Fleet News April 23, 2020 FleetNewsApril 23 2020 £6.00 ■ ADVICE ON MANAGING YOUR FLEET THROUGH COVID-19 YOUR ON MANAGING ADVICE
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Start finding FleetFleetNewsNewAprils 23 2020 £6.00 the marginal CommercialINCORPORATING Fleet gains Fleet spotlight: Auto Windscreens ‘My best If you have immediate fleet performance targets career move’ to tackle or you are looking for ways to become Just 30 months in, Shaun Atton more agile and ready to respond to changes has revolutionised fleet practices in legislation, taxation, fleet finance or new to save more than £150k and win technology. Beginning to pay more attention most improved fleet of the year to your Fleet Fitness is a great way to start developing leaner mobility solutions that are more prepared for the future.
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CONTENTS NEWS AND OPINION 4 Fleet News survey on lockdown 8 SMR challenges of coronavirus 9 Home delivery threat to fleet safety 11 Free2Move Lease looks to mobility 12 Your letters FleetNews 58 Last word: Keith Cook goes TOMORROW’S DIGITAL ONLY FLEET 16 Humandrive Project FROM MAY The road to autonomous driving 20 Future transport zones P14 Solent drone trial could save lives ELECTRIC FLEET 22 Salary sacrifice and EVs Together they are a ‘perfect fit’ 24 Making EVs the No 1 choice Case for increasing fleet uptake IN THE TODAY’S FLEET SPOTLIGHT 40 Cash vs car 28 Launch of UK’s biggest fleet event The company car fights back 32 Auto Windscreens 46 Fleet News debates Automation is the ‘buzzword’ Look beyond 0% BIK on BEVs, 36 Drive Software Solutions say leading fleet managers Ex-Dragon’s great expectations 38 Multi-award-winning BMW Simplifying its fleet approach
THE CASH International Truck of the Year 2020. VS CAR DEBATE The new Actros. P40 IGNITION 48 Audi A3 Sportback We’re proud that the new Actros has won the “International Truck of the Year 2020” Improved fleet appeal accolade and would like to extend our thanks to all of our customers for their many years 49 Peugeot 3008 hybrid of loyalty! Everyone talks, one delivers. The new Actros. Super crossover-type SUV 50 Our test fleet For more information scan the QR code. COMMERCIAL FLEET 53 Testing the Daf XF FTP 55 The Maxus E Deliver 3 56 Pandemic impact Many new measures on hold
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FP_FLEETNEW_NATOTYUK21id4273259.pdf 04.09.2020 10:28 NEWS: CORONAVIRUS UPDATE All areas of the industry adversely impacted as virus lockdown bites
One-in-four fleets agree contract extensions; less than 10% of company cars driven for work
By Gareth Roberts he had mothballed half his fleet due before and after the period of unavail- sionals (AFP) says it has already undreds of thousands of to a lack of work, while another had ability, it is liable to benefit-in-kind heard reports of employees pushing company cars and vans de-hired all unused vehicles and (BIK) tax during the whole period. their keys back through the letter- H are standing idle as arranged rental holiday for leased HMRC told Fleet News the benefit boxes of unattended offices. fleets feel the full force vehicles. charge applies where a car is made Not only does it make it impossible of the coronavirus pandemic. Payment deferrals have also been available for private use, whether or for fleet decision-makers to create Almost three-quarters (72.6%) of discussed with funders in the event not it is so used. an audit trail to satisfy HMRC, but it Almost 20% of fleets said between respondents to a Fleet News survey of extended movement restrictions. A spokesman said: “A car kept on could also create a health safety half and three-quarters of their said less than 10% of their company The Government lockdown, intro- an employee’s driveway during a problem if a car needed to be moved drivers were still on the road cars are being driven for work. duced on Monday, March 23, has period of furlough would still be in an emergency and the keys were Any semblance of normality was resulted in an estimated nine million considered to be made available. not readily available. reserved for just one-in-20 fleets, employees being furloughed. Many Neither would we accept a SORN Zenith, said: “We are operating as which said more than 75% of their of those still in work, meanwhile, are declaration as proof of unavailability.” OPERATIONAL IMPACT near to normal as possible. company car drivers were still on the working from home. Ordinarily, a car would need to be Vehicle deliveries and collections Customers are still able to order No: 8.9% Yes: 91.1% road. An overwhelming majority of fleet handed back to the employer so it have also been halted, with leasing vehicles and speak to our team for The impact on van fleets is equally decision-makers – close to three- cannot be used. However, HMRC companies working with fleet deci- any assistance they might need.” significant, but, due to increases in quarters (73.4%) – said they were says it recognises under the current sion-makers to extend contracts, Customers and their drivers are Yes: 29.2% demand from different parts of the working from home; one in 10 were circumstances it may not be possible where possible, and mitigate poten- being kept up-to-date, with regular N/A: 37.5% economy, such as home deliveries, dividing their working day between to physically hand the car back. tial charges incurred during the communications on everything from Have deliveries of Have you agreed fewer vans as a proportion of overall the office and home, and just 15.4% The spokesman said: “We would Covid-19 pandemic. vehicle availability to servicing and new company cars and contract extensions with fleet operations are standing idle, the were still in the office full-time. accept that where all the keys (or However, they say they are contin- maintenance, explained Buchan. vans stopped? your leasing provider? research suggests. tabs) are in possession of the uing to support vehicle deliveries for “Everyone at Zenith understands Source: Fleet News Source: Fleet News Nevertheless, two-thirds (66.7%) of ‘BENEFIT’ QUESTIONED employer, and the employee does not frontline essential services, public how important our role is in keeping respondents said that less than 10% The number of employees being have the authority to request the keys sector customers and key workers. fleets operational and we’re doing of their van drivers were working, but furloughed or working from home are returned to them, the car would Customer service teams are everything we can to support them almost one-in-five (18.8%) said has called into question the fairness be unavailable.” working from home and are avail- all at this time.” between half and three-quarters of of paying company car tax on a However, no official guidance has able to assist fleets, while vehicle Nick Brownrigg, Alphabet’s CEO, No: 33.3% their drivers were on the road. One in ‘benefit’ that may be standing idle. been published and the suggestion orders can be made online, but the told Fleet News he understood that 10 had more than 75% of their van Currently, unless a company car is around sending keys back could industry says it recognises fleets will Covid-19 is an “unprecedented, drivers operational. unavailable for 30 consecutive days create major problems for fleets. need help negotiating the crisis. concerning and difficult time” for One fleet manager told Fleet News and is available to the same employee The Association of Fleet Profes- Tim Buchan, chief executive of everyone in the UK. Customers that may have an issue Brownrigg said, if they have less with their payments as a result of than three months left on their coronavirus should call to discuss contract fleets and drivers are being 5.4%: their concerns as soon as possible, contacted to discuss their options. more than 72.6%: 11.2%: 15.4%: less than 10.3%: 66.7%: he said. He added: “For customers with a bit of 5.4%: 75% more than less than working 51-75% 10% “We have a range of options avail- vehicles on contracts with beyond both in the office 2.9%: 75% 10% able – such as the rescheduling of three months to run, we are recom- 31-50% payments – which enables us to mending they continue to run to their 8.5%: 51-75% tailor a solution to the precise normal renewal cycle, unless there circumstances of the business and is a specific request for a contract the types of contract on which the reschedule.” 13.7%: 3.6%: fleet operates.” Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions, 10-30% 31-50% Are you still working What proportion of your What proportion of your He continued: “This is an incredibly like many other leasing companies, in the office or now working company car drivers are still company van drivers are still difficult moment for many busi- is taking a similar approach. nesses in the UK; however, fleet Managing director Jon Lawes said: from home? driving for work? 10.9%: driving for work? decision-makers should also “We’ve been contacting all of our Source: Fleet News Source: Fleet News 10-30% Source: Fleet News remember that there are contrac- customers with vehicles due for tual and regulatory obligations for renewal in the next six months to leased and financed vehicles.” offer them the ability to extend their Fleets are also being directed to contract. the relevant Government websites “This has been done on a case-by- and online resources, which detail case basis to ensure we consider the 73.4%: working from home potential grants and support avail- most appropriate option for each and able to businesses. every driver.” Almost a third (29.2%) of fleets say LeasePlan UK is also currently they have negotiated vehicle contract working on extending the contracts extensions with their provider. of its customers, including key
