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40 YEARS OF HELPING COMPANIES RUN EFFICIENT AND COMPLIANT FLEETS October 18 – November 1 2018 £4.00

Spotlight: DS Automobiles Citroën’s premium brand spin-off looks PARIS to offer ‘desirable’ MOTOR SHOW option for fleets Key fleet models from the 2018 exhibition Spotlight: tyres Take control of tyre management – don’t leave it to others

Fleet in focus: British Gas ‘OUR SUPPLIER PARTNERSHIPS DELIVER VALUE’ Collaboration is essential, but choosing partners who bring innovation is even more vital, says Steve Winter

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NEWS 4 Major changes ahead for Fleet News 6 WLTP prompts dive in registrations 11 Fleets welcome fuel duty freeze 12 Call to not ban diesel too soon 14 DPD sued over driver’s death 17 WLTP compliance boost for Volvo

REGULARS 18 Letters and editor’s Big Picture ‘We feel like 21 Opinion: fuel cards/air quality 30 a start-up’ 38 That’s how DS’s first UK MD Alain Descat Award winner: VisionTrack describes the development of the premium 50 Last word: John Ellis brand after its separation from Citroën

CAR/VAN REVIEWS 44 Paris Motor Show 48 Long-term reports

Time to take control of tyre management 33 Many fleets leave tyre management to their leasing companies, but there are reasons why this may not be the best policy

Seventh incarnation of 3 SSerieseries mmakesakes PParisaris ddebutebut 42 Our review of the Paris Motor Show kicks off with a look at a major unveiling from BMW

26 Cover feature British Gas British Gas relies on its collaboration partnerships to run an effective and efficient fleet. Steve Winter explains why

fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 3 w

NEWS

EDITOR’S UNDER COMMENT WORK IN PROGRESS Stephen Briers, editor-in-chief Throughout our 40-year history, we have never rested CONSTRUCTION on our laurels. It is the central pillar of Fleet News to not only continually adapt to the times, but to take a market leadership position and be the instigator of change, sharing our knowledge and insight across the sector. This sector is changing with increasing pressures from urban transport FleetNews regulators looking to reduce congestion to undergo content and improve safety by removing vehicles from the roads. We also see more people taking cash but still requiring access to transport, whether that is through and structural transformation usership of a car or other options. And we see myriad companies introducing what they claim are solutions for first and last nology, policies, regulations and trends that will edgeable fleet and industry experts,Fleet News suppliers in the van and truck sector, will also mile distribution. influence the way companies move people, will uncover solutions to operational issues, continue in the current format. Part of our approach will be to challenge Next year, Fleet News will undergo arguably goods and services around. share information on cost-saving initiatives and and debunk some of these claims, Strategy Insight will also enable us to engage draw attention to the best ways to improve Website enhancements something that is only possible due to our the biggest change in its 40 -year history with a wider decision-making unit, such as finance safety and address environmental concerns. In addition to the changes to the print magazine, relationships with policy-setters in directors, procurement directors, HR directors, The other significant change to the brand port- Fleet News will be looking to increase engage- Government and within local authorities. operations directors and mobility managers who folio from January will be the integration of ment in its digital products and services with They set the direction and we will clarify By Stephen Briers monthly magazine with three special themed are increasingly involved in deciding policy about Commercial Fleet into Fleet News. This decision greater insight into our news articles, improved how this affects businesses who need to n line with the transformation taking place editions at the busiest times of the year – March, company cars, vans and trucks. hashas bbeeneen ttakenaken bbecause,ecause, i nincreasingly,creasingly, t hthee t otopicspics newsletters and new fleet management tools. move people, goods and service around. across the fleet sector, with new regula- September and November). Topics will range from last mile distribution relevantrelevant ttoo ffleetleet aarere r relevantelevant n noo m matteratter w whetherhether Digital channels enable Fleet News to keep However, a lot of this is strategic thinking tions, new technology and a host of new This will enable the market-leading fleet publi- solutions to clean air zone regulations, and from thethe bbusinessusiness ooperatesperates ccars,ars, v vansans o orr t rtrucksucks – –a nandd users up to speed with the latest developments, for the future. We also recognise that most pressures on the way businesses move cation to delve much more deeply into the major mobility as a service and vehicle usership apps many are running all three. whereas print enables it to add analysis, context companies are mainly concerned with their people, goods and services around, issues of the day, providing greater clarity, to autonomous, connected and electric Fleet News will introduce a dedicatedCommer- and insight into the key stories. This will continue what is happening today – how can they Inext year Fleet News will be undertaking its own insight and analysis for the organisations vehicles. cial Fleet section in the magazine and retain the to be a priority for the new publication. reduce cost, improve safety, address transformation with a complete overhaul of responsible for keeping British business moving. Commercial Fleet website to give a home to the The new Fleet News will focus on providing the environmental concerns and improve the content in print, on the website and in its news- In addition to news analysis, thought-provoking Operations Insight issues of greatest importance to van and truck broader best practice and strategic guidance to well-being of drivers, for example. So a letters. opinion pieces and detailed interviews with This section will focus on today’s fleet, operators, such as compliance and legislation. enable decision-makers to prepare for the large part of Fleet News will remain Fleet News has to evolve and adapt to the fleet decision-makers, manufacturers and key offering best practice guidance, However, content throughout the new Fleet complexities of modern day fleet management. dedicated to these topics. changing fleet landscape to be at the forefront suppliers, Fleet News will divide its content into features, benchmarking and skills NewsNews magazine, including fleet profiles, tech- The Fleet News pledge to you is to ensure of new developments and to remain the most two key areas. insight to enable the fleet deci- nology and new mobility services, will be rele- Fleets support the Fleet News transformation we continue to be your trusted source of influential and trusted media brand in the sector. sion-maker to run an efficient vant to all fleets, including those running trucks. Fleet News has discussed its plans with a impartial, insightful and essential fleet This will start in January asFleet News moves Strategy Insight and effective fleet of vehicles. The Commercial Fleet Awards, which recog- number of fleets before introducing these knowledge – for today and for tomorrow. to a new frequency of 15 issues a year (as a This section will focus on tomorrow – the tech- Drawing on its vast pool of knowl- nises and honours fleets, manufacturers and changes. Below is what some of them said.

NEW MOVES STRIKE THE RIGHT NOTE

“I support this move “This is a good move; 15 editions a year supported by the usual ‘push’ “This is a great idea – less frequent and “The newsletter and website articles are great for (merging Fleet News and notifications on breaking news is a perfect format. Fleet today is merging the two – giving greater ability to frequent updates about the latest fleet information, Commercial Fleet) becoming more complex year after year. Everything either seems to cover the wider angle of issues but we still need a magazine because it provides wholeheartedly. While be changing or is being questioned about its relevance in today’s encountered by mixed fleets in-depth and informative articles that we can share it’s been nice to have two world. It’s gone way beyond the remit of yesteryear and now anyone complimented by focused articles for each with other stakeholders within the business. It was publications with their in any role looking after their company fleet – big or small – will be vehicle type. It makes a lot of sense. sometimes hard to keep up with the publication when respective areas of exposed to far higher levels of change from manufacturers, to There are so many topics that impact both it was fortnightly, so changing to monthly will give us expertise, the luxury of governments to employees and their mobility options. – either in equal measure and/or in the high quality features and articles we need with time to read them is “It’s all changing more quickly. That’s whyFleet News in all its similar ways – and it’s entirely appropriate more time to read them. MovingCommercial Fleet rapidly reducing so I see formats is vital for me to keep up-to-date with this change, through to address all the issues in a single article into Fleet News makes sense because fleet this as a natural evolution as well as an the email daily news links to the more in-depth printed magazine to read away from my which adds to the value as we should all be looking at ‘fleet’ in management is so much more cross-functional regarding the big issues, so efficiency. As an operator of a mixed fleet, it screen. The website and print mix allows me to digest the most relevant and up-to-date wider context now. There are plenty of overlapping issues which the solutions are more cross-functional – for cars, vans and trucks, but also suits me perfectly.” content when I need it.” have consequences for all areas of fleet.” within the business, with HR, finance and procurement.” Stewart Lightbody, head of fleet, Anglian Water David Oliver, procurement manager, Red Bull Caroline Sandall, ACFO vice-chairman Lorna McAtear, head of supply and internal accounts, Royal Mail

4 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 5 NEWS

Supply shortages due FLEET FACTS AND FIGURES

OPINION POLL to WLTP lead to 20% Since September, have you seen any improvement in lead times slump in September for cars?

Some carmakers miss new fuel test deadline, while others reconsider UK volumes as profitability falls

By Matt de Prez most expensive and that will have some residual

ar manufacturers suffered a 20.5% value benefit.” Yes 11.3% No 88.7% decline in new registrations last Quarter three rental figures show a 15% fall in month as challenges surrounding the volume, the third consecutive quarter of year-on- implementation of newly-introduced year decline, compared to private (down 11%) and WLTP emissions standards meant leasing (down 10%). FleetNews view: Cthey simply had no cars to sell. Hyundai, itself, has reduced rental volumes by The results of our poll clearly Lead times have been an issue for certain more than 20% in Q3, although its total sales are show that the fleet industry has manufacturers since March, as they struggled to down by just 1.8%. Meanwhile, Ford cut more been suffering with longer lead re-homologate their model ranges in time for the than 4,000 cars from rental, a fall of 59%, and times. The issue – as explained opposite – has been the ability of September 1 deadline. Nissan took out 5,500 (down 86%), which manufacturers to get cars tested Fleet operators have been especially affected as accounted for a large wedge of its near-16,700 under the new emissions regime. leased vehicles reached their end of contract date Q3 drop in registrations. Fleet decision-makers have been but replacements were not available. Mike Hawes, Society of Motor Manufacturers forced to extend the contracts of According to a recent Fleet News poll, 89% of and Traders (SMMT) chief executive, tried to put New registrations were down existing vehicles faced with supply fleet decision-makers felt lead times had not a brave face on the situation. by a fifth compared with last constraints. However, demand has improved since the WLTP deadline. “With the industry given barely a year to year and fleet was down 22.4% also stalled due to uncertainty Vehicles that failed to meet the new standards reapprove the entire European model line-up, it’s over future company car tax rates. by September could not be registered, and no surprise that we’ve seen bottlenecks and a production lines had to adapt to produce modified squeeze on supply,” he said. Hardest hit clutch gearbox. As soon as one of the variants number of vehicles available for quoting since This week’s poll: Do you think the or new engines in order to comply. “These are exceptional circumstances with Volkswagen was the hardest hit in September, as which is affected has sold out, no further orders August, but there is still a way to go.” Government is right to scale back Some model variants were ditched altogether, similar declines seen in other major European many of its best-selling cars have yet to be for that variant will be taken in the system.” For some fleets, lead times aren’t an issue the plug-in car grant? such as the BMW 520d Efficient Dynamics, while markets. The good news is that, as backlogs ease, approved under the new test regime. Audi’s premium brand rivals Mercedes-Benz because many companies are simply not ordering fleetnews.co.uk/polls others were taken off sale temporarily like the consumers and businesses can look forward to One fleet manager told Fleet News they were and Volvo were among the first manufacturers to cars for a variety of reasons linked to WLTP. Volkswagen Golf GTE. a raft of exciting high-tech cars and a market keen quoted a 40-week lead time for a new Volks- re-homologate their model ranges. While Suzanne Phillips, national fleet consultant at September is a plate-change month – one of the to recover lost momentum.” wagen, while another is now considering alterna- Mercedes lost a number of derivatives, most Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions, said: “People MOST COMMENTED busiest times of the year– but 87,000 fewer cars tive brands due to long lead times. noticeably its plug-in hybrid C and E-Class through are deciding to hold fire for six months, either ONLINE were registered than in 2017. The brand’s registrations were 55% down. In model refreshes, both managed to record using mini leases or six-month extensions, even Fleet registrations were even lower, with a fleet, it suffered a 72% decline, with key models increased fleet sales in September. 12-month extensions, to buy some time.” 22.4% decline. such as the Golf and Passat down 80%. Colin Thompson, senior pricing manager at Lex Most of the uncertainty is related to how benefit- Worst affected were Volkswagen (down 55%), Volkswagen board member for sales Jürgen Autolease, said: “We saw the number of quotable in-kind (BIK) tax bands will be adapted to suit the A third of Audi (down 53%) and Nissan (down 41%). VW Stackmann said: “Developments in September vehicle derivatives drop by more than a third higher CO2 emissions of cars under the new test. fleets have no Group brands Seat and Škoda also suffered, with were a setback, but we had been expecting this between March and August. We are now seeing a Drivers are also unhappy with the lack of avail- falls of 36% and 31% respectively. following the records in the summer. October will recovery as more vehicles achieve WLTP-certifica- ability, either due to homologation or emission plan in place to However, reductions in registrations elsewhere also be affected by the changeover to the WLTP tion, but we do expect choice to be limited in the figure increases taking vehicles out of policy. deal with clean were not necessarily due to WLTP, according to test procedure.” long term. one experienced manufacturer boss. The manufacturer says it now has approval for “For drivers, there is a degree of confusion No rate book; reworked TCO structure air zones Tony Whitehorn, managing director at Hyundai, “high-volume variants of all 14 Volkswagen because some models have been withdrawn David Fisher, fleet manager at Rexel, said: “Due described the market as looking “fragile for the brand models” and expects the changeover to be from sale – either permanently, or while its WLTP to manufacturers not fully releasing their figures full year”, but said some manufacturers were “virtually completed” by the end of the year. emissions figure is pending. Some are prepared we are unable to run a rate book. This, coupled “hiding behind WLTP”. “From November, we will be ready for the end- to wait, others are choosing an alternative, more with the looming changes to BIK being announced He believes the market is poised for major of-the-year sprint in Europe,” added Stackmann. readily-available model, where they can be more in the Budget, means we will need to completely fleetnews.co.uk/news structural reform as the levels of profitability confident about its longer-term tax position.” rework our TCO-based structure.” from selling cars in the UK falls. Discontinued variants He doesn’t expect to be in a position to place

£ £ ££ U K “Historically, we (the motor industry) over- Audi suffered a similar decline, down 53% overall Quotable vehicle numbers start to rise orders until next year. ££ £ cooked it and at last people aren’t making enough “Consumers and and 74% in fleet. The carmaker is planning a Zenith removed all non-compliant vehicles from As a result, rental companies are seeing an A V E R A G E money,” Whitehorn said. number of changes to its model line up. its quoting platform in July to maintain transpar- increase in fleet business. F U E L PRICES Previous registrations slumps have been businesses can look In a statement it said: “Some engine/transmis- ency for customers. Now, the company says it has Adrian Bewley, assistant vice president of cyclical, he added. “If the pound versus the euro sion variants with low demand will be discon- seen a growth in the number of quotable vehicles. business mobility at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, said:

forward to a raft of Diesel (ppl) 133.23 ➜ stays where it is, this time it’s structural.” tinued and will not be replaced. In many cases, “The number of quotable cars available on our “Demand for rental is definitely increasing as ➜ Manufacturers will target the least profitable exciting high-tech cars” similar variants will remain available to our systems continues to increase as each manufac- organisations look for alternative options to Unleaded (ppl) 129.13 areas, primarily rental vehicles and brokers deals customers. For example, variants with a manual turer releases data on new models,” said Ian support their company car fleets. Companies are fleetnews.co.uk/costs/ which “will please leasing companies”, Whitehorn Mike Hawes, SMMT gearbox may be discontinued although the same Hughes, managing director of Zenith. looking for a short-term solution that gives them fuel-cost-calculator said. “Rental will be first to go because it’s the engine may continue to be available with a dual- “We have seen an increase of 20% in the flexibility and keeps employees on the road.”

