’. The ASA will be sending warnings to the approved dealer and had bought the cars He continued: “Before we can do anything, we Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders directly, the ASA considered that it was capable also need to work out how these people cluster (SMMT) so it can draw attention to the issue. of easily obtaining such information as well. together; how many people are concentrated on The SMMT said ex-fleet vehicles can be a great FCA had provided evidence showing that each which dealerships and which manufacturers.” used car choice if, as with any other vehicle, it advertised car had only been used by one indi- Admitting, the firm was in the early stages of can be shown they have been maintained and vidual while they were part of its fleet. One was its investigations, Parker said Harcus Sinclair’s serviced properly. It advises consumers to carry allocated to a contractor for training purposes first priority was to speak to the majority of out all the relevant background checks before and the other to an employee as a company car. complainants over the next two weeks, before committing to buying a used car. It also submitted documentation showing writing letters on their behalf to vendors. “Simple steps such as checking the log book, that both cars had a very low mileage prior to “If it really is a problem, it will be a big deal and using the DVLA’s vehicle information checker being allocated to their named users, which 4,000 people, in my book, is a lot,” he said.

fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 15

FP_FLEETNEW_12550Citroid3337416.pdf 16.01.2018 09:35 adRocket

NEWS

Kia’s EV and PHEV sales have increased dramatically after slow start One in three cars will be plug-in within five years, says Kia research

Fleets are ‘nervous’ about operating traditional internal combustion engines

By Simon Harris When it comes to fully autonomous vehicles, reater education is needed to make most respondents (93%) see challenges. fleet managers more aware of Identifying who is liable in the case of an insur- current plug-in vehicle options to tap “Traditional ance claim (56%) and the cost in updating roads into growing interest, according to powertrains and motorways so they are compatible (47%) are recent research. cited as major concerns. In addition, around GA study by Kia for its 2017 Fleet Market Atti- are becoming three-quarters of respondents think the greatest tudes report found that two-thirds of organisa- challenge facing fully autonomous driving lies in tions operating company vehicles are ‘nervous’ less likely to changes to culture – with employees able to about purchasing pure internal combustion be considered work longer hours given they won’t have to drive engine (ICE) cars in future, following the Govern- an autonomous vehicle on their commute. ment’s announcement that they will be banned the default option in fleet Despite these barriers, many respondents from 2040. Fleets expect one in three of their believe fully-autonomous vehicles offer signifi- cars to be plug-in vehicles within five years and purchasing decisions” cant benefits, with 74% agreeing they will result around 50% by 2027, but they have concerns in fewer accidents – potentially saving fleet costs about adopting such technology. John Hargreaves, Kia and increasing road user safety – while 64% However, while some fleets point to price, believe their fleet would be cheaper to maintain infrastructure and the appearance of the vehi- if it were fully-autonomous. cles as barriers against adoption of electric “The Government’s recent announcement in According to fleet managers, their organisa- vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids, others list the Budget about extra cash for charging infra- tion’s fleet has had 10 accidents on average these factors as reasons for choosing them. structure also feels significant, although we within the past year. Such accidents cost each Other reasons for avoiding plug-in vehicles await further details about its implementation.” respondent’s organisation £472.72. include a lack of understanding and long Kia has been later to introduce electrified The number of incidents has dropped from 14 charging times. powertrains than many, but its EV and PHEV reported in the 2015 Fleet Market Attitudes Regarding the charging infrastructure, more share of sales increased dramatically in 2017. survey. However, the average cost per accident, than half agree it is not good enough to warrant In 2016, just 2% of its fleet sales were alterna- has risen by almost £90, from £384.50. full investment in the technology at present. tive fuel vehicles, while in 2017 the total was Kia believes this is due to the integration of Conversely, of those that are yet to adopt, they running at 6% with more than 2,500 units. The more technology which means the repair bill on believe that the UK’s charging infrastructure will company is gearing up for EVs and PHEVs to a like-for-like accident is often higher. In addition, be better by 2021 – with battery life and charge take a 14% share of total sales in future. safety design on modern cars, such as absorp- time improving by the same date. Respondents in Kia’s study also seemed open tive crumple zones, may mean more compo- John Hargreaves, head of fleet and remar- to the idea of introducing vehicles with an nents need replacing. keting at Kia, said: “There is still a job to be done increasing number of autonomous features. Hargreaves said: “As more organisations to educate decision-makers and challenge The average percentage of organisations embrace new technologies for the vehicles in their preconceptions. But more pragmatic application where ‘assisted driving’ vehicles feature is 23%, fleets – from EVs/PHEVs to ‘assisted driving’ and of the technology in the future will overcome with this anticipated to increase to 51% by 2027. ‘semi-automated driving’ – traditional power- some of the complaints about appearance, and Similarly, the average percentage of organisa- trains are becoming less likely to be considered in our own range we have seen some success tions where ‘semi-autonomous driving’ vehicles the default option in fleet purchasing decisions.” in the fact that our alternative fuel vehicles look feature is 19%, increasing to an average of 51% The survey questioned 150 fleet operators about similar to conventional petrol or diesel cars. in 10 years’ time. plug-in vehicles and autonomous technology.

16 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk

FP_FLEETNEW_8018SEATFPid3343430.pdf 19.01.2018 12:06 COMMENT

Contact us Fleet News, Media House, Lynch Wood, YOUR LETTERS Peterborough, PE2 6EA THE BIG Email – [email protected] Burning question: PICTURE What are you addicted to? Editorial Editor-in-chief Fleet News Stephen Briers 01733 468024 By Stephen Briers, editor, [email protected] Work, according to my wife Deputy editor Is total mobility a sham or the Sarah Tooze 01733 468901 DRINK DRIVING [email protected] biggest thing ever to affect the Out of office movement of people and goods? News editor EDITOR’S Gareth Roberts 01733 468314 As the Government identifies England and Wales PICK [email protected] Nicotine mobility as one of its four ‘grand Features editor challenges’ and the Transport should adopt lower Andrew Ryan 01733 468308 [email protected] Systems Catapult deploys hyperbole to Checking football scores drink-drive limit Head of digital claim the way we travel and move goods Jeremy Bennett 01733 468261 Fleet News recognised customer service excellence [email protected] will “change dramatically in the next Winston wrote: at its FN50 Dinner last November as well as YouTube decade”, I can’t help but ask: Really? Toyota/Lexus Fleet general manager Neil Broad Web producer Having read ‘67% of UK honouring the latest Hall of Fame inductee and Elizabeth Howlett 01733 468655 Mobility sounds great – transport when I motorists want the English/ the inaugural winner of the John Leigh Outstanding (left) with customer award winner Simon Carter, [email protected] corporate internal sales executive at Alphabet I might as well face it, I’m addicted to want it, how I want it. But, is it that practical? Welsh drink-drive limit Achievement award, sponsored by Trak Global. love (with apologies to the late Robert I use my car to commute every day, a round reduced’ (fleetnews.co.uk, Palmer) December 14), how exactly Staff writer trip of 34 miles. It takes 20-30 minutes each Matt de Prez 01733 468277 does the Government plan [email protected] way. Every so often, I travel several hundred to achieve better Out of office Photos Chris Lowndes miles to meetings. enforcement when, as Hunter Abbott rightly points Production Head of publishing out, there aren’t enough Luke Neal 01733 468262 police officers out there to Crispy coated peanuts Production editors “Will there be thousands of manage the problem? David Buckley 01733 468310 A ‘zero’ limit isn’t practical, but already. Introducing a lower legal Watching my favourite football team play and drinking icy cold lager – preferably cars waiting for the call to aligning England and Wales with the limit, along with continuing to push in combination Scottish limit shouldn’t be difficult to the message “Don’t Drink and Drive” Finbarr O’Reilly 01733 468267 deliver them (commuters)?” Any gelatine-based sweet introduce, should it? might make a few more drivers wary Senior designer There cannot be a driver in the UK of taking to the road. Erika Small 01733 468312 Doritos Heatwave crisps My future, according to the experts, looks that doesn’t know the drink-drive laws It can’t hurt, can it? Simon Oliphant, head of vehicle solutions strategy Neil Broad with customer service rising star at Hitachi Capital (left), enters the Hall of Fame Lisa Jones, senior account manager at Arval Advertising like this: call a number and an autonomous Commercial director car will appear at my door within minutes n The editor’s pick in each issue wins a £20 John Lewis voucher. Sarah Crown 01733 366466 B2B commercial manager (how – is it lurking around the corner?) to Sheryl Graham 01733 366467 Account directors take me to work (or I can share a ride with Sean Hamill 01733 366472 someone else and endure awkward small Lisa Turner 01733 366471 RENTAL INDUSTRY Stuart Wakeling 01733 366470 talk). All well and good. But I’m one person. Account managers Liam Sancaster 01733 363219 What about the thousands of other people Karl Houghton 01733 366309 Lucy Herbert 01733 363218 in my town who are also looking to Tribute paid to industry giant Telesales/recruitment 01733 468275/01733 468328 commute to different places of work: will Stewart Whyte wrote: and he truly was a giant in the industry. I there be thousands of cars waiting for the Having read ‘BVLRA honorary life always found him generous and helpful, Head of project management Leanne Patterson 01733 468332 call to deliver them? Or will they all jump on president Freddie Aldous dies’ as well as exceptionally knowledgeable Project managers (fleetnews.co.uk, December 20), I was so about all aspect of the rental market and Niamh Walker-Booth 01733 468327 mini-buses that will go from stop to stop? Kerry Unwin 01733 468578 Ah, maybe they won’t be commuting – sad to hear of Freddie’s death. business management. Condolences to Chelsie Tate 01733 468338 I had known him from around 1972/3 all the family. Neil Broad, flanked by Holly Smith (left) and Tusker CEO David Hosking receives the John Leigh instead everyone will work from home and Events Carol Burgess, heads of service management at Outstanding Achievement award from John’s son Event director Skype each other. Will they? Can you bounce Alphabet, the customer service team of the year Simon, widow Jenny and daughter Sammy Chris Lester ideas around and spark creativity without MOBILE PHONES Event manager Sandra Evitt 01733 468123 being in the same room? I’ve done video Senior event planner Kate Howard 01733 468146 conferencing; it is a poor substitute. Instant ban for using mobile phones? HAVE YOUR SAY Email: fl[email protected] Comment online: fleetnews.co.uk I’m not saying mobility isn’t the future, but Publishing LinkedIn: UK fleet managers group Twitter: twitter.com/_FleetNews Managing director unless you live and work in a major Edward Handley wrote: change to Government policy and a Tim Lucas 01733 468340 Having read ‘Tougher penalties for substantial increase in the number of Group marketing manager conurbation like London, there are big Bev Mason 01733 468295 mobile phone-using drivers need police officers, especially traffic police, Office manager obstacles. No one seems to be challenging ‘rigorous enforcement’, says Brake’ there’s not much chance of getting Jane Hill 01733 468319 these sweeping mobility statements, Fleet News is published 25 times a copy or images submitted to the to ensure accuracy, the publisher is Complaints: Bauer Consumer Media Group managing director (fleetnews.co.uk, December 14), it is caught. year by Bauer Consumer Media Ltd, magazine without further consent. not responsible for any errors or Limited is a member of the Independent Rob Munro-Hall perhaps in fear of being labelled a dinosaur. clear that increasing the penalty points We need a change of thinking. How registered address Media House, The submission of material to Bauer omissions nor do we accept any Press Standards Organisation (www.ipso. Chief executive officer Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Media whether unsolicited or requested, liability for any loss or damage, co.uk) and endeavours to respond to and Paul Keenan Here’s a thought. In 10 years’ time, I will still for using a mobile phone has not had about an immediate 30-day driving ban Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6EA. is taken as permission to publish in howsoever caused, resulting from the resolve your concerns quickly. Our much impact on those drivers who think instead of points? They do it in France if Registered number 01176085. the magazine, including any licensed use of the magazine. Editorial Complaints Policy (including full Subscribe to Fleet News be driving my car to and from work, and to/ No part of the magazine may be editions throughout the world. Any fees details of how to contact us about editorial 01635 588495 they can drive and talk or text at the you are caught exceeding a speed limit reproduced in any form in whole or in paid in the UK include remuneration for ISSN 0953-8526. complaints and IPSO’s contact details) can from meetings. The only ‘dramatic change’ is part, without prior permission of the any use in any other licensed editions. Printing: PCP, Telford be found at www.bauermediacomplaints. [email protected] same time. by more than 30kmh (18.5mph) and publisher. All material published We cannot accept any responsibility co.uk. Our email address for editorial Subscription rates: it will probably be in anelectric car. Rigorous enforcement might make a there is evidence that it works. Mind you, remains the copyright of Bauer for unsolicited manuscripts, images or complaints covered by the Editorial £85 UK (two years £145, three years Consumer Media Ltd. materials lost or damaged in the post. Complaints Policy is complaints@ £195), £135 Europe and Eire (two difference, but, unless there is a major they have rather more police than we do. We reserve the right to edit letters, Whilst every reasonable care is taken bauermedia.co.uk. years £230, three years £315)

18 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 19 COMMENT COMMENT

FLEET OPINION ASK NIGEL

Nigel Trotman, Fleet News Hall of Fame member and two-time Fleet News Award winner, gives advice

USED CAR MARKET FLEET POLICIES on your fleet challenges and queries.