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NEWS: CORONAVIRUS UPDATE OPINION: AFP OVERVIEW
workers, to keep them as mobile Corrine Barton, UK head of as possible. networks at Arval, explained: “We Fleet industry can be Attila Dobos, operations director at are having to find service and main- LeasePlan UK, explained: “We are tenance suppliers that remain avail- offering a number of options for our able for essential work, and then proud as it answers customers to choose from, designed schedule jobs so that downtime is to cater to their individual needs and kept to an absolute minimum. all calls in selfless personal circumstances. Getting this right can literally save “These include formal and lives.” (For more on the SMR impact, informal extension agreements. If see page 8). and capable fashion neither option is suitable, we are asking customers to get in touch RESIDUAL VALUES We’ve just lived through a few weeks with us directly where they can The long-term impact on the fleet during which the world seems to have FORD discuss further options with our industry remains unclear, but altered completely. Shifts in behaviour dedicated customer services team.” undoubtedly the length of the lock- and material changes that we might To help any service, maintenance down will play its part. have dismissed as almost unthinkable and repair (SMR) needs during the Andrew Mee, head of forecast UK as recently as early last month have crisis, Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solu- at Cap HPI, said: “In the short term, become the norm – and look set to tions set up a dedicated operations when a lockdown of hopefully only a remain in place for the foreseeable incident team to contact every few months starts to be released CAROLINE SANDALL, future. supplier across its network, before and the new and used car markets CO-CHAIR OF Not that the future seems anywhere the nationwide lockdown was start to come back to life, there is the THE ASSOCIATION near as foreseeable as it once did. announced. potential for reasonably steady OF FLEET In the fleet sector, the impact of HHYBRIDYBRID It has contacted repairers that residual values. PROFESSIONALS (AFP) coronavirus and the ensuing lockdown cover 84% of its essential services “This should be the case if the and critical vehicles, of which 83% impact on consumer confidence is of have been dramatic. We have switched repairers are available. limited and pent-up demand is met from being a profession that literally sets business in “Our focus remains on making by a fairly sluggish used supply of motion to one that barely turns a wheel. It’s quite a sure we can react to any fluidity ex-fleet and ex-PCP vehicles transformation. within our supplier network – be that constrained by the logistics of vehicle However, there has been a crucial exception to this sourcing alternative garages or collections, inspections and move- newfound stillness. That has been the support that we, as recruiting new suppliers,” said ments to disposal channels.” an industry, have been providing to key workers. Lawes. Following this, Mee believes a In frequently difficult circumstances, it has meant making “Our teams are also busy maxim- shortfall in new car supply as manu- sure that we keep vehicles available, safe and reliable, ising workshop availability, with facturers struggle to re-establish often on a 24/7 basis. For the fleets that really need to fleet’s compliance and uptime our supply chains may make late plate keep moving, those that are essential to living and saving main priorities. As a result, fleet and low mileage used cars very lives, we have been in place to help their workers deliver. availability is 99.5% across our attractive, and good values for these customer base.” will ripple down to support values of When the fleet industry was called on to help, it At Alphabet, Brownrigg said SMR older cars. responded in a selfless and capable fashion, and all of bookings should only be made if they “On the other hand,” he said, “a those involved deserve some praise. We can take pride in are “absolutely necessary”. However, longer lockdown is likely to have a what we have done. he added: “If customers have desig- much more negative effect on the There have been other important subjects to tackle, if not nated key workers that need to economy, and people’s jobs, personal as dramatic. Many company car drivers find themselves in remain mobile, we’re asking them to wealth and disposable income. This difficult financial circumstances, and the work that has contact us so we can ensure their could see used car supply outweigh been done on benefit-in-kind taxation to minimise their continued mobility, despite the demand and so result in a medium- outgoings is extremely worthwhile. restrictions and challenges.” or long-term fall in used values.” Equally impressive has been the way that the majority Arval UK has also adopted new An inevitable fall in new car regis- of fleet industry service providers, from the smallest to the SMR procedures to support a number trations in 2020, however, could largest, have moved from being traditional, centralised of key businesses, including some of affect used car supply in future organisations to atomised, home-working operations in a the UK’s largest pharmaceutical and years, contributing to future used medical supply companies. value recovery. matter of days. KUGA PLUG-IN HYBRID Achieving all of these tasks has required often Herculean amounts of work, as I am sure everyone reading this 1 OF 14 ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES IN 2020 knows. On a personal level, I can vouch that I have never been as busy as in the past month, something that I have A full charge of the electric powertrain gives you a range of up to 35 miles with zero emissions whilst driving. heard many other people report. Re-charge via mains power or let the 2.5 litre Duratec Petrol Engine take over. What everyone now wants to know is what the future Search All-New Ford Kuga PHEV to discover more. holds, but the picture is very far from discernible. As I write this, it is becoming clear the lockdown will extend into May. Will it continue beyond then? Will there be a CO2 32g (WLTP) BIK – £194.20 per month for 40% THIS IS AN INCREDIBLY phased reduction? Will we have to live with coronavirus measures until well into next year? COMBINED MPG – 201.8mpg *using the electric range DIFFICULT MOMENT FOR MANY The answer is that no one knows. However, from what I BUSINESSES IN THE UK have seen over the past few weeks, it is very obvious to me that whatever is asked of our sector, we can answer that Model shown is an All-New Kuga ST-Line 2.5 PHEV Auto with optional Lucid Red Exclusive Body Colour Paint. Weighted Fuel economy mpg call. With the flexibility, goodwill and ingenuity that we have (l/100km), (Combined): 201.8 (1.4). Weighted combined electricity consumption: 26.88 kWh/100 miles. Weighted CO 2 emissions: 32g/km. NICK BROWNRIGG, ALPHABET shown, the fleet industry can tackle anything. Equivalent all-electric range: 35 miles. Everyone, please stay well and safe. These figures were obtained using a combination of battery power and fuel. The Kuga Plug-in Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Figures shown are for comparability purposes. Only compare fuel consumption, CO 2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including, accessories fitted, variations 6 in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.