6 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 7 adRocket

NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news Fleets welcome fuel duty freeze but the greens label it ‘disastrous’

Treasury loses around £9bn per annum as freeze is extended to ninth year Not ready to commit? Letís take it one month at a time By Gareth Roberts “Drivers are paying the highest prices at the he Government’s decision to freeze pumps for four years. While there is a silver fuel duty for another year is welcome lining in the form of no rise in fuel duty, darker news, but fleets still face mounting “Drivers are clouds in the form of higher wholesale costs For only £4.99* a month, try our new pump price pressure. paying the highest may well be passed on to drivers at the pumps Prime Minister Theresa May imminently, so it would have been foolhardy for generation of telematics install-free, Tannounced at the Conservative party conference the Treasury to opt to punish drivers further.” prices at the hassle-free and pay-as-you-go. that fuel duty would be frozen for a ninth succes- Drivers are facing higher costs at the pumps sive year (fleetnews.co.uk, October 3). pumps for four years” as the price of oil and wholesale prices of fuel And do business happily ever after. Had the fuel duty escalator continued as escalate. Brent crude is currently up at around planned from 2011 onwards, fuel duty today Simon Williams, RAC $85 (about £65) per barrel, a level not seen since would be 83.33 pence per litre (ppl) rather than October 2014. Visit masternaut.com for more information. 57.95ppl, 43.8% higher. The average price of diesel was 134.1ppl and Ashley Barnett, head of consultancy at Lex £800m extra for Treasury coffers next year, and petrol 129.78ppl at the time of going to press. The Autolease, said: “The decision to maintain the billions more over subsequent years. record price for petrol was 142.2ppl and for freeze on fuel duty will be a welcome relief for Claire Haigh, chief executive of Greener Jour- diesel 148ppl, both reached in April 2012. UK businesses given rising prices at the pump neys, labelled the freeze on fuel duty a “disas- The weakness of sterling is also contributing and already-high vehicle running costs. trous move” which will have a severe impact on to rising costs on UK forecourts. “While we support the Government’s Road to air pollution and public health in the UK. Christopher Snelling, head of UK policy at the Zero strategy, the choice of electric vehicles and “Roadside air pollution is causing up to 50,000 Freight Transport Association (FTA), said: “With the reach of the country’s charging infrastruc- early deaths a year (most estimates say 40,000) fuel prices continuing to skyrocket – the price of ture are still improving, which means new diesel and we know that cars and vans are the primary diesel has increased by 13% in the last year and petrol vehicles remain the most practical cause,” she said. alone – businesses are already tackling very option for many drivers at present.” “We urgently need a shift away from car use challenging circumstances and a fuel duty rise The Institute for Fiscal Studies think tank and towards more sustainable public transport, would have constituted an unbearable burden.” estimates the freeze on fuel duty, introduced in but today’s decision will do the opposite. We urge However, Snelling wanted the Treasury to go March 2011, has cost the Treasury about the Government to show leadership and make even further. He explained: “The Government £9 billion a year. As it stands, it raises some the right decision.” would serve UK PLC better by cutting fuel duty £27bn for the Treasury annually, while it also Chancellor Philip Hammond admitted that the to jump start spending and boost economic receives income from VAT that is levied on both freeze had come at a “significant cost to the activity. We’ll continue campaigning for a reduc- the duty and the underlying product price. exchequer, but the high oil price and the near- tion in rates and hope the Government heeds our Combined, VAT and duty currently account for record pump price of petrol and diesel are also advice for the next Budget.” about 60% of what drivers pay at the pumps. imposing a significant burden on motorists”. n Arval advises fleets to focus on fuel manage- An inflation-linked increase would have raised RAC fuel spokesperson Simon Williams said: ment, see page 21.

FUEL PRICES OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS

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8 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk

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

THE NEW SMALL ON BIK

Outlander PHEVs will BIG ON SUV. no longer qualify for grants under new ruling Government is ‘bonkers’ to reduce plug-in car grant, says ACFO boss

Commitment to funding further 35,000 electric cars likely to last two-three years

By Gareth Roberts “Demand for plug-in vehicles is already limited The department also claimed that the 22% cut he fleet industry has reacted with and the decision to reduce the amount of finan- in grant value for the cleanest cars reflected the dismay after the Government cut cial support available through the plug-in car “recent reductions in the price of electric the plug-in car grant and said it grant is likely to reduce demand still further.” vehicles”. would no longer incentivise hybrid Up to the end of September, 11,270 pure EVs A Nissan Leaf had an on-the-road price of vehicles such as the Mitsubishi had been registered, compared with 11,127 in the £28,990 in 2011, when the grant was introduced, TOutlander PHEV. first nine months of 2017 – a fall of 1.3%. while the latest version of the pure electric car The new rules, which will take effect from However, when taken together with other costs £29,690 – a 2.4% increase. November 12, will see funding for the cleanest ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs), Govern- However, taking inflation into account, the cars fall from £4,500 to £3,500, and no longer ment figures show that 40,410 cars qualified for purchase price in 2011 would be £35,337 in apply to hybrid cars with a range of less than 70 the plug-in-car grant during the same period, a today’s money, so it could be argued it has fallen zero emission miles. 23% year-on-year increase. by 16%, although the key point is the differential The Department for Transport (DfT) also The Government says it will fund a further with diesel which has not changed. Like-for-like, warned that it would be prepared to implement 35,000 cars under the new plug-in car grant EVs are just as expensive when compared to a the new rate before November 12, if the news regime – equivalent to £122.5 million. Based on diesel equivalent – the plug-in grant was NEW GRANDLAND X TECH LINE NAV sparked a rush from buyers eager to qualify for current take-up of around 15,000 units per year, supposed to close the gap. the grant at current levels. the threshold would expected to be reached by RAC head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said BiK FROM 25% | P11D FROM £22,535 John Pryor, chairman of fleet representative the end of 2020. the reduction in the grant was a “major blow to body ACFO, said: “The Government’s decision to Fleet News, through its Fleet Budget Manifesto, anyone hoping to go green with their next vehicle CO2 FROM 109G/KM | UP TO 67.3MPG reduce financial support for plug-in vehicles is, had called for a long-term commitment to choice and makes little sense when we need to quite frankly, bonkers. grants and, while some certainty is welcome, it focus our efforts on lowering emissions”. fails to give fleets the incentives they wanted. To achieve the Government’s ambition for at With its low running costs, New Grandland X is ideal for company In all, just 19 cars will be eligible for the plug-in least half of new cars to be ULEVs (sub-50g/km car drivers. CO2 and BiK are on the small side. Safety features car grant, with 20 models no longer qualifying CO2) by 2030, registrations would have to rise “Demand for under the new rules, including the Toyota Prius 30% year-on-year for the next 12 years. and infotainment options definitely aren’t. From premium design plug-in and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. First introduced in 2011, the plug-in car grant to spacious interior, every journey is just a little more… grand. plug-in vehicles Mitsubishi said it was “surprised and disap- (PICG) has provided a discount to the price of pointed” by the decision. Rob Lindley, managing more than 160,000 new ULEVs. is already director at Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, toldFleet Category 1 cars, with CO2 emissions of less Book your Grandland X 3 Day Test Drive today. News: “The decision to suddenly end grant than 50g/km and a zero emission range of at extremely support for some of the greenest vehicles on the least 70 miles, received 35% off the purchase Visit threedaytestdrive.co.uk limited. road is extremely disappointing.” price, up to a maximum of £4,500. However, as the segment leader for the past Meanwhile, category 2 cars, with CO2 emis- Reducing support is likely four years, Lindley said the company was “confi- sions of less than 50g/km and a zero emission Official Government Test Environmental Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions dent” fleets will still see the benefits of running range of 10-69 miles, and category 3 cars, with (g/km). Grandland X Range: Urban: 46.3 (6.1) – 64.2 (4.4), Extra-urban: 57.7 (4.9) – 74.3 (3.8), Combined: 53.3 (5.3) – 68.9 to reduce demand further” the car compared to conventional petrol- and CO2 emissions of 50-75g/km and a zero emis- (4.1). CO emissions: 128 – 108g/km. diesel-powered SUVs. sion range of at least 20 miles, benefited up to a 2 John Pryor, ACFO Fuel consumption data and CO2 emission data are determined using the Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), and the relevant values are translated back to allow the The DfT says the changes to funding were a maximum of £2,500. comparability into NEDC, according to regulations R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1153 and R (EU) No. 2017/1151. The values do not take into account in particular use and driving conditions, sign of the plug-in grant’s success. The plug-in van grant remains unchanged. equipment or options and may vary depending on the format of tyres. For more information on official fuel consumption and CO2 emission values, please read the guidelines at http://carfueldata.dft.gov.uk/ and for more information on WLTP please see www.vauxhall.co.uk/wltp. 2018/19 tax year. Vauxhall Motors Limited does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their own tax position. Grandland X Elite Nav 1.2 (130PS) Turbo Start/Stop model illustrated (P11D of £26,885) features Topaz Blue two-coat metallic paint (£565), silver-effect roof rails (£150), Premium LED Adaptive Forward Lighting Pack (£1,100) and black roof and door mirrors (£320), optional at extra cost. fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 11 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 (October 2018).

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WE ARE ALL MADE OF WILD.

A complete ban on diesel is one of the measures Bristol has considered to improve its air quality Banning diesel too soon will slow ability to develop replacements

If business drops as result of ditching diesel then money for research will fall too

By Matt de Prez “Vans are a challenge for local authorities,” anning diesel vehicles could be the said Crawshaw. “a lot of the time they are easiest way for cities to achieve air smaller operators with low profit margins. quality compliance in the shortest “There are some fairly Trying to engage with them fully is difficult. We time, but punishing the fuel too radical measures have to accept these smaller sole traders will quickly could halt the development pass the costs on, because there is not anything Bof alternatives. that would get us to else they can do.” There are 33 local authorities in the UK that In Bristol, diesel vehicles account for 40% of are expected to reach illegal levels of air pollu- compliance in the nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions across the city, tion by 2021. The Government has mandated so restricting them is necessary if the council is them to conduct feasibility studies and establish shortest possible time” to achieve the legally mandated NOx limit by how they will reduce pollution levels. Steve Crawshaw, Bristol City Council 2021. Clean Air Zones (CAZs) are among the possible Crawshaw said: “We need to charge because, solutions. They would restrict access to the city although we have been successful in supporting by charging, fining or banning non-compliant people to switch to newer, more sustainable, vehicles. industry. “Diesel is the bread and butter of the modes of travel like cycling, we haven’t been able Speaking at the Air Quality News Air Quality car industry,” said Suki Choongh-Campbell, to reduce A-road traffic. That is because if you Conference last week, Steve Crawshaw, environmental manager for air quality and take vehicles off the road, it frees up road space programme coordinator at Bristol City Council, ULEVs at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and more people find it easier to drive. We need said: “In a way, a diesel ban is a more equitable and Traders (SMMT). to tackle that demand by imposing some form solution than a charging zone, because the “If we lose that and business drops drastically, of fiscal restraint.” charge doesn’t fall disproportionately on low there is no money to put into research and devel- Bristol isn’t one of the five cities originally income families. It inconveniences or penalises opment for new and alternative technology. We mandated by Government to introduce a CAZ, the wealthy in the same way as the less wealthy. are a self-financing industry, we don’t take big but it is drawing up final plans for one and It applies the sanction equally.” grants.” expects to present a full business case to the Crawshaw has worked in air quality manage- There are currently around 13 million diesel Government early next year. ment for more than 20 years and is currently cars on the road, with the fuel still accounting for Birmingham is the only city so far to submit its part of the team responsible for Bristol’s clean 31.8% of new car registrations (2018 YTD). final plans for approval. The city is asking for air strategy. Choongh-Campbell added: “The industry has £60 million to implement its CAZ, which will “It (a diesel ban) is one of the things we have spent a lot improving diesel technology. The charge the most polluting cars, vans and trucks NEW JEEP® COMPASS NEW JEEP® RENEGADE considered. We have to be clear on what our message we send out is to pick the right tech- for entering any roads within the A4540 constraints are – we have to deliver compliance nology for your journey and location. If you are Middleway Ring Road from January 2020. FROM FROM FROM UP TO FROM FROM FROM UP TO

117g/km 28% £ 23,095 64.2 127g/km 30% £ 18,630 58.9 in the shortest possible time and consider all the driving around town then a diesel is not the right Leeds has also finalised its plans, ready for CO2 BIK P11D MPG CO2 BIK P11D MPG possible measures to achieve compliance,” he vehicle for you, but for someone doing lots of submission, outlining a zone in which lorries, said. “There are some fairly radical measures motorway miles a diesel is absolutely right.” buses and taxis will have to pay to enter if they that would get us to compliance in the shortest In the commercial vehicle market almost all fail to meet the latest emissions regulations. NEW JEEP® COMPASS AND RENEGADE. BORN TO BE WILD. possible time and a diesel ban is one of them.” vehicles are diesel-powered and van operators London, Derby, Edinburgh, Glasgow, South- For more information contact our business centre on 0808 168 4670 or visit Jeep.co.uk/fl eet But pulling the trigger on diesel so soon could could face significant challenges if diesel restric- ampton and Manchester are all expected to have have severe repercussions for the automotive tions go ahead. restrictions in place in the next two years. OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE JEEP® RANGE IN MPG (I/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 29.7 (9.5) – 70.6 (4.0), URBAN 17.5 (16.1) – 54.3 (5.2), COMBINED 23.7 (11.9) – 64.2 (4.4), CO2 EMISSIONS: 276 – 117 G/KM. Fuel consumption and CO 2 fi gures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a signifi cant effect on fuel consumption. Jeep® is a registered 12 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk trademark of FCA US LLC.

15529_JEEP_Compass_MADE_TO_BE_WILD_297x210_COMBO_BIK_OFFER_+ phonenumber_FLEET_NEWS_1.1.indd 1 10/10/2018 11:51 FP_FLEETNEW_15529JEEPCid3653517.pdf 10.11.2018 15:56 adRocket

NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news Widow claims delivery driver’s fear of being fined led to his death

DPD sued over missed work charges which have since been scrapped

By Tom Seymour service delivery and contract performance. elivery company employment prac- Drivers are briefed on the new system before tices are once again under the they join and DPD says there is a ‘full review’ microscope as a widow of a former “Companies before any points are allocated. DPD driver is suing the parcel can no longer To ensure that all its self-employed drivers delivery company after he failed to receive at least the equivalent of the Real Living Dattend hospital appointments to avoid being bury their Wage, DPD is monitoring their earnings on a charged £150 for missing work. monthly basis. This process is independently DPD has since scrapped the fees, introduced heads in the audited. a new ‘Driver Code’ and offers self-employed sand with DPD has also introduced three employment drivers sick and holiday pay. But Don Lane’s categories – employed driver, self-employed widow, Ruth, has lodged a claim at an employ- these things and we worker and self-employed franchisee and given ment tribunal in Bristol which alleges Lane was drivers the choice to choose between them. ill but went to work due to his fear of being fined have an obligation to Existing drivers and new drivers have been for failing to attend work without permission. able to apply for an ‘Owner Driver Worker’ In January this year, Lane completed his make our clients aware contract from September 24. delivery route for DPD but later collapsed of clear, financial All new DPD drivers can start as an employed suffering from a heart attack and died shortly driver before deciding if they wish to be a self- afterwards in hospital. consequences if they employed worker, a self-employed franchisee, A ruling on the case is expected towards the or remain as an employee. Before becoming end of this year. don’t review contracts self-employed, they will have access to free, A spokesman for DPD told Fleet News it was accordingly” independent business advice from approved unable to comment on employment tribunal suppliers. matters and whether the case had directly led to Philip Richardson, partner and head of The initial application window will run until the the introduction of new employment practices. employment law at Stephensons end of this month (October 31). After this date, Philip Richardson, partner and head of drivers will still have the option to switch at their employment law at Stephensons, has been contract anniversary each year. advising fleet clients to review their employment His widow’s claim, filed by solicitors Leigh Day, The DPD spokesman said it was too early to contracts and policies in light of the high-profile said: “DPD’s refusal to give permission for the comment on how its workforce contracts had tribunal cases related to the so-called gig claimant to take time off to attend these appoint- shifted in light of the new categories. economy*. ments meant his disability was not properly Richardson said for smaller companies to intro- He said: “Tribunals will be careful to review the monitored and that he did not have the opportu- duce the same employment changes as DPD, it contracts companies have in place to ensure nity to receive the appropriate treatments for his wouldn’t take much time, but larger companies that what happens in reality is reflected in their disability and related conditions, ultimately would likely involve lengthy consultation. terms and conditions. resulting in his death.” He said: “Changing employment contracts “Companies can no longer bury their heads in DPD said its new Driver Code, which was may involve amending or changing terms and the sand with these things and we have an obli- rolled out in July this year, “aims to improve seeking agreement on the same. gation to make our clients aware of clear, finan- every aspect of our drivers’ working relationship “The cost involved will also be dependent on cial consequences if they don’t review contracts with the company, from the type of contract they the size and scale of the business and changes accordingly.” choose to the van they drive”. involved. However, that initial investment is likely The employment tribunal heard that DPD had The code offers all DPD drivers the equivalent to be far more beneficial than the consequence charged Lane £150 when he attended one of at least the Real Living Wage (£10.20 per hour of not taking any action and litigation being taken specialist renal appointment and he then didn’t inside London, £8.45 per hour outside the against the company.” go to follow-up appointments as a result. He had capital). * The gig economy is a labour market charac- collapsed twice during his delivery rounds prior DPD’s £150 fine system was replaced by a terised by the prevalence of short-term contracts to his death, including once while at the wheel. points-based ‘Service Failure System’ to monitor or freelance work as opposed to permanent jobs.