Will 2018 hold more Flexibility around his month’s Ask Nigel is a bit different – as it will be my last. Rather than answer a question Tposed by a fleet manager, I want to take the of the same? fuel type will be key opportunity to look back over the 30 columns I have written over the past two and a bit years and draw out By Andrew Mee By Ashley Barnett some themes and thoughts for the future. Last year was an interesting one in which, overall, Andrew Mee is senior The Budget confirmed the Government’s direction I also want to take the opportunity to thank deputy new car sales held up relatively well and returned forecasting editor (UK) on diesel. Although the impact of the measures editor Sarah Tooze (who suggested the column one of the biggest years on record. That said, new at Cap HPI announced will be relatively small over the next originally) and editor-in-chief Steve Briers for giving me diesel car sales took a tumble. year or so, a clear line in the sand has been drawn. the opportunity to fulfil a lifelong ambition and write a Used car sales volumes were at an all-time high and used This means it’s vital for fleets to put a much closer focus regular column. They also allowed me to enjoy the car values remained strong, especially in the second half. on vehicle policy, ensuring the policy allows flexibility around surreal experience of seeing myself in foreshortened Moving into 2018 many of these trends will continue. fuel type while enabling the employee to make the right “cardboard cut-out” form at Fleet Management Live. Exchange rates will still make the UK less profitable for many vehicle and fuel choice. Thanks also to readers for your kind feedback and manufacturers and new registrations will continue to reduce, Real Driving Emission (RDE) 2 standards mean the majority suggesting some of the questions – it would not have especially for diesel where the benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax change of diesel vehicles will see a 1% supplement increase on been the same without you. in April will further discourage company car drivers. company car tax in the short-term. This may not go down Looking back over the columns, I can see just what a Brexit and the clean air debate could impact on consumer well with a majority of fleet drivers, however, it’s unlikely to wide range of challenges today’s fleet manager faces. demand, but we do not expect any disruption to used car dissuade high mileage fleets from shifting their fuel policy. Only one subject – salary sacrifice – has been the key values. The current trend for diesel values to deflate slightly While unwelcome for some, this move is at least clear and theme of two columns, otherwise they have covered more than petrol values will continue, as used diesel supply straightforward to factor into decision-making. everything from future career prospects to towing and will outweigh demand. Conversely, used petrol and hybrid Ashley Barnett, head As we begin the consultation on how to transition to the driver eyesight and a wide variety of others in between. cars will be in more demand and this will support their values. of consultancy at Lex Worldwide harmonised Light vehicle Testing Procedure Topics covered fall into five broad categories: The shift in the balance between petrol and diesel will be Autolease (WLTP) in 2020, a priority will be ensuring this process is ■ Fleet manager roles and responsibilities most felt among smaller cars. For larger cars – and where simple and transparent. Until the framework for a transition ■ Suppliers drivers cover high mileages and/or need to carry many can be agreed, it will be difficult for HMRC to provide any ■ Drivers passengers or to tow – diesel will continue to make sense. further clarity around company car tax bands post-2020. ■ Products and services PCPs may become more expensive due to a combination This will be a big challenge for fleets that typically plan in ■ Policy of higher interest rates, higher list prices and lower residual four year cycles. The result could be we start to see a greater There is often a lot of overlap between them as a values, but PCP (and PCH) is here to stay as a funding shift towards petrol and electric cars this year across fleet. change or development in one area usually has an “I think the most method so we expect consumers will still renew their PCPs, At Lex Autolease, we have more than 16,000 alternative impact in at least one of the others. If anything, I think significant (changes) but perhaps with less of a model upgrade than before. fuelled vehicles on fleet and we’ve seen a significant increase that the role of the fleet manager today is probably The Worldwide harmonised Light vehicle Test Procedure in enquiries this year. Infrastructure investment outlined in more complex and challenging than it has ever been. have been the increasingly (WLTP) will replace the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the Budget means it’s sensible for fleets to start the transi- Conversely though, I also believe the opportunities for as a more accurate testing regime for CO2 emissions and tion process, but, first and foremost, they must ensure they a forward-thinking fleet manager have never been rapid advance of AFVs and fuel economy rates for new vehicles. It is expected that CO2 continue to choose the right vehicles for their needs. greater – it is often just a matter of getting senior the wider acceptance of emissions and mpg will be worse than under NEDC. For light commercial vehicle and high mileage fleets, new, management to realise this! There is likely to be some confusion among consumers cleaner diesel will still be the most practical option. Where In terms of changes since I started the column I think the need for a more when WLTP is introduced, and this may result in some short- shorter distance, urban driving makes electric and plug-in the most significant have been the increasingly rapid term fluctuations in new car sales and in used values, but hybrid cars a practical choice, fleets also need to invest in advance of alternatively-fuelled vehicles (AFVs) and the flexible approach to Nigel Trotman has more soon buyers will get used to the new CO2/mpg figures. driver training to get the most out of these vehicles in terms wider acceptance of the need for a more flexible than 25 years’ experience We expect the current gradual shift from diesel cars to of cost-saving and environmental performance. approach to business mobility. business mobility” in the fleet industry. petrol and alternative fuel cars, and the current The regulatory and technological landscape is Having been part of the team that developed and As fleet manager at trends in used values will continue without WLTP becoming ever more complex. Navigating it launched both AlphaCity and AlphaElectric, I feel Whitbread, he scooped two having a significant impact. successfully is a big challenge for 2018. privileged to have been in at the start of two initiatives politicians to make our lives in fleet more difficult and Fleet News Awards – fleet that have changed the face of fleet forever. I am also complex, and I am delighted to see ACFO and BVRLA manager of the year (large delighted to see ACFO evolving to face the challenges continuing to seek to educate Government about our fleets) and UK fleet of the of the future and to see it working more closely with industry. They have at least shown some signs of year – before making the the ICFM – our industry needs both organisations to listening – occasionally! switch to consultancy at remain strong and effective. On a personal level I have thoroughly enjoyed my major leasing companies “Used petrol and hybrid cars For more fleet “The result could be we start to opinion from the Ours remains a great industry, despite the daily 25-plus years in the industry, have made some very Lex Autolease and will be more in demand and industry, visit see a greater shift towards petrol challenges to the role of fleet manager in business. As good friends, met some amazing people and, hopefully, Alphabet. He entered fleetnews.co.uk/ wider mobility needs are recognised, there will be made a contribution to making it a little more effective. the Fleet News Hall of this will support their values” opinion and electric cars this year” opportunities to influence organisations to spend their I am now signing off for the challenges of retirement Fame in 2013. travel budgets more effectively and more – which I can thoroughly recommend – though I may Formerly he was environmentally. The whole of the industry needs to still appear at the occasional industry ‘event’. secretary of ACFO address these challenges before it is too late. I wish you well in all you do in moving our great Midlands and was an However, we must never underestimate the ability of industry into its brave new future! ICFM board member.

20 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 21 COMMENT

FleetNews Fleet events AN OPEN LETTER TO Fleet News events are the THE CHANCELLOR PORTFOLIO biggest and best in the sector. Our annual awards night attracts WHAT WE DO IN YOUR INDUSTRY more than 1,500 people; the FN50 Dinner sees 950 leasing, manufacturer, rental and Fleet News magazine supplier companies networking Dear Chancellor of the Exchequer and Commercial Fleet Summit The leading business publication for the fleet sector, provide insight into key areas of he current company car But it is easier for a leasing company to 6. If you really want to encourage the offering insight, analysis, best practice and in-depth fleet operation; monthly benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax ensure a leased car is properly main- take-up of EVs, tilt the BIK further in profilesprofiles ooff ffleetsleets aandnd ssuppliersuppliers e everyvery f ofortnight.rtnight. B Butut d odon’tn’t roundtables enable 10-15 fleets system is unfair, unjust, tained, repaired, MOT tested, etc, than it favour of low CO2 cars. If someone is take our word for it: 96% of readers sayFleet News is to discuss issues and share doesn’t deliver on the is for an employer to manage a similar foolish, selfish or wealthy enough to opt the most useful fleet publication Fleet( News reader solutions. Government’s environmental policies process for grey fleet cars. for a high-CO2 170g/km car, their BIK and causes problems for employers. I’m sure you have people designing a tax should be based on an appropriate survey). Every issue is packed with information that TThe system is unfair because it new company car BIK system. Here are percentage of 45% of the list price. helps companies to run efficient and effective fleets – requires people to pay the same amount some suggestions to consider: Now, here’s a more radical proposal: and our readership of 16,000 is restricted to named of BIK tax regardless of the benefit they 1. Make the BIK tax charge reflect the scrap the BIK table. It is way too compli- decision-makers, running fleets of 10-plus vehicles. obtain. If two colleagues do identical jobs actual benefit to the employee. There cated and is no longer fit for purpose. Professor Colin in identical company cars, but they drive are several options; my favourite is to We are keen to reduce CO2 and partic- Tourick University of 20,000 and 2,000 private miles a year, require the employee to certify whether ulates and nitrogen oxides, and we want Buckingham Business the latter will pay 10 times more for their private mileage has been minimal to encourage the take-up of EVs. School those private miles. The tax rules say (say, under 2,000), modest (2,000-5,000), So replace the BIK table with a label- this is fair because the car is ‘available high (5,000-8,000) or very high (more ling system similar to the EU Energy Commercial Fleet magazine for their use’. Well, quite a lot of things than 8,000). Flex BIK to reflect private use. System. Anyone who has bought a Commercial Fleet offers insight into the world of light in life are available for use – Eurostar, 2. Scrap the 1% increase in the diesel washing machine knows how this commercial vehicles and trucks to provide operators Wembley Stadium and my local Italian supplement. It is grossly unfair. works. A number of parameters are with detailed analysis on key topics such as operations, restaurant come to mind – but in every 3. Reverse OpRA. If someone takes measured, and the device is awarded an other case we’re only expected to pay the cash, tax them on that allowance. If energy efficiency class from A-G. safety, remarketing and the environment. Case studies when we actually use these things, not they take a company car, tax them on the We need a name for this system: let’s in every issue provide best practice advice to help you to simply because they happen to be there. benefit-in-kind. call it the Eco-Score system. improve your efficiency. The magazine is supported by The system is unjust because you have To achieve the best scores, a car will the commercialfleet.org website and events. just increased by 50% the planned tax need to have low CO2, NOx and particu- rise for drivers of diesel vehicles from lates emissions, while travelling a fair next April. This is just a £365 million tax- “This is a £365m tax way on battery only. If it falls short on grab from company car drivers that will one or more, it will not score as highly. have no impact on the environment. grab from company This system allows you to include Van Fleet Insight The system fails to meet your Govern- multiple parameters without confusing Business Services and Facilities Management www.mbvans.co.uk/fn ment’s environmental policies because car drivers that will fleets. The score will also appear on the it encourages employees and employers have no impact on V5C. Maybe my employer will say I can’t to abandon diesel and move ‘back’ to choose anything scoring less than a C. petrol, reversing years of excellent the environment” And, if the BIK charge is fixed from day progress in reducing CO2 emissions. one for the life of the car, I will know Fit for purpose Improve your Reliability CO2 for newly-registered cars run by exactly how much BIK tax I am going to business with the right van choice How to run an British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Asso- 4. Change the ‘appropriate percentage’ pay and can plan accordingly. Fleet best practice profiles Kwik Fit and effective fleet Stannah share their ciation (BVRLA) members has risen – for zero emission cars. It is daft to have Over time, as cars get more CO2-effi- tips for success Advice to maximise on-road time and minimise costs

yes, risen – for the first time in years, as a system that will rise from this year’s cient, emit less NOx, travel further News Brought to you by Fleet a result of your vilification of diesel and 9%, to 13% next year and 16% the year under electric power alone, etc, the without regard for the fact that Euro 6 after, then reduce to 2%. What message gradings can be changed but the engines are much cleaner than Euro 5. does that send? If you want to encourage consumer won’t need to worry about The new operational risk appraisal the take-up on new EVs, change the how they are calculated. They’ll just (OpRA) rules further undermine your percentage to 2% from April 2018. know that Eco-Score A is the best. Driving Business Websites and Fleet Leasing Bespoke environmental policies, because by 5. Fix appropriate percentages. The For there to be faith in the system, you taxing an employee on the cash allow- current system increases BIK by more would have to commit that any change magazine newsletters magazine publications ance they are entitled to receive rather than inflation every year. If I had chosen to Eco-Score, or subsequent change in than the BIK tax on the car they actually a 105g/km petrol car early in 2017, I’ll the underlying measurements, will be This annual magazine is sent to The Fleet News website is an Fleet Leasing provides insight and Magazines, supplements, brochures choose – as you will if that generates a have been taxed at 20% this year, rising revenue-neutral rather than tax-grab. managing directors and finance extensive library of best practice analysis to board level executives, and digital products are produced bigger tax liability – you remove the to 26% by tax year 2020. That’s a 30% These are just some thoughts directors at 25,000 small to advice, fleet case studies, news and senior management and regional for commercial partners. These incentive to choose a low-CO2 car. increase. Instead, set appropriate designed to bring some new thinking to medium enterprises (SMEs) that tools. Compare car and van running sales staff at contract hire and bespoke publications inform fleets As if all this wasn’t bad enough, the percentages for the duration of the use a system that needs to be made fairer current system of sharp tax increases of the car. If I choose a car based on 20% for the employee, deliver on the Govern- are running fewer than 50 vehicles. costs, check how much tax leasing companies. Its objective about companies and topics can encourage employees to take cash tax, that should be the appropriate ment’s environmental policies and Focusing on the key elements of employees will pay and find out which is to inform and educate about relevant to their business. They allowances rather than a company car. percentage until I hand it back. make life simpler for employers. running cars and vans, Driving models use the least fuel with our fleet trends, new models and include manufacturer and supplier Business provides practical easy-to-use tools. We also send technological developments, once reports, in which Fleet News Your humble correspondent advice to reduce cost and improve Ignition, a monthly newsletter which a quarter, supported by a website journalists interview key personnel safety with a minimum of time contains car reviews and interviews regularly updated with the latest to unearth the developments of Professor Colin Tourick and effort. not included with our print magazine. leasing news. interest to fleet operators. 22 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk THE UK’S BIGGEST FLEET EVENT For full details, visit: www fleet-live.co.uk EXHIBITORS BOOKED SO FAR

Fleet News has revealed a new name for its premier annual exhibition and conference: Fleet Live

he Fleet Live show, previously known as Fleet knowledge of best practice, fleet policy and regulations, Management Live, has been renamed while 66% said they were there to meet fleet suppliers. following consultation with its visitor advisory But fleets didn’t expect their journey to end when they board who felt Fleet Live better represented left the NEC in Birmingham: 72% expected to get more both the broader job functions involved in fleet information on products and services they had been Tdecisions and the wider responsibilities of fleet depart- discussing, 43% intended to have follow up meetings ments in travel and mobility. with suppliers they had met and 31% expected to do Visitor advisory board member Lorna McAtear, fleet business with a new supplier. supply manager at Royal Mail, explained: “FML has Stephen Briers, Fleet News editor-in-chief, said: “Fleet grown so successfully, it now encompasses much more Management Live was a huge success and surpassed than just basic management. It’s keeping true to its roots our target expectations. Changing the name to Fleet Live but looks to the future much more – it has a pulse of its will give us even greater focus and momentum to ensure Intellidrive own, hence the change in name.” we improve and grow this year’s show. Fellow board member Stewart Lightbody, head of fleet “If a business wants to cut costs, improve its green services at Anglian Water, added: “By acknowledging the credentials, reduce risk, better manage its drivers, buy broad span of both content and visitors, dropping the or lease vehicles more effectively, Fleet Live is the only ‘management’ reference wasn’t a hard decision to endorse.” place they can find all the answers.” The 2017 show broke new records in audience numbers, with 1,830 visitors over the two days, up 58% on 2016 (fully audited by BPA Worldwide). Of these, more than 1,300 were primary audience – fleet and transport managers, senior management, finance, procurement and HR – with the rest from affiliated industries, including , NEC BIRMINGHAM leasing companies, rental and supply chain. OCTOBER 9-10 201818 They were able to gain insight into the latest fleet trends at 24 best practice seminars and network with 122 exhibitors representing every element of the fleet supply FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT FLEET LIVE 2018, GO TTO WWW.FLEET-LIVE.CO.UK chain – from cars to trucks, after the integration of sister show, Commercial Fleet Van & Truck. Fleet News introduced a number of new initiatives and Less features at last year’s event, after consultation with visi- than FLEET LIVE VISITOR ADVISORY BOARD tors and exhibitors, including an advice centre, bluelight two zone and intelligent fleet zone. hours The Fleet Live visitor advisory board was created to help ensure the show meets the 6% The advice centre was run by members of the visitor More than five 2-3 hours 17% needs of fleet decision-makers, whether conventional fleet managers, travel/mobility advisory board who took time out of their busy schedules hours 30% managers, procurement, finance or HR. The panel meets every couple of months. to provide new and inexperienced fleet managers with Maybe 35% Members of the advisory board manage fleets ranging from fewer than 100 vehicles guidance and information to help them address the chal- LENGTH OF WILL YOU to more than 10,000. lenges they faced in their operations. TIME SPENT ATTEND Board member Rory Morgan, head of logistics support AT SHOW IN 2018? Yes 61% ■ Lorna McAtear, fleet supply manager, ■ David Oliver, procurement manager, – Western Europe, Iron Mountain, said the advice centre Royal Mail Red Bull Company was a perfect opportunity for those that had fleet thrust ■ Stewart Lightbody, head of fleet ■ Debbie Floyde, fleet & risk manager, No upon them to gain from the knowledge of their peers. 4% services, Anglian Water Bauer Media He said: “Seminars and presentations are great for 3-5 hours 47% ■ Alison Moriarty, fleet risk & ■ Paul Taylor, fleet manager, getting an overview of ideas and successes, of course, compliance manager, Skanska Morgan Sindall but in my experience people want that closer, more ■ Rory Morgan, head of logistics support ■ John Pryor, group fleet & travel personal, interaction to ask questions as well.” – Western Europe, Iron Mountain manager Arcadia and chairman ACFO A post show survey revealed why visitors attended Almost 80% of visitors stayed The post-show survey revealed that 96% of ■ Dale Eynon, head, Defra Fleet ■ Caroline Sandall, vice-chair, ACFO Fleet Management Live 2017. The majority – 72% – said at Fleet Management Live 2017 visitors are likely to return this year, with Services ■ Jerry Ward, manager, legal they wanted to keep up to date with and grow their for three or more hours. 61% giving a resounding ‘yes’ when asked. ■ Peter Weston, fleet manager, Arcus operations, John Lewis Partnership