FP_FLEETNEW_294825KUGAid4275108.pdf 04.14.2020 14:41 NEWS: SERVICE, MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR NEWS: HEALTH AND SAFETY Coronavirus lockdown presents Home delivery new SMR challenges for fleets Closure of non-essential retail sites has left many gaps, but some workshops remain open poses threat to fleet safety By Matt de Prez Most sites continue to offer some of its service network is operating to leet operators must be aftersales services, although routine provide essential maintenance and more cautious of vehicle servicing or non-essential repairs repair services to customers, while Firms that recruit roadworthiness in the are being delayed to free up work- BMW said it is working with its F coming months as the shops in case they are needed to >50% retailers to establish what they are many more drivers coronavirus lockdown means some support key workers or the emer- able to offer in terms of essential key maintenance and inspections gency services. Percentage of Jaguar Land service and repair. are being urged to Rover’s service network will be deferred. Corrine Barton, UK head of “Any fleet customer with urgent operating to provide essential be mindful of not The Government has suspended networks at Arval, said: “There has maintenance and repair vehicle maintenance requirements the requirement for heavy goods been a massive and quite sudden services which is unable to receive help cutting corners vehicles (HGVs) and public service demand for fleets to be operational through their normal channels vehicles (PSVs) to have an MOT test around the clock in response to the should contact their BMW Key for three months, while MOT expiry crisis, and this has created substan- Account Manager for support,” a dates for cars have been extended tial new service and maintenance BMW spokesperson said. by six months. requirements.” aftersales services with a “skeleton Van and truck operators should Maintenance is affected as some Leasing companies, manufac- staff”, while its Part Plus business expect a better service, with vehicles will be left parked for turers and dealers say they are also continues to operate. commercial vehicle service centres extended periods, while others will working to meet the needs of large Stuart Foulds, TrustFord chairman largely operating as usual. be used more frequently with limited fleets where possible. and chief executive, said: “We must With the coronavirus lockdown By Matt de Prez parcel carriers to uphold best prac- Some stores, including Waitrose, been relaxed, and night-time delivery opportunities for downtime. Sue Robinson, director of the play our own part in protecting the expected to last into May, it’s likely leet operators face new tice across the logistics sector.” announced they would continue to curfews have been suspended. Fleet operators and company National Franchised Dealers Asso- most vulnerable in our society and there will be a pool of vehicles that safety risks as busi- Delivery companies must contend deliver to households in quarantine, Red Driver Training is urging fleets vehicle drivers can still access ciation (NFDA), said: “Aftersales make sure the NHS and frontline are overdue a service or require nesses rapidly expand with new safety requirements to but new protocols needed to be not to prioritise getting new drivers emergency repair and maintenance workshops and their technicians will services are able to function in the maintenance after being parked up F home delivery services prevent the spread of the virus, as established. Initially, companies on the road ahead of safety and their services as some garages and play an important role in ensuring days and weeks ahead.” or only used for short trips. with additional vehicles and drivers. their drivers make much-needed adopted slightly different approaches legal duty of care to any employee workshops remain open, albeit in a that critical vehicles can continue to Kia told Fleet News there is a To give fleet operators and drivers Demand has increased as retail deliveries – often coming face-to- to doorstep delivery. For a few days, who drives on company business. limited capacity. operate safely and efficiently during limited number of dealers operating peace of mind, the majority of manu- stores have been forced to close due face with members of the public. some parcels were being dropped “Now is not the time for busi- The closure of all non-essential these challenging times.” servicing facilities – in particular facturers have extended the to the coronavirus lockdown and GMB London, the union for staff in without any record kept of proof of nesses to cut corners,” Ian McIntosh, retail sites was ordered on March 23, TrustFord, part of the Ford Retail catering for the needs of key servicing intervals and warranty high-risk individuals are unable to the parcel delivery sector, says of delivery. New protocols were swiftly CEO of Red Driving School, warned. prompting car dealers to close their Group, is the UK’s largest Ford workers. cover for their vehicles to cover this leave their homes. particular concern is the necessity to put in place and there are now “Customer service teams are showroom doors immediately. dealer group. It continues to provide Jaguar Land Rover said more 50% period. David Jink, head of consumer operate in accordance with strict broadly agreed procedures. under more pressure than ever, but PSA Group brands, including research at Parcelhero, said: “It’s social distancing requirements and “Today, drivers keep a two-metre that is no excuse for employers to Peugeot and Vauxhall said thought the current rise in demand how this impacts on the normal distance and will confirm proof of send untrained drivers on to the road customers can continue to use their for home deliveries has eclipsed even delivery times and rates plus the delivery themselves once the and neglect their duty of care. ADVICE FOR MAINTAINING vehicles provided the required main- the Christmas peak period, and that’s need for sanitiser, hand-washing package has been accepted: they “A comprehensive fleet driver IDLE VEHICLES tenance is performed within three something our industry plans all year facilities and personal protective may even take a photo of premises training programme is vital to months or 1,800 miles of the speci- for. With mere weeks of warning, the equipment (PPE). as proof. To avoid contact entirely, ensure drivers are safe and effi- Fleet operators can avoid a fied service intervals. UK’s couriers and retailers have had we’ve been advising receivers it’s cient,” he added. large number of breakdowns Mercedes-Benz has increased to ramp up services to an unprece- best practice to let all delivery Studies show that drivers are more after the coronavirus lockdown servicing intervals to the sooner of dented degree.” services know a convenient area likely to break the speed limit and is lifted by advising drivers of 180 days past the current due date Supermarket giant Tesco has such as a porch where parcels can take risks due to time pressures. some basic care tips: or the vehicle covering 3,728 miles added more than 200 new vans to its be left safely,” Jink said. “Notwithstanding a pandemic, ■ Vehicles should be started after a service was required. home delivery fleet and hired Michael Holt, executive chairman there are two common practices in and allowed to idle for 10-15 Epyx, which runs the 1link Service another 2,500 drivers and 5,000 of Tuffnells, said the whole supply the industry referred to as ‘job and minutes at least once every two Network used by fleets operating store pickers to help handle chain is facing an “unprecedented finish’ and ‘payment by customer’ weeks to ensure the battery around four million cars and vans, increased demand. challenge” and businesses like contact,” said Lisa Dorn, research does not go flat. said fleets should not overlook the Rival Morrisons has announced POOR Tuffnells are rapidly hiring more director at DriverMetrics ■ Moving the vehicle back and SMR advantages mobile mechanics plans to create 3,500 jobs to help staff to cope with demand. “These practices can encourage forth will prevent brakes from can offer during the coronavirus expand home deliveries to get PRACTICES “It’s been an extremely difficult drivers to exceed speed limits, by sticking and prevent tyres from pandemic. groceries to vulnerable people. ENCOURAGE period for us all no matter where you reinforcing drivers to complete more forming flat spots. Tim Meadows, vice-president and It is estimated that demand for are or what you do for work. The deliveries in a certain timeframe ■ Bird droppings and other commercial director of Epyx, said: home delivery has increased by DRIVERS TO sheer rise in demand for goods in either because they want to finish contaminants should be cleaned “For fleets that are involved in deliv- 100%, placing significant strain on EXCEED SPEED recent weeks means we are working work early or because they want the off the body and wheels to ering essential services and trans- supply chains. hard to deliver the supplies busi- financial reward of making fast and prevent damage to paint finish. porting key workers, mobile can Carl Moore, chief operations officer LIMITS nesses and customers need to frequent deliveries.” ■ When driving the vehicle for provide the means for more flexible at Yodel, said: “We have been doing operate as best they can considering She said it is crucial employers set the first time, tyre pressures SMR provision, ensuring that vehi- everything we can to keep the the circumstances,” he said. reasonable work schedules that do should be checked along with cles stay roadworthy that might country moving. Demand has LISA DORN, Conditions are changing daily in the not require drivers to exceed recom- fluid levels. otherwise be difficult to maintain and increased for essential products and DRIVERMETRICS delivery industry. The hours truck mended working limits and drivers’ repair.” we are working closely with other drivers are permitted to work have hours.