We’ll keep your business moving Call 0800 294 2994 quoting 0770 or visit theAA.com/business

14 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk

FP_FLEETNEW_7444064NISid3643566.pdf 10.04.2018 15:10 adRocket

NEWS For the latest news, visit: www fleetnews.co.uk/news Early WLTP compliance has given Volvo a major boost in fleet sales

For past three or four months ‘customers can just order’, says business sales head

By Sarah Tooze olvo has sold to 644 new fleet Volvo V40 emissions figures have customers this year as a result of increased under new testing restructuring its fleet team, changing perception of the brand and, arguably, being ‘ahead of the Vgame’ with WLTP. While Volvo head of business sales Steve Beattie acknowledges the Worldwide harmo- nised Light vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) “hurt” from a CO2 perspective, notably V40 (the D2 120 Momentum increased from 94g/km under the old test regime to an NEDC-correlated figure of 122g/km, for example) it has gained by being one of the first car manufacturers to complete testing. “Two of our cars were WLTP (compliant) from January and the rest of the range was all WLTP by April,” Beattie said. “Today there is no problem and for the past three or four months fleet customers can just order.” However, for hybrid models fleet customers Beattie joined Volvo from Vauxhall in an electric option. Volvo has also announced it can expect around a 16-week wait due to September last year and one of his first moves won’t be investing in a new generation of diesel demand outstripping supply. was to divide the fleet sales team into a team of engines but Beattie stressed “diesel is by no Volvo’s true fleet sales (‘fleet other’ and eight fleet sales managers and a national busi- means dead to us”. ‘leasing/contract hire’) were up 3.12% as at the ness sales manager, who target companies “Our current portfolio will continue and in end of September (19,864 compared with 19,262) operating 50 cars or more, and a team of four seven years’ time the market will be in a different and new customers include major corporates regional business development mangers who place to where we are today and you have to plan such as Asda, Interserve and British Gas. work with Volvo dealers to target companies for that,” he said. With the latter, Volvo was one of six manufac- with five to 49 cars (seeFleet News, February 8). As for the short-term, Beattie is confident 2019 turers chosen and has been doing “extremely Volvo has sold to 102 ‘large’ (50-plus) fleets and will be “fleet’s year” for Volvo despite the current well” since being on the list, according to Beattie. 542 sub-50 fleets this year who haven’t bought challenges the fleet market is facing. from Volvo for the past four years. “My confidence comes from the sales rate for “I wanted to change the team to make sure we the past six months of V60, XC40 and XC60,” he were talking to more people – and we are,” said. “The sold order take is circa 9% up in end- Beattie said. user year-to-date and that’s been driven by the He is also ensuring the team has the ‘right’ new product coming towards the end of the year. conversations with customers and “add value”. The product is going to support us where we “I want fleet managers to look in their diary and want to go next year.” say ‘oh, Volvo are coming in today, that’s going to He plans to make Volvo’s demonstrator be well worthwhile’,” he said. programme “more accessible” from a fleet Part of those conversations has been under- perspective next year. “Our demo programme is standing where Volvo sits on the company car very good. In the month of August we hit 81% policy and making sure it has the right cars in utilisation, which we’ve never hit before, but we the right grades. want to make it more accessible and easier to Whereas previously Volvo might have only had book a demo,” Beattie said. the XC90 at director level now it has cars avail- Volvo has also introduced a new customer able in grades below, with XC40 being an impor- relationship management (CRM) system. tant part of that. “You’re only as good as your CRM system and Beattie believes Volvo’s range of SUVs has “put we’ve done a lot of work to get it to a level where it in a good position for what the market wants” it looks quite good, but there is still more work “In seven years’ time and that brand perception is “much stronger”. to do,” Beattie said. He suggests announcements such as the 360c Used cars were brought in-house at the end of the market will be in a autonomous concept (see fleetnews.co.uk, 2017, which has aided residual values and Volvo different place to where September 6) and its electrification strategy (fleet- has been working with leasing companies and RV news.co.uk, July 5, 2017) have caught the interest setters to give them “the right information”. we are today” of fleet operators and company car drivers. “That was stage one of our strategy last year,” Currently, all of Volvo’s hybrids (XC60, XC90, Beattie said. “Stage two is to take it a step Steve Beattie, Volvo S90 and V90) are at senior manager grades but further. We need to get more data, work it, that will change when V60, S60 and XC40 offer support it and send it back to the right people.”

fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 17

FP_FLEETNEW_JaguarXF29id3651688.pdf 10.10.2018 14:48 COMMENT

Contact us Fleet News, Media House, Lynch Wood, YOUR LETTERS Peterborough, PE2 6EA. THE BIG Email – [email protected] Burning question: PICTURE What trend are you most tired of? Editorial Editor-in-chief Fleet News Stephen Briers 01733 468024 By Stephen Briers, editor, [email protected] The trend I’m literally most tired of is VEHICLE FUNDING (mis)use of the word literally The Government has made its VEHICLE EMISSIONS Deputy editor AIR QUALITY Sarah Tooze 01733 468901 first announcement ahead of [email protected] the Budget on October 29 and People’s misuse of the word ‘journey’ EDITOR’S Leasing firms share AdBlue ignorance News editor it’s not good news for those Fleets need clarity over PICK Gareth Roberts 01733 468314 [email protected] advocating the uptake of People taking offence on behalf of possible clean air zones fleet frustration not that widespread others electric cars. Features editor The plug-in grant for cars is to reduce by Andrew Ryan 01733 468308 Rob Chisholm, Applewood Vehicle Finance, wrote: Sage and Onion wrote: [email protected] £1,000 because the Government believes Reality TV Having read ‘Leasing companies are taking Having read ‘Diesel drivers don’t understand AdBlue’ Head of digital the cost of electric vehicles has fallen so it advantage of WLTP confusion’ (fleetnews.co.uk, (fleetnews.co.uk, September 28), cars that require Jeremy Bennett 01733 468261 [email protected] no longer needs to offer as much support. September 28), I’d suggest there is unlikely to be AdBlue have a countdown showing the range left Fitness. I’m knackered This sends out the wrong message and is wholesale doctoring of the rates. before the AdBlue tank needs to be refilled, and Web producer Dealing with the larger leasing companies when the tank range is only about 8,000 miles or so; Elizabeth Howlett 01733 468655 short-sighted, especially coming on the [email protected] back of the Government’s Road to Zero invariably means going through an administrator, I doubt drivers of such cars are unaware of AdBlue. Wearing contour make-up. It looks dead some of whom may not be as experienced as one Furthermore, a few drivers have been affected by stupid strategy. First, the price of electric cars has Staff writer might hope (not their fault). faulty AdBlue sensors that flash up warnings or put Matt de Prez 01733 468277 not fallen – certainly the differential with Dealing with a smaller leasing broker you would the car into limp mode. So, again, they are aware. [email protected] The increasing inability of motorists to diesel is little changed and this is the gap usually be dealing with an experienced individual. Drivers who have been warned so much that their use correct lane discipline the plug-in grant is supposed to close. What has been happening over the summer is vehicle requires AdBlue they then use their fuel card Photos Chris Lowndes confusion or realignment of pricing structures, to go to an AdBlue pump and fill up the diesel tank. Production whether that be discounts or volume-related Head of publishing Luke Neal 01733 468262 bonuses (VRBs)/leasing support. The five-day working week At times some of these have read as zero. If the Production editors “Disappointing, but hopefully VEHICLE SECURITY David Buckley 01733 468310 individual doesn’t notice or understand what is The ridiculous lengths companies are actually happening they are likely to produce an going to in a bid to make coffee more not a sign of things to come exciting – and the resultant crazy prices erroneous quote, which could, of course, turn into a Finbarr O’Reilly 01733 468267 in the Budget” Henry Thomas wrote: councils initially identified with the rental. Old security 19-year-old wannabe fascists whingeing about their freedom of speech being Having read ‘Air pollution in UK towns worst pollution problems, and those An experienced individual will notice and will take violated and cities is worse than previously councils where there is a political some sort of action whether that be amending the methods will help Most experts believe there will not be Advertising feared’ (fleetnews.co.uk, October 8), preference for a clean air zone. But quote or suggesting an alternative. Commercial director price parity until 2025. So, reducing the this just again highlights the need for this suggests more could follow, These past few months have been a frustrating J Stewarts wrote: Sarah Crown 01733 366466 grant to £3,500 is very disappointing. B2B commercial manager clarity over where and when clean air impacting fleet operators the length time for most of us. Having read ‘Tracker’s league table of stolen cars Sheryl Graham 01733 366467 Perversely, a separate fund has been set zones may have to be introduced and and breadth of the country. reveals Manchester-based car theft on the rise’ Account directors Lisa Turner 01733 366471 up that will contribute up to 20% (£5,000 what charges fleets could face. Fleet decision-makers need time to (fleetnews.co.uk, May 24), a key method used by Stuart Wakeling 01733 366470 maximum) for e-cargo bikes, which At the moment, apart from plan and Government leadership, not ROAD SAFETY criminals to steal high-end vehicles involves blocking Account managers London’s ultra-low emission zone, we this drip feed of information and the signal from a key fob when the owner attempts Emma Rogers 01733 363219 typically cost around £3,000! Karl Houghton 01733 366309 know the ‘preferred’ options of those disjointed environmental policy. to remotely lock the car, leaving the car unlocked. Lucy Herbert 01733 363218 The grant will now only be for pure Sleep test inconclusive A thief approaches later and downloads the car’s Telesales/recruitment electric cars (plug-in hybrids are now 01733 468275/01733 468328 n The editor’s pick in each issue wins a £20 John Lewis voucher. electronic security codes on to a blank key. This only excluded) and only for the next 35,000 EVs. Pete Austin wrote: takes a few seconds. The easiest ways to restrict the Head of project management Leanne Patterson 01733 468332 The PHEV move is a reaction to a Having read ‘Blood test for drowsy driving opportunity for thieves is to either lock the car by Project managers developed’ (fleetnews.co.uk, September 25), it says using the fob at close range and then physically Niamh Walker-Booth 01733 468327 perception that drivers are choosing Kerry Unwin 01733 468578 plug-ins for the tax benefit and not it comes with 92% accuracy. If these 8% errors are checking the door or, if the car is fully keyless, to Chelsie Tate 01733 468338 VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS false positives, mistakenly identifying well-rested press the locking point on the door handle instead of charging them, instead running around on Events individuals as sleep-deprived, this research would using the fob. Finally, the old methods of steering Event director the inefficient combustion engine. be a big problem. wheel locks and putting cars in garages or behind Chris Lester Event manager However, used correctly – as many are WLTP and tax uncertainty For every 100 tests, eight people get fined. locked gates should be a good deterrent. Sandra Evitt 01733 468123 Senior event planner – they are a greener solution, so the decision Kate Howard 01733 468146 to bar them from the grant is nonsensical. behind fleet sales dip HAVE YOUR SAY Email: fl[email protected] Comment online: fleetnews.co.uk Publishing Additionally, with annual sales of electric LinkedIn: UK fleet managers group Twitter: twitter.com/_FleetNews Managing director Matt Cha wrote: The EU has given no consideration to Tim Lucas 01733 468340 cars at around 15,000, the grant is likely to Having read ‘Fleet uptake of new cars consumers in the introduction of these Group marketing manager last only for the next couple of years. Lauren Annis 01733 468295 declines by 22.4% in WLTP backlash’ new rules, ambivalent to the fact Office manager It doesn’t give the long-term commitment (fleetnews.co.uk, October 4), these manufacturers were struggling to get Jane Hill 01733 468319 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 the fleet sector is crying out for. figures are not surprising considering the cars tested, while the manufacturers 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 uncertainty over future company car were not prepared to put their heads registered address Media House, The submission of material to Bauer omissions nor do we accept any Press Standards Organisation (www.ipso. Chief executive officer So, a policy full of holes, but hopefully not 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 a sign of things to come in the Budget. taxation rates. above the parapet and complain about Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6EA. is taken as permission to publish in howsoever caused, resulting from the resolve your concerns quickly. Our The industry will be hoping for some the new emissions testing regime, Registered number 01176085. the magazine, including any licensed use of the magazine. Editorial Complaints Policy (including full Subscribe to Fleet News The Government says it is listening to No part of the magazine may be editions throughout the world. Any fees details of how to contact us about editorial 01635 588495 good news from the Chancellor in the because of why it was introduced. 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 fleets; we now need to see the evidence on part, without prior permission of the any use in any other licensed editions. Printing: PCP, Telford be found at www.bauermediacomplaints. [email protected] Budget. But it is also right that vehicle Let’s hope both the Chancellor and publisher. All material published We cannot accept any responsibility co.uk. Our email address for editorial Subscription rates: October 29. availability has been badly hit because of carmakers can help sort this situation 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 the introduction of WLTP. out sooner rather than later. We reserve the right to edit letters, Whilst every reasonable care is taken bauermedia.co.uk. years £230, three years £315)

18 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 19 FN50-18_FPAD(v3).qxp_Layout 1 12/10/2018 12:09 Page 1

COMMENT Over 850 attending, book your ticket now! Call 01733 395133 FLEET OPINION now to avoid disappointment!

FUEL MANAGEMENT AIR QUALITY W es tmi nst Fuel cards can steer Data helps green er Brid 6 ge P through turbulence policies to improve t ark h Pla za H By Jon Friedenthal By Patrick Gallagher N ot If the headlines are to be believed, we are about to Jon Friedenthal, The Department for Environment, Food and Rural el, enter a period of fuel price volatility, with predic- Fleet consultant, Arval Affairs (Defra) recently stated that while the o Lon v don tions of both rising oil prices pushing up pump Government has a role to play in tackling emis- e prices and a supermarket fuel price war. sions, it “cannot act alone”. This is undoubtedly true, but it m In times such as these – indeed, at any time – our view is draws attention away from those who are most responsible that fleet decision-makers should not be distracted from for ensuring that businesses – and individuals – have the b fundamental fuel management policies. information and infrastructure needed in order to play their e Effective fuel management should not really depend on part in reducing air pollution. r pump prices because they only have a surprisingly small I was pleased to hear that Government is beginning to part to play in minimising fuel spend. In fact, by adopting the consider steps to tackle such issues, with the publication of 20 right policies, it is often possible to almost neutralise any the Road to Zero strategy in July. Additionally, through the 1 rises in petrol and diesel prices while maximising the advan- Clean Growth Strategy, it has committed to cutting carbon 8 tages when they fall. emissions – promising an investment of nearly £1.5 billion to The fundamentals of fuel management depend more on accelerate the rollout of low emission vehicles by 2020. factors such as ensuring you are selecting vehicles that Given the nature of our business, the logistics industry has deliver good fuel economy, that they are being driven in a Patrick Gallagher, an active role to play in lowering emissions to create an way that preserves fuel use, and they are kept in a condition CEO of CitySprint Group environment fit for the future. that enables them to maintain efficiency. Fleet managers must take a longer-term view of how they SHARE However, the single most important step in any fuel policy operate in urban areas and invest in a selection of vehicles CONVERSE is to take control of fuel spend while gathering high quality that use different fuels, from pushbikes and cargo bikes to TE data about fuel economy – and by far the easiest and best electric and hydrogen vans. But, while the adoption of CELEBRA way to do this is through a fuel card. hydrogen and electric vehicles will play a significant role in With the information provided, you will be able to identify reducing emissions, one of the biggest barriers is the infra- NETWORK which vehicles and drivers are performing well and which structure to support these vehicles. MEET are not, allowing you to take action where needed. In addition to creating a green fleet, businesses must also Some fleets take a proactive approach using their fuel card, take a more critical look at their operations. For example, to utilising their data and monitoring the performance of drivers help adapt for a more sustainable future, we’ve been working against the manufacturer’s claimed consumption figures. with engineering students from the University of South- Taking this approach allows them to provide guidance to ampton to identify ways to improve our green policies. The those performing outside of an acceptable range and shows By giving them full access to our anonymised operational drivers this important cost is being thoroughly monitored. delivery data in London, they have identified some key trends And, when it does come to pump prices, a fuel card will which will help us make positive changes. These changes allow you to potentially guide drivers towards cheaper fuel have the potential to save up to 200kg of CO2 per day across networking sites and take advantage of lower pump prices when they the network. occur. That means you can concentrate your spending at While I welcome recent Government announcements, and outlets that you know to be cheaper or at which you have the impact these will have on driving the industry to reduce some kind of discount or rebate scheme in place. emissions, I believe the Government and Trans- dinnerof the year By following these steps, you will ensure that you port for London need to do more to support busi- are doing everything to minimise your fuel spend. nesses and remove barriers to sustainability.