Supported by FLEET IN FOCUS: FREEDOM GROUP

‘FLEETS ARE SICK WINNER OF DOING THIS DANCE’

Paul Brown selected flexi-rent to eliminate early termination fees, now he wants suppliers to solve the uncertainty of end of contract damage re-charges. Gareth Roberts reports

reedom Group is However, after carrying out a full tender Brown says: “It’s worked really well, from avoiding early termi- process, Brown says it became clear the the speed of getting the vehicles and kitting nation costs of around rental company could offer the same vehi- them out, to their management, service and £50,000 per year after cles at the same price and with the same maintenance; it’s also not as if it’s any dearer.” switching its entire kit as contract hire and leasing suppliers, However, there can be a cost if you send light commercial fleet but with the added benefit of flexibility. vehicles back early. F to flexi-rent. He explains: “If I want to send back 20 flat- “You have to return the vehicle in rentable As a specialist cont- bed Transits and replace them with 20 box condition if terminated in the first year, ractor to utility comp anies, Freedom’s Lutons, Northgate don’t see it as being which is a lot different to getting it to an contracts can often last three-to-four years, stuck with the asset, whereas for a leasing auction retail standard,” he says. “But the which meant leasing was deemed the best company it’s just seen as dead metal.” longer you keep them, those costs will fall acquisition method for its 300-strong van as they’re not being returned to Northgate’s fleet. rental fleet.” However, head of group fleet Paul Brown NO UPFRONT DEPOSIT Early termination fees may have been told Fleet News that the requirements of a tackled by Brown, but the uncertainty of contract can change partway through, Furthermore, if a contract became bigger damage recharges remains. which can require a new set of vehicles or and new vehicles were required at short They are a frustration for fleets of all sizes, even their early termination. notice, Brown says that was unachievable he says, providing uncertainty for the finan- “It’s fluid and it’s flexible; numbers change with other suppliers, while Northgate’s flex- cial director and fraying relationships with and volumes change,” says Brown. ibility meant the right van, with the right kit, vehicle suppliers. But, with no room for manoeuvre in could be provided quickly, with no upfront “It doesn’t have to be like this,” he says. contract hire or lease agreements the deposit. “Fleets are sick of doing this dance every group faced costly early termination penal- Vans are still deployed on a four-year four or five years. We know what it’s going ties if vehicles needed to be returned. replacement cycle, but Brown has struck a to cost per vehicle, why can’t we just put a Historically, Freedom Group had seen deal with Northgate whereby there is 20% few quid a month on top of the rental at the Northgate Vehicle Hire as a short-term flexibility in the fleet meaning up to a fifth of start of the contract? Build potential damage vehicle solution only, believing it did not have vehicles could be terminated early without recharges into the lease costs Freedom’s head of group the resource, infrastructure and buying Freedom facing early termination fees. and then, in four years’ time, fleet Paul Brown wants to power to sustain its flexible offer at an Freedom typically terminates 25 vehicles a there are no nasty surprises.” see damage recharges affordable price over the long term. year so avoids these charges. Brown believes data on end incorporated into rental fees

26 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk FLEET IN FOCUS: FREEDOM GROUP

FACTFILE Organisation Freedom Group (formerly Enserve Group) Head of group fleet Paul Brown Time with company four and a half years Fleet size 125 cars, 300 vans (3.5 tonne and below) and 50 HGVs (7.5 tonne and above) Funding method contract hire (cars); flexi-rent (vans)

CASH IS MORE POPULAR THAN COMPANY CARS “EVs are not a A plethora of deals available for people issue as a replacement to somebody practical solution yet via personal leasing has helped fuel else.” growth in the number of employees However, the popularity of a cash and petrol hybrids choosing cash over a company car. allowance does mean that managing the Freedom Group operates a car fleet of grey fleet has become a priority. would have increased around 125 vehicles, but Brown toldFleet “You’ve got to have a single point of our fuel costs by News that cash-takers have now overtaken ownership on grey fleet,” says Brown. company car drivers for the first time. “Should it be HR, the operations manager, a third” “We’ve got around 150 members of staff payroll or fleet? It’s got to be somebody opting for the car allowance,” says Brown. that’s strong enough and thick-skinned Paul Brown, Freedom Group “There are two main reasons for that; the enough to actually manage it. main one being the 9p per mile [advisory “A lot of fleets say it’s not our vehicle, it’s fuel rate] we pay for company cars.” nothing to do with us. But once you pay a of contract costs could be The vast majority of cars are job need cash allowance it becomes the equivalent used to establish an industry- and in an effort to drive down fuel costs, of a company car.” by-industry charge, with a per smaller, more fuel efficient engines have Brown manages grey fleet drivers, with vehicle premium included Paul Brown has reduced fuel been chosen, resulting in the 9ppm rate. employees facing similar rules to the from day one of the contract. spend by a third by choosing That compares to a grey fleet rate of firm’s company car drivers. “In the end, leasing companies will realise more efficient vehicles or 25ppm. Cash allowance cars have a five-year it’s the best way of doing business,” he says. reducing engine sizes “The other reason is probably the option age limit on them, compared to the four- Another area where Brown has succeeded of cars we give them,” he says. year cycle employed on company cars. in keeping Freedom Group’s fleet costs in Freedom Group has secured a solus Brown says the additional year helps check is fuel spend. A £3 million fuel bill in deal with Volkswagen for its car fleet. employees offset extra costs such as 2013-14 has fallen by a third to £2m. Senior managers have access to a top of insurance. That saving has been achieved by adopting TECHNOLOGY WILL BE KEY the range Volkswagen Passat, while the To qualify for the allowance, log books more fuel efficient vehicles and by reducing AWARDS GET YOU NOTICED AND HELP next level down, which is a field engineer, also have to be in the employee’s name, engine sizes without any operational impact. Brown has made substantial improvements WHEN BIDDING FOR NEW CONTRACTS has the choice of a Volkswagen Golf hatch from which Brown says the group can Northgate’s Tracker-based telematics to the fleet since joining Freedom almost or estate. ascertain the age of the vehicle and system is fitted in all new commercial vehi- four-and-a-half years ago, but he has no Awards success has given the fleet Brown explains: “They are both great when the MOT is due. cles, which monitors driving style, vehicle intention of resting on his laurels. operation a much higher profile and cars, but some people like a different Furthermore, cash allowance takers idling times, routes taken between jobs and The fleet is up for renewal this year and helped Freedom Group win business, badge and, if they want a BMW or a must provide a copy of their insurance unauthorised private use. technology will be key, he says, with stop- according to Paul Brown. Mercedes-Benz, it’s another reason for documents and undertake driver licence Telematics allowed Freedom to identify start engines one of a range of measures Freedom – formerly Enserve Group – them to opt out.” checks. 50 under-utilised vehicles, contributing to a under consideration to help continue keeping was voted Fleet of the Year (251-1,000 Brown says Freedom struck a solus fleet All of this data is uploaded to Freedom £225,000 saving (see Fleet News, April 28, fuel costs in check. vehicles) at the 2017 Fleet News Awards. deal, because it wanted to avoid having Group’s fleet management system which 2016). Since then, it has achieved a further However, he admits it is likely that diesel The awards judges said: “Brown different cars from different suppliers. will automatically flag up when renewals £75,000 saving aided by telematics, but will remain the group’s fuel of choice for the shows a solid understanding of the fleet “We give them four basic colours – are required, with drivers sent an email doesn’t anticipate any more reductions. immediate future. and has introduced a number of black, white, silver or grey – standard requesting action be taken. Driver league tables allow peer pressure “We looked at petrol cars rather than initiatives, which are robustly measured black cloth interior and we give them all Brown says: “If it isn’t updated, we have to be applied and a desire to be the best diesel, but when they’re doing 25,000 miles to display clear results. [It is] an Paul Brown picks the options we think they’ll need, such as the option of emailing payroll to suspend driver. Not only has this encouraged safer, per year it just wasn’t practical,” he says. extremely well-run operation.” up the award from sat-nav and parking sensors,” explains the car allowance. You usually find that more environmentally friendly and cost- “EVs are not a practical solution yet either Success at the Fleet News Awards Neil Broad, general Brown. within 48 hours they will supply the effective driving techniques within the and petrol hybrids would have increased our was followed by a Green Apple Award in manager, Toyota & “Then if a car comes back it’s easy to paperwork you were after.” team, it has also boosted employee engage- fuel costs by a third.” recognition for environmental best Lexus Fleet ment and morale. Plug-in powertrain technology, it seems, practice and a ‘highly commended’ for Furthermore, it has helped reduce the still has a long way to go before it will be Commercial Fleet of the Year – Utilities frequency of repairs and replacement parts considered the right fit for Freedom Group’s at the 2017 Commercial Fleet Awards. up and take notice and it helps us when “They (Passats and Golfs) are both great cars, due to poor driving. Freedom Group esti- fleet of vehicles. Brown says: “Fleet has become more bidding for work.” mates savings here to be worth a further of a focus at boardroom level. A couple Tender documents require the group but some people like a different badgeº” £20,000 per year. of years ago, they wanted three or four to demonstrate high health and safety Fuel data reports have also been closely lines from me for a monthly report. standards. A Fleet News Award, says Paul Brown, Freedom Group monitored to look at any irregular For more fleet profiles, visit: Now they want three or four slides. Brown, assures prospective customers purchases, or purchases on high cost fleetnews.co.uk/fleetprofiles “Winning an award makes people sit these are being achieved. versus power type fuels.

28 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 29 IN THE SPOTLIGHT: ATTICUS INNOVATION

‘SHUT UP SHOP FACTFILE Company Atticus Innovation (formerly Fleet Accident Repair Group) Head office Swinton, Manchester OR UNDERTAKE Interim MD Mike Monaghan Repair volume 1,000 vehicles a month Services accident repair (Reinstate), consultancy A COMPLETE (Innovate), personal service (Concierge) REINVENTION’

Those were the choices facing a company that had ‘lost its identity’. It has now re-emerged with a new name and a focus on service and reducing fleets’ claims costs. Stephen Briersreports

leet Accident Repair are in the industry and how we can bring a Group (FARG) had difference to the sector,” he says. been “neglected” His first decision was to change the name. and its services had “FARG is one dimensional; clients want a become “one dimen- different type of service provider,” he F sional”. explains. “It’s about how can they reduce Not our words, but their exposure to cost, not just can we fix it. the uncompromising Repairing the car is the easy bit; we want to view of the man brought in to turn around be recognised for our expertise by acting as the 25-year-old company’s fortunes. an adviser.” Consultant Mike Monaghan The figures are stark: at its height, FARG On January 1, the company was rebranded has been appointed interim MD handled 10,000 repairs a month with a work- Atticus Innovation with the creation of three while he puts Atticus on course force of 120; today, monthly volumes are operational divisions. for a turnaround down to a little over 1,000 with just 18 The first, Atticus Reinstate, is the core 24/7 employees. accident damage repair service. In a bid to revive its fortunes, the private However, there are changes. The most incident and work will begin. a number of football clubs, for example. bodyshop pricing model that adds margin to owners called in Mike Monaghan to act as a noticeable has been a major cull of the “But, we recognise that every client is Fleets and insurance companies need to paint and parts which further impacts their consultant five months ago. bodyshop network, reducing the number different and we will work with them to come to terms with some cold facts before repair costs. Best known in automotive circles for from 214 to 83. Further cuts are likely, before define a profile of their vehicles. For example, selecting their partners, says Monaghan. “Fleets should be “We will give impartial advice whether or launching the Motor Vehicle Repairers Asso- Monaghan rebuilds the network to around if a vehicle is near its end of life on the fleet, “They need to understand that it’s not all choosing partners not they use our services,” he adds. ciation (MVRA) in 1988, which he ran for 100 sites. we could use non-original equipment or about the labour rate. Costs are going to Atticus has a broad target market. In addi- more than 20 years, Monaghan has spent “I will be hand-selecting the repairers. green parts to reduce costs. We will choose increase due to all the new technology and based on their ability tion to brokers and insurance companies, it the majority of his career in the sector. More They will all be part of a new technical plat- the right repair process for each job.” electronics, and if the vehicle goes to a will be seeking terms with fleets running recently, he diversified into business coaching form which will show available hours and The second division, Atticus Innovate, will network that can’t deal with it, then off-road to profile their needs” every type of vehicle, from cars to HGVs, who and leadership. capacity so we can intelligently deploy repair provide consultancy services to fleets on times will also increase,” he adds. are “frustrated with the status quo”, Mona- After a few days picking his way through services. Customers will not go into a everything from vehicle selection to green “Fleets should be choosing partners based Mike Monaghan, Atticus Innovation ghan says. the accident management company, Mona- queue,” he says. policies to safety, advising on the use of tele- on their ability to profile their needs, espe- Many will be outright purchase, rather than ghan delivered some hard-hitting home “We will be able to identify the repairer, matics, cameras and driver training as part cially as we move towards autonomous and contract hire fleets as the latter manage truths. FARG had struggled in the 2000s with their geographic position, whether they have of a broad suite of risk management. electric vehicles. One of our differentiators is fectly try to be’, which epitomises Mona- their asset books differently. the onset of credit hire and repair. It had the Kitemark, their manufacturer approvals Atticus will offer this service irrespective of that we help companies to measure our ghan’s business ethos to relentlessly strive The bulk of the contracts will be for the chased credit hire commission, which had and equipment capability so that when we whether the fleet opts to use its services for performance in the three areas [divisions], for excellence. Reinstate business tapering to the high-end affected the quality of its service provision. triage the repair, we will send it to the right accident repair. rather than throwing everything into the pot Atticus is also taking a different position on Concierge service. Combined with consolidation among its repairer every time. This will speed up the “We will ensure the fleet fits with the busi- at the same time.” payment. Unlike some rivals, it will not be This year, Atticus hopes to double its blue-chip customer base, the company had repairs and result in a better service.” ness priorities,” Monaghan says. He says: “We will not be there just for the charging a percentage of the final invoice. weekly repair volume. A year later, Mona- lost its identity. Atticus will independently audit the network For clients who require ‘white gloves’ asset; we will use our skills to protect your Instead, there will be a flat rate admin fee ghan expects to step down as interim Monaghan’s solution? Either shut up shop to its own standards, with the emphasis on treatment, the company has launched vehicle, your asset and your people.” based on the level of service the fleet managing director to return to offering or undertake a complete reinvention. a customer-centric service. Atticus Concierge. Targeted at companies So why did he choose the name Atticus? requires. consultancy services, potentially retaining a The owners remain committed to the busi- “We will have new SLAs (service level with high-end cars and blue-chip clients Two reasons: after To Kill a Mockingbird’s “The percentage approach is unjust; it non-exec role with the business. ness and opted for reinvention, appointing agreements) which will include designated who want to offer a higher level of service to Atticus Finch for his stance on social justice adds cost to the service,” Monaghan says. By then, the company will be well on its Monaghan as interim managing director to capacity within the workshop so our their employees, Atticus Concierge will and partnerships, and after the eponymous “The model has to change. It needs to be a way to achieving its ultimate goal: to reduce make the proposition a reality. customers are a priority,” Monaghan says. provide a named account handler who owns Greek philosopher for his quote ‘I will never service-provision model.” the cost of claim for all stakeholders – fleets, “My purpose is to consider where the gaps “Vehicles will be collected on the day of the the relationship. It is currently in talks with be perfect for you, but I will always imper- He also wants to educate customers on a insurers and bodyshops.