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NEWS: MOBILITY Free2Move Lease looks to mobility market as all services roll together Vehicle tracking that Business aims to keep evolving with three-year plan to double its size By Sarah Tooze ree2Move Lease has brought its leasing, car works for you F sharing, rental and WE WANT telematics offerings together in a central department, TO BE ABLE made up of more than 50 employees, TO OFFER as it looks to tap into the mobility market. MOBILITY “We want to be able to offer TO ALL mobility to all customers wherever they are,” said Alison Jones, group CUSTOMERS managing director of Peugeot, WHEREVER Citroën and DS in the UK for PSA Group, which owns Free2Move THEY ARE Lease. “That’s a key emerging area to be able to do that. They are complementary services for ALISON JONES, PSA customers; quite often with car share you need telematics in those Find out just vehicles to be able to track where they are – so it makes it more effective to put them into one team.” Fleet customers have long bene- fited from telematics as standard in how much you Citroën vans but the offering has since been widened with the launch “We’ve widened the opportunity of ness model to work for customers retailer network last year. of Free2Move Lease’s Connect Fleet what can be done because some then us as a business,” Jones said. Vauxhall previously white labelled product in 2018. people want different functionality,” Citroen’s electric city car, Ami, ALD Automotive’s finance products can save with This means data – such as main- Jones said. “We keep evolving to see which is being offered in Europe on to offer to fleet customers, although tenance alerts, fluid levels and what can be included and the new a long-term rental costing £17 per there was period of about two years speed – is taken direct from Peugeot, team will look at all areas of month with a £2,186 deposit or via between the agreement with ALD Citroën and DS vehicles, enabling a connected services.” car sharing at a cost of 21p per ending and Free2Move Lease proactive approach to maintenance Jones is also learning which minute (see Fleetnews.co.uk, beginning. Quartix and mileage management. mobility options work in other coun- February 28), could also provide The move is set to double the size Customers can also choose to tries where PSA operates. For valuable learnings. Jones said that of the business over a three-year have a telematics box fitted to instance, Free2Move has a car PSA has not committed to Ami cycle, but this does not take into non-PSA vehicles. sharing service in Washington DC, coming to the UK but it “depends account any impact the coronavirus Three packages are available: fleet which allows customers to rent a car what customers want”. lockdown may have on sales. management (vehicle tracking, fuel from 30 minutes to seven days using “You have to test these things in Free2Move Lease is offering consumption, mechanical alerts in an app. Cars are parked on the different places and see,” she said. customers contract extensions, real time, and service and mainte- streets of Washington and can be payment holidays where needed, nance alerts), eco driving (this adds returned within the ‘home’ area for CONTRACT HIRE FOR VAUXHALL and helping to ensure critical driving behaviour analysis and the next user. SET TO GROW BUSINESS vehicles keep moving during the customised eco-driving advice to the “The UK is on the list as one of the Free2Move Lease’s growth in the lockdown. No auto-renewal | Free mobile app | 1st class customer service driver) or geolocation (this adds real countries that would introduce it but short-term is set to come from ■ For more on how the PSA time geolocation, itinerary and route we would take the learning from Vauxhall, after it became the Group is supporting fleet operators tracking and analysis, and customis- what they’re doing in the other in-house provider of business who have essential workers, see able geofencing alerts). markets and how you get the busi- contract hire for Vauxhall and its Fleetnews.co.uk, March 31. Visit quartix.net or call 01686 807 607 to schedule a free demo NO IMMEDIATE PLANS TO INTEGRATE FLEET TEAMS brands,” Alison Jones said. The cultural changes which However, on the dealership Jones has made, along with her Vauxhall continues to operate as integrated under fleet director side, network development and leadership skills, were recently a separate fleet team, despite Martin Gurney. aftersales have been integrated recognised with her being named PSA’s acquisition of the brand in “We keep our brands quite for efficiency and to benefit the Barbara Cox ‘Woman of 2017 and the Peugeot, Citroen separate, as do any many others investors, since Jones was the Year’ (see Fleetnews.co.uk while saw DS fleet teams [manufacturers] who have many appointed in February last year. March 10).
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FP_FLEETNEW_4012342id3971307.pdf 15.07.2019 11:40 LINKEDIN UK fleet managers group CONTACT US THE BIG TWITTER twitter.com/_FleetNews HAVE Y Fleet News, Media House, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6EA. E YOUR SAY Email – fl[email protected] PICTURE EMAIL fl[email protected] COMMENT ONLINE fleetnews.co.uk Burning question: Name a positive of being in lockdown
EDITORIAL With everything that has happened in recent Editor-in-chief Stephen Briers 01733 468024 weeks, the news of the merger between ROAD SAFETY [email protected] ACFO and ICFM has been slightly Better quality coffee at home overlooked. Deputy editor BENEFIT-IN-KIND TAX ‘Enforce’ existing Sarah Tooze We’ve covered the on-going impact of On parental leave News editor coronavirus on fleets comprehensively speed limits Gareth Roberts 01733 468314 [email protected] throughout this issue, so I won’t dwell on it Coronavirus HMRC advice I’m saving money by not buying coffee again here, other than to mention a webinar Greg wrote: Features editor EDITOR’S EDITOR’S PICK Having read ‘Reducing speed limit to 20mph could Andrew Ryan 01733 468308 we ran last week with Driving for Better ‘fills me with dread’ [email protected] Business and Fleet Check which was our lower NHS burden’ (fleetnews.co.uk, April 9), Out of office – aren’t we all? most watched ever. A whole host of Glenn Ewen wrote: reducing the speed of impact, particularly with Head of digital Having read ‘HMRC to publish company car tax guidance’ (fleetnews.co.uk, April 7), pedestrians, is very important. The best way to do Jeremy Bennett 01733 468655 questions were raised, which we are looking [email protected] as a fleet manager, the thought of having cars all over the country, with the keys in this, however, would be to enforce the current My commute has gone from 30 miles to 0 miles, to answer over the coming days. Keep an one location, for an unspecified period of time, and with no one responsible for speed limits and for drivers to stick to them. saving a small fortune in fuel costs. eye on the website for more details. Web producer them, fills me with dread. LONDON ULEZ Jess Maguire 01733 468655 Back to the new Association of Fleet The safety and security issues are endless (to suggesting a company car would [email protected] Professionals. We’ve long held the opinion be considered unavailable by sending the keys back to the employer). Staff writer Expansion ‘should Matt de Prez 01733 468277 that ACFO and ICFM should be one The minute that the lockdown is ended, every one of those drivers is going to [email protected] want their car back on the road, having taken absolutely no interest in it for the More time spent with the dog association, as far back as 2010 when they be delayed’ Photos Chris Lowndes first revealed plans to work together and previous months, and they’ll expect it to start first time. then again in 2016 when a statement The simple solution would be to allow a certain weekly mileage to ensure the Rob wrote: PRODUCTION announcing “closer links” led to vehicle is kept roadworthy, and the battery charged, and reducing the benefit-in- Having read ‘Congestion charge and ULEZ Head of publishing kind (BIK) accordingly to reflect that. suspended’ (fleetnews.co.uk, March 23), I understand Luke Neal representation on each other’s boards Not having to travel to work If they can pay a huge swathe of the country while they are furloughed, they can that the ULEZ has been suspended for now. However, Production editor and shared membership initiatives. come up with a simple solution to keep the driver involved in the upkeep of the will the date planned to extend as far as the South David Buckley At the time, in this column, we urged them I can fall out of bed, walk five paces and be ‘at vehicle, and have the ability to go straight back to work, without swamping the and North Circulars also be pushed back? work’ to consider a full-scale merger, commenting breakdown services on the first day back. How can those with cars that do not satisfy the new Senior designer regulations sell them in order to buy newer models? Chris Stringer “it would strengthen them, pool resources Out of office and make the representative voice of the Head of project management sector much stronger – more on a par with Leanne Patterson 01733 468332 the likes of the BVRLA and FTA – when Project managers lobbying Government”. RESIDUAL VALUES Therefore, we are going to see both the new and Hollie Ismail 01733 468327 used car markets face low demand and chronic Kerry Unwin 01733 468578 We added: “It may take a little time to come Chelsie Tate 01733 468338 Fears for used car demand over-supply, which means much reduced to fruition, but don’t rule out an amalgamation forecourt prices. ADVERTISING at some point. We’d certainly back it.” Devon