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from £4,500 to £3,500. And the commitment is dissuade the Chancellor from bringing forward restricted to funding another 35,000 cars. the 2% BIK threshold for zero emission cars. If MAKE MPs AWARE OF WHAT This year, around 15,000 pure electric cars will you can’t get the product, why introduce needless be sold, suggesting this pot of money will only ACTION changes, is the thought process. last at most for two-to-three years. However, models are available to order now THE BUDGET NEEDS TO SAY The Government announcement falls short of POINTS while clarity and a firm announcement on direc- the fleet sector’s call for a long-term commit- 6 tion of travel and Government intentions on ment to EV grants to offset the higher price of company car tax will give drivers the confidence these cars. Experts forecast that there will not to make the right choices and help companies to be price parity with diesel until 2025 (see Big 1 Realignment of benefit-in-kind tax set the right policies. Fleet News provides templates for you and your Picture, page 18). tables to take into consideration CO2 John Pryor, chairman of fleet association ACFO Fleet News has submitted its representation on emissions under WLTP; there should and fleet and travel manager at Arcadia, reiter- company car drivers to lobby your local MPs behalf of the fleet sector to HM Treasury, while the not be any distortion caused by the ated the Fleet Budget Manifesto’s call for clarity number of signatories to the Fleet Budget Mani- transition and use of correlated NEDC on BIK taxation. festo campaign has soared past 300 and include figures for tax purposes. “Fleets and suppliers are in limbo until they fleet decision-makers, leasing companies, manu- know what the taxable position will be,” he said. By Stephen Briers a significant increase in tax for using a company facturers, suppliers and company car drivers. Reconsider the 4% diesel “We would like more – but please at least give us s we move into the final few days car, many of whom are now considering alterna- You can still add your voice to the campaign by this so we can plan and replace old vehicles.” 2 supplement. before the Budget on October 29, tive options. The regime is disincentivising signing up here: fleetnews.co.uk/fbm2018 ACFO vice chairman Caroline Sandall added: Fleet News has made its final play employees from using a company car meaning Treasury representatives have toldFleet News “We need to have long-term clarity to settle all by uploading template letters the sustainability of this tax revenue – from the that they are sympathetic to the manifesto posi- Bring forward the 2% BIK incentive the uncertainty. We would like to see a smoothing employers and employees can Treasury’s perspective – is under threat.” tion and that the Government is taking the issue 3 for ULEVs from April 2020 to 2019. of the BIK table (no cliff edges), protect the plug-in Asend to their local MPs outlining their concerns Meanwhile, the letter from drivers points out: of company car taxation and BIK tax seriously. grants for electric and hybrid cars, particularly about company car taxation and the affect it is “If I continue driving a company car, I’m However, there are growing concerns that Raise ULEV incentives through a long- for the sub-£50,000 vehicles, and we need to having either personally or on their businesses. concerned I’ll now be penalised because of the ministers are so consumed by Brexit negotia- 4 term commitment to plug-in grants. understand the Government’s plan for at least The letters, courtesy of BVRLA, are available move to WLTP which will be used for tax tions they are devoting little time to other poli- three-five years.” via this link – fleetnews.co.uk/mp-letters – purposes from April 2020.” cies. In addition, a lack of clarity over full WLTP Commit to a longer-term which also includes a link to the Parliament The Government has already announced one figures – with a number of manufacturers yet to 5 view of BIK – five years. You and your drivers can give website to find out the details of local MPs. policy, ahead of the Budget, on ultra-low emis- FLEET BUDGET release their data – might convince ministers to your support to the Fleet Here’s an excerpt from the letter for fleet sion incentives (action point 4). It has decided to hold off any realignment of BIK until next year. Begin consultation about future and Budget Manifesto by signing decision-makers: “We are concerned the scrap the incentive for plug-in hybrids to focus Another fear is that the lack of availability of 6 our online petition at company car tax regime is increasingly burden- all funds on pure electric cars (news, page 11). MANIFESTO electric vehicles, with some models extending alternative company car taxation fleetnews.co.uk/fbm2018 some for employees. Our employees are facing Disappointingly, the grant has been reduced to six or nine month delivery times, might policies. NUMBER ONE IN RELIABILITY * T H E SU Z U K I SW I F T AT £129.99 PER MONTH +VAT O N S U Z U K I B U S I N E SS CO N T R ACT H I R E P LU S I N I T I A L R E N TA L O F £ 7 7 9 . 9 4 +VAT

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Model shown: Swift 1.0 Boosterjet SZ-T petrol manual including metallic paint. Swift range official fuel consumption figures in mpg (L/100km): 8UEDQIURP  WR  ([WUD8UEDQIURP  WR  &RPELQHGIURP  WR  2IILFLDO&2˄HPLVVLRQVIURP 114g/km to 97g/km. Figures based on NEDC test which is only comparable with other models tested by the same (NEDC) methodology. Important information – Business Users only. Reliability Offer subject to 35 monthly rentals of £129.99 plus VAT with initial rental of £779.94 plus VAT based on Swift 1.0 Boosterjet SZ-T. Non-maintained. Suzuki Contract Hire is a trading style Survey of Lex Autolease Ltd. Registered office: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Ownership of the vehicle remains with the finance company and the vehicle must be handed back at the Overall winner end of the term. UK residents aged 18+ only. Subject to status. The offer above is available from participating Authorised Suzuki Dealers only. The offer cannot be used in conjunction For even more reasons to choose Suzuki, visit your local Dealer today. with any other offer unless otherwise stated. This offer is available from 1st October 2018 to 31st December 2018. Charges may be payable depending on the condition/mileage when *Suzuki has been named the number one the vehicle is returned. Excess mileage charges apply at 5.2p plus VAT per mile. All prices and specifications correct at time of going to print. most reliable car brand by What Car? cars.suzuki.co.uk/swiftbusiness 0800 804 8828 FLEET NEWS AWARDS 2019

AWARDS 2019 TIMELINE NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES AT: OCTOBER 19 2018 NOVEMBER 16 2018 DECEMBER 3 2018 MID-DECEMBER JANUARY 23-24 2019 JANUARY MID-FEBRUARY MARCH 20 2019 fleetnewsawards.com Shortlisted fleets notified; Entry deadline for Initial shortlist 2018 Judging day for 30-31 2019 2019 Winners revealed at second stage of online all categories drawn up for Entries to manufacturer and Fleet manager Shortlist Fleet News Awards entry process opens (no extensions given) manufacturer judging judges supplier awards interviews take place revealed ceremony

THE CATEGORIES

FLEET NEWS AWARDS FLEET AWARDS Best Zero Emission Car Fleet Supplier of the year 2018 winner: BMW i3 2018 winner: The AA Fleet of the Year – up to 1,000 vehicles Sponsored by Hyundai Motor UK 2018 winner: Freedom Group of Companies Green Fleet Manufacturer Sponsored by Reflex 2018 winner: Toyota (GB) New Company Car of the Year 2018 winner: BMW 5 Series RECOGNISES AND Most Improved Fleet Manufacturer Sponsored by Halfords Autocentres Fleet of the Year – 1,001-plus vehicles 2018 winner: Royal Mail 2018 winner: Seat UK Sponsored by Zenith Fleet Manufacturer of the Year 2018 winner: Mercedes-Benz TABLE Most Improved Fleet SUPPLIER AWARDS Cars UK HONOURS THE BEST 2018 winner: Rexel UK Sponsored by KeeResources BOOKINGS NOW Leasing Company – up to 20,000 vehicles BEING TAKEN: Safe Fleet Award 2018 winner: Marshall Leasing Fleet Champion of the Year –NEW FOR 2018 2018 winner: Skanska UK fleetnewsawards.com Winning an award can have a positive effect on a Leasing Company – more than 20,000 vehicles Fleet News Hall of Fame business and improve winner’s career prospects Ultra-low Emission Fleet 2018 winner: Alphabet (GB) 2018 winners: Phil Clifford/ 2018 winner (Eco Fleet Award): Farmdrop Maurice Elford Sponsored by BMW (UK) Rental Company of the Year 2018 winner: Enterprise Rent-A-Car Travel and Mobility Initiative –NEW FOR 2018 Sponsored by Interactive Fleet Management oyal Mail fleet director Paul “THE ENTRY PROCESS IS pride seeing your winner’s trophy,” says Gatti. Gatti describes the Fleet Numerous studies show the positive effects Customer Service Award News Awards as the indus- SIMPLE AND YOU’LL TAKE winning industry awards can have on a business MANUFACTURER AWARDS 2018 winner: FMG try’s “most prestigious” and GREAT PRIDE SEEING and its employees. Best Small Car Fleet Dealer of the Year R says it is a “fantastic opportu- YOUR WINNER’S TROPHY” Fisher points out that fleet managers and their 2018 winner: TrustFord 2018 winner: Ford Fiesta nity for fleet operators to be Paul Gatti, director at Royal Mail Fleet staff do not tend to receive much recognition, recognised for excellence among peers”. which “at times can be demoralising”. Best Lower Medium Car Fleet of the Year 1,001-plus vehicles HEADLINE AWARDS Meanwhile, David Fisher, fleet manager at most He adds: “This is why these awards are the best 2018 winner: Volkswagen Golf improved fleet of the year Rexel, says being short- network with 1,500 of your peers and supplier/ way to showcase your achievements. The awards Fleet Manager of the Year listed “is an achievement in itself” but that winning manufacturer partners. Many of our guests refer will give you a platform to highlight the improve- Best Upper Medium Car 2018 winner: Škoda Superb 2018 winner: Julie Madoui “brings an amazing feeling to yourself and to your to it as being the best evening of the year. ments you have made to your peers, colleagues team, boosting morale and helping to keep perfor- The process to enter is easier than you might and other businesses which will improve your Best Compact SUV mance at its highest within your department”. think. Initially, fleets need only supply 750 words team morale and can also help advance your 2018 winner: Volkswagen T-Roc You, too, can experience the joy of being a on why they should be shortlisted (see timeline career, either with your current business or else- finalist, with the anticipation of taking the top prize above). We’ll contact successful fleets to confirm where.” Best Mid-size SUV 2018 winner: Škoda Karoq at the black-tie awards dinner on March 20 at the their place as a finalist and then they complete So, what do you have to lose? Nothing – it’s all Grosvenor Hotel. the full entry form. Of course, any fleet can go positive gains from entering the Fleet News Best People Carrier All fleet finalists are invited as our guest, with straight to filling in the form, should they choose. Awards, particularly as we commit to give you 2018 winner: Ford S-Max hotel accommodation included, and you’ll get to “The entry process is simple and you’ll take great feedback to help you in the future. Best Compact Premium Car 2018 winner: Audi A3

Awards sponsored by Best Premium Car 2018 winner: Audi A4

Best Executive Car 2018 winner: BMW 5 Series FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: FLEETNEWSAWARDS.COM OR CONTACTT EMMA E BUNCE ON 01733 395133 OR [email protected]

24 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk FLEET IN FOCUS: BRITISH GAS

‘SUPPLIERS DO... WE MANAGE’

British Gas relies on its collaborative partnerships with suppliers to run an effective and efficient fleet, says Steve Winter. Report by Stephen Briers

he adage ‘big shoes breakdown business – it was one of my His fleet team of seven – two account to fill’ has never rung better decisions,” Winter says. managers, one fleet engineer, a car admin- as true as when “It was fulfilling, looking after British Gas istrator, one finance, one asset management applied to the British and working with Colin offered lots of oppor- and another person assigned to the finance Gas fleet. tunity to look at innovation. That’s what I’m team – design the vision and do the presenta- T Colin Marriott ran most keen on.” tions as they are responsible for maintaining the Centrica-owned- Winter applauds the work of his prede- the supplier relationships. operation for 26 cessor – “he left the fleet in really good shape” “My suppliers ‘do’ and the team manages,” years, putting an indelible stamp on processes – but believes there are plenty of areas where says Winter. “We are streamlined because of and strategy, with numerous industry-leading he can continue to drive efficiencies and our collaboration with Hitachi and our other initiatives to improve safety and efficiencies. savings. In addition, new regulations, tech- suppliers. It’s an outsourced model that Where he led, others followed. For services to nology and social responsibilities mean the ensures we get maximum value for money.” fleet, Marriott was inducted into the Fleet fleet has to continually evolve and adapt. The chosen suppliers will continue to come News Hall of Fame in 2017. One of his first decisions was to issue the together regularly to discuss innovation, which Big shoes, indeed. However, any sugges- tender document for British Gas’s leasing offers significant benefits to the company. tion that it’s job done and the fleet can now partner as its five-year agreement with One outcome of the meetings was an glide along on a conveyor belt of best practice Hitachi was coming to an end. Hitachi’s track increase in the use of recycled parts and and water-tight policies is dispelled within record “gave it the right to bid for our work”, mechanical items for accident repair through moments of meeting the new man in charge. but there was no special treatment granted salvage/recycling business FAB. It has Steve Winter was brought into the business to his former employer. helped to halve downtime and reduce hire four years ago as part of Marriott’s succes- Not surprisingly, given the British Gas fleet costs by 30% in the past two years. sion plan, taking the head of fleet position of 2,200 cars and 12,000 vans is the UK’s third Hitachi’s proposal for business as usual when the latter retired two years ago. largest, there was a lot of interest. and fleet management was “class-leading”, Winter has extensive knowledge of fleet, The list was trimmed by Winter’s unusual according to Winter, and it was duly reap- starting his career at the coalface as a approach to the tender process. His first step pointed as the leasing/fleet management patrolman with The AA. After 20 years with is to call all interested suppliers in for a partner a few months ago. However, this was the breakdown company, culminating as combined meeting. his minimum expectation from the tender. repair improvement manager, he joined “I bring all the suppliers together and tell “It was the innovation they brought into the Hitachi Capital Commercial Vehicle Solutions them our vision. Then they tell us whether proposal that made the difference,” he adds. in 2007 as a fleet engineer. His key account? they want to be part of the tender,” he says. “We want innovation during the British Gas. “Some go for it, others decline, which is good term of the contract and we Steve Winter says innovation “I moved to Hitachi because I was more because it means we don’t waste each want service levels to improve is important to everything interested in fleet management than the other’s time.” so when we get to the end, it’s British Gas does with its fleet

26 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk FLEET IN FOCUS: BRITISH GAS