30 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 31 adRocket

2018 VEHICLE L AUNCH GUIDE

Get the low-down on all the new cars and vans worth considering for your fleet this year

FP_FLEETNEW_1589938734id3209746.pdf 19.10.2017 12:47 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: SMALL CARS

SUZUKI SWIFT SPORT Available: Spring VOLKSWAGEN UP GTI Available: Q1 DS 3 FORD FIESTA ACTIVE Suzuki’s hot hatch has always been popular in the UK, and the new The Up GTI will hark back to the original Golf GTI, with an Available: late 2018 Available: Spring Swift Sport, based on the Swift launched in 2017 will offer more identical power output of 115PS and a kerb weight of less n New DS 3 expected eight years after n More rugged version retains basic fuel-efficient turbo power. than a tonne. the original launched under Citroën brand Fiesta appearance with raised ground n Speculation suggests a crossover body clearance and additional styling kit rather than premium hatchback n Unique interior detailing gives the n Expect styling cues from the 2014 DS Active its own crossover character Divine concept n New technology including safety and n Choice of 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol driver support systems engines and new 1.5-litre diesel engines n Ecoboost petrol and new 1.5 TDCi n New safety and assistance features Current model pictured diesel engines available

MG3 FACELIFT Available: early 2018 n New look front end echoes the compact ZS crossover n Improvements to interior look and feel VAUXHALL CORSA expected to make it more mainstream Available: Late 2018 n Smaller, more fuel efficient turbo- The Corsa introduced in 2014 was charged engine available for improved a heavily revised version of its fuel economy and lower emissions predecessor on a platform, shared n Likely to benefit from a new seven-year with Fiat, which dated back to 2006. Current model pictured manufacturer warranty There will be a new Corsa in 2018, which is developed in conjunction with PSA, and will have much in common with the next-generation Peugeot 208. We can expect the Corsa to be AUDI A1 roomier was well as more efficient – Available: Summer in real world driving – than its The Audi A1 will be the third predecessor. Volkswagen Group small hatchback to The Corsa will also lead Vauxhall’s be based on the versatile MQB alternative fuel strategy, with a platform, following 2017’s Seat Ibiza and battery electric version in the pipeline, Volkswagen Polo. which will be a rival for the Renault At the time of writing little information Zoe, and the brand’s first plug-in has been available, but the other cars model since the Ampera was offer a few clues, including a slightly Current model pictured discontinued in 2014. roomier interior and new engines, including a 1.5 TFSI with cylinder deactivation technology. We should also see autonomous emergency braking as standard, and PEUGEOT 208 VOLKSWAGEN POLO optional safety features such as Available: Late 2018 Available: January blindspot warning and rear cross traffic n New, lighter platform shared with n Roomier Polo comes with autonomous alert to warn of approaching vehicles Citroën C3 and forthcoming Vauxhall Corsa emergency braking as standard when reversing from a parking space. n 1.2-litre petrol engines and 1.5-litre n A choice of normally aspirated and Expect prices to start from around BlueHDi diesels will offer sub-100g/km turbocharged three-cylinder petrol Current model pictured £16,000. CO2 emissions engines, plus a 150PS four-cylinder 1.5 n Platform engineered to accommodate TSI with cylinder deactivation technology, electrification expected to follow as well as 80PS and 95PS 1.6 TDI diesel n New version of Peugeot i-Cockpit and n Optional adaptive cruise control HONDA JAZZ FACELIFT Available: January ŠKODA FABIA FACELIFT Available: Summer faster dashboard screen system Current model pictured n Customisable interior features The Jazz will be updated in 2018 with styling tweaks, new safety While Volkswagen, Audi and Seat have already embraced the MQB features and a more powerful engine option with Honda’s 130PS platform for small cars, Škoda’s Fabia reaches mid-lifecycle in 2018 1.5-litre motor alongside the 100PS 1.3-litre. and continues with a facelift. Expect new tech and engines, however. RENAULT CLIO Available: Summer n New Clio expected to downsize Mégane styling cues in a smaller package n Mild hybrid powertrains expected to feature in the range n Interior appearance and quality to move upmarket, with materials and features from larger Renault models n Upgraded central tablet-style screen to Current model pictured offer more functions and ‘haptic’ responses

34 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 35 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: SMALL FAMILY CARS

MERCEDES-BENZ CLA Available: Late 2018 SUBARU IMPREZA Available: Spring BMW 1 SERIES TOYOTA AURIS We don’t know much about the CLA yet, other than four-door coupé A new Impreza will launch in 2018, based on a new platform and Available: Late 2018 Available: Autumn and Shooting Brake estate versions are expected to continue in the offering more safety features than before. However, Subaru has n BMW ditches rear-wheel drive for its n New Toyota Auris will share platform new model. It will be distanced further from the A-Class than the only confirmed petrol all-wheel drive versions of the car, with a family hatchback with the latest Prius and C-HR crossover current CLA. diesel version unlikely. n The switch to front-wheel drive should n It is expected to be more radical than be revolutionary in terms of interior the current car space, as the engine bay will be shorter n Interior quality and driver engagement and there should be no transmission expected to be improved over the tunnel in the cabin outgoing model n Three-cylinder and four-cylinder petrol n Popular hybrid variant, and turbo petrol and diesel engines available. variants offered, but diesel unlikely.

CITROËN C4 CACTUS Available: Spring n Revised C4 Cactus replaces C4 hatchback in the Citroën range, with new market positioning, new technology and broader engine range MERCEDES-BENZ n Debuts new ‘progressive hydraulic cushions’ (PHC) suspension system A-CLASS n Improved refinement over outgoing C4 Available: Spring Cactus to ensure broader appeal At the time of writing, Mercedes-Benz Current model pictured n New driver assistance systems hasn’t revealed how the A-Class will look from the outside – although there are some spy shots in circulation – but we Current model pictured have seen the interior. The A-Class will have a more FORD FOCUS sophisticated feel inside, with features Available: Summer inspired by the S-Class and E-Class, The 2018 Focus will be the fourth- including a two-screen dashboard layout, generation model, but like last year’s new and simplified design. Fiesta, it will undergo an evolutionary It’s expected to have a roomier cabin change rather than being dramatically than before, as well as a larger boot, different. while Mercedes-Benz will offer a saloon The car is likely to be around the same version for the first time, which will give it overall size as the current model, but with stronger appeal in North America and, in a slightly longer wheelbase to create a Europe, a direct rival for the Audi A3 more spacious interior. saloon and the forthcoming Volvo S40. The Focus will have new technology and more sophisticated functions, but the dashboard design will be simplified compared with the car it replaces. We can expect three-and four-cylinder KIA CEED engines, including versions of the 1.0-litre Available: Autumn Ecoboost petrol and the 1.5 TDCi diesel, n New Ceed will be inspired by the Proceed concept (pictured), but even with the new WLTP test system, unveiled at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show they should be at least as fuel efficient as n Kia will target the Volkswagen Golf for quality and sophistication, the outgoing model. and the car will have styling cues from the new Stinger GT n New interior with free-standing touchscreen, while the Ceed will offer the latest safety and driver support tech n Turbocharged petrol engines to be offered alongside diesel HYUNDAI I30 FASTBACK Available: Spring LEXUS CT FACELIFT Available: January A four-door version of the latest Hyundai i30 will arrive in 2018 A minor restyling, quality upgrades, restructured equipment with a sleek, coupé-like profile. It offers a more stylish alternative grades and new safety features refresh the seven-year-old hybrid to the hatch. hatchback, which is still the only compact premium hybrid on sale. VOLVO S40/V40 Available: late 2018 n Volvo’s 40 range expected to offer saloon and hatchback variants in next generation n Some engines carried over from XC40 launch, but new three-cylinder petrol and diesel engines also expected for T2 and D2 variants n Momentum, R-Design and Inscription equipment grades expected, with Pro ‘pack’ options of popular features n Expected to offer sector-leading safety technology, including ‘oncoming lane mitigation’ with steering assistance to avoid oncoming traffic

36 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 37 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: LARGE FAMILY CARS

MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS FACELIFT Available: Summer VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT FACELIFT Available: Late 2018 HYUNDAI i40 Facelifted C-Class will debut new technology and superior 2.0-litre Three years after launch, it’s likely we’ll see minor revisions to the Available: Late 2018 diesel engine from the E-Class, improving fuel economy and Volkswagen Passat to ensure it keeps pace with developments in n Second facelift for i40 model likely to bring styling in line with reducing emissions, while exterior changes will be subtle. technology, as well as some styling tweaks. new i30 and renew its appeal n Updated engine line-up will offer improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions n Interior quality expected to be enhanced to keep up with rival large family cars n As it retains the current platform, a plug-in hybrid is unlikely until the next generation in 2020

MAZDA 6 Current model pictured Current model pictured Available: Spring n Mazda 6 facelift will focus on an interior redesign alongside subtle exterior changes, with European public debut expected at Geneva in March VOLVO S60/V60 n New interior includes a redesigned centre console and Available: Late 2018 shown Volvo can position itself as a premium car brand, with residual dashboard, with less clutter and more functions housed within The first model of the new ‘60’ generation – the XC60 – launched in 2017,values forecasts comparable with German rivals. the centre screen and, while these will be the third-generation 60 models, they will be For the S60 and V60, we can expect an uncluttered cabin with a n Upgraded materials make the Mazda 6 feel more upmarket viewed as legitimate rivals for the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes- portrait format central touchscreen. They should also be roomier than n Petrol and diesel engines carried over from the current car, but Benz C-Class and Jaguar XE for the first time. the outgoing models. Engines will reflect the XC60 line-up, with turbo- Current model pictured likely to offer better real-world fuel efficiency The renewed ‘90’ range, as well as last year’s XC60 and XC40, have charged petrol and diesel, plus plug-in hybrid power.

Current model pictured Current model pictured BMW 3 SERIES Available: Late 2018 BMW has much ground to make up with the new 3 Series, as the current model has fallen behind some rivals in ability and appeal. We can expect sharper styling and the launch of three-cylinder versions in entry-level petrol and diesel models to help give it a lead in the fuel-efficiency and emissions battle, as well as a new plug-in hybrid to follow on from the current popular 330e. Reduced weight should also MG 6 improve real-world fuel efficiency, Available: Summer while a longer wheelbase will n New MG 6 expected to demonstrate a huge leap in quality ensure better interior space, and over its predecessor wider stance is likely to ensure the n Car has grown in size with a wheelbase equivalent to u 3 Series reclaims class honours pper-medium cars Current model pictured for driver appeal. n Chinese market model offers a plug-in hybrid using a 125PS 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine and 85PS electric motor, which could be destined for the UK n Likely to be unveiled in the UK at the London motor show FORD MONDEO FACELIFT Available: Summer INFINITI Q50 FACELIFT Available: Spring in June Three years on from the Mondeo launch, we can expect revisions to A subtle makeover for Infiniti’s 3 Series rival will bring it in line with bring a more upmarket feel inside and a family look inspired by the the new QX50 due in 2018, with a redesigned front end. We can also 2018 Focus. expect more equipment for the money. Current model pictured PEUGEOT 508 Current model pictured Current model pictured Available: Summer n New Peugeot flagship saloon will move upmarket and be more style-focused than predecessor n Peugeot targets ‘high-end mainstream’, with DS remaining PSA’s ‘premium’ brand n Design will be inspired by the Instinct concept car (pictured) n New platform will accommodate plug-in hybrid technology, but turbocharged petrol and diesel versions will be offered n i-Cockpit instrument screen from 3008 and 5008 will be standard

38 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 39 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: EXECUTIVE CARS 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: COMPACT SUVS

FORD ECOSPORT FACELIFT Available: January MG ZS Available: January AUDI A7 SPORTBACK MERCEDES-BENZ CLS A major update to the Ecosport sees improved materials, the A smaller crossover from MG than the GZ, the ZS offers a budget Available: Spring Available: Summer availability of an ST Line equipment grade, a 125PS 1.5 TDCi diesel rival to more established players in the compact SUV sector, n New A7 Sportback to offer some form n Unveiled at the Los Angeles motor offering (requiring AdBlue top ups) and new assistance technology. backed by a seven-year warranty. of hybrid technology on all engine variants show in December 2017, new CLS comes n Longer wheelbase and significantly with one petrol and two diesel choices longer cabin offers more interior space n New six-cylinder 285PS 350d and than before 340PS 400d both offer CO2 emissions n Quattro-only range, prioritising front- from 148g/km wheel drive running with on-demand n Chassis and technology carried over four-wheel drive from the latest E-Class model n Initially available as a 340PS 3.0 TFSI, n Dual-screen instrument panel and diesel expected to follow, with the UK dashboard display featured engine line-up still to be confirmed at the n Four-cylinder diesel variants expected time of writing to follow in 2019 LEXUS LS Available: Early 2018 n New LS 500h flagship saloon powered by 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with 180PS NISSAN JUKE electric motor hybrid system Available: Late 2018 n CO2 emissions 147g/km for The Juke is one of Nissan’s most rear-wheel drive and 161g/km for successful models, and one of its longest all-wheel drive serving since its introduction in 2010. n Luxury, F-Sport and Premier Nissan has kept tight-lipped about its equipment grades, with prices ranging replacement, but we know it will be from £72,595 to £97,995 on the road produced for Europe at its Sunderland n Vast array of safety and assistance plant, and it’s likely to be based on the systems fitted as standard South American Nissan Kicks (pictured). A number of UK automotive writers were invited to try the Kicks in 2016, and it’s likely that feedback would help with making a European version more in line AUDI A6 with customer expectations. Available: Summer A Kicks-based Juke replacement might The new A6 (current model pictured) will be less radical looking, but would boost Audi’s presence in the sector two certainly be more spacious than the years after the launch of the latest current model. E-Class and just over a year behind the latest BMW 5 Series, so it has much ground to make up. A new platform will mean reduced weight over its predecessor, which, along SEAT ARONA VOLKSWAGEN T-CROSS with the latest engines, will mean much Available: January Available: Late 2018 improved fuel efficiency for the new model. n Seat’s compact SUV competes with the n Volkswagen’s smallest crossover will We are likely to see a plug-in hybrid Nissan Juke, Vauxhall Mokka X and Ford compete with the Ford Fiesta Active and e-tron A6 for the first time, which will Ecosport Hyundai i20 Active compete with BMW and Mercedes rivals, n Priced from £16,555 to £22,020 with 1.0 n Largely Polo-derived, sharing engines as well as clever electric turbocharging TSI, 1.5 TSI and 1.6 TDI engine choices and technology, with raised ground technology, which can make engines run n CO2 emissions from 111g/km for petrol clearance and no four-wheel drive Current model pictured more efficiently than conventional turbos. and 105g/km for diesel n Inspired by 2017 T-Cross Breeze n Five main equipment grades with convertible concept, but not a soft top Sport pack on FR and Lux pack on n Petrol and diesel engine options Xcellence, plus a high-specification expected with a choice of manual or DSG AUDI A8 Available: Early 2018 BMW M5 Available: February 2018 First Edition for launch auto transmissions. New luxury saloon brings more characterful styling, mild hybrid The latest M5 saloon comes with 600PS turbo V8 power and technology and advanced semi-autonomous driving features to all-wheel drive, as well as an eight-speed automatic transmission, market, with prices starting at £69,100 on the road. making it the fastest ever version of the saloon. VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC Available: January n New compact SUV is derived from the latest Polo with raised ground clearance and spacious interior n Diesel variants, including a 4Motion all-wheel drive option, will follow petrol- only launch in January n Launch range priced from £20,425 for 115PS 1.0 TSI SE to £31,485 for a 190PS 2.0 TSI 4Motion DSG SEL.