Guy wrote: I have a friend that runs a small used car Acting commercial director Sheryl Graham 01733 366467 And we certainly will back it. We played Having read ‘Used car values slide’ (fleetnews.co.uk, business. He used to offer ‘cash for cars’, maybe Account directors our own small role in helping to reignite March 27), sadly, over the coming months and years, getting three calls a week, pre the virus. He’s now Lisa Turner 01733 366471 the economy is going to look radically different, with a averaging 30-40 calls every week from desperate Stuart Wakeling 01733 366470 negotiations in late 2018, bringing the two Account managers organisations together to discuss common global recession and high unemployment levels owners wanting to offload their cars because they Emma Rogers 01733 363219 looking a real possibility. have already lost their jobs. Lucy Herbert 01733 363218 ground and the potential creation of a new Telesales/recruitment trade body, so we’re already invested in 01733 468275/01733 468328 having a strong, relevant and truly EVENTS representative association. Event director Chris Lester But, the real credit goes to ICFM’s Paul Event manager Hollick and ACFO’s Caroline Sandall and • THE EDITOR’S PICK WINS A £20 JOHN LEWIS VOUCHER Sandra Evitt 01733 468123 Senior event planner Stewart Lightbody who had the vision and Kate Howard 01733 468146 energy to make an ambition a reality. Stay well and safe everyone. Keith Wall wrote: PUBLISHING I think company car drivers tend to be more affluent than many and should not Managing director Tim Lucas 01733 468340 expect a reduction in BIK during the crisis. CRM & marketing manager Everyone else has to continue to bear vehicle costs and the Government is not Joanna Smith 01733 468295 Office manager there to finance every small loss, but to shield us from catastrophe. Jane Hill 01733 468319 Try looking out and not in, don’t behave like a professional footballer. Chief Financial Officer Lisa Hayden MD Automotive Group Sage and Onion replied: Niall Clarkson Complaints: Bauer Fleet News is published 15 times a year. without prior permission of the publisher. All We cannot accept any responsibility for unsolic- I can’t agree. You might find that the less “affluent” company car drivers on the Consumer Media Limited CEO of Bauer Publishing UK Bauer Consumer Media Ltd is a company material published remains the copyright of ited manuscripts, images or materials lost or Rob Munro-Hall Stephen Briers, lower rungs of company car choice lists pay higher BIK tax for their diesel registered in England and Wales with Bauer Consumer Media Ltd. damaged in the post. Whilst every reasonable is a member of the company number 01176085, registered We reserve the right to edit letters, copy or care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher is Independent Press Standards Organisation editor-in-chief, rep-mobile than executive company car drivers higher up the ladder and they Subscribe to Fleet News: Fleet News address Media House, Peterborough images submitted to the magazine without not responsible for any errors or omissions nor do (www.ipso.co.uk) and endeavours to respond to get much less private use, too. Business Park, Lynchwood, Peterborough, further consent. we accept any liability for any loss or damage, and resolve your concerns quickly. Our Editorial www.fleetnews.co.uk/subscribe PE2 6EA. VAT no 918 5617 01. The submission of material to Bauer Media howsoever caused, resulting from the use of the Complaints Policy (including full details of how to +44 (0)1635 588495 H Bauer Publishing and Bauer Consumer whether unsolicited or requested, is taken as magazine. ISSN 0953-8526. People with cars on private finance agreements can ask for payment holidays contact us about editorial complaints and IPSO’s Subscriptions@email.fleetnews.co.uk Printing: Media Ltd are authorised and regulated by permission to publish in the magazine, PCP, Telford UK: annual £85 / two years £145 / three etc. so why shouldn’t the same relief apply to company car drivers? We’re all in this the FCA (Ref No. 845898) and including any licensed editions throughout the contact details) can be found at www.bauermedi- together remember. (Ref No. 710067). world. Any fees paid in the UK include acomplaints.co.uk. Our email address for editorial years £195. Issue price £6 No part of the magazine may be remuneration for any use in any other licensed complaints covered by the Editorial Complaints Europe and Eire: annual £135 / two years reproduced in any form in whole or in part, editions. Policy is [email protected] £230 / three years £315
April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 13 FleetNews goes DIGITAL ONLY FLEET NEWS AWARDS HONOURING THE ENTIRE Our digital magazine will be INDUSTRY FROM MAY made available to everyone so you Fleet News is merging the Commercial Fleet Awards with can access it from the comfort of the Fleet News Awards to create an unparalleled awards evening that honours and recognises excellence across your home. This ‘page-turner e-zine’ every part of the fleet sector. publication will be sent out at the same With the industry in turmoil due to the coronavirus pandemic and very little time for compiling award entries Due to the ongoing coronavirus we produce, and we can widen our audience time as you’d normally expect to receive to reflect innovation and best practice,Fleet News had a beyond our usual 18,700 print-run. One thing that chance to review its awards proposition for 2021. pandemic which has resulted in Fleet won’t change is our commitment to provide you the printed magazine, plus you can “Despite the ongoing success of the Commercial Fleet as much as 75% of the with insightful, well-researched, useful and Fleet News Awards, particularly with its new home at Fleet & Mobility News readership now working comprehensive news, interviews, profiles and access it via the website Live, we believe bringing together our two awards features. programmes will boost their appeal to a wider audience of from home (see survey on page Remote working and cancelled events, such as fleetnews.co.uk/digital-issue fleets, suppliers and manufacturers,” said Stephen Briers, 4), we have taken the decision to our own Company Car In Action and Fleet200 Fleet News editor-in-chief. temporarily stop printing Fleet quarterly meetings, make relationships and The move mirrors the decision to bringCommercial Fleet building contacts and knowledge more difficult. magazine into the pages ofFleet News at the start of 2019. News from May and instead At Fleet News, we will continue to offer a way This reflected the fact that the majority of the fleet reader- produce the magazine in a digital to connect the fleet sector, through our digital ship is running a mixture of cars, vans and trucks. magazine, our website, our daily newsletters and Many issues facing companies are relevant irrespective e-zine format. our webinars. of the type of vehicles they run, and many of the solutions Our digital magazine will be made available to can be shared across their operations.Fleet News now puts We recognise that all businesses have big everyone so you can access it from the comfort of the spotlight more directly on the business of moving decisions to make to protect their futures and the your home. This ‘page-turner e-zine’ publication people, goods and services around. livelihoods of their employees. Car, van and truck will be sent out at the same time as you’d normally Bringing together the Commercial Fleet Awards and the manufacturers have switched off production, expect to receive the printed magazine, plus you Fleet News Awards is a continuation of that journey, one other companies have furloughed staff, some are can access it via the Fleet News website – which has also seen the introduction of more van and truck fighting for their very survival. https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/digital-issue/ content into Fleet & Mobility Live (see page 28). Consequently, we have seen a reduction in We will also be introducing a monthly ‘editor’s Fleet News Awards 2021, incorporating Commercial advertising as a number of companies pull back letter’ video which will be distributed via our Fleet Awards, will offer a unique opportunity forFleet News expenditure. newsletter to give you an insight into the latest to bring together the entire fleet sector to celebrate and However, Fleet News continues to benefit from issue of Fleet News and our thoughts about the honour the best people, companies and vehicles. It is set to the support of several fleet suppliers and we challenges facing fleets. become the biggest night in fleet. would like to pay special thanks to the following for And you can stay up-to-date with all the latest “We believe this is the right move. It enables us to cele- maintaining their investment in the magazine: The news at Fleetnews.co.uk where our coronavirus brate and honour the entire fleet sector, just as we provide AA, Chevin, Geotab, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, hub will keep you informed daily with all the news insight and analysis for every part of fleet inFleet News and Quartix and Zenith. and information to help your business and your deliver content for all at Fleet & Mobility Live,” said Briers. Turning off print for our May, June, July and employees to get through the current crisis. Further details about awards categories, judges and August issues creates a number of opportunities: But the most important thing, that we wish for all auditing will be released in September whenFleet News we are no longer restricted in the number of pages our readers and commercial partners, is stay safe. officially launches the Fleet NewsAwards 2021.