FACTFILE Head of fleet Steve Winter Time in role two years Fleet size 14,200: cars – 2,200; vans – 12,000 Funding method contract hire, via Hitachi Operating cycle six years (under review) Brands on fleet cars – Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Seat and Volvo; vans – Ford, Nissan and Volkswagen

easy to renew. Some suppliers charge-points. Out ambition remains to be savings. Driver feedback was also negative. holding a fleet of surplus vehicles, but they find innovation difficult; others pure EV, but we need the vehicles with the “EVs are starting to slot into our working are kept centrally which is inefficient when relish it. Price and SLAs range and the charging infrastructure.” practices. But they have to meet our require- the fleet is spread nationally. (service level agreements) are Nevertheless, British Gas has racked up ments, not the other way round. We have no Winter’s target is to hold 3% of the fleet as important, of course, but we are looking at one million electric miles over the past five compromise on specification, safety and surplus – it’s currently too big – or, put another that bit extra.” years. The vehicles, all Nissan eNV200s, are capacity,” says Winter. way, to achieve 97% utilisation. British Gas is His immediate priorities with Hitachi are coming to the end of their five-year lease and The flexibility on lease lengths negotiated working with Hitachi and its suppliers to find fleet utilisation, ultra-low emission vehicles, Winter is pleased with their performance. with Hitachi isn’t simply to facilitate the a way to hold stock regionally. clean air zones and tackling uncertainties. “We’ve had very little battery degradation, uptake of EVs as they come to market. “I don’t want 3% of my fleet sitting in our Only half the fleet is Euro 6-compliant, the around 10-12%, which was one of the initial British Gas also has safety in mind; it is keen car park; I want it to be used to replace our minimum required to enter clean air zones concerns,” he says. “We estimated mainte- for its vehicles to adopt the latest technology. hires,” Winter says. “That’s why we need to without any charges (the rules about vehicle nance costs of 60-70% of diesel but it’s a lot Active braking systems are specified as put the vehicles into strategic locations. type vary by city), so one project underway less than that, which benefits the total cost standard after Winter proved the return on Hitachi will manage this as part of the is a vehicle replacement programme. of ownership (TCO). investment case with a trial on 400 Seat contract.” British Gas currently leases its vans for six “Driver acceptance is good; it relieves Leons. Rear-end collisions reduced by 20%. Utilisation will be further enhanced by a years but this is under review based on the stress, they are automatic and quiet. And, Safety and collision management is linked vehicle usage and specification project. timing of new product and the likely intro- from an operational point of view, we have had closely to downtime management, which is Winter suspects he has too many variances duction of electric vehicles (EVs). very few breakdowns, so uptime is good.” a key performance indicator (KPI) for the and hopes to be able to rationalise the 12 It sources model replacement information The experience has persuaded him to fleet. Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions specifications to two vehicle types – small from manufacturer partners to work into its switch direct from diesel to electric for vans managing director Jon Lawes calls it “class- and medium vans – with four or five specs. own replacement cycles. where possible, leapfrogging plug-in vehi- leading” among its customers. The project will be tied into the next tender “We don’t want to be tied into a six-year cles. “I don’t believe they work from a TCO Telematics plays a crucial role with the for van partners. Its current suppliers, Ford lease if a lot of new product is coming in the point of view,” Winter says. data combined with shift patterns and and Volkswagen, are in contract extension next two-to-three years,” Winter says. He is similarly unimpressed by petrol after distance of use to ensure planned mainte- while Winter goes through his tried-and- “Hitachi has been creative on our lease a trial failed to produce fuel consumption nance is scheduled on engineers’ rest days. tested process of bringing prospective lengths. Residual values are important and Repairers collect and deliver the vehicle suppliers together. we have some early termination written into from the engineer’s house. Consequently, The vision he is sharing with them focuses the contracts to allow flexibility.” downtime is less than half a day per year. on British Gas’s electric vehicle roadmap. Electric is high on the replacement Unscheduled maintenance is also kept to The tender will require insight into future schedule agenda; British Gas has long held “We don’t want to be a minimum, partly through investing in reli- models, recyclable racking, safety equip- an ambition to convert its fleet across. Back able vehicles under the company’s TCO ment and turnkey solutions. Also key are the in 2013, it made a public commitment to have tied into a six-year lease matrix. Each vehicle is matched to a repairer, practical user requirements such as load 10% of its van fleet running on electric by if a lot of new product managed by Hitachi, so they can plan for space and roof capacity. 2017. That date has since moved to 2020, MOTs and servicing. Such close collabora- In addition to bringing the right vehicles although the company has introduced 60 is coming in the next tion also means that, if a vehicle breaks onto fleet, Winter is also considering the electric vans over that time, giving it one of down, British Gas gets priority attention. growing challenges of urban transport and the biggest pure EV fleets in the country. two-to-three years” Downtime resulted in costly vehicle hire has a number of trials underway for last- Winter explains the challenges: “Our engi- Steve Winter, British Gas which affects engineer productivity as the mile distribution solutions. neers take the vans home so we have to have vans do not meet British Gas specification. “Within the next year, we will be looking at a home-based solution which means The company has partially offset this by parts supply and parts racking on our vans when we have completed our trials,” he says. “We are also looking at electric bikes, but one problem is we have to carry step CARS ARE LEASED BUT OTHER OPTIONS ARE UNDER CONSIDERATION ladders and lots of equipment to ensure a first-time fix. British Gas has a company car fleet of The new fuel testing regime WLTP has alternatives. We also allowed them to “A lot of it is about having the right vehicle 2,200 vehicles, a 50-50 mix of essential caused confusion but the company has cancel orders if necessary.” which cuts down on movements. I can’t see users and perk cars, with another 2,000 been agile with its car policy which offers British Gas decided to be more flexible us having an airfield of drones, but there will grey fleet drivers. five badges: Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, with its essential user drivers, who be more supply chain logistics. And while It leases its cars but is evaluating other Seat and Volvo. Steve Winter has seen a previously were restricted to Seat. our contracts will change, the innovation will options, such as employee car ownership shift in demand, based on availability. “We are now giving them the still need to be there.” schemes. “Volvo declared its figures early and opportunity to go into the full car scheme Steve Winter’s approach to No decisions will be taking until the they have picked up orders as a result,” to open up their choice,” Winter says. tendering is to call all interested Government clarifies future taxation he says. “We have left it to our drivers to “It’s good for staff retention and the parties in for a combined briefing For more fleet profiles, visit: thresholds, although it’s likely that British make the choice while certain models manufacturers have worked hard to get before asking if they still fleetnews.co.uk/fleetprofiles Gas will opt for a blended approach. were not available; they have found their vehicles within our allowance bands.” wish to be considered

28 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 29 IN THE SPOTLIGHT: DS AUTOMOBILES

‘WE FEEL LIKE A START-UP’

DS’s first UK MD Alain Descat is on a mission to launch new product, a new dealer network and a new customer experience – fast. Sarah Tooze reports

S Automobiles is part He believes that, like a start-up, the team It’s all part of an attempt to appear of Europe’s second has “an entrepreneurial spirit”. The brand “different” to the established premium biggest vehicle manu- aims to “embody French luxury”, which, in (predominantly German) brands. facturer, the PSA practice, means features like a clock designed Descat says that with DS you “get a good Group, so to hear its by French luxury watchmaker BRM, which amount of technology plus the difference of D new UK managing appears in the DS 7 Crossback, and the use the style”. director Alain Descat of high end materials, along with the latest The DS 7 Crossback is “a car to really stand say “we feel like a technology (including the semi-autonomous out; to be different”, he says. start-up” might raise a few eyebrows. Drive Pilot and smartphone entry). “If you want to stand out today you don’t get But Descat explains that as of July 1, when It also means quirky side projects such as the car that everybody has on their driveway.” the brand officially separated from Citroën to DS design director Thierry Métroz creating Customers will stand out even more if they become PSA’s stand-alone premium brand, the kitchen for three-star Michelin chef opt for DS’s delivery service, which sees their DS has adopted a start-up approach. Yannick Alléno at his Pavillon Ledoyen new car brought to their home by a DS trans- “We have to launch new product, a new restaurant in Paris. porter with a DS ‘expert advisor’ on hand to dealer network and a new customer experi- The brand draws on its French heritage give them the keys and explain the car’s ence – the three pillars of the brand,” he with its different interior options – which it features. It’s part of DS’s ‘Only You’ offering says. “That is a start-up model, you launch calls ‘inspirations’ – named after Parisian (see panel), which is meant to enhance the with everything at the same time. We go fast; landmarks such as the Place de la Bastille customer experience. FACTFILE we have shorter loops.” (DS Bastille) and Rue de Rivoli (DS Rivoli). How much interest there will be from a fleet customer in paying £195 for that kind of Brand: DS Automobiles UK managing director: DS 3 Crossback enters the service – even from a user-chooser – is Alain Descat is pleased about Alain Descat compact SUV segment to questionable but what is likely to pique their the DS entrepreneurial spirit Time in role: six months challenge the Audi Q2 and interest is the brand’s shift to electric. and wants his team to feel True fleet sales 2018 September YTD:651* Mini Countryman From next year, every DS model will have part of something special *As measured by DS an electrified version, starting with the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4x4 plug-in hybrid, which has an electric range of 31 miles, and the However, he does reveal that longer term we made the switch on July 1 we had 25,” pure electric DS 3 Crossback E-Tense, which he would like to see a 50/50 fleet-retail split Descat says. “We’re at 35 today and I expect combines a 50kW battery and 100kW on the DS 7 Crossback, the first of the to be around 50 by the end of the year and (136PS) motor to deliver a claimed 186-mile brand’s new generation of models. “There is a lot of pride in between 60 and 70 at some point, and then range under the new WLTP regime. The previous models – DS 3, DS 4, DS 5 the DS team. We feel we’ll stop, given the current market.” Petrol and diesel engines will also be avail- – which ceased production in May this year, Currently, the DS network is all Citroën able. were more geared to the retail market; we are the builders of investors but the brand plans to attract new By 2025, new DS models will only be avail- DS 3, in particular, was “very much a car for ones. able as a pure electric or hybrid. Descat the retail market”, Descat says. something great” “We’re at a time when the volumes of DS explains that, at that point, “the market will DS 3 Crossback, the second product of the are the lowest because we’re in a transition be ready to make the switch (to electric) in a new generation, enters the compact SUV Alain Descat, DS Automobiles so how do we take on board new investors? stronger way”. segment and is being pitted against the Audi We bring them to design centre and we show “For us, electrification is an enabler of Q2 and Mini Countryman. them the future so they can understand driving pleasure, electric is the next luxury in The main challenge for DS is brand aware- corporates through the PSA fleet team, what we want to do,” Descat says. that sense,” Descat says. “It’s obviously a way ness and Descat believes the best way to headed by Martin Gurney. “They see PSA is investing billions to to be more environmentally friendly but it’s tackle this is test drives. DS is offering 24-hour and 48-hour test support that, we take them through the full BENEFITS OF THE ‘ONLY YOU’ PROGRAMME definitely a way to enjoy your car. We think DS has a fleet of demonstrators specifically drives throughout its dealer network and strategy of the brand and the way we look at pleasure will always be at the heart of driving.” for leasing companies and corporate has an initiative in London and Greater them is we are looking for partners who are Alain Descat believes that customer n DS Assistance – 24/7 roadside Electrification is expected to account for a customers and it has attended events such Manchester where a customer can book a willing to invest for a long time, that are on a service is “as important as the product assistance. third of the brand’s sales by 2025, although as Company Car in Action, where the “feed- test drive online and a professional will bring longer journey with us and have the entre- itself”. DS has created an ‘Only You’ n DS Delivery Valet – delivery of your it’s too soon to say how that will translate to back was brilliant”. the car to their home or office. preneurial mindset to build the brand so it customer service programme, which new DS car to your chosen location. UK sales and fleet sales in particular. “People don’t know about the brand, they “One of the promises of DS is to go to the requires investment. But you see every year includes: n DS Service Valet – local collection/ In fact, Descat won’t talk about any fleet discover it, then they step in the car and say customer or to let the customer come to us, there is a new product, we’re preparing for n MyDS smartphone app – for delivery of your DS for maintenance sales expectations – “we don’t communicate ‘wow, what’s all this? I get so much in this you need to have the choice,” Descat says. more volumes in the future.” connected services, journey information requirements. volumes because I don’t want to give the car in terms of technology’,” he says. The plan is for a DS dealer to be around a Descat believes that as a stand-alone brand and access to Only You services and n DS Club Privilège – loyalty club for all perception that the brand is driven by “We need to create desirability of the brand 30-minute drive from premium market DS is “more in charge” of the way it collabo- benefits. DS owners to enjoy exclusive events volumes, we need to control our volumes”, and we do this by word of mouth; our best hotspots but the network is currently consid- rates and interacts with its dealer network. n DS at your Service – a dedicated and privileges. he says. ally is word of mouth.” erably smaller than when it was part of “I want them to have this feeling of being phone number or online chat service to n DS Rent – for the hire of a chosen DS “Yes we could do more volumes easily but Descat says that DS will target all areas of Citroën. part of something special,” he says. “There answer questions. car. that’s not the goal of the brand. I need to build the fleet market – SMEs through its dealer “DS 3, 4 and 5 were sold by roughly 150 is a lot of pride in the DS team. We feel we this brand for 30 years.” network, and leasing companies and larger Citroën dealers until the end of June. When are the builders of something great.”

30 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 31 adRocket

INSIGHT: T YRES Sponsored by When it matters most.

TIME TO TAKE CONTROL Many fleets leave tyre management to their leasing companies, but there are many reasons they should take an increased interest. Ben Rooth reports espite their critical role in the safe and cost- but more fleet decision-makers should take an active effective operation of a vehicle, the manage- interest in their organisation’s tyres, says David Morris, ment of tyres is an issue often overlooked by 1.6mm fleet and business account manager at Goodyear Tyres. fleet decision-makers. Instead, many are of tread is the legal limit “Fleets will often have company car and driver poli- content to leave it to their leasing or mainte- cies but, generally speaking, tyre management policies D nance provider, reducing their admin work. aren’t as common as they should be,” he adds. But this should not be the case, says Steve Haigh, “Tyre management policies should be afforded the group transport manager of asbestos removal specialist same care and attention as any other health and safety Rhodar, who took tyre management out of a leasing document. Managers should be working in association contract in order to control it himself. with either a premium tyre manufacturer or respected “Whenever one of my colleagues ventures on to the supplier to provide one. road, they have a patch of rubber that’s approximately “It doesn’t need to include a huge amount of informa- three-and-a-half square inches connecting their van to tion, but if a business operates a fleet or provides the tarmac,” he says. employees with company cars, tyre management “In short, I want the peace of mind that comes from should form part of a standard company document.” knowing they can always stop as quickly and safely as Jonathan Layton, head of fleet at Michelin, adds: possible, regardless of the road conditions. “When you get it right, you can normally find that sweet “And that’s why my preference has always been to spot where you are enjoying maximum performance manage the tyres that are fitted across Rhodar’s entire and safety, for the lowest cost per mile.” fleet myself rather than outsource this process to the Overleaf we look at the questions a fleet leasing company’s maintenance contract.” decision-maker should consider when Whatever the weather. Haigh’s approach is not typical of the wider fleet sector, compiling a tyre management policy. Whatever the time of year.

Email: [email protected] Telephone: 0845 3661590 Visit: michelin.co.uk

www.michelin.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 33

700198_297x210 Fleet News.indd 1 19/10/2017 15:38 FP_FLEETNEW_HighResNorid3652445.pdf 10.11.2018 09:14 INSIGHT: T YRES Sponsored by

WHEN TO CHANGE TYRES?