40 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 41 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: MEDIUM SUV

ŠKODA KAROQ Available: January SUBARU XV Available: January AUDI Q3 Škoda’s Yeti replacement is more mainstream, and an Based on the new Impreza, with extra ground clearance and a Available: Summer accomplished performer for those seeking an alternative to the rugged styling kit, the XV operates in a niche for those who want n Q3 is the last small Audi to migrate to the Volkswagen Group Nissan Qashqai or Kia Sportage. A great all-round family car. all-wheel drive and a petrol engine. MQB platform, but will mean a lighter and more spacious replacement n Appearance likely to evolve in line with latest Q7 and Q5 models n E-tron plug-in hybrid version expected during the new model’s lifecycle n Expected choice of 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines and 2.0-litre TDI diesel

BMW X2 Available: March n Style-focused alternative to X1 shares engines and technology with sister model n Front-wheel drive petrol and choice of four-wheel drive diesel versions offered initially, with xDrive20d the first to arrive in the UK MITSUBISHI n Front-wheel drive sDrive18d diesel variants to follow later in 2018 n CO2 emissions start from 121g/km for the xDrive 20d ECLIPSE CROSS (dependent on wheel size), with later FWD diesel expected to Available: January be lower Mitsubishi will have a more mainstream rival to the Nissan Qashqai when the Eclipse Cross launches in January. Initially available with a 163PS 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the Eclipse HONDA CR-V Cross offers a choice of manual or Available: Summer automatic transmissions and four-wheel The next-generation CR-V will be based on the model first drive on some versions. seen at the 2016 Los Angeles motor show. As Mitsubishi has been a pioneer in Arriving in Europe around 18 months later, the new CR-V plug-in hybrid technology, it’s likely a will offer hybrid technology for the first time and will not be plug-in hybrid version will be offered at available with a diesel powertrain. some stage, and a diesel version is also The hybrid power unit was previewed in the CR-V prototype expected. shown at last year’s Frankfurt motor show, offering zero We think it will be a version of the emissions driving for short distances at low speeds, with the 2.2-litre diesel engine currently used in battery being regenerated under braking. the Outlander. The 2018 CR-V will also be specified with Honda’s 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, with a choice of either six-speed manual or CVT auto. JEEP COMPASS DS 7 CROSSBACK Available: February Available: February n Jeep offers a model aiming at n First SUV from upmarket DS CITROËN C5 AIRCROSS premium rivals, such as the Land Rover Automobiles aims to offer more for Available: Late 2018 Discovery Sport, BMW X1 and Audi Q3 the money than premium rivals n European version of the C5 Aircross unveiled in China last year n Front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive n Available with 130PS 1.6-litre and 180PS will be built in France versions available, as well as a choice of 2.0-litre BlueHDi diesel, or a 225PS n Qashqai rival should bring new customers to the Citroën brand turbocharged petrol and diesel engines 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine. in the UK n Four equipment grades offered in the n Active Scan Suspension monitors the n Initially front-wheel drive only, but possibility of four-wheel drive UK, with Trailhawk providing maximum road ahead, available on some versions versions in future with plug-in hybrid technology off-road ability n High-end features, such as night vision n Engine line-up should be similar to the Peugeot 3008 n Prices from £22,995 on the road and semi-autonomous assistance n Expected to offer class-leading interior comfort and ride comfort VOLVO XC40 JAGUAR E-PACE Available: Spring Available: Spring n First compact XC model debuts n Jaguar’s smallest SUV sharing its platform with the Range new-generation ‘40’ series for Volvo Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery n Standard touchscreen, digital n Offers front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions instrument panel, navigation, voice n Line-up includes in-house 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol and control, LED headlights and 18-inch alloys diesel engines, with CO2 emissions from 124g/km n Initially offered with 190PS T4 and 247PS n Standard features include a 10-inch dashboard touchscreen T5 petrol variants and 150PS D3 and 190PS n Expected to boost Jaguar sales further following the launch of D4 diesel, with D4 CO2 from 127g/km the F-Pace in 2016 n Prices start at £27,905 on the road

42 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 43 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: LARGE SUVs

BMW X7 Available: Late 2018 AUDI Q8 Available: Late 2018 INFINITI QX50 KIA SORENTO FACELIFT BMW will be creating a luxury 4x4 rival to the Range Rover and The Q8 will usurp the Audi flagship title from the A8 saloon and will Available: Late 2018 Available: Early 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS with the new X7, based on the concept car be based on the Q8 concept car shown at the 2017 Detroit motor n New variable compression ratio petrol n Revised exterior styling as well as shown at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show. show. Expect all the tech from the latest A8 and more. engine to offer the performance of a addition of new GT Line equipment grade petrol engine with economy of a diesel n Interior changes include a new steering n The turbocharged 2.0-litre engine has wheel, updated instrument cluster and a targeted efficiency improvements of 35% new eight-inch dashboard touchscreen over the 3.7-litre V6 motor in the old QX50 n New eight-speed automatic gearbox n Infiniti claims best-in-class cabin space replaces the old six-speed transmission, for the BMW X3/Mercedes-Benz GLC/ helping reduce CO2 emissions from the Audi Q5 rival 200PS 2.2-litre diesel engine to 159g/km n Prices expected to start around £35,000 from 172g/km.

JEEP WRANGLER Available: Summer n Next-generation model for iconic 4x4 comes with more fuel-efficient engines, SEAT LARGE SUV improved safety, and new technology Available: Late 2018 n Smarter interior with full LED screen We don’t know the name of the new Seat instrument display SUV at the time of writing, but we know n Five-door fixed roof version and it’s coming and is likely to be inspired by three-door convertible body styles the 20V20 concept pictured. We can also n Off-road ability expected to be among make some educated guesses about its the best available market positioning. Using the same basic Volkswagen Group MQB architecture as the Seat Ateca Current X4 model pictured medium SUV, it should follow the lines of Current model pictured the Škoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan BMW X4/X5 Allspace, with a longer wheelbase and Available: Late 2018 more room inside. The X4 is expected to undergo a Being a Seat, we expect a more engaging transformation, sharing much with feel and sharper handling than that of the the X3, which has recently entered Kodiaq and Tiguan, and a slightly firmer ride. its third generation. We can expect a new 2.0-litre diesel engine, as well as a six-cylinder 3.0-litre diesel, plus a high-performance M40i petrol MERCEDES-BENZ GLE VW TIGUAN ALLSPACE variant. Available: Late 2018 The new X5 will be the fourth- n All-new GLE expected to share styling AND TOUAREG generation model, and benefits from cues with smaller GLC Available: Tiguan Allspace, January; a new platform, expected to be a n E-Class-derived technology, including Touareg, summer modified version of that used for the optional dual-screen for instruments and n Tiguan Allspace uses a longer 5 Series and X3 and X4. dashboard display wheelbase than the Tiguan to create Four-cylinder and six-cylinder n Petrol and diesel engines will be more interior space and offer seven seats diesel engines will be offered, as available, while a more competitive n Engine line-up to reflect standard well as a plug-in hybrid variant. plug-in hybrid version is also expected, Tiguan range with lower CO2 emissions than the n New Touareg uses a new platform current model, bringing it in line with shared with the Porsche Cayenne, Audi Audi and Volvo rivals Q7 and Bentley Bentayga RANGE ROVER SPORT FACELIFT LEXUS NX FACELIFT Available: Early 2018 n Four-door coupé version expected to MITSUBISHI n Platform is capable of accommodating Available: Early 2018 Responsible for a third of Lexus registrations each year since follow in 2019 plug-in hybrid technology Mid-life facelift for 2018 includes the option of a plug-in hybrid. its launch, the NX has been restyled for 2018. It has new safety SHOGUN SPORT The P400e will offer CO2 emissions of 64g/km, with a fully electric features, with new interior colour options and a larger central Expected: Summer range of up to 30 miles. screen. n New large SUV sits below the Shogun in the range, and shares its platform with the L200 pick-up truck n Expected to be offered with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel producing around 180PS n Should offer greater off-road prowess and towing capability than car platform- based crossover rivals n Equipment includes hill descent control, trailer start assist, hill start assist, multiple drive modes to suit different off-road conditions

44 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 45 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: PEOPLE CARRIERS 2018 LAUNCH GUIDE: ELECTRIC AND HYBRID CARS

BMW 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER/ HYUNDAI JAGUAR I-PACE Available: Spring GRAN TOURER FACELIFT KONA ELECTRIC n All-electric Jaguar is similar in length Available: Spring Available: Late 2018 to the F-Pace SUV, but with a longer n Cosmetic revisions include a new look front end likely to reflect n Fully electric version of Kona compact wheelbase for more interior space the new 1 Series hatchback due in 2018 SUV expected by the end of the year n Maximum range expected to be n Unlikely to see any changes to engines, with the Active Tourer n Range on a full charge expected to be around 300 miles, with a power output range topper continuing to be the plug-in hybrid 225e more than 200 miles of 400PS making it one of the fastest n Latest version of BMW’s iDriver controller inside, with new driver n The Kona will be the second in a range Jaguars on sale assistance technology available of electric models from Hyundai n Twin electric motors provide four- n Minor styling changes expected wheel drive traction Current model pictured compared with petrol and diesel models, n Prices are expected to start at around such as exterior trim treatment HYUNDAI £60,000 FUEL CELL VEHICLE Available: Late 2018 CITROËN BERLINGO MULTISPACE n Next-generation hydrogen fuel cell Available: Summer vehicle to replace pioneering ix35 FCV Current models pictured n Mechanically identical to new Peugeot Partner, the Berlingo is n Unique styling features will separate likely to be distinguished by a unique LED daytime running light the new crossover model from the rest of signature the Hyundai range n Potentially more differentiation inside, with Citroën’s aim of n Expected to have a significantly lower maximising comfort purchase price than £50,000-plus ix35 n New turbo petrol engine option likely, with BlueHDi diesel predecessor carried over from the current model n Power output of 163PS and with n New safety features and connectivity technology expected denser hydrogen storage, maximum range could be close to 500 miles

PEUGEOT NISSAN LEAF PARTNER TEPEE Available: Spring Available: Summer The second-generation Leaf has a Peugeot’s van-derived MPV will enter its completely new look, with styling inspired third generation in 2018, promising more by the latest Micra, launched in 2017. space and sophistication than before. More importantly, the car will be The current model has been in capable of travelling greater distances production for almost 10 years and, with between charges, with a maximum range the Citroën Berlingo, is the oldest vehicle of 235 miles on the NEDC system, in its van-based sector. compared with a best of 155 miles for We can expect new safety systems on the outgoing model. the vehicle, as well as improved The electric motor is more powerful, connectivity. with 150PS and 320Nm of torque, Spy photographs have shown a longer improving acceleration compared with vehicle than before, so perhaps a seven- the current Leaf. seat version with a little more versatility It will be available with new semi- will also be offered, making the Partner autonomous driving systems, including Tepee a more convincing rival for the one that allows the car to brake and Nissan NV200 Combi and Ford Grand accelerate in slow moving traffic without Current model pictured Tourneo Connect. intervention from the driver.

CITROËN C4 PICASSO/GRAND C4 PICASSO Available: Late 2018 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF SV FACELIFT Available: Spring KIA NIRO ELECTRIC Available: Summer AUDI E-TRON QUATTRO Available: Late 2018 Revised styling to reflect new C3 and C3 Aircross models, with new A revised Golf SV will include updates similar to those featured on Kia Niro Electric follows the launch of the hybrid in 2016 and A direct rival for Tesla’s Model X and Jaguar’s I-Pace, the e-tron 1.5 BlueHDi diesel engines and ‘progressive hydraulic cushion’ the Golf hatchback and estate, with new engines and technology, plug-in hybrid in 2017, as the brand expands its range of electrified quattro will offer the practicality of an SUV shape, with an all- suspension available. but, potentially, also with reduced pricing. models, with prices likely to start at around £30,000. electric powertrain capable of travelling up to 300 miles.

Current model pictured

46 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 47 adRocket

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MERCEDES-BENZ X-CLASS FORD TRANSIT FORD TRANSIT FORD TRANSIT Available: March CUSTOM FACELIFT CONNECT COURIER Nissan Navara-derived Available: Early 2018 Facelift available: Spring Facelift available: Spring X-Class double cab With a subtle exterior Minor exterior changes The Fiesta-based Courier successfully carries off a refresh, most changes to the hide a new interior and will get a new-look interior, a Mercedes-Benz look and Transit Custom for 2018 can new engines, including a six-speed manual, and the feel, while a Mercedes- be found in the cabin, with 1.0-litre Ecoboost turbo choice of 1.0-litre Ecoboost sourced V6 diesel will arrive new technology and a big petrol engine, as well as petrol or 1.5 TDCi Ecoblue later to complement the redesign, using modules a 1.5 Ecoboost Ecoblue diesel engines in its 2018 four-cylinder Nissan engines. from the latest Ford Fiesta. diesel. revamp. DISCOVER THE NEW FLEET MANAGEMENT. INSPIRED BY OUR CUSTOMERS. MADE REAL BY TOMTOM.

CITROËN BERLINGO/ See your fleet and your business as you have always dreamed. The New PEUGEOT PARTNER WEBFLEET® is your window into easy- Available: Summer to-use, smart fleet management. Help By the time the new models arrive in 2018 around 10 years will have elapsed since we last had a new Berlingo and your drivers reach your customers Partner model. quicker and get more done. Increase It will be a chance for the French pair to catch up on your productivity by getting the right important safety features and technology, as well as offer data when you most need it. Equipped improvements in payload over their predecessors, with some in this class able to carry 1,000kg. with the lastest technology. Trusted by We can expect great strides to be taken in fuel efficiency, more than 49.000 customers worldwide. while an electric version will most likely follow the launch of Open your eyes to fleet management diesel and petrol variants. like you’ve never seen it before. Like the current versions, the Peugeot and Citroën will Current model pictured look almost identical. For more information visit telematics.tomtom.com RENAULT ALASKAN or call 0208 822 3605 Available: 2018 n Renault’s pick-up was announced for sale in the UK at the 2017 CV show, but introduction has since been delayed with no date confirmed yet n Shares 2.3-litre diesel engines and technology with the Nissan NP300 Navara n Double-cab design only, with a choice of six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic transmissions n Hill-descent control and switchable low-range 4WD mode are on offer Current model pictured

VAUXHALL COMBO Available: Late 2018 n New Vauxhall Combo will take the 2018 Citroën Berlingo/ Peugeot Partner as its starting point, ceasing its relationship with Fiat n Van partnership signed off before PSA takeover of Vauxhall, so expect more differentiation than just badges n Petrol and diesel engines sourced from PSA, but also opens the possibility of an all-electric version should Vauxhall customers demand it