14 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 15 Sponsored by TOMORROW’S FLEET: THE HUMANDRIVE PROJECT
SPONSOR’S COMMENT
David Morris, Channel Manager, Goodyear Tyres UK Limited For any fleet there are a few items at the top of the list when it comes to tyre management – hassle-free and sustainability being up there together with lower cost of ownership and safety. Every year, traditionally at the Geneva Motor Show, Goodyear shows its vision of the future of mobility, and even without the show taking place this year, Goodyear still managed to release its vision of the tyre of the future – the Goodyear reCharge. The reCharge is a revolutionary self- On the road to regenerating concept tyre that can adapt and change to meet individual needs. The concept includes a number of innovative autonomous driving features that are built around three pillars: Personalised: At the core of the reCharge concept is a reloadable and biodegradable The Nissan-led HumanDrive project investigated the tread compound that can be recharged with individual capsules, radically simplifying the real-world demands on self-driving vehicles, culminating process of replacing your tyres. Filled with a in a 230-mile journey on UK roads. Andrew Ryan reports customised liquid compound, these capsules allow the tread to regenerate and the tyre to adapt over time to climatic circumstances, road conditions, or simply how you want to travel. Thanks to artificial intelligence, a driver profile would be created, around which the liquid compound would be customised, generating a compound blend hile the technology being used in development in Europe at Nissan Europe: “That is why we spent a lot of time trying to its road positioning. “For example, if you tailored to each individual. autonomous vehicle prototypes is ➊ Create an autonomous vehicle. understand how we can develop the vehicle so that programme an autonomous vehicle without Sustainable: The compound itself would W already staggering, there are plenty ➋ Explore artificial intelligence (AI) and machine- it didn’t drive in a robotic fashion, and we could machine learning, the way they will potentially be made from a biological material and of obstacles still to overcome before learning. understand how to give it a real, human-like feel handle a roundabout is to go an equal distance would be reinforced with fibres inspired by ➌ they are in regular use on public roads. Perform a long-distance demonstration. so customers will feel really confident and safe around the outside of it,” says Peter Stephens, spider silk. This would make it both ➍ These include regulation, cybersecurity and Develop testing, validation and safety methods. with the technology.” head of UK external and government affairs extremely durable and biodegradable. trust in the technology from the people who will ➎ Investigate cyber security. at Nissan. Hassle-Free: The tread would be ultimately use the vehicles. ➏ Understand how autonomous vehicles interact HUMANDRIVE AND MACHINE LEARNING “No human drives that way, they usually These were all areas looked at by the Nissan with the transport infrastructure. Part of the HumanDrive project looked at how cut across the roundabout, so part of the aim WE NEED TO supported by a lightweight, non-pneumatic Europe-led consortium HumanDrive, which However, the overriding aim was for the machine-learning AI technologies could enhance of the project was to teach vehicles to drive frame and tall-and-narrow shape. This is a concluded with the Grand Drive – a successful HumanDrive car to travel in a way that was the user experience and passenger comfort of autonomously following a more natural road line. MAKE SURE THE thin, robust low-maintenance construction 230-mile self-navigated journey on UK roads. The comfortable, natural and ultimately trustworthy connected and autonomous vehicles. “One reason was to improve the driving TECHNOLOGY that would eliminate the need for pressure project also included a test track-based activity for the user, says Professor Natasha Merat, The project’s pilot vehicles were tested on private experience, making it smoother, and secondly it maintenance or downtime related to which explored human-like driving using machine chairman in human factors of transport systems tracks and incorporated AI systems – developed was to increase the predictability for other road THAT COMES IN punctures. Goodyear wants the tyre to be an learning to enhance the user experience. at consortium member the University of Leeds. by consortium member Hitachi Europe – to enable users being able to read where the vehicle is even more powerful contributor to Fleet News IS NOT ONLY takes an in-depth look at the findings “Integrating human-like controllers in real-time machine-learning. positioned on the road, and therefore what the answering specific needs, including for fleets. of the project and what they mean. automated vehicles will provide a smoother, These built a dataset of previously encountered driver’s intention is.” USEFUL FOR It was with that in mind that we set out to more comfortable experience for drivers and traffic scenarios and solutions, and used this Moss adds: “The only way we could do that is by PEOPLE, BUT THE PROJECT our algorithm development is trying to achieve ‘learned experience’ to understand how to handle doing a lot of research about understanding how create a concept tyre primed for the future of Since 2017, Nissan’s R&D team, based at the this, along with an understanding of what similar scenarios in future in order that a safe people drive actual cars on roads and test track, THAT PEOPLE sustainable and convenient electric mobility. Nissan Technical Centre Europe in Cranfield, has people want from an automated driving route could be plotted around an obstacle. These but then also supporting that with the simulation led the HumanDrive project, a £13.5 million experience,” she adds. technologies were subjected to a robust testing environment. WILL USE IT research initiative involving nine other partners (see Establishing trust by users in autonomous process and developed using a range of facilities, “We combined a lot of information from driver panel, page 17) and backed by the UK Government. vehicles is key, says Moss. “We need to make sure including simulators and private test tracks. simulation at Leeds University to the actual The project had six key objectives, says David the technology that comes in is not only useful for One way in which machine learning will help an measurements that we made on the roads DAVID MOSS, NISSAN Moss, senior vice-president for research and people, but that people will use it,” he adds. autonomous vehicle be more human-like is in around us.”
16 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 17 adRocket
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HUMANDRIVE PROJECT Inside the modified CONSORTIUM MEMBERS Leaf EV used for the AND AREAS OF EXPERTISE HumanDrive project Nissan: Lead partner and leading the autonomous vehicle (AV) development Hitachi: Artificial Intelligence to provide human-like control and perception University of Leeds: Understanding humanistic driving and its application to AVs, while also developing a driver risk model Connected Places Catapult: Project management, communications and marketing activity, disseminations and safety case START SOMETHING GREAT TODAY. elements of the project Horiba Mira: Provider of test facilities, supported safety aspects of the project SBD Automotive: Cyber security support and THE GRAND DRIVE VEHICLE behind the wheel and ready to take control if AV human machine interface studies Nissan used a modified 30kW Leaf electric required, while the other supervised the car’s Cranfield University: Provider of test facilities vehicle for the journey. control and monitoring systems. and supported AV demonstrations As it had to contend with a variety of The aim was to carry out the entire journey Atkins: Provision of a cybersecurity framework conditions, from winding country roads with no fully-autonomously with the exception of: Aimsun: Studying the impact of AVs on the white lines to motorways, as well as potential ■ Service station breaks for charging/rest. transport system bad weather and oncoming traffic, a number of ■ Any major incident on motorway/highway. Highways England: Understanding the sensors were installed as very precise ■ The mechanical failure of the vehicle. infrastructure needs for AV deployment. measurements of the actual conditions were ■ Emergency vehicle access. needed, says Moss. ■ Overtaking cyclists. These included an advanced GPS system to ■ Where deemed necessary to avoid injury to keep the positional accuracy of the vehicle passengers or other road users. in autonomous vehicles,” he adds. “It’s not that “within centimetres, not within the likes of the During the journey, the autonomous tech- one technology will work for all road conditions, 10 metres you get on your standard navigation nology activated to change lanes, merge and particularly in terms of positioning and locating system”, he adds. “We also put a lot of other stop and start when necessary. “I’m pleased to the vehicle; you need a variety of different sensors in: eight LiDAR laser scanners, seven say the drive was completed over 99% in fully technologies such as GPS, camera systems, cameras and one radar, and these were used autonomous mode,” says Stephens. LiDAR and so on. in different combinations so the vehicle could “There were also challenges around traffic understand where it was, what was around it KEY LEARNINGS signal recognition with a question about the and then plot the safest route using that data.” The project helped the consortium understand extent to which we depend and design on what the challenges of fully autonomous driving on I’d call dumb road infrastructure versus future THE GRAND DRIVE JOURNEY the public road network. intelligent traffic systems.” The journey took place in November, beginning Particular issues identified were being able to Following HumanDrive, Nissan is to look at at Nissan’s research centre in Cranfield and identify road markings, while there was a real other areas related to the project. These EXCELLENT YEAR-ROUND finishing at the gates of the manufacturer’s challenge around on-street parking and street include developing AI technologies for complex factory in Sunderland, where the vehicle was furniture and how easy it is for an autonomous situations at intersections, including vehicle and originally built. car to be able to detect where the roadway is, pedestrian interaction, as well as a feasibility Two engineers fully trained to conduct auton- says Stephens. “We also learned about the study to clarify how autonomous vehicles fit PERFORMANCE. omous vehicle testing were on board, with one importance of using a diversity of technologies within a wider urban transport system.