Usually, this boils down to finding the right balance between cost and safety for an indi- SPONSOR’S vidual organisation, while ensuring that tread does not wear below the legal limit of 1.6mm. COMMENT Change too early and fleets could be spending unnecessary money replacing tyres which are safe, legal and have several thousand miles of wear left in them. By Jonathan Layton, head of fleet, Michelin Leave it too late and fleets could be using tyres which provide reduced grip in wet conditions, as well as running the risk of One of the most valuable assets falling below the legal tread limit. a business can have is trust – “Adequate tread depth is essential for good grip on wet roads and this is something Michelin as the tread pattern helps to remove water from between the has worked on for decades and tyre and the road surface,” says a spokesman for tyre safety continues to put at the forefront charity TyreSafe. of what we do. “Drivers with insufficient tread depth face longer stopping Regular tyre inspections For the fourth year running distances, reduced grip and an increased risk of aquaplaning.” should be incorporated in It is common for fleets to change tyres when the tread falls fleet policy we have come top of our sector in the to between 2mm and 3mm, while road safety charities Tyre- Reputation Institute’s World’s Most Reputable Safe and RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) Companies research – and 11th overall. recommend they are replaced at 3mm. The survey highlights the quality of Michelin’s Their view is mirrored by Apollo Vredestrein UK fleet sales products and the support we offer to manager Ricky Mitchell. He says: “We suggest that while most customers. This is not a new thing – but it’s mid-range and premium tyres are designed to perform to the end of their life – which is 1.6mm in the UK – their performance something we continually strive to enforce by will alter as the tread depth lowers. investing around €600m every year in R&D and “Our advice would be to change fleet vehicle tyres at a tread employing 6,000 researchers to develop new depth of between 2mm and 3mm to avoid any possible risk of ideas. having illegal, unsafe tyres, leaving sufficient time for the This dedication has seen us develop innovative unexpected.” products such as the MICHELIN CrossClimate+, However, Layton says: “For us, the statutory minimum legal tread depth of 1.6mm is perfectly suited to modern motoring MICHELIN CrossClimate SUV and MICHELIN Agilis CrossClimate ranges which offer cars, – especially as we know from first-hand experience with our To replace or not? Making a latest generation products that tyres can be manufactured change too early may incur 4x4s and vans tyres that are as good in winter today which are safe when new and safe when worn. Many fleets choose to unnecessary costs; too late and as they are in summer. Thanks to this “Changing a tyre at 3mm or 4mm equates to purchasing replace tyres when the safety factors come into play innovation, fleets can benefit from a new level of approximately one extra tyre per vehicle, every two years – tread is between 2-3mm safety and mobility year-round, without the and the bigger the fleet, the more that additional cost starts costs or downtime of running two sets of tyres. to add up.” what make of tyre to use, according to Jayne Pett, sales Fleets which lease their vehicles also have to consider other director at Fleet Operations. It’s not just our products that people trust – it’s factors when deciding when to replace tyres, adds Gil Kelly, “With so many brands available, it can be a minefield to our philosophy. Today, all big companies are operations director of Venson Automotive Solutions. decide what to go for,” she says. “If you are looking for cost expected to behave responsibly to help tackle He says that if a company has a policy of changing tyres efficiency, mixed with longevity and peace of mind, we some of the major challenges of our time. when the tread is down to 2mm, and a vehicle has tyres at would recommend running mid-range tyres. We have designed lighter tyres using fewer 2mm but is due for replacement within six months and the “In the case of budget tyres, you get what you pay for: raw materials and continue to reduce rolling expected mileage is low, then it may not be prudent to replace they do the job but can be something of a false economy, resistance to improve fuel efficiency whilst tyres. with lower performance and a shorter lifespan. “Conversely, if there is a high-mileage driver who has a “We would recommend changing to budget tyres if a SUMMER, ‘ALL-SEASON’ OR WINTER TYRES? cutting CO2 emissions. We are making tyres vehicle in for service and the tyres are at 2.2mm and the vehicle is due back to a funder in the forthcoming three to more damage resistant to avoid early vehicle is due off contract in six months, then replacement six months or if it has been earmarked to be sold.” Until recently, choosing the type of winter tyre, but offers all the driving replacement and unnecessary downtime, plus tyres may be appropriate,” adds Kelly. However, while budget tyres will cost less to buy, value tyres was not even a consideration for characteristics of a summer tyre. ensuring they deliver long lasting performance for money should not be judged on cost alone, says Layton, the majority of fleets. New cars and One of the fleets which has adopted with shorter braking distances in all conditions, which means fleets should give serious consideration to vans come fitted with summer tyres CrossClimate+ is South Western right down to legal tread depth limit of 1.6mm PREMIUM, MID-RANGE OR BUDGET? premium tyres. and, unless there was a specific safety Ambulance Service NHS Trust, which – meeting our safe when new, safe when worn He says these are unlikely to be the cheapest at point of or operational need, these would be fits it to its 200-strong fleet of Škoda Although tyres account for almost one-third of a fleet’s sale because of the considerable levels of technology and replaced on a like-for-like basis. Octavia rapid response vehicles. approach. maintenance budget, there are many other factors other research that goes into their development. Some organisations such as those in “We only take vehicles off the road These factors mean we are trusted by fleets than cost which should be taken into account when deciding “But we are confident that the wholelife cost of a Michelin areas such as the Scottish Highlands or for safety inspections or maintenance, to provide a premium product which is cost- tyre, combined with long-lasting performance, reliability, emergency services may traditionally and the six-week transition period efficient and durable as well as being low rolling resistance, safety and environmental creden- have alternated between summer and previously required to swap our environmentally responsible. tials, make them an excellent option for fleets,” adds winter tyres to ensure all-year round summer and winter tyres twice a year And of course, every fleet wants happy, Layton. mobility, but this switch leads to extra was incredibly inconvenient,” says “Fleets will often have company Andy Fern, GB fleet sales director at Kwik Fit, says that cost and vehicle downtime. Kevin Bartholomew, fleet operations confident drivers and we believe our brand car and driver policies but, the choice of budget, mid-range or premium tyres is However, the new generation of manager at the trust. provides just that. You’ll certainly never face particularly relevant to organisations which operate vans. ‘all-season’ tyres, such as the Michelin “We can now keep the same tyres on driver resistance from fitting a set of Michelin generally speaking, tyre “There is a misconception that van fleets should adopt CrossClimate+ and Continental the Škodas year-round, saving time tyres! budget tyre policies due to the high frequency of damage. AllSeasonContact, could offer fleets an and money. Lives depend on ensuring management policies aren’t as However, a quality premium van tyre is built to withstand appropriate all-year-round solution. safe mobility for our fleet, so we common as they should be” the stresses and strains of daily use,” he adds. For example, Michelin says simply can’t afford for tyre-related “Certain premium brand van tyres are more CrossClimate+’s winter performance is downtime or lack of grip in snow, ice David Morris, Goodyear Tyres like scaled down truck tyres as opposed to within 5% of its Alpine-dedicated and rain to delay us on a call-out.” scaled up car tyres.”

34 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 35 adRocket

INSIGHT: T YRES Sponsored by

ON ROAD. ON TRACK. ON AVONS.

The proliferation of tyre makes and brands make it difficult for fitters to hold a comprehensive stock

“Some tyre manufacturers are also working with service HOW SHOULD YOU providers or networks, which then allows fleets to work with ACQUIRE TYRES? and be invoiced by the manufacturer directly. “For smaller fleets or those based in a local or regional In general, large fleets tend to have tyre contracts in place area they could negotiate directly with a local tyre dealer. with leasing companies and tyre manufacturers while “Agreeing the best price and policy with a local company smaller fleets tend to deal directly with fast-fits and local may very well deliver the best in terms of service levels and independent dealers. cost – as there are fewer people involved in the supply chain, Nonetheless, the advice from industry experts is for each and a local company would be keen to win regular sales.” organisation to scrutinise the way it operates while simulta- neously examining the size and composition of its fleet. Mitchell says: “Choosing the best service provider and WHAT ADD-ON SERVICES purchase option will vary between different fleets. ARE AVAILABLE? “If leasing vehicles with tyre maintenance included, then the leasing company will have a preferred deal with a service Fast-fits and independents are introducing an increasing provider – usually one of the high street retail chains – in number of additional services. place. However, as a fleet manager, one could reserve the This can range from tyre inspections on cars and vans right to choose one’s own tyres although the leasing company while they are parked at an organisation’s premises to online is likely to specify the terms and conditions of having the appointment booking, such as Kwik Fit’s Fleet Web Booking. vehicle back with the same brand of tyres and tread depth. Fern says: “This is our solution to the ever-increasing “If vehicles do not have a service agreement in place – and proliferation of tyre makes, sizes and types which is making it’s also possible to have service agreements which exclude it impossible for centres to stock the thousands of tyre tyres – and tyres are being purchased by the fleet, then options available and thus makes a ‘fit first time’ visit harder there’s undoubtedly more choice. to accommodate.” “For tyre agreements with national fleets, the service Kwik Fit also has a mobile fitting service named Mobile7 provision is still dominated by the national retailers offering which allows tyres to be fitted where the client chooses. a local store in all areas and consistent policy adherence.” Earlier this year, Rhodar renewed its national service Mitchell adds that an alternative is for fleets to use web- package to supply and fit Michelin tyres across its fleet of based platforms – such as Fit4Fleet and the Fleet Tyre 250 light commercial vehicles with ATS Euromaster. Network – which join together networks of independent tyre Under the new contract, an ATS Euromaster technician fitters to manage bookings, authorisations and invoicing. visits Rhodar’s network of depots every six weeks to carry “These networks may be more cost-effective or deliver a out routine tyre inspections across the fleet, providing more personal service to the driver, ensuring that fleets’ tyre recommendations for remedial work to increase tyre life and policies are fulfilled,” he says. protect against the likelihood of tyre-related downtime.

IS ONGOING TRAINING NECESSARY?

“These (independent tyre fitters) While the bulk of a tyre management policy will cover cost, safety and service level issues, it should also include training networks may be more cost- for employees who use company vehicles. effective or deliver a more “This training needs to ensure a driver is consistently directed to check that they have the right tyres and that they personal service to the driver” know how to keep them in good condition,” says Morris. “This could take the form of online awareness tests or even Ricky Mitchell, attended training sessions, so drivers are equipped with the Apollo Vredestrein knowledge required to check their tyre pressures and tread depth on a weekly basis.”

36 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk ESTABLISHED 1885

FP_FLNOSA4_AvonTyresAid3634343.pdf 09.27.2018 10:50 BEST INNOVATIVE USE OF TECHNOLOGY

WINNER: VISIONTRACK ‘We are mandatory now for so many insurance companies’ VisionTrack’s video/telematics products are being connected at ‘incredible’ rates as fleets seek ways to improve safety

By Matt dePrez carefully because they know they are being monitored.” Simon Marsh (seated, isionTrack has a clear objective to help fleets Integration with data from other telematics providers and centre) with members of his award-winning team prevent incidents, reduce fraudulent claims, manufacturer-fitted systems is available, thanks to Vision- cut insurance premiums and, ultimately, save Track’s cloud-based platform. money. The system can also be updated at any time and new Some insurers only want the post-collision data – others turers you would have to use different systems for each. Its combined video and telematics system sensors can be added and integrated within weeks, giving the want to monitor risk and want reason. Ford is already pushing data out to third parties and I givesV fleet operators total visibility and can be used to potential for integration with a limitless number of devices. We can run different reports for different fleets – every think the others will now. The customers want the data, produce vital evidence in the wake of a collision. fleet wants something different. some fleets have 5,000 vehicles and the fleet manager “If you ask any The company is a specialist supplier and manufacturer Fleet News: What are the advantages of using a combined We are flexible, using our in-house team of software doesn’t want to start changing the system. fleet manager of vehicle CCTV technology, vehicle telematics and GPS video/telematics system? developers; we often create bespoke solutions for a lot of If you can get the data from the vehicle it will get rid of tracking systems. Services range from single-vehicle Simon Marsh: You can see in real time what the driver is our big fleet customers. the downtime needed to fit systems. about the monitoring systems up to large-scale fleet tracking. doing and how he is behaving. Ultimately, we are there to bring to their attention The future is the connected vehicle and our platform is Using artificial intelligence and machine learning, Vision- Cameras are sensors; you can do so much more with dangerous driving. connected vehicle. transition to Track’s system can provide advanced driver assistance them than pure telematics data. I can see more manufacturers heading into this space video, it’s about and support driver training. Video is now becoming the norm and we are a one-stop- FN: How many cameras do you have connected? and the big win for fleets is when they allow that data to FACTFILE It can recognise and alert the driver to potential hazards, shop for fleets. We have collaborated with some of the SM: It is now reaching 25,000 and growing 25% month- be shared. the full picture” such as an impending collision, plus identify and record biggest telematics companies in the world, providing them on-month. August was an incredibly busy month for the Cameras are coming into vehicles too now, so certain Managing director: Simon Marsh dangerous driving behaviour such as tailgating and mobile with video technology. business with 6,500 connections taking place. We now vehicles will need no hardware at all. Simon Marsh, VisionTrack Time in role: four years phone use. Risk management drives it. One of our clients found that have more than 500 fleet clients. Number of connected cameras: In the event of an incident, the system will automatically using our technology reduced frequency of incidents by From inception to where we are now, the growth has isionTrack has a clear commitment to record and send a video clip in near real-time, along with 24% and claim costs by 18%. been incredible. improving driver behaviour and reducing 25,000 associated telemetry, to the fleet manager. The driver can As the world evolves, insurance is becoming more I’ve never seen so much demand for video telematics. We claim costs for its customers. Key products: VT2000, VT2.2 and also activate a panic function, which will open a live feed expensive and so it is always a challenge for fleets to are mandatory now for many insurance companies including Its platform not only allows fleet managers VT4000 to the operator if the driver is in danger. reduce their insurance premiums. Markerstudy, Direct Commercial and Collingwood. to choose how and when they receive noti- According to VisionTrack managing director Simon Claim costs keep going up. Fraud is still an issue and as Insurers are now saying you have to use our technology Vfications, but also accepts data from other providers. Marsh the key feature of the system is prevention. more technology comes around there is a higher risk of to be insured. That applies across van and truck fleets – By opening up its platform to other telematics compa- JUDGES’ COMMENTS With a road transport background, he has experience of distractions. especially the higher risk ones. nies, VisionTrack is helping to get more cameras fitted VisionTrack is using being in a situation where the cause of an accident could We want to prevent claims in the first place. If the fleet The more insurers see the data reducing claims costs to more vehicles, opening up new opportunities for the artificial intelligence to never be established. manager has actionable data to use, they can prevent a it becomes significant. insurance sector. develop its solution and It is something Marsh is passionate about. “We can claim happening. Usage Based Insurance (UBI) is seeing significant incorporate cameras that reduce road deaths Telematics can only give you an idea of what happened. FN: How long does installation take? growth as new technology in vehicles provides live recognise and alert through better behav- Video confirms it. SM: Dependent on what is requested, it can be from 45 “UBI in commercial is a natural ‘next step’ in this hazardous driving iour. Fleets really are on In cases where there is a fatality, the system can enable minutes to a whole day. It also depends on the size of the evolution,” said Marsh behaviour such as mobile board with reducing their police to identify that the driver was not at fault. fleet and its requirements. What is most import is the “With extremely accurate pricing based on live data, phone use or falling claims and if you stop the In terms of utilisation, you have better visuals. You can scalability of our platform. it’s no surprise that it’s predicted to move quickly into asleep at the wheel. It has smaller claims you might also see if the driver is stuck in traffic, for example. Video is a big challenge for a normal telematics company the market. taken the complexity and prevent a bigger one,” he says. Prevention is the biggest thing. You are preventing down- as the data volume is so much higher. A single vehicle can “There are obvious benefits in cost-saving but also the potential higher costs away from fleets by “If you ask any fleet manager about time of vehicles. Any incident costs the business money. push out as much data in a day as a usual telematics potential prevention of incidents with monitored driver combining telematics with the transition from normal telematics to With better behaviour, you see fuel reductions too. system pushes out in a month. behaviour, ADAS features and live footage in the event a vehicle camera. The video, it’s about the full picture. If there is of an incident,” he added. judges were impressed by heavy braking, you can see why before ques- FN: What data can fleet operators expect to get from FN: What about data directly from a vehicle? By combining behavioural metrics, driver risk scoring, its customer testimonials tioning the driver – it might be because a pedes- VisionTrack? SM: Our whole platform is designed to listen to any data contextual data and video systems, insurers can build which demonstrated big trian walked out in front of the vehicle. SM: Fleet managers get a dashboard and they can choose set. My vision is that one day it will all be in the vehicle and the next generation of insurance solutions for commer- improvements to fleet “Cameras, if used and reported back correctly, what they want in it. We speak with all our fleets to find out we will be able to pull all the data. cial fleets, not only offering a complete picture of fleet safety. have the effect of making drivers drive more what they are looking for. Historically, if you have vehicles from different manufac- performance but an accurate risk per mile assessment.

38 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 39 FUNDING METHODS WLTP and BIK uncertainties prompt need for flexible solutions High mileage driver options may differ significantly compared with what’s best for those who drive less than 10,000 miles per annum

By Sarah Tooze mileage is particularly high, contract hire does still come out leet policies are set to become more complex as as more beneficial. Where the mileage is lower there is a businesses look at alternative forms of funding sweet spot.” and options for employees in the wake of rising She believes that for businesses with high mileage drivers, benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax, issues around WLTP the latest employee car ownership (ECO) schemes might be (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicle Test Proce- worth considering. Fdure) and uncertainty about BIK rates beyond 2020/21 (at the “Where there is high business mileage, the simplified, time of writing). streamed-down ECO schemes can work,” she said. “We A number of fleet operators report that their company car have one that is live at the moment. It just got new HMRC drivers are taking the cash option or want to be offered a clearance and we’re working on it with a few customers. It’s cash allowance so they can “do their own thing” – be that niche and relies on AMAP (approved mileage allowance taking a seemingly attractive personal contract hire (PCH) payments). But if they’re doing high enough business mileage deal or, for those based in London, not having a car at all. the AMAP will more than cover the whole cost of the car John Pryor, chairman of fleet representative body ACFO, without any BIK contribution.” says: “User choosers are saying ‘I’ll take the cash and do my “In this day She suggests ECO could also be a way of giving drivers own thing’. I think they’re seeing the BIK creeping up, jumping “cost certainty” as they would have a fixed cost for the next up by a couple of grades because of WLTP, and just saying and age, if three or four years. ‘I can get a car cheaper outside’ [the company car scheme].” However, there are factors such as staff turnover and Nigel Boyle, administration and technical director at you just go whether a business has sufficient data, particularly fuel hatchery company PD Hook, says that his drivers are seeing reports and expense claims, to consider. “BIK go up like a rocket” and that “very few people willingly with a fixed For some organisations, daily rental or mid-term leases have a company car” now. policy you’re work best alongside traditional contract hire and can be an “They see it as a big drain of cash,” he adds. “We’re thinking alternative to contract extensions while there is WLTP and about going over to giving a cash allowance because they’re going to be BIK uncertainty. giving us pressure on the cost of BIK.” For other organisations, corporate car sharing schemes However, it is important drivers look at the whole picture out of date act as an effective means of staff travel. and not just the ‘headline’ monthly price of a PCH deal. They pretty quickly” “There is not one solution for everyone any more,” Phillips need to factor in the deposit contribution, their credit rating, says. “It depends what you need operationally, what your insurance, maintenance, tyres,breakdown recovery and Steve Winter, Centrica drivers need. I think more and more organisations are their annual mileage, while businesses need to consider the needing more than one solution in their policies because duty of care and cost implications. drivers need different things. Steve Cuddy, head of fleet – banking division at Close “It’s about having that framework so that as legislation Brothers, is concerned that if drivers were offered cash they changes, as technology is changing, you’ve got a policy in could simply take a PCH deal for 10,000 miles and once they place where you can flex that solution.” hit that limit start to use trains or other forms of transport Steve Winter, head of fleet at British Gas, which has a fleet for business journeys, pushing the company’s costs up. of 12,000 vans and 2,200 company cars, agreed: “We’re As a rule of thumb, drivers doing more than 10,000 miles looking at a number of options. ECO will work for some a year would be best in a company car scheme. people. So will salary sacrifice, PCH and contract hire. Suzanne Phillips, national fleet consultant at Hitachi Capital “You’ve got to have a blend because in this day and age, if Vehicle Solutions, says: “I’ve performed quite a lot of you just go with a fixed policy you’re going to be out of date comparisons on TCO [total cost of ownership]. Where the pretty quickly.”