48 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk

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SOFTWARE CAN BE SOFTWARE CAN SPONSOR’S 2 TAILORED TO THE SIZE 4 IMPROVE SAFETY COMMENT AND TYPE OF YOUR FLEET AND DUTY OF CARE By Martin Evans, managing director, Jaama Jaama is the UK’s leading fleet and asset management software Buying a fleet management system that handles current A good supplier’s standard set-up should be predicated Fleet management software can play become bogged down with data to provider and continues to push requirements is not enough. The package should be on best practice, so start with the basic and see whether it an important role in improving the extent that the temptation is to do configurable and modular to ensure it moves with the covers most of your needs, then look at what else would employee and vehicle safety. nothing with it, which can quickly the technological and functionality times and your needs. be useful and what it will take to provide it. For example, it can be used to become habit. boundaries to ensure companies Not only may a fleet either grow or reduce in size and A bespoke design is not usually desirable as it is an record daily vehicle checks to ensure Less, but honed, data provides operate at the cutting-edge of change in vehicle profile, but legislation and industry inflexible and short-term fix, whereas a modular system is they are roadworthy, as well as greater value. data management, operational standards will also change and it is essential that sustainable, caters for changing needs and ensures that all maintenance records. If this is crucial for standard fleets, best practice and compliance. incumbent software is able to respond without having to elements of a vehicle’s lifecycle are covered, from vehicle A system can point out that a it is even more important for grey In the past decade many fleet decision-makers be replaced – neither major investment nor disruption maintenance and driving infringements to policy reviews service is overdue, an MOT test is fleets, which are subject to the have woken up to the fact that hi-tech fleet should be necessary. and complaints protocol. due and vehicle checks are being vagaries of owner subjectivity. management systems, such as Jaama’s multi- The size of fleet is not the driving factor because duty Upgrades should perpetuate any changes made when undertaken regularly – and all can Anything that increases efficiency award-winning Key2 technology, can seamlessly of care, risk management, safety and legislative demands the programme is installed. be visible on one screen. and makes it easier for employees to interact with other internal and external software are common to all, although the amount of data to be Managers should be able to set and submit details such as vehicle to dramatically improve operating effectiveness collected, processed and analysed increases with the size prioritise alerts, so that they are insurance, VED, MOT and servicing and efficiency. of the fleet. informed of potential lapses in duty means employers are protecting What’s more, the development of smartphone As a result, there is technology to run a fleet of five on “Start with the basic and see of care; for example, where strong themselves legally and safeguarding apps ensures the very latest data is always one platform to 5,000 vehicles spread across several enforcement is required, a fleet their image; risk and reputation available. For example, Jaama’s My Vehicle App companies, countries, currencies and continents. whether it covers most of your manager can be notified where a management are inseparable. with auto-triggering means all information Those with a single-digit fleet could go for entry level moving vehicle has not been It also means they can uploaded by drivers automatically updates their solutions, with a view to stepping it up as the fleet grows. needs, then look at what else inspected. demonstrate to customers that employer’s Key2 system. Fleet management tools should integrate seamlessly would be useful and what it Prioritising is essential. It is easy to their fleet is safe and compliant. with HR, finance, payroll, external systems such as fuel and maintenance cards, electronic purchase transactions, will take to provide it” telematics, DVLA and HMRC. “The age of paper documents is over and should be confined SOFTWARE CAN to the waste bin” HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT 5 REDUCE THE Such technology advances mean so-called ‘big data’ is not imminent; it is here. 3 It is vital businesses have in place good systems SOFTWARE PACKAGE BURDEN OF ADMIN that will take vehicle and driver information and digest it. In turn, that will enable fleet managers to make better informed decisions as they will have a Given the number of modules available from some Then assess what you will need in three, five, seven Although a paperless society may still It should be possible to automate holistic picture. The age of paper documents is suppliers, choosing the right software to run your fleet years’ time, so you are catering for cultural and be a flight of fancy, it is an aspirational almost everything in the lifecycle of a over and should be confined to the waste bin. is akin to negotiating a minefield. technological progress. goal and anything that does away with fleet: adding, allocating and updating Anglian Water is one business that has First and foremost, buyers should work out exactly Having done that, you will have a good idea of the scale spreadsheets tends to be more efficient. jobs, the clocking on and off of what they need: what data do they want to collect, how of the task, allowing you to transmit that to potential Fleet management software employees, logging and updating of recognised that industry-leading software will and to what level it should be analysed, the processes suppliers in an RFP (request for proposal). Definition is collects, organises and displays vehicle defects, maintenance history make running its fleet more efficient and with a and protocols the system should run, etc. all. information in real-time and makes and service schedules with details of swift return on investment. The utility company Document the vehicle’s life from start to finish and While outlining the component parts, it is worth it easily accessible. As fleet work done/to be done. has described Key2 as a “game-changer” saying it decide how much of that should be automated – probably examining what you have done to date to identify any administration continues to intensify, In addition, paper forms can be is “investing in the future” and will reap efficiency all of it because no factor exists in isolation and the data outdated practices, so you can cater for that in the RFP. this is increasingly relevant. replaced by online versions, including and financial benefits as the technology enables can be combined to give an invaluable holistic view and And when you want to change what your existing Apps allow mobile devices to enter inspection sheets, and self-service the business to analyse outcomes and “understand an audit trail. programme does, beware of looking for technology that the picture, ensuring drivers have records such as pool car availability what excellent fleet performance looks like and mirrors what you have: the new software should give little excuse for not providing the and use, accident/incident forms, etc. how we can make it even better”. best cost and efficiency benefits; and do not update old information required and allowing This also removes the likelihood that With the rapid advance of technology and data it tender documents – your company and the market have immediate and automatic fragmented physical data leads to is critical that other organisations are not stuck in “Beware of looking for almost certainly moved on. communication directly with drivers. loss or duplication of information, the fleet management software slow lane. Splendid isolation is also not the way forward, so It also removes the need for manual giving a collated and accurate fleet For further information: web –www.jaama.co.uk; technology that mirrors what consult companies that are using your preferred system intervention unless instant action is profile that is instantly accessible to email – [email protected]; telephone – 0844 and then ask to see it in situ, so you can experience it called for. all parties. 8484 333. you have: the new software operating live. This makes regular updating of eConsent, approved by DVSA, and All-round communication is crucial – talk to suppliers information part of company culture esignatures further ease should give best cost and and glean information from them about what they have, and allows it to be included in the process. And if time efficiency benefits” what they are planning and how the tools have worked contracts of employment, codes of is money, the time saved for their existing customers. conduct and job descriptions. is worth a fortune.

52 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 53 INSIGHT: SOFTWARE Sponsored by

SOFTWARE CAN BE NEW EMISSION RULES? 6 REGULARLY UPDATED We can share our thinking Updating fleet management technology requires serious differently because it cannot be adapted should be avoided, investment of time and money and should therefore bring but if your existing provider undertakes ongoing product a measurable return. development and enhancements, upgrading should be Changes in legislation, new business practices or painless. TO FUTURE-PROOF YOUR FLEET product developments are all good reasons for doing so. However, keep in mind that moving information from Problems with the existing arrangements are also a one supplier to another may involve data reformatting – a prompt to re-assess, particularly if it does not integrate gargantuan task if you are migrating from spreadsheet to with other software smoothly or is creating more software. and keepkeep youryour businessbusiness movingmoving problems than it solves, requiring greater human input And keep an eye on the future; manufacturers will soon rather than less. be putting telematics in vehicles as standard and devices The right system should allow a fleet department to take will become ever smarter. NO MATTER WHAT. on more work without needing to increase the number of staff. Whether updating means starting from scratch and emerging from a deluge of paper or moving on to the next We call it VAN INTELLIGENCE generation of technology, the task has been alleviated by “Right system should allow a the elevation of many systems to the web or cloud, making fleet department to take on more it easy to implement, scalable and compatible with most other programmes, internal and external. work without increasing staff” Any product that pushes a company into working

DISCOVER MORE AT: LEXAUTOLEASE.CO.UK/VAN-INTELLIGENCE WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN 7 CHOOSING A SUPPLIER

As with any long-term relationship, partnering with a fleet security, legislation compliance and DVSA compliance, for Don’t gamble with your car running costs management software provider requires considerable example, are essential. research. Seek out an experienced account management team, Your partners will act as your support team, one that take up references, talk to your peers and look for a will ensure compliance and provide automation of that proactive user group – there is nothing more valuable than Our car running cost compliance. hearing from those who have done the empirical research. The provider should actively and continually assess your Where you consult clients of your intended supplier, see calculator lets you requirements, giving not just value, but added value. the technology in action and talk to those who are using it Research the market so you know what is happening in – both fleet managers and drivers, so you get software development and talk to potential providers management and coalface reviews. search for and compare about how their system integrates with that of the wider When you are confident you have found a potential world such as HR, finance, payroll, etc. partner, trial your chosen system so you have hands-on every new car on the For this you need an API (application programming experience and get feedback from those in your company interface). Most cloud platforms are equipped with fully who will be using it. UK market today. enabled API, but, without it, you will be constrained to Do not ignore cultural differences: if your organisation is working with one company. forward thinking, your supplier should be equally Financial stability of the supplier is a prerequisite, progressive; equally, if your company tends towards the product investment a must and high standards in the areas conservative, your provider needs to think likewise. that matter to your company such as ISO accreditation for When you first meet them, make sure those who attend a presentation to your business are also those who will be working on the account – it’s important that you like and ■ get on with them. Filter by car type, fuel type, and price “Make sure those who attend Although all parties hope there will not be any major ■ Choose your operating cycle problems, it is still worth knowing who you can turn to the presentation are those who higher up the management chain, if necessary. ■ At-a-glance running costs And just as you want to feel valued as a customer, so ■ will be working on the account” your supplier wants to feel valued – they are an extension Quick and clear comparisons of your department and should be treated as such. Start comparing cars now at Thanks to Alphabet (GB), Drive Software Solutions/Odo Drive, Chevin Fleet Solutions, Civica, FleetCheck, Jaama and Lex Autolease for input into this article fleetnews.co.uk/runningcosts

54 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk FLEET SPECIALIST SERVICES SOLUTION OF THE YEAR

WINNER: FLEETCHECK FleetCheck seeks to get more personal with its customers “We pride ourselves on Company adds consultancy services to software supply as it continues to tailor fleet management solutions to client needs FleetCheck managing director Peter our levels of Golding holds the award surrounded by members of his team support. To By Elizabeth Howlett its innovations will continue to be led by its clients and what- me that is he inability to perform fleet management ever the industry needs. As Golding explains: “Currently, correctly can have “massive implications” espe- 80% of our functionality comes from our users. Our clients FN: Does FleetCheck have the ability to integrate data It is much easier to take something simple to use and absolutely cially for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), have continuously inspired our offerings. We will continue from other sources? make it more complicated, but harder to do the reverse and according to FleetCheck founder Peter Golding. to be inspired by them.” PG: Thanks to our many telematics partners, FleetCheck make something that is complex simple to use. number one” Having run independent garages for 15 years The service has since expanded to accommodate fleet can pull all of that data through. Mileage information is People choose us because they like us. TGolding grew to know the “spanner side of the business” management of all sizes and not just sub-200, thanks to a particularly powerful to us. Peter Golding, FleetCheck well and during that time he came to realise that many of partnership with TomTom Telematics that started in 2007. We have also integrated with every fuel card provider in FN: Will FleetCheck ever diversify its product offering his clients were unsure of how to run their fleets correctly. the UK. We combine fuel usage with vehicle mileage, so we into other management systems? “The fact of it is, if you don’t do fleet management Fleet News: Is it challenging to transition companies can provide meaningful mpg analysis. PG: We don’t diversify in the fleet market. We have had many correctly, the implications are massive. The company reliant on spreadsheets to a fleet management system? We launched a walk-around driver app earlier this year opportunities to do this but our focus is to concentrate on could go bankrupt and there may even be custodial Peter Golding: What we found is that change is always a as part of the FleetCheck service, which also integrates the the fleet management aspect. sentencing,” says Golding. problem, especially when companies are reliant on spread- data it collates. If someone was looking for a back office management Further up the scale, major companies convicted of sheets. The majority of companies we come across are not system to manage rental vehicles, invoicing or a workshop corporate manslaughter could face fines of up to £20 using a fleet management system, but have it all on multiple FN: How does the app differ from other free products on management system, then, in fairness, we would encourage million, alongside sentencing for severe breaches of health spreadsheets. the market? them to look at the market. If we started to digress into those and safety, under new guidelines enforced in February 2016. FleetCheck runs on exception management and will tell PG: Drivers are able to carry out vehicle inspections, record areas we would dilute our product offering. “I felt we could be doing more to help, and that was when the user what needs to be done, rather than what has been any defects and instantly notify the software. I noticed a gap in the market for SME vehicle management done. If a defect is found, the driver can photograph the damage FN: What did winning the award mean to you? FACTFILE software,” he says. Training is all performed online and takes no longer than and that picture will be sent to the fleet manager. From PG: I am really proud of the award. We didn’t expect to win Golding’s desire to help the inexperienced fleet manager, an hour. We transition a company from spreadsheets onto there they can identify if the vehicle needs to be taken off and it came as quite a shock. To get recognition from the Organisation FleetCheck twinned with his engineering background, led to the crea- a database, which is designed as a stepping stone. the road or taken for a routine check. The app relays infor- industry we serve was important to us. Managing director Peter Golding tion of simple and easy-to-use software. FleetCheck was After the training, businesses’ fear of change is eliminated mation back to the office and closes the loop. For me it was the result of 10 years’ hard work, and to win Customer retention record 98.6% launchedlaunched iinn 22006.006. as FleetCheck’s traffic light notification system is simple to Combining a walk-around inspection tool with a fleet it was very gratifying. Telematics partners TomTom, A d dozenozen y yearsears o on,n, th thee co companympany ha hass l a launchedunched P o Policylicy follow. It was designed specifically to diminish fear. management software platform is the single most powerful We have so many people that have worked extraordinarily Quartix, Teletrack Navman, Matrix, Manager,Manager, a s serviceervice d designedesigned to to h helpelp f le fleetsets r e remainmain le g legallyally thing. Walk-around apps without fleet management soft- hard. To go back and present the award to my team and C-Track compliantcompliant aandnd aavoidvoid hheftyefty fifines.nes. FN: FleetCheck does not offer on-site training or ware integration are good, but if that data doesn’t get fed see their joy at being recognised by our peers was brilliant. “It“It ccreatesreates ppoliciesolicies fforor f lfleetseets t oto h helpelp th themem w withith co compliance,mpliance, webinar-based learning, why? into the system then it is simply replacing a piece of paper butbut o onn t thehe b backack o off th thatat w wee a r aree l au launchingnching a aco n consultancysultancy PG: We pride ourselves on our levels of support. To me that with an email. leetCheck is developing its future offerings with a serviceservice – t too h helpelp c createreate a am moreore p e personalisedrsonalised a n andd d ir directect is absolutely number one. We try to make the training as With the ability to integrate data from telematics, fuel and focus on artificial intelligence and managing elec- JUDGES’ approach,”approach,” ssaysays GGolding.olding. personal as we can, because everyone learns at different maintenance providers, FleetCheck has now become an tric vehicle (EV) data. COMMENTS ItIt w wasas F FleetCheck’sleetCheck’s d dedicationedication to to t h thee i n industrydustry t h thatat w o wonn levels. all-encompassing solution. “We are looking at how artificial intelligence can FleetCheck’s senior overover t thehe FleetFleet N Newsews j judgesudges a alongsidelongside it itss fl flexibilityexibility w withith The problem with webinars is that people are only benefit the app, for example, developments in management team productproduct oofferingsfferings aandnd fofocuscus o onn l elegalgal watching and listening – whereas if they call us or do online FN: What separates FleetCheck from its competitors? Fnumber plate recognition, driver ID and policy documenta- understands the needs compliance.compliance. training, they are learning by doing. PG: I never like to talk about my competitors. I prefer people tions,” explains Golding. “We are well aware of industry of its fleet customers and MMakingaking u user-friendlyser-friendly s softwareoftware w wasas My views are simple: if the only way we can demonstrate to focus on us and I think in the industry we are in, it is far changes and EVs are a big interest to us.” reacts to requests. Its kkeyey fforor GGoldingolding aass hhee e encounteredncountered in inex-ex the software is via webinar then it is too complex. nicer for us all to get on. It also hopes to innovate support for automated MOT fleet compliance portal pperiencederienced f fleetleet m managersanagers p predominantlyredominantly If we have to do on-site training, workshops and training When comparing us to Jaama or Civica, for example, I alerts and road tax alerts, alongside a vehicle maintenance was borne out of a need uusingsing sspreadsheetspreadsheets ttoo mmanageanage ththeireir v evehicles.hicles. sessions then we have lost what we are trying to do, which would say we all do something different. scheme with Epyx. for legal help, particularly ““CompaniesCompanies wwereere rrelianteliant oonn s spreadsheets.preadsheets. T Thehe is to create something people can pick up easily. FleetCheck clearly has a specialism within the SME sector Golding adds: “The scheme is targeted at companies who among SMEs. FleetCheck mmajorityajority wwereere nnotot uusingsing a a f lfleeteet m managementanagement s ysystemstem We combine that level of learning with support, because as that is the foundation of the business. As we evolved into don’t have vehicles in a maintenance agreement with a lease proactively contacts bbutut hhadad itit aallll o onn m multipleultiple s pspreadsheets.readsheets. W Whilehile th theyey ar eare if you are dealing with someone whose main responsibility larger fleets we provided more bespoke work. provider. We will be able, through Epyx, to give access to a customers it believes eessentialssential f foror f financialinancial c control,ontrol, th theyey ar aree no nott fo forr f le fleetet is not fleet management, then they often need guidance. Our USP is the fact the system was designed to be intuitive national network of garages with the best prices possible. need additional training mmanagement,”anagement,” hhee ssays.ays. We spend a lot of time supporting clients through areas and an easy transition from spreadsheets, especially with “Ultimately, we will continue to be led by clients and by or support. FFleetCheck’sleetCheck’s ffocusocus oonn tthehe inindustrydustry i sis u unwaveringnwavering a nandd where they may need that extra bit of guidance. our traffic light notification system. what the industry points out.”