Vector 4Seasons Gen-2 r 5CHGV[CPFEQPVTQNKPCNNYGCVJGTEQPFKVKQPU r 3WKGVCPFEQOHQTVCDNGTKFG r 0QPGGFVQUYKVEJDGVYGGPUWOOGTCPFYKPVGTV[TGU
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fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 19
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SOLENT DRONE TRIAL COULD SAVE LIVES
Here we take a closer look at what the newest This bid is focused on three areas: Initiative forms part of additions to the programme involve. ■ Creating three types of electric mobility successful £29 million bid ‘hub’: – neighbourhoods, campuses and depots. We’ll keep your fleet SOLENT TRANSPORT Each will aim to encourage the take-up of alter- to Government’s Future Solent Transport, which comprises South- native travel methods and offer electric car club ampton City Council, Portsmouth Council, Isle hire, electric bike-sharing, vehicle charging Transport Zone scheme. of Wight Council and Hampshire County points, digital information screens and real- Andrew Ryan reports Council, was awarded £29m. time public transport information. working for you As well as trialling the drones, which could ■ A new website and smartphone app to eventually be used to transport chemotherapy plan, book and pay for public transport, plus rones will be used to fly NHS kits, the three-year Solent Transport Zone aims bike hire, car share, taxi journeys, car parking medical supplies from hospitals to address local challenges such as high levels and vehicle charging, as well as discounts and on the UK mainland to the Isle of of car usage and the environmental impacts of bundles to reward and incentivise trips. D ■ Wight in a new Government- freight movement within Solent’s urban areas. A data platform to pool transport data funded mobility project. Personal mobility projects will include an sources owned and collected by the council into The scheme, which will help speed up diag- upgrade of the Solent Go multi-operator one place to provide a network-wide picture to From 24-hour breakdown cover to accident assistance, noses by cutting out time spent journeying on smartcard to an app-based platform to create improve the efficiency of the traffic control ferries and roads – and could “potentially save a mobility as a service (MaaS) app. This will be centre and keep commuters informed of the with mobile technical services and connected solutions lives”, says Ian Ward, cabinet member for trialled at the Universities of Southampton and latest information. There will also be the oppor- transport at Isle of Wight Council – forms part Portsmouth. A bike/e-bike hire scheme will tunity to trial new modes of transport such as of Solent Transport’s successful bid to be also be developed. autonomous vehicles to investigate how they that help keep your wheels in motion. named as a Future Transport Zone (FTZ). The sustainable urban logistics projects will could safely, and sustainably, be incorporated Under this £90 million Government see Solent Transport working with university into Nottingham’s established networks. programme, four areas have now been named partners to test different and less environmen- as FTZs to provide real-world testing of new tally damaging approaches to freight and small WEST OF ENGLAND COMBINED AUTHORITY transport innovations, allowing experts to work package deliveries in urban areas, such as WECA has received £24m for a programme to with a range of local bodies such as councils, e-cargo bikes. test how new technologies can be used to make hospitals, airports and universities to test ways it radically easier for people to move around the to transport people and goods. DERBY AND NOTTINGHAM region, planning and changing between Transport for West Midlands was named as The Government granted Derby and Nottingham different modes of transport on a single ticket the first FTZ at the end of 2018 and was last £17m for its FTZ, which will cover the Derby and to get to their destination. It will also see the use month (March) joined by Solent Transport, the Nottingham conurbations and growth areas of e-scooters being trialled in the region, while West of England Combined Authority (WECA) including the proposed HS2 East Midlands Hub WECA will also work to trial self-driving cars to and Derby and Nottingham, to complete the Station, and East Midlands Airport and East transport people between Bristol airport, areas taking part in the initiative. Midlands Gateway employment zones. central Bath and the Northern Arc.
Talk to us today about Business Breakdown Cover Drones will be used to fly medical supplies from the UK mainland to the Isle of using promo code: 0770 Wight as part of a £90m Call 0800 294 2994 Goverment programme Or visit theAA.com/business
20 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk
FP_FLEETNEW_425796id4273985.pdf 14.04.2020 10:03 Sponsored by ELECTRIC FLEET: SALARY SACRIFICE
Salary sacrifice This means employers can save on national insur- WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL SAVINGS? ance contributions (NIC) for every employee on the Fiona Howarth, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles, scheme, while participating employees save on says an average car-driving employee could retain ‘perfect’ for national insurance and income tax. up to £7,000 in a four-year period by acquiring a Before the OpRA changes, drivers obtaining a BEV through salary sacrifice that would otherwise car through salary sacrifice were taxed on the BIK have gone on tax, fuel and maintenance that a value of their car and – dependent on the choice of petrol or diesel car would typically need. electric vehicles vehicle – were able to make income tax and She gives two specific examples of the potential national insurance contribution (NIC) savings by tax savings. One is for ‘Max’, a 20% taxpayer THIS MAKES paying for it out of gross salary. earning £40,000 who has taken a Nissan Leaf over THE EV AND The reduction in taxable pay also reduced the a three-year/30,000-mile term. The 0% benefit-in-kind tax rate for battery NICs employers made. Each month he sacrifices £439 from his gross electric vehicles makes the staff benefit ULTRA-LOW However, the current rules mean that anyone salary for the car, which in 2020/21 sees him save EMISSION COMPANY who now enters a salary sacrifice agreement £141 in income tax and NIC each pay packet. a valuable tool, experts tell Andrew Ryan for a car with CO2 emissions of 76g/km and He also pays no BIK this year, although this CAR AN ATTRACTIVE above pays income tax on the greater of the taxable increases to £5 and £10 a month in the following OPTION value of the vehicle or the salary being sacrificed two years as the BIK rates for BEVs increases to he fortunes of salary sacrifice for the car. 1% and 2% respectively. schemes for cars has ebbed and Industry estimates at the time suggested the This gives Max an average monthly net payment flowed over the years to reflect SHAUN SADLIER, ARVAL UK change could cost drivers up to £240 more a year of £303 per month, a saving of £4,896 over the T changes in the tax climate, but than the old rules. three years. experts believe they are now “perfect” to help Employers also have to pay NIC on this amount, Over the term of the lease, his employer saves employees move into electric vehicles. meaning they do not enjoy the same savings as an average £57 in NI each month, which is a total The latest changes - introduced in 2017 by the before. of £2,052. Government under the Optional Remuneration ULEVs, however, were exempt from the changes, The other example is for a 40% taxpayer – ‘Julia’ Arrangements (OpRA) – reduced the savings and the Government’s decision to cut the BIK tax - earning £60,000 who has taken a Tesla Model 3 available through the staff benefit in the majority rate on BEVs from 16% in 2019/20 to 0% in 2020/21 over a three-year/30,000-mile term. of cases, therefore lessening the schemes’ appeal. has unlocked significant savings for both employers Each month she sacrifices £835 from her gross However, ultra-low emission vehicles were not and employees. salary for the