40 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk PARIS MOTOR SHOW FIRST LOOK

ON SALE: MARCH 2019 THINKING CAP SAFETY All 3 Series models will feature Active Guard Plus, which includes speed By Martin Ward, manufacturer limit information, lane departure warning and Collision and Pedestrian relationships manager BMW 3 SERIES Warning with City Braking function, along with Cruise Control with braking function. The optional Driving Assistant Professional package includes the Driving Seventh incarnation of 3 Series unveiled in Paris Assistant as well as Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision By Matt de Prez protection, Priority Warning and Wrong-way warning systems and Cross- Monday Up to near Wetherby, to drive the MW managed to keep the all-new ENGINES Traffic Alert. all-new Vauxhall Combo Life, the brother of seventh generation 3 Series a closely The full engine line up is yet to be confirmed, but BMW has announced A reversing camera and automated parking assistant are fitted as the Citroën Berlingo Multispace and Peugeot guarded secret prior to its Paris specifications for the 320d and 330i. standard. Customers can choose to upgrade to Park Assistant Plus which Motor Show launch, with little details Its key fleet model, the 320d, is the cheapest at £33,610 and can achieve up includes the Park View, Panorama View and 3D Top View features. These Rifter – now all one big happy PSA family. of the model leaking out. to 67.3mpg with an automatic gearbox. CO2 emissions start from 110g/km, can create a 360 degree image of the vehicle and its surroundings – from The Combo Life is a van with windows BAt the car’s official debut it was not only show- or 115g/km for the manual 320d. different perspectives – in the Control Display. which used to be known as a CDV cased in the metal but also announced with full The manufacturer has confirmed that a 330e plug-in hybrid version will be This introduces Remote 3D View function which gives drivers the ability (car-derived van) but this really is a posh van. specifications and prices for some of the engine available too, with more details to follow. to call up a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and its immediate line up. With 190PS, the 320d provides a balance of performance and frugality. It vicinity on their smartphone. It is very car-like and has loads of goodies It goes on sale next March, priced from £33,610 can accelerate from 0-60mph in less than seven seconds, yet when the car and the build quality is up to a high standard. – around £800 more than the existing model. goes on sale benefit-in-kind tax will start from around £2,000. It is available in either standard wheelbase Crucial for fleet customers is the CO2 emis- BMW has also confirmed an all-wheel-drive xDrive version, emitting 118g/ or a longer version, with each offering five or sions of the 320d. Emitting from 110g/km, the km of CO2. seven seats on most models. I drove the 1.5 320d is more efficient than its predecessor (125g/ km) and key rivals the Mercedes-Benz C 220 d 130PS Turbo Diesel on the A1 and on and Jaguar XE 20d. country roads. It was very pleasant to drive, BMW has shed up to 55kg from the new quick and quiet. Just me in it, so I didn’t get 3 Series, making it more efficient, says the chance to test all the storage space or the company, and better to drive, while a longer luggage room. This type of vehicle is wheelbase provides greater interior space. certainly becoming more popular as they really are very useful and versatile, but not every fleet driver will change their traditional SUV or MPV for a car-type van. EXTERIOR In keeping with BMW’s recent model launches, the new 3 Series features larger kidney grilles. So large in fact that they meet in the middle as a single “The Citan drove really well, piece, rather than the traditional split grille. was amazingly frugal and The car gains 85mm in overall length we were all comfortable” and 16mm in width. Height is almost unchanged, with just a 1mm gain. Aerodynamics are improved as a Friday – Monday As if by magic, I result of the new body and bumpers, experienced a CDV coincidence when visiting while a number of chassis improvements sharpen handling. Malaga with the family. At the rental desk, BMW says the body is up to 50% stiffer the lady saw we had quite a bit of luggage in certain areas which, combined with and other things, so offered us a Mercedes- the weight reduction and other Benz Citan as an alternative to the VW Golf enhancements, are expected to deliver ‘or similar’ for the same price – and good job best-in-class driveability. she did. SPECIFICATIONS AND TECHNOLOGY Four adults, one toddler, one baby seat, Standard specification on the entry-level SE model includes LED headlights, one pushchair, five pieces of hand luggage, reversing camera, electric folding door mirrors, three-zone air conditioning and it all went in with ease. We would have INTERIOR and acoustic glazing. struggled in the C-sector hatch. A driver-focused cabin offers an evolved design from the old The Sport model adds 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats and driver and model. It includes a digital instrument cluster and larger centrally passenger heated seats. The Citan, like the Vauxhall, drove really mounted infotainment display. The M Sport model has larger air intakes as well as a different design for well, was amazingly frugal and we were all BMW has located the climate controls neatly within the air vent the front bumper, side skirts and rear apron. Inside there are Sports seats, comfortable. Parking wasn’t too bad – Spain housing and moved the engine start button to the centre console, an M leather steering wheel and an anthracite BMW Individual headliner. has some small spaces – but we managed. by the gear lever. BMW Live Cockpit Plus is standard on SE and Sport models and includes a Access to the car is easier, with larger door apertures and touch controller, sat-nav, two USB ports and a WiFi interface. The control If I was in any doubt about the Combo Life improved interior space. Front seat passengers can enjoy more display is 8.8-inch and features a touchscreen, while the instrument cluster and why would you buy or want one, the shoulder room while there is an extra 11m of space between the has a 5.7-inch colour display. Citan certainly changed my mind. front and rear seats. As part of BMW Live Cockpit Plus, the new BMW 3 Series includes a host At test drive events, many reviewers don’t Boot size is unchanged at 480 litres but additional storage of connected services as standard: emergency call, teleservices, over the air The infotainment display test how the vehicles will be used in ‘real- compartments add an extra 36 litres and the car now features map updates, BMW App connectivity and intelligent voice assistants. is larger in the new version 40:20:40 split folding rear seats. In addition to this, the BMW Connected Package Plus is now standard. life’. But the Citan really was the true test of an MPV and what it is capable of.

42 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 43 PARIS MOTOR SHOW

PEUGEOT TOYOTA Fleet highlights from Paris PEUGEOT 508 SW Available early 2019 CO2 TBA Price from £27,000 (est)

RENAULT Peugeot’s electric and autonomous E-Legend concept was showcased alongside the Peugeot 508 SW (pictured below). RENAULT KADJAR The E-Legend combines ’60s muscle car looks with futuristic technology, Available December CO2 from 113g/km but is unlikely to make production in the next few years. Price from £20,000 The Peugeot 508 SW, however, will go on sale next year. The stylish new estate was shown with a new plug-in hybrid engine. The first 508 SW will A refreshed Renault Kadjar has been appear in high-spec First Edition trim, featuring a polished wood boot floor. introduced as part of the WLTP homologation The full range of trims and engines is expected to be available shortly procedure. It features revised powertrains and thereafter, with prices from £27,000. styling changes. The plug-in hybrid offers a 32-mile electric-only range. The Kadjar is now available with updated TOYOTA COROLLA TOURING SPORTS diesel engines with a selective catalytic Available summer 2019 CO2 76g/km Price frim £21,500 (est) reduction system. The Blue dCi 115, replaces the old 1.5-litre A trio of new models made their debuts – the new Corolla Touring Sports diesel, increasing power by 5PS and torque by (pictured above), Rav4 and Camry. 10Nm. It is available with a manual Joining the Corolla hatchback that was revealed earlier this year, the new transmission at launch, and will be offered Touring Sports estate model is aimed at customers who want good looks at a later date with the option of dual-clutch with uncompromised practicality, according to Toyota. EDC transmission. It will launch with a brand new 2.0-litre petrol hybrid powertrain with The Blue dCi 150, replaces the 1.6-litre 180PS and CO2 emissions of 87g/km. There will also be a 121PS 1.8-litre model and increases output by 20PS. Mated to hybrid for those who want greater efficiency, emitting 76g/km and a manual transmission, it will be available in achieving up to 83mpg. both two- and four-wheel drive models. The entry-level powertrain will be a 115PS 1.2-litre petrol. The refreshed Kadjar is also now available The new Rav4 will feature a 2.5-litre hybrid engine when it goes on sale with a 1.3 TCE petrol engine, which is already next year. available in Scenic, Captur and Mégane. Interior changes include improvements in The compact SUV has a 155-mile range and Toyota confirmed the return of the Camry saloon to Europe. With the It is available in four versions – 140PS with a quality, a new seven-inch multimedia will initially be offered in China. Renault says same 2.5-litre hybrid engine as the Rav4, the new model is expected to manual or EDC automatic gearbox and 160PS touchscreen, a new control panel for the the model may be offered elsewhere later. replace the Avensis. in both manual and automatic. automatic air conditioning, more ergonomic In the UK, we will be getting hybrid versions Exterior styling changes include the seats, larger cup holders, extra USB sockets of the Clio, Captur and Mégane. While exact integration of LED indicators into the daytime and improved heating distribution. details are yet to be confirmed, the latter two running lights. The reversing lights and fog At its packed stand, the French brand also are likely to use a new 1.6-litre petrol and lamps also gain LEDs. It also has a wider grille. unveiled a new low-price electric car the K-ZE. electric motor combo with plug-in ability.

AUDI SEAT SEAT TARRACO Available early 2019 CO2 TBA Price from £25,000 (est) IS YOUR FLEET Seat’s first SUV will go on sale in December with delivery in Janaury. It rivals the Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Edge. It shares a platform with the Volkswagen Tiguan and Škoda Kodiaq, both FIT FOR PURPOSE? of which will also be key rivals. The car is expected to be more dynamic than its stablemates and is Fit for Fit for Fit for the Fit for Fit for offered with two diesel and two petrol engines. A plug-in hybrid has been business employees environment finance the future confirmed for release at a later date. Inside, the Tarraco showcases a new interior design for the brand. It features a tablet-style infotainment screen and digital instruments.

AUDI A1 Available End of 2018 CO2 TBA Price from £18,000 (est)

Pictures of the new baby Audi had already surfaced, but the car made its public debut in Paris. Taking design inspiration from classic Audi models, the new A1 has a far more distinctive appearance than the outgoing car. It is expected to go on sale before the end of the year and will be available with 1.0-litre, 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engines. We’ll help your fleet perform at its best Under the skin, the A1 shares a platform with the Seat Ibiza and Volkswagen Polo. lexautolease.co.uk All models get a digital instrument cluster and the boot has grown by 65 litres.

44 October 18 2016 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2016 45 Advertisement feature PARIS MOTOR SHOW

MERCEDES-BENZ AT LAST FOREIGN TRAVEL MERCEDES-BENZ B-CLASS Available spring 2019 CO2 from 109g/km FULLY DIGITAL + ONLINE Price £25,000 (est)

Among the few fleet highlights was the debut of the new Mercedes B-Class. While the B-Class isn’t among the brand’s best-selling fleet models, it is available with an RDE2-certified diesel engine. This means it will avoid the 4% benefit-in-kind tax surcharge. The third-generation model features the same MBUX multimedia system as the new A-Class i247 Group are pleased to announce the launch of their new online, driver and promises enhanced driveability. A sportier look is achieved through a longer self - serve, foreign travel and VE103b fulfilment management solution. wheelbase and short overhangs. This also provides more interior space. Inside, a twin-screen setup is in keeping with the latest models from Mercedes, with two seven-inch displays featuring on the base which is flat thanks to the adjustable load (Euro 6d) regulations. It has emissions from Results from a recent survey shows 34% of drivers were unaware models and two 10-inch displays on the compartment floor, can accommodate up to 116g/km. 34% high-end version. 1540 litres behind the front seats. There is also a mid-range 200d with 150PS. it is their responsibility to obtain a Vehicle on Hire Travel Authority Mercedes-Benz says the interior has been A folding backrest of the front passenger seat Petrol models consist of a 180 and 200 with certificate. fine-tuned for practicality. An improved entry makes for an even longer loading length. 136PS and 163PS respectively. aperture to the centre tunnel in the rear makes Five engine variants will be available at the All models feature an automatic transmission. for a more accessible middle seat. The rear launch of the B-Class. The most efficient is the Active Brake Assist, which can help mitigate seat backrest comes as standard with a 180 d with 116PS. It can achieve up to 68mpg the severity of rear-end collisions with 40:20:40 split. and emits from 109g/km of CO2. slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles Why Is It Needed? With the rear seat folded down and luggage The most powerful is the 220 d with 190PS ahead or prevent them altogether, is fitted as loaded to the roof, the luggage compartment, – this is only engine that currently meets RDE2 standard. Fleet vehicles travelling in Mainland Europe should always carry a VE103b certificate. The document enables the authorities to verify that the person driving the vehicle has permission to do so from the KIA DS asset owner, leasing or rental company. Drivers caught without the correct documentation can face long KIA PROCEED delays as failure to comply could result in fines or the vehicle being impounded. Available March 2019 CO2 TBA Price from £22,000 (est)

Following the Ceed’s debut earlier this year, the brand has now unveiled the Proceed – a ‘shooting brake’ estate with coupe-like styling and a large i247 Group’s New Online VE103b Fulfilment Management Solution luggage compartment. It is lower and longer than both the Ceed five-door hatchback and Sportswagon on which it is based and will be available as a GT-Line or The i247 Group are pleased to announce the launch of the fully digitised, mobile enabled management high-performance GT model. solution. This new solution supports our existing contact centre services. The Proceed GT-Line is available with a choice of three engines: a 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol with 120PS, a 1.4-litre T-GDi with 140PS and a 136PS 1.6-litre diesel. Features of this new digital solution include, driver self - serve order capability, integration into fleet feed In GT form, the Proceed is powered by a 1.6-litre T-GDi engine, as found and your policies, white labelled to your brands requirements and hosted on your own website. in the upcoming Ceed GT – producing 204PS. The rear of the car is what differentiates it fully from other models in the The system generates a fully compliant BVRLA Ceed range, inspired by the layout of the 2017 Proceed Concept. DS 3 CROSSBACK From launch, the Proceed will be available in a choice of 10 paint VE103b certificate and includes, same day fulfilment finishes. The Proceed GT-Line will have 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels, while Available Early 2019 CO2 from 0g/km Price £21,500 (est) letter of authorisation (including any other supporting Proceed GT models are fitted with 18-inch wheels as standard. Inside the cabin, the Proceed features the same cabin as the Ceed, As part of DS’s re-launch as a premium electric SUV maker, the brand documentation), fully compliant world pay credit card although it benefits from a series of changes designed to introduce a has unveiled its new DS 3 Crossback. payment facility with charge and payment reconciliation sportier ambience. The grey roofliner of the Ceed and Sportswagon is The compact SUV is set to become the first all-electric DS, with an available 24/7 365 days a year. replaced with black cloth and the door sills feature metallic scuff plates. E-Tense version available alongside conventional petrol and diesel models. On a full charge the DS 3 Crossback is expected to cover up to 186 miles, with an 80% charge available in just 30 minutes using a fast charger. This solution includes customer account recharge It features the familiar DS SUV grille and light signature, and between facility, certificate re-issue, auto renewal, reminder the front and rear door is the shark fin – carried over from the DS 3. One of the key design features of the DS 3 Crossback is the folding service options for subsequent year and an online flush-fitting door handles. The car can also be unlocked, started and comprehensive activity reporting suite. locked using a smartphone, allowing the owner/driver to make the vehicle available to up to five users without having to give them a key. Inside, the dashboard is adorned with a giant 10.3-inch infotainment screen, the same as in the DS 7. The interior features a significant upgrade They’ve updated their Foreign Travel Solution - when did you last review yours? from the old DS 3, with more premium materials and finishes. The car will go on sale in early 2019 and is set to rival the Mini Countryman and Audi Q2. Email [email protected] or speak to a member of their friendly team on 01202 628 282.