56 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 57 FIRST DRIVE

D4 R-DESIGN PRO THINKING CAP

By Martin Ward, manufacturer VOLVO XC40 relationships manager Hi-tech and high spec, Volvo newcomer is a true premium SUV contender

Another new year, oh how they pass. It will soon be time for Fleet News Awards judging down in Peterborough and, before you can say Easter, it will be the awards event itself in London. I’m sure it will be full to capacity and there will be many happy – and some not so happy – people, but that’s the nature of awards. R-design model has Looking back at the final part of 2017, I a contrasting black roof went to Valencia for the PSA International and door mirrors B2B Conference and test drive. The event was for two groups spread over three days. The company invited fleet managers, rental COSTS companies and leasing and contract hire companies. P11D price £36,300 We gleaned many interesting facts “With its upright stance and BIK tax band (2017/18) 28% right angles around the rear Annual BIK tax (20%/40%) including: PSA plus GM (Opel/Vauxhall) will £2,033/£4,066 give them a 17% market share in Europe. bodywork, it’s definitely the Class 1A NIC £1,403 PSA sales in Europe are strong, but sales in Annual VED £200 then £140 China are down 42%, simply because they ‘boxiest’ Volvo for years” RV (4yr/80K) £12,700/35% have the wrong products there. By 2020, Fuel cost (ppm) 9.71 50% of vehicles will be low emission, rising AFR (ppm) 11 By Simon Harris Volvo says the XC40 completes its SUV line-up (following cleaning, active bending headlights, heated windscreen to 80% by 2023, many being ‘part-electric’. olvo cars became affectionately immortalised the introduction of the latest XC90 and XC60), and is an and LED front foglights with cornering function. Running cost (4yr/80K) 45.59ppm in the 1990 film Crazy People where Dudley 75% SUV rather than a crossover, with ground clearance of R-Design Pro sees alloy wheel size upgraded to 20 of XC40s sold are expected Moore’s weary advertising executive began his 211mm and a wading depth of 450mm. inches, while Inscription Pro has 19-inch alloys and elec- own campaigns telling it like it is. to be diesel powered Volvo’s transformation under the stewardship of giant trically adjustable passenger seat. SPEC “DS said there will be a In it, the proposed campaign for Volvo had Chinese car manufacturer Geely continues, and while the On the launch event, we were able to drive 190PS D4 Power (PS)/torque (Nm) 190/295 new model introduced each Vthe tagline ‘Buy Volvos – they’re boxy, but they’re good’, latest generation of cars launched to date have used the diesel variants and 245PS T5 petrol, both equipped with CO2 emissions (g/km) 133 and also pointed out in the text below the pictured 760 company’s SPA (scalable product architecture), the XC40 2.0-litre engines, eight-speed automatic gearboxes and Top speed (mph) 130 year for next seven years” saloon that they were safe (as opposed to sexy!). is based on a new compact platform developed jointly with all-wheel drive. Less powerful variants will follow, with 0-62mph (sec) 7.9 I was reminded of the film when I saw Volvo’s newest Geely that will also form the basis of the next V40. a 150PS front-wheel drive D3 diesel expected to be the Fuel efficiency (mpg) 56.5 The number of B2B centres across model, the XC40 SUV. A compact SUV for North American The latest generation of Volvos are viewed internally as best-selling version in the UK. (39.8-44.1)* customers (although we might refer to it as a family car- premium products and are priced as such. Residual value Volvo UK expects around 75% of XC40s sold to be Europe is rising, giving better coverage for sized ‘medium’), with its upright stance and right angles forecasts suggest that the market agrees. diesel versions, despite recent tax increases. fleet-specific customers. There will be a around the rear bodywork, it’s definitely the ‘boxiest’ Volvo The XC40 is no exception, with predictions placing it The engines are familiar to us from other Volvo models, KEY RIVAL plug-In Citroën C5 Aircross. for years. For full running costs, ahead of the Audi Q3 and BMW X1, although not enough and the D4 seems well suited to the XC40. Smooth and Jaguar E-Pace D180 AWD The departure was announced of the Although the analogy is perhaps a little unfair, as the visit fleetnews.co.uk/ to beat the UK market’s obsession with anything wearing refined, and with enough pulling power to haul the car Citroën C4 hatch, to be replaced by the new early 1990s Volvos were all sharp edges, while the XC40 running-costs a Jaguar or Land Rover badge (see our comparison). to 62mph from rest in less than eight seconds, the diesel R-Dynamic S auto has curved edges. Premium price tags it may have, but the XC40 certainly provides effortless performance. P11D price: £38,645 C4 Cactus, which has new suspension and isn’t short of equipment as standard. Its entry-level Fuel economy of 56.5mpg in NEDC figures are BIK tax band (2016/17) ??% more comfortable seats. Momentum models come with LED headlights and tempered with a WLTP range of a more realistic 39.8- Annual BIK tax (20%/40%) Then it was the turn of DS. It said there T-shaped LED daytime running lights, a nine-inch centre 44.1mpg, although the CO2 emissions of 133mpg are £2,396/£4,792 will be a new model introduced each year Class 1A NIC touchscreen with sat-nav including real-time traffic infor- pretty good for such a potent engine in a four-wheel drive £1,653 for the next seven years, including the DS 7, mation and lifetime updates, autonomous emergency car with automatic transmission. Annual VED £200 then £140 which is due in the UK, any time soon. braking with pedestrian, cyclist and large animal detec- Our test vehicles were fitted with optional 19-inch alloy RV (4yr/80k) £14,475/37% tion, oncoming lane mitigation (which can help steer away wheels for the D4, and 20 inches for the T5 (with the Fuel cost (ppm) 10.88 Peugeot is certainly having a good time, from oncoming traffic on a collision course), 18-inch alloy maximum available on the XC40 an astonishing 21 AFR (ppm) 11 especially with the brilliant new 3008. It wheels, rear parking assistance and a digital dashboard. inches). Ride comfort was pretty good, with most harsh- Running cost (4yr/80k) 46.66ppm confirmed there will be a electric-powered R-Design models add a contrasting black roof and door ness from poor roads eliminated before being felt in the 208 when the new model is launched – no mirror surrounds, part leather upholstery, aluminium trim well-insulated and roomy cabin, which bodes well for inlays, sports chassis, perforated leather steering wheel cars specified with the standard 18-inch wheels. dates though. and gearknob, and colour-changing interior lighting. The XC40 is an attractive package for so many reasons. Then we got chance to drive some Inscription versions add leather-faced seats, driftwood With an abundance of safety and assistance technology pre-production DS 7 Crossbacks in the sun trim inlays and electrically adjustable driver’s seat. as standard, a cool and smart design, and relatively low around Valencia. The quality is of a high Each equipment grade is available with a Pro upgrade running costs, it should strengthen Volvo’s credentials *WLTP combined low to high standard and it is loaded with high-tech kit. Even the entry-level XC40 that adds a cluster of popular options. Momentum Pro as a true premium alternative to Jaguar, Land Rover and Running cost data supplied by has a nine-inch touchscreen has heated front seats, heated washer jets with headlamp the German brands. KeeResources (4yr/80k) A good, well organised fleet event.

58 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 59 FIRST DRIVE

2.0 BLUEHDI 180 AUTO PERFORMANCE LINE

DS 7 CROSSBACK First new model post-Citroën separation takes fight to premium rivals

By Simon Harris Alcantara dashboard, door and centre console t’s just over three years since PSA management upholstery, sat-nav, voice recognition and the decided to separate DS models from the Citroën option of DS Active Scan Suspension (priced at line-up and attempt to create a stand-alone luxury £1,000). automotive brand. Prestige has a standard pack of advanced During that time, the DS 3, DS 4 and DS 5, all safety features, heated front seats with a Iconceived under Citroën, have been revised to give them massage function and electric adjustment, more of a separate identity, but the DS 7 Crossback, due electrically adjustable and folding rear seats, in the UK from February, is the first new model devel- two-position boot floor, wireless smartphone oped since the brand’s launch. charging, and standard Active Scan Suspen- DS 3 aside, which although a relatively strong volume sion on BlueHDi 180 and Puretech 225 models. model is now in the twilight months of its current life- Ultra Prestige is the range-topping grade, cycle, the DS 7 Crossback certainly has the potential to and comes with 20-inch alloys, panoramic make DS Automobiles more visible in the UK and opening glass sunroof, remote tailgate among company car drivers. opening, keyless entry and start, laminated Priced as a premium C-sector SUV, with a presenta- side windows, upgraded audio, adaptive cruise tion slide of rivals at our press conference showing the control with ‘stop and go’ function for traffic and Audi Q3, BMW X1, Jaguar E-Pace, Range Rover Evoque park pilot on eight-speed auto versions, with and Volvo XC40 as rivals, the DS 7 Crossback is larger park assist on other transmissions. than most of its competitors, offering more space and Active Scan Suspension uses a camera to improved passenger comfort. monitor the road ahead and prime the suspen- Developed from the same platform as the Peugeot sion to absorb bumps or potholes ahead and 3008 and 5008, the DS 7 has a slightly longer wheelbase minimise cabin discomfort. than the seven-seat Peugeot and a number of unique It only works when the ‘comfort’ drive mode is features that befit its upmarket status, such as the avail- selected, as DS says the benefit in the car’s default COSTS ability of an active suspension system to smooth out ‘normal’ mode is offset by a greater degree of body roll bumps or potholes in the road. when cornering. P11D price £36,280 The DS 7 Crossback range will launch with 180 PS It does appear to work, however, and even when not seems to suit the car well, with ample performance and Not sure it works entirely well, but the DS 7 Crossback BIK tax band (2016/17) 27% 2.0-litre Blue HDi diesel automatic versions in February, in ‘comfort’, the DS 7’s ride is rather more compliant excellent comfort most of the time. certainly couldn’t be mistaken for something else. Annual BIK tax (20%)£1,959/£3,109 with 225PS turbocharged 1.6-litre auto petrol versions and comfortable than a Q3 or X1. It’s a little disappointing that the ride, although France has a long history of luxury brands, in automo- Class 1A NIC £1,352 and a manual 130PS 1.6 Blue HDi to follow in March. Night vision, with enhanced images displayed on the comfortable most of the time regardless of driving tive and in other sectors. Annual VED £160 then £140 There will be a range-topping plug-in hybrid launched For full running costs, digital dashboard, is also one of the high-tech features mode, remains a little fidgety at higher speeds. The DS 7 Crossback has many of the right ingredients RV (4yr/80K) £10,650 /29% in the second half of 2019, using front and rear electric visit fleetnews.co.uk/ available on the DS 7. The interior design is trying to create its own identity, to succeed, but the UK market, with its well established Fuel cost (ppm) 9.72 running-costs motors, giving the car four-wheel drive capability, and We spent most time in the BlueHDi 180 (there were with substantial window switches on the centre console hierarchy of premium brands, will prove a tough one to AFR (ppm) 11 an expected total power output of around 300PS. no BlueHDi 130 models available on the event), and it and angular dials on the digital instrument panel. crack. Running cost (4yr/80K) 46.92ppm For now, the entry level Elegance grade is only avail- able with the 130PS diesel, and gives the range its £27,995 P11D value start point. SPEC Elegance features 18-inch alloy wheels, autonomous Power (PS)/torque (Nm) 180/295 emergency braking, lane departure warning, speed CO2 emissions (g/km) 128 limit recognition, rear parking sensors, eight-inch Top speed (mph) 134 touchscreen with Mirror Screen and Android Auto and 0-62mph (sec) 9.9 Apple CarPlay functionality, dual-zone climate control, Fuel efficiency (mpg) 57.6 two rear Isofix mounting points and a space-saver spare wheel. The Performance Line grade adds unique styling KEY RIVAL features and larger alloy wheels, adaptive LED head- Jaguar E-Pace 2.0 180 AWD lights, rear side and curtain airbags, a 12-inch HD R-Dynamic S auto touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument display, P11D price: £38,645 BIK tax band (2016/17) 31% Annual BIK tax (20%)£2,396/£4,792 Class 1A NIC £1,653 “The DS 7 Crossback has Annual VED £200 then £140 RV (4yr/80k) £14,325/37% many of the right ingredients Fuel cost (ppm) 11.11 to succeed, but UK market AFR (ppm) 11 will be a tough one to crack” Running cost (4yr/80k) 47.08ppm The interior design is trying The DS 7 Crossback is larger Running cost data supplied by to create its own identity than many of its competitors KeeResources (4yr/80k)

60 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 61 FIRST DRIVE ROAD TEST

2.2 JTDM 180 SPECIALE 1.0 TSI DESIGN ALFA ROMEO GIULIA VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC THE RIVALS Giulia makes premium rivals sit up and take notice n Audi A4 2.0TDi 190 S Line Auto VW newcomer is a rational choice in the increasingly crowded SUV market n BMW 320d M Sport Auto n Jaguar XE 2.0d 180 R Sport Auto Beauty of the Giulia is much more than skin deep P11D PRICE XE £35,070 Giulia £35,320 3 Series £35,395 A4 £35,925