46 October 18 2016 fleetnews.co.uk

Fleetnewsadvertorialforeigntravel.indd 1 12/10/2018 12:06:47 OUR FLEET

VOLVO S90 T8 MINI COUNTRYMAN ŠKODA KAROQ 1.6 TDI SE COOPER SE ALL4 PHEV Our Karoq’s carrying capacity is put to the test

To get the best out of the plug-in hybrid S90, you need to operate within quite a narrow travel band – a Our Mini Countryman PHEV has a daily commute of less than 30 miles. long list of optional extras – the spec Mine is 34 miles – does that tiny bit sheet runs to two pages and totals extra make a difference? When it an eye-watering £7,610 (including comes to fuel efficiency, absolutely. VAT). With only the option of charging at That includes Mini’s popular Chili AMG Line has a sportier work, our S90’s 25-mile electric-only look with bigger wheels Pack (£3,300), which has useful range (28 miles if you select ‘pure’ features for company car drivers drive mode) falls just short. And such as active cruise control, LED those few miles powered by the AMG headlights with cornering lights and 2.0-litre petrol engine have a heated seats. considerable impact on consumption. MERCEDES-BENZ E220D LINE Sat-nav, Mini TeleServices Resetting the trip computer and The Karoq offers a smooth (telematics), Mini Connected and real using electric power returns a ‘fuel’ ride and its handling is good time traffic information are all figure of 214mpg. Combine the 25 or E220D makes its mark in keenly contested segment standard. Mini says the addition of 28 electric miles with around 10 the latter, which drivers of BMW petrol miles (from personal mileage By Gareth Roberts repair (SMR), and fuel, the running By Luke Neal (1,620) although it is topped by the models will be familiar with, has and the return journey to work) and COSTS he fifth generation E-Class costs of these three executive heavy- COSTS ow many people can you Volkswagen Tiguan’s 1,655 litres. been welcomed by company car that immediately drops to mid-70s. P11D price £43,695 faces stiff competition in weights are much the same. The P11D price £22,690 fit in car? In a previous As with all my previous test cars, drivers as they know whether there Not bad, but add in a few 200-mile BIK tax band (2018/19) 30% the executive segment, E220d costs 55.67 pence per mile BIK tax band (2018/19) 29% role on a different the Karoq has been put to use in are any issues en route. journeys for business and suddenly Annual BIK tax (40%) £5,243 with the new Audi A6 and (ppm) to run – slightly less than the Annual BIK tax (20%) £1,316 magazine I managed to this way most recently transporting However, as clever as the system you are averaging 45mpg (our the BMW 5 Series chief BMW’s 55.92ppm and not a great fit 12 girls into a Citroën freshly media-blasted classic Beetle may be, it couldn’t spare me from Class 1A NIC £1,809 Class 1A NIC £908 current performance after some Tamong its challengers. deal more than the Audi’s 53.23ppm. HSaxo but, according to the Guinness panels to a nearby bodyshop. more than an hour delay on the M40 Annual VED Annual VED £205 then £140 1,200 miles with the car). The £205 then £450 In terms of P11D, the Mercedes- The fact is there is very little to Book of World Records, 28 very Unfortunately, the Škoda’s rear recently (frustratingly at the junction RV (4yr/80k) RV (4yr/80k) £9,025 2.0-litre diesel model we previously £13,450 Benz E220d AMG Line Premium Plus choose between these three models flexible women will fit into a Mini. seats do not fold to create a flat where I needed to turn off, with only Fuel cost (ppm) tested averaged 42mpg on Fuel cost (ppm) 10.48 we have on test comes second best on paper. Driving the E220d, however, 9.75 A vehicle’s interior space is of floor creating an annoying step up in 12 miles of my journey left). AFR (ppm) commute, but mid-50s when a few AFR (ppm) 12 to the A6. The E220d costs £43,695 shows why it has already made its 10 great importance to me, not only for the load space. However, I can Fortunately, the Countryman is a longer journeys were thrown in. Running cost (ppm) 55.67 compared with £43,235 for the A6 40 mark on the fleet market. Running cost (ppm) 30.30 transporting humans (as my five- confirm it is possible to fit four pleasant place to be when you’re It’s worth pointing out that, even S Line, while the BMW 525 M Sport The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo- year-old son calls them) but as the Beetle wings, a bonnet and an stuck in a traffic jam with its when the electric charge is officially has a P11D value of £45,670. diesel opens the E-Class range in the owner of three classic vehicles the engine lid into the back of the Karoq supportive seats and characterful depleted, the battery holds some in SPEC It is a similar story on CO2 emis- E 200d and E 220d, giving a smooth, SPEC need to use my car in a van-like without needing to adjust the interior. reserve, allowing you to pull away Engine (cc) 1,950 sions, with the A6 again coming out quiet drive that really impresses. Engine (cc) 1598 capacity to transport all kinds of position of the front seats. I’m also a fan of the chunky Mini and build speed with a light right foot Power (PS) 194 on top. It has emissions of 117g/km A nine-speed auto gearbox makes Power (PS) 115 vehicle parts large and small Another plus point is the smooth Yours leather steering wheel (£125) to close to 30mph before the petrol Torque (Nm) 400 compared to 127g/km for the E220d for low cruising revs of just 1,300rpm Torque (Nm) 250 between my house, garage and ride quality and handling which and the new touchscreen (finally!) engine kicks in. It obviously helps to and 131g/km for the 5 Series. and, thanks to a slippery exterior, bodyshop are plentiful. prevented the panels from crashing even if I do find myself sometimes CO2 emissions (g/km) 127 CO2 emissions (g/km) 120 save fuel, but the overall result is a For a 40% tax-payer that means the there is virtually no wind noise. Barely a month goes past without together and causing damage. reaching for the rotary controller out Manufacturer mpg Manufacturer mpg 61.4 little disappointing; it definitely does 61.4 E-Class will cost £5,243 in 2018/19, It is offered in four body styles four- the need to carry a load of some Over the past 5,000, miles the of habit. Real-world mpg* Real-world mpg* n/a not offset the huge £20,000 price 58.9 attracting a 30% benefit-in-kind (BIK) door saloon, estate, coupe and kind and trips around the country to Karoq certainly seems to have A few things I would change Test mpg premium over the £37,000 diesel S90. Test mpg 55.4 tax rate. The BMW 5 Series will cost convertible. There are two basic trims, 51.7 collect classic car eBay purchases loosened up and feels noticeable though: the head-up display (£490) Of course, the T8 tops the model 0-62mph (sec) 7.3 more, falling into a 31% BIK bracket, SE and AMG Line, while Mercedes Max speed (mph) 116 are more and more frequent. different in acceleration. The feels intrusive and the connection for range, showcasing the latest Current mileage 5,542 at £5,663 in 2018/19, while the A6’s offers Premium and Premium Plus 0-62mph (sec) 10.7 The manufacturer’s ‘seats flat’ manufacturer’s claimed 61.4mph the charging cable on the front near technology but also providing the lower emissions (28%) means a packages. Current mileage 9,470 load capacity is an important continues to elude me, although side would be better at the back so I most power (400PS versus 190PS for company car driver will pay £4,842. The entry level SE is well equipped, number for me and the Karoq fairs the car is returning a respectable could reverse park when charging the diesel, more on this next time) However, taking into account depre- while the AMG Line (our test model) Running cost data supplied by pretty well. At 1,630 litres, it beats indicated average of 51.7mpg – – an important factor for some fleets and driving enjoyment of any S90. ciation, service, maintenance and adds a sportier look with bigger wheels. KeeResources (4yr/80k) rivals such as the Ford Kuga (1,603), approximately 16% less than the who stipulate their drivers reverse And, sticking to the commute * Data supplied by Equa Index BMW X3 (1,600) and Mazda CX-5 claimed figure. into spaces for better visibility when figures, 70mpg is pretty good – setting off. TEST TIMELINE though disappointingly short of the Sarah Tooze official 128mpg (NEDC-correlated). Start End In addition, drivers benefit from “The fact is there is very little to benefit-in-kind tax of 13%, resulting choose between these three models in a monthly bill of £331 for a 40% AT A GLANCE – THE REST OF OUR FLEET taxpayer, similar to a Ford Focus (Mercedes-Benz E220d, Audi A6 and 2.0-litre TDCi auto. Running cost data supplied by Ford Fiesta 1.0 Ecoboost 125 ST Line Volkwagen e-Golf Lots of positive then, but for longer KeeResources (4yr/80k) BMW 5 Series) on paper” The Fiesta held its title as the UK’s best-selling car in The e-Golf has four selectable levels of battery distance drivers, this plug-in hybrid * Data supplied by Equa index September with fleet registrations increasing 75%. regeneration, each providing different levels of ‘engine is probably not the answer. Year-to-date sales are 5% up, reflecting the market’s braking’ to charge the battery when you take your foot Stephen Briers TEST TIMELINE response to this desirable model. As the weeks pass, off the accelerator. However, turning the feature off Start End the Fiesta’s appeal shows no sign of slowing. altogether seems to be the most efficient option.

48 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk October 18 2018 49 THE LAST WORD Advertisement feature

The SUV-inspired exterior JOHN ELLIS of the Ford Fiesta Active MANAGING DIRECTOR, NEXUS VEHICLE RENTAL

Your first fleet role I joined Nexus Sport and family are the two recurring themes in Ellis’s life. straight from university in 2000 He regards becoming MD of his company at 33 as one of his when there were only two people in the office. I guess you could say I biggest triumphs, but he knows there are still goals to add was a mixture of operations, finance, admin, IT and – let’s not The advice I would give to my 18-year-old self Hobbies and interests involve passionately forget – the north’s best tea maker! is to trust your instincts. Provided you show supporting Manchester United. Outside the the required flexibility when things change and sporting arena, socialising with friends and Career goals For the business, you are open to listening to others who family takes up most of the time when Dad’s continuing to ensure Nexus is challenge your views, it is highly likely you will Taxi Service is not on duty. viewed as a market leader with a be on the right track. reputation for being great to deal with – for both our customers and The pivotal moment in my life was suppliers. So far, I’ve achieved most If I were Prime Minister for the day I would meeting my wife, closely followed by personal goals, but there are increase bank holidays and remove average the birth of my two daughters (the always more to add. speed zones from motorways when there is second in the back of my Audi as we no actual work going on. didn’t quite make it in time!). Biggest achievement in business For me, family comes first. Growing Nexus from 50 vehicles on rent, to more than 11,000 today has My first memory associated been a massive success. Our two with a car was being picked up A book that I would recommend Meet first new member of management buyouts were also from school at a young age after others read is Memoirs of a Fruitcake my parents had just bought our by Chris Evans – a particularly great achievements and becoming first car – a black VW Beetle. comical look at life. managing director at 33 was a big step at a young age. fun-to-drive Active family The three vehicles I My pet hate is sitting in Career influence I’ve had the would like in my garage traffic – if I can keep pleasure of working with three very he Ford Fiesta Active, the first additional rugged bodykit, unique 17-inch offering CO2 emissions from 103g/km, are ... I don’t need three moving, but take a different CEOs, who have each had in a new family of Active alloy wheels and roof rails. The interior and from 70.6mpg. cars. I’m not a longer route, I an influence on my career. At crossover models inspired by features sports seats with exclusive Fiesta Active delivers the comprehen- Premier League always will. home, my wife provides a valuable T SUVs, combines rugged materials and designs, standard SYNC 3 sive range of sophisticated driver assis- footballer after all! sounding board and ensures we styling and enhanced versa- voice-activated connectivity and enter- tance technologies introduced to the remain grounded at all times. tility with fun-to-drive dynamics, sophis- tainment system, and available B&O all-new Fiesta range. The technologies I want to be ticated comfort and driver assistance PLAY premium audio. Drive Mode tech- are supported by cameras, radars and My favourite film? I’m a remembered as Biggest mistake in business technologies. nology enables drivers to choose between ultrasonic sensors, which are able to big fan of a good a great bloke, Pressing reply rather than forward The five-door Fiesta Active features a Normal, Eco and Slippery modes to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and comedy, so something great husband to an email in my early career was ride height increased by 18 millimetres match driving characteristics to the envi- scan the road ahead up to a distance of like The Hangover lets and a great dad. a particularly bad mistake that I will compared with the standard all-new ronment at the touch of a button. 130 metres. me unwind at the end NEVER repeat… the recipient was Fiesta chassis, and track increased by 10 Sophisticated powertrain options Available technologies include Pre- of a tough week. not impressed! millimetres, delivering a more imposing include Ford’s multi-award-winning Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detec- stance alongside greater rough road 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine offering tion, Traffic Sign Recognition, Auto High Leadership style I like to think I capability and a confidence-inspiring up to 140PS, and delivering from 113g/km Beam, Cross Traffic Alert, Driver Alert, lead by example. I would never ask driving position. CO2 emissions and 56.5mpg fuel effi - Lane-Keeping Aid, Lane-Keeping Alert one of my team to do something I SUV-inspired exterior features include ciency, and 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine and Forward Collision Warning. wouldn’t do myself. I also try to have some fun along the way it is important to be able to work in an NEW TECHNOLOGY BRINGS INCREASED SAVINGS FOR VAN OPERATORS environment people feel positive Ford engineers have been working hard we’ve worked hard to reduce options that optimise fuel efficiency about and humour always helps. to cut running costs for fleet operators ownership costs, developing efficient and CO2 emissions by up to 12%. even more. “Fuel costs are critical for new engines and transmissions to work The compact New Transit Courier If I wasn’t in fleet I think I would van operators, and we have invested in with advanced driver assistance offers the choice of Ford’s fuel-efficient make a great barrister – arguing advanced new technologies to bring technologies.” 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine, now with cases in court sounds very savings to our customers,” said Hans The New Ford Transit Connect van, 75PS or 100PS, and delivering from appealing. Schep, general manager, Commercial for instance, delivers even more 65.6mpg fuel efficiency and 112g/km Vehicles, Ford of Europe. attractive running costs, with advanced CO2; or a 100PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost Childhood ambition I wanted to be “Our new small vans line-up delivers new diesel engine, petrol engine and engine delivering from 53.2mpg and a sports journalist – watching sport practicality in stylish packages and eight-speed automatic transmission 119g/km CO2 (NEDC figures). and then writing about it sounded too good a job to be true.

Next issue: Stuart Raikes, Director, Alliance Transport Technologies For further information on any Ford Fleet products or services call the Ford Business Centre on 03457 23 23 23, email [email protected], or visit ford.co.uk/fordfleet 50 October 18 2018 fleetnews.co.uk adRocket

YOUR FLEET’S FINANCES TOTALLY TRANSFORMED

To keep running costs at a minimum the All -New Focus range delivers highly competitive low emissions from 91g/km CO 2. Plus, you and your drivers will benefit from a combined fuel economy of up to 80.7mpg.

Discover more at ford.co.uk/new -focus or contact the Ford Business Centre: 03457 23 23 23 | [email protected]

P11D BIK C02 COMBINED MPG £28,630 - £17,730 28%-22% 138-91g/km 45.6-80.7

Offi cial fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the All-New Ford Focus range: urban 36.2-74.3 (7.8 -3.8), extra urban 54.3-85.6 (5.2-3.3), combined 45.6-80.7 (6.2-3.5). Official CO2 emissions 138-91g/km. The mpg fi gures quoted are sourced from offi cial EU-regulated test results( EU Regulation 715/2007 and 692/2008 as last amended), are provided for comparability purposes and may not refl ect your actual driving experience. Information correct at time of going to print.

FP_FLEETNEW_378924id3602512.pdf 30.08.2018 14:28