BIK TAX AND CO2 A4 109g/km Giulia 109g/km XE 111g/km 3 Series 116g/km

By Matt de Prez lfa Romeo hasn’t had a particularly successful MPG AND FUEL COSTS decade with both retail and fleet sales “Giulia offers better driver A4 67.3/8.32ppm slipping significantly behind rivals – yet it Giulia 67.3/8.32ppm Unique design 17-inch alloys remains a highly respected marque with a engagement than anything XE 67.3/8.32ppm and a contrasting roof colour help loyal following. distinguish the Design trim from the SE ALast year, the Italian brand decided to throw everything else in its class – yet manages 3 Series 64.2/8.72ppm it had at a new model offensive and the Giulia was the first vehicle to demonstrate the new approach. to deliver the numbers” By Simon Harris What the company has managed to achieve since in a t could be contended that the Volkswagen T-Roc shows COSTS short period of time is little short of astonishing. Utilising DEPRECIATION in microcosm how consumer tastes and expectations P11D price £20,910 its motorsport heritage and strength for creating beautiful which is low compared to direct rivals. A driver should XE 31.18ppm for cars have developed in the past decade or so. BIK tax band (2016/17) 22% vehicles, the Giulia is, simply, a masterpiece. expect to pay around £135 per month in benefit-in-kind Giulia 32.59ppm Volkswagen’s latest SUV borrows some of the letters Annual BIK tax (20%/40%) And this time, the beauty is more than skin-deep. (BIK) tax for this model. 3 Series 32.62ppm of its name from the discontinued Scirocco coupé and Alfa’s new rear-wheel-drive platform is complemented It’s not the quietest diesel unit around but it is hushed on £920/£1,840 A4 32.63ppm Itakes the Scirocco’s place at Volkswagen’s plant in Palmela, by an entirely new suite of engines and an eight-speed the move and delivers strong performance, sprinting to Class 1A NIC £635 Portugal. Annual VED £160 then £140 automatic transmission. 60mph in 7.1 seconds. The T-Roc is likely to sell many more per year than the It’s common practice for manufacturers to turn up the Official combined fuel economy is rated at 67.3mpg – RV (4yr/80K) £6,425/31% Scirocco and two-door coupés count among several sectors knobs on their executive saloons to create ‘halo’ models putting it on par with rivals. During our test we found the Fuel cost (ppm) of the car market that have ceded ground and share to SUVs 9.9 such as BMW’s M3. Alfa chose to do things the other way figure to be closer to 50mpg. SMR AFR (ppm) 11 and crossovers. Interior is smart and high around, creating the Nurburgring-dominating Quadrifoglio Standard equipment is generous and includes sat-nav, XE 4.79ppm The T-Roc sits below the Touareg (with a new model due Running cost (4yr/80K) 31.11ppm quality but the dashboard version first, then reverse engineering it to produce the keyless start, xenon headlights, parking sensors and 3 Series 4.84ppm later this year), seven-seat Tiguan Allspace and five-seat lacks soft-touch materials standard car. electrically adjustable, heated leather seats. A4 5.96ppm Tiguan in the line-up, with room beneath it for the forth- SPEC As a result the Giulia is light and nimble. It offers better Safety is a key attribute, too. The new Integrated Brake Giulia 6.82ppm coming Volkswagen T-Cross. driver engagement than anything else in its class – yet System provides immediate brake response. As a result It arrives in a growing sector, which was arguably defined by Power (PS)/torque (Nm) 115/148 have expected to find them elsewhere in the Volkswagen manages to deliver the numbers when it comes to the Giulia can stop from 62mph in just 38.5 metres. the Nissan Juke in 2010, and has recent new arrivals with the CO2 emissions (g/km) 117 range. efficiency and running costs. Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian Citroën C3 Aircross, Hyundai Kona, Kia Stonic and Seat Arona. Top speed (mph) 116 It’s based on the SE, and includes cloth seats with height Our test car is the 2.2-litre JTDM in range-topping detection, forward collision warning and lane departure RUNNING COSTS We sampled some high-end versions late last year, but the 0-62mph (sec) 10.1 adjustment for front seats, split folding rear seats, two USB Speciale trim. It is comparable to a BMW 320d M Sport or warning are also included, helping the car to gain the five- first UK driving opportunity allowed us to try the more Fuel efficiency (mpg) 55.4 charging sockets, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto function- Audi A4 S Line, with a list price of £35,000. star Euro NCap rating. A score of 98% for adult occupancy XE 44.29ppm popular 1.0 TSI version, although the 1.6 TDI, likely to be the ality, electrically folding door mirrors, adaptive cruise control The engine develops 180PS and emits 109g/km of CO2, protection was the highest result ever achieved for a 3 Series 46.18ppm most popular variant among businesses, is still some with autonomous emergency braking and front and rear passenger car at the time of testing. A4 46.91ppm months away. KEY RIVAL parking sensors. Inside the cabin, the Giulia offers a driving position more Giulia 47.73ppm The three-cylinder engine develops 115PS and has CO2 Hyundai Kona 1.0 T-GDI Premium Extra features that distinguish the Design from SE are a akin to a supercar than a diesel saloon and sets the emissions of 117g/km, which will appeal to low-mileage P11D price: £18,580 unique-look 17-inch alloy wheels, contrasting roof colour, standard for the sector. The seat is mounted low and the company car drivers as it avoids the diesel supplement on BIK tax band (2016/17) 24% rear privacy glass, alternative bumper design and a driver pedals deep in the footwell giving a real sense that you are VERDICT benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax as well as the P11D price premium. Annual BIK tax (20%/40%) fatigue alert. sitting in the car, rather than on it. The perky engine’s 148Nm of torque at 2,000rpm gives it a The T-Roc is roomier than a typical small car, and provides Adding to the theatre is a Ferrari-style steering wheel £892/£1,684 Winner: Jaguar XE diesel-like feel in the mid-range. a good degree of comfort boosted by the high-riding cabin. mounted start button, while optional (£250) aluminium Class 1A NIC £615 Our comparison shows the Giulia is The T-Roc’s solid and purposeful exterior design lends There’s a good combination of comfort and driving gear shift paddles complete the experience. Annual VED £160 then £140 serious contender in the fleet market. In itself well to the current ‘born confident’ TV advertising pleasure, as the T-Roc offers user-friendliness around town Its overall interior quality doesn’t quite match the our closely fought comparison it takes campaign, while inside looks smart and high quality. RV (4yr/80k) £5,600/30% and agility on high-speed roads away from urban sprawls. Germans and the sat-nav is less impressive than the latest Fuel cost (ppm) 10.49 joint-first or second in almost every The Design equipment grade comes with colour-coordi- The T-Roc offers strong user-chooser appeal for drivers BMW and Audi systems, but there is plenty of space for category. The Jaguar XE takes the lead AFR (ppm) 11 nated trim inserts, that make it feel more fun than the other in this category because of the brand perception, but its The start button is passengers and a reasonable sized boot. thanks to its impressive SMR costs. versions. But, while everything looks like it belongs in an Running cost (4yr/80k) 31.31ppm attractiveness has greater depth than badge alone, and mounted on the Strong residuals help to minimise running costs although upmarket car, the dashboard and doors don’t have soft- Running cost data supplied by highly competitive running costs should also make it a steering wheel service, maintenance and repair costs are higher than touch materials on the upper elements, where you might KeeResources (4yr/80k) rational choice. average for the sector. Running cost: KeeResources (4yr/80k)

62 January 25 2017 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 63 OUR FLEET

FORD S-MAX 2.0 JAGUAR XF 2.0 FIRST VAUXHALL INSIGNIA GRAND SPORT PORTFOLIO 180 TEST TDCI 150 TITANIUM 1.6D ECOTECH SRI VX LINE NAV AWD Eyes front! Insignia’s head-up display is no distraction

Rear-wheel drive cars and icy or snowy conditions generally don’t mix A brief trip abroad allowed me to well. Front-wheel or four-wheel drive sample some of the convenience vehicles offer much better traction on features the S-Max is available with. Back in business – slippery roads. It has been mentioned before that this 1.6-litre diesel This is, of course, because front- has impressed the headlights are all-LED adaptive wheel drive cars tend to have the units with ‘glare-free’ main beam. weight of the engine above the driven They are supremely effective, and wheels, keeping them firmly planted with the main beam set on on the ground. automatic, I haven’t had any angry Rear-wheel drive cars usually have RENAULT KOLEOS 1.6D SIGNATURE NAV flashes from the headlights of an empty boot above the driven oncoming vehicles. wheels, meaning they struggle for An additional feature within the traction much more than their front- Born-again Koleos completes maker’s SUV hat-trick settings means they can be adapted wheel drive counterparts. The Insignia Grand Sport for right-hand traffic, so avoiding the The XF has a front-engined, rear- By Gareth Roberts diesel returns 148g/km and packs in the safety features normal left-side bias of our cars wheel drive configuration. But it has COSTS lmost eight years after 50.4mpg as a six-speed manual; unintentionally dazzling other incorporated technology to minimise P11D price £30,085 Renault pulled the plug 156g/km and 47.9mpg in Auto road users abroad. the risk of losing grip in slippery BIK tax band 27% on the first generation X-Tronic. COSTS By Luke Neal I find I rarely even notice the head-up It means that while you need conditions. One of its four driving Annual BIK tax (20%) £1,625 Koleos due to poor In terms of spec, the Dynamique S ur Insignia is equipped display and, instead, look to the car’s to carry all the necessary extra modes is ‘rain/ice/snow’. sales, it is back as the is well-equipped, with front and rear P11D price £26,125 with a head-up display conventional speedometer and equipment for overseas travel, Class 1A NIC £1,121 This setting automatically dampens Amanufacturer’s flagship SUV. parking sensors, a rear-view (£290) which is optional navigation screen for information. there’s no need to mess about with BIK tax band 24% Annual VED £160 then £140 acceleration and applies more gradual The Koleos completes Renault’s camera and blind spot monitoring. Annual BIK tax (20%) £1,092 on all Insignia Nav However, a colleague has recently headlight deflector stickers – which RV (4yr/80k) £8,325 traction for slippery conditions. three-strong SUV line-up with the It also comes with a seven-inch Class 1A NIC £753 models with the exception commented on how useful he finds would be more difficult to work with This makes the car’s throttle Fuel cost (ppm) 9.73 smaller Kadjar and Captur, launched touchscreen, with a larger, tablet- Oof the Design trim level. the head-up display. Whether it’s an on LED headlights as they generate Annual VED £160 then £140 response feel sluggish compared to AFR (ppm) 9 in 2013 and 2015 respectively, style 8.7-inch screen on the range- It’s the first long-term vehicle I’ve important addition for business no heat. RV (4yr/80k) £6,875 when the car is in ‘normal’ mode, but Running cost (ppm) 41.87 already securing a firm foothold in topping Signature Nav. driven that is fitted with one. drivers may well be judged on a After boarding the DFDS Seaways also makes it less likely the wheels the market. Every version gets Tom Tom Fuel cost (ppm) 8.17 As you are probably aware, a case-by-case basis. ferry at Dover for Calais and parking will lose traction. The all-new Koleos meanwhile, live-traffic sat-nav, a digital radio AFR (ppm) 9 head-up display (sometimes known Another important safety system up, I set up the headlights for driving On the few occasions I’ve switched SPEC faces a tough challenge as it goes and Bluetooth, as well as Apple Running cost (ppm) 31.93 as HUD) presents data without included on our car is lane on the right. to this mode in slippery conditions, Engine (cc) 1,598 toe-to-toe with class leaders such CarPlay and Android Auto requiring users to take their eyes departure warning with lane assist. It was also a good opportunity to traction has definitely improved. Power (PS) 130 as the Škoda Kodiaq and Nissan smartphone mirroring. This lets you SPEC off the road. It was developed for It comes as part of Driving test the unstressed high-speed fuel The XF is well equipped for cold Torque (Nm) 320 X-Trail. operate selected apps from your military aviation so pilot’s eyes do Assistance Pack One which also economy as a mainly motorway weather motoring in a number of It is offered in a six version phone via the main screen. Engine (cc) 1,600 not need to refocus to view the includes: route for two-and-a-half hours CO2 emissions (g/km) 128 other ways. line-up based on two trim levels – On the road, the light steering Power (PS) 136 outside after looking at the ■ Forward collision alert with beckoned on the other side of the Manufacturer mpg 57.6 It is fitted with a heated front Dynamique S Nav and Signature Nav. means the Koleos feels fairly nimble Torque (Nm) 320 in-cockpit instruments. automatic city emergency braking channel along roads that remained Real-world mpg* 50.3 ■ windscreen which makes de-icing the There is a 1.6-litre dCi 130 engine around town, but sure-footed and CO2 emissions (g/km) 114 The Vauxhall display shows Following distance indicator more or less flat. Test mpg 47.8 ■ car an easy and quick task, while the available on both trim levels, with a firm on the motorway. Manufacturer mpg 65.7 current speed, rpm, gear change Traffic sign recognition The S-Max did creep closer to the heated rear windscreen automatically Max speed (mph) 115 six-speed manual transmission and However, change direction quickly indicator and collision warning but Lane departure is an impressive official combined figure of 52.3mpg, Real-world mpg* 47.9 comes on with the ignition when the 0-62mph (sec) 11.4 two-wheel drive, while the 2.0-litre and you will get a degree of body will also display turn-by-turn system which keeps the car ending the outward leg of the trip at Test mpg 53 outside temperature drops below a Current mileage 2,900 dCi 175 engine is available with either lean which can make the car feel directions when navigation is in use. between the white lines should you 48.5mpg according to the trip certain level. a six-speed manual or seven-speed awkward. Max speed (mph) 131 It feels like an important safety need it. If you change lanes, without computer. Our test model is fitted with some auto transmission – both with four- As you expect for a D segment 0-62mph (sec) 9.9 addition, keeping drivers’ eyes facing indicating, the system will fight to It didn’t quite fare so well on the pretty effective heated front seats. wheel drive. SUV, the Koleos has huge boot Current mileage 4,036 forward. keep you within your lane until you return leg, with the displayed They are fiddly to operate as you have Our model on long-term test is the capacity – some 579 litres rising to Previously I’ve often wondered have crossed the white lines. average slipping down to 46mpg by to use the infotainment system’s two-wheel drive, 1.6-litre diesel 1,795 litres with rear seats folded. Running cost data supplied by whether a head-up display is just an It can be switched off by a dash- the time it arrived at Dunkirk ferry touchscreen to switch them on and off Signature Nav, delivering a claimed Overall, the Koleos has impressed KeeResources (4yr/80k) annoyance or distraction. mounted button or overridden when terminal, and with long uphill as well as adjust the heat setting. 57.6mpg with emissions of 128g/km, during its first few weeks on the * Data supplied by Equa Index Not so. In fact, quite the opposite, the indicator is used. stretches along the A2 from Dover, It also takes a couple of minutes which puts it in 27% benefit-in-kind Fleet News fleet and will give those the calculated average fuel before you feel the heat coming (BIK) tax band for 2017/18. looking a large SUV food for TEST TIMELINE consumption on refuelling was a through, but when it does, it is fierce, The four-wheel drive 2.0-litre thought. Start End disappointing 41.1mpg. even on the lowest setting. However, the S-Max proved an It doesn’t take long until I have ideal companion for international to switch the heater off before it AT A GLANCE – THE REST OF OUR FLEET travel, with plenty of space, ample becomes uncomfortably hot. However, “All-new Koleos faces a tough challenge pace for long-legged motorway it does have a hidden benefit: the Running cost data supplied by travel, and excellent comfort and heated passenger seat is ideal for KeeResources (4yr/80k) as it goes toe-to-toe with class leaders” refinement – with laminated side keeping food warm on the way home * Data supplied by Equa Index glass helping insulate the interior from the takeaway! from the outside world. Andrew Ryan TEST TIMELINE Simon Harris Start End BMW 5 Series Mazda 6 Škoda Octavia

64 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk January 25 2018 65 FNA18_FPAD(Window)v4.qxp_Layout 1 11/01/2018 16:04 Page 1

THE LAST WORD VICKY BROWN FLEET AND COMPLIANCE MANAGER AT BLAKEDALE LTD

First fleet role My first fleet role From administrator to fleet and compliance manager, Brown was with my current company – has risen through the ranks of the family company she joined Blakedale – some 10 years ago. I joined as an administrator to a fleet a decade ago. In her spare time she works as a TV extra of 22 vehicles. Every day is completely different. I think variety My hobbies and interests are acting. I really My first memory associated with a car is what has kept me interested and enjoying working as a TV extra in my spare was a painful one. By the age of 16, I had I enjoy problem solving. I really time. It’s something completely different to been in two car accidents and run over enjoy working for a family business what I do day to day, with the bonus of meeting by a car. So my memory of them is and over the years I have come to some really interesting characters. I have that cars can really hurt! feel part of that family. managed to appear in popular soaps, dramas and even a Hollywood film. Career goals at Blakedale My goal I want to be remembered as someone is to see the company grow and who has always been willing to go the expand successfully. Ensuring the The advice I would give to my 18-year-old self extra mile for the best possible outcome. company has as many USPs as would be to learn from the mistakes you will possible to ensure we are first make, and never think you are not good choice in our field. Quality and enough to achieve whatever you want in life. If I were Prime Minister for the day customer service is key and I hope I would get more help for lower that is what will keep customers income families who are struggling. coming back to us. The most pivotal moment in my life would have to be meeting my Biggest achievement in business husband. I truly believe he has My favourite film is helped me grow into the Gladiator but My biggest achievement so far is person I am today. unfortunately I do moving up the ranks to the position not have a book of fleet and compliance manager. to recommend. The three vehicles Biggest career influence I have I would like in my had the benefit of working for a garage are a Ford My pet hates business savvy and strong MD Over 950 guests Mustang, Bugatti are bullies and (Carmen Bowley) who has helped Veyron and a Sunday drivers. me professionally and personally McLaren P1. throughout the past 10 years. have already booked Biggest mistake in business their seats, so contact The most valuable lesson I have learned is to delegate and surround myself with a strong team. us now to secure your Leadership style I ensure my team members are harmonious and attendance at the Fleet aligned with the business needs, both current and future. I encourage team social activities to News Awards 2018 create a good, cohesive unit. I like to think I am fair and encouraging.

If I wasn’t in fleetDue to my 14 March 2018 inquisitive nature, had I had the For tickets and tables contact opportunity to follow a different Grosvenor House Paige Phillips on 01733 395133 career, I would have worked for the intelligence services. Park Lane, London or email [email protected]

Childhood ambition My childhood ambition was to be a singer or Sponsored by actress. From an early age I proved myself to be quite the performer and enjoyed keeping my family and friends entertained.

Next issue: John Mason, MD and owner of i247 Group

66 January 25 2018 fleetnews.co.uk www.fleetnewsawards.com adRocket

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