car, which in 2020/21 results in an affected and the introduction of new benefit-in- Salary sacrifice provider Tusker says the change income tax and NIC saving of £351 per pay packet. kind (BIK) tax rates at the start of this month, which to BIK tax makes BEVs cheaper than petrol or Julia pays no BIK in 2020/21, although this include 0% for battery electric vehicles (BEVs), diesel cars, despite them having higher P11D increases to a monthly £14 and £29 in subsequent make salary sacrifice “effectively perfect” for perk prices. years which results in an average monthly net drivers who want electric cars, says David “Put simply, salary sacrifice is key to making payment of £498. This is a saving of £12,132 over Raistrick, senior manager at KPMG in the UK. BEVs affordable for the average British the term of the agreement. “There are fantastic savings to be had for the motorist,” says Paul Gilshan, chief executive officer Her employer saves £3,960 over the three years, employee and employers from successfully at Tusker. a monthly saving of £110. introducing salary sacrifice arrangements,” he adds. “Now is really the time to think about these arrangements – they should really take off again.” These savings can amount to several thousands BENEFITS OF SALARY SACRIFICE FOR BEVS of pounds per vehicle each year and leasing companies such as Arval UK and JCT600 Vehicle FOR EMPLOYERS by encouraging move from petrol or diesel Leasing Solutions have either already seen a surge ➊ HR grey fleet vehicles to safer and lower in interest or expect salary sacrifice to become ■ Significantly enhances the total benefits emission vehicles increasingly popular for EVs. package “We are already seeing a resurgence of salary ■ Supports employee recruitment and FOR EMPLOYEES sacrifice [for EVs], especially at the management retention ■ Access to a new car every three to four and senior management level,” says Christopher ■ Provides an ‘all employee’ benefit years, usually at a lower cost than other Caddick, head of business development at JCT600 ■ Bespoke schemes can be tailored to methods of new vehicle provision VLS. individual corporate needs ■ Typically no deposit or credit checks and Shaun Sadlier, head of consultancy, Arval UK, no impact on personal credit adds: “Our view is the new arrangements make ➋ Financial ■ Tax and national insurance liabilities are the EV and ultra-low emission company car an ■ Reduces salary and national insurance reduced as payments are deducted from attractive option for employees including via salary costs gross salary sacrifice. We expect to see numbers grow over the ■ Controls salary costs via the effective use ■ All-inclusive, hassle-free motoring at a coming years.” of flexible benefits fixed monthly cost. This can include ■ Lowers business mileage reimbursement servicing and maintenance, breakdown WHAT’S DIFFERENT? costs and recovery, road fund licence, fully The way salary sacrifice schemes operate stays the comprehensive insurance, replacement same: the employer leases the car, inclusive of ➌ Corporate social responsibility tyres and accident management maintenance and insurance, and the employee ■ Improves compliance with health and ■ Access to a tax-efficient second or third sacrifices part of their salary before tax to pay for it. safety and duty of care legislation car. ■ Reduces employee travel carbon footprint Source: Energy Saving Trust
22 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 23 Sponsored by ELECTRIC FLEET: CHOICE LISTS
“ ’ b v “S V k -G ’v v d d d 11 000 d v d d – d d E d G v ’ 035 b d d b b “B d d “W v x d v k b CHOICE H v b v v b v d j b v ” d P11D d v d b d d ’T d (WL ) v dE d b b d ” d x d – H b k SMR x k b d v – v d EV EVk b d T b - -k d d d d CUTS A 6 x b USE WHOLELIFE COSTS A x KPMG d b d v (BEV ) 16% 01 / 0 0 0% “H ‘ : v ’ 0 0/ 1 v v d d “ ” k d b d d b d - L d Organisations can use their company car choice lists as a tool d v d ” FD vd d F b d T H-R d d Andrew Ryan M H b R k KPMG UK d V k P ( b b ) to increase uptake of electric vehicles . reports x KPMG UK T v EV P11DT L P11D b v d v – k 5 000 v EV – b 5 400 – b 1 00 d 1 00 v b b d b d “ x “T M E b H v d v d 4 ” 000 M b ( ) d d H b d 16 000 ” dd R k L – 000 0 000- – b 3 1 d 544 v
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v WL d d b b EV : v d b E S v T (EST) “T d b d v q ” dd F EST “ d d / v ’ b k ” F WL EV d k kW d ‘ ’ b “D ’ 100% d - ( ) 8 kW CASE STUDY: WHOLELIFE COST COMPARISONS 15 ”
M d F P11D O B K x b d A F A T 0 0/ 1 * T H-R H b d 5 100 86 % 4 00 61 1 8 6 800 544 F d F D 1 50 3 % 3 850 60 1 0 800 41 VW P D 1 585 8% 4 000 60 1 3 5 800 000 VW P P 1 305 104 5% 3 500 45 4 4 5 800 530 L A E 30 135 0 0% 5 400 /A 800 0 800 000
Source: KPMG *based on 20,000 miles per annum
24 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk k ■ A 3 0 0 25 adRocket
Sponsored by Think electric. Think Zenith. ELECTRIC FLEET: CHOICE LISTS
IT’S A CASE OF THINKING ABOUT THINGS DIFFERENTLY IF YOU WANT TO GET MORE ELECTRIC CARS ON TO YOUR LIST ELECTRIC DAVID RAISTRICK, KPMG AREARE
“If rapid charging is required for longer tion towards the Tesla, they would pay £0 BIK and cles and how to optimise the use of home, work journeys, then the costs could rise to 30p to 50p yet still be in a better total cost position, compared and public charging.” per kWh. It would be worth looking at one of the to the average BIK cost of £300-£400 (40% fuel cards now available which could offer a fixed taxpayer) for equivalent petrol and diesel cars OTHER INCENTIVES cost to charge across the networks they have a within their entitlement,” says Evans. EST and Zenith agree a WLC-based choice list and contractual agreement with.” “The driver gets a £200 to £300 a month saving the current tax system negate the need for Using WLC to determine choice lists also means and the opportunity to switch to cleaner technology employers to introduce other financial incentives an employee’s decision will take into account the at no extra cost to the employer.” to encourage EV uptake. costs their employer incurs. “Where employers can assist is by considering Evans adds: “In addition, looking at cost post-tax PRESENT POLICY IN A SIMPLE WAY benefits such as access to workplace charging or is also important, as low emitting cars have further John Lawes, managing director at Hitachi Capital preferential parking for drivers of electric cars,” corporation tax benefits as they are not subject to Vehicle Solutions, adds many employers are also says Evans. “We are working with customers to lease rental restriction and a lower 6% capital providing more generous allowances to permit adapt policies to add more BEV options for drivers. allowance rate. BEVs to be available to more employees’ pay “It is achieved through revisiting manufacturer “It will be even more relevant from April 2021 grades. options to open up choice and looking at matching when the threshold for these benefits is lowered “One challenge that needs to be taken into the suitable BEV cars to the driver’s travel needs to 50g/km from 110g/km. account is how much information is provided to the in each grade.” “WLC not only helps fleet operators realise cost driver during the process as this can often be Ongoing driver education will also be key to benefits but can open choice to employees as they overwhelming,” says Lawes. increasing uptake. utilise their monthly budget, spending more on “If presented in a simple way and in a way that “It will be essential for businesses to educate a private use contribution and less on benefit- ensures employees fully understand the policy, employees now on the benefit of alternatively in-kind. this should support the uptake of BEVs at a time fuelled vehicles so they are well informed on “It can provide access to more prestige or larger where more would be available under a wholelife what the future holds for the fleet sector and can vehicles than may otherwise have been affordable cost policy.” make the right decisions based on their needs,” within their grade.” Moving to electric vehicles can already be a says Lawes. daunting prospect for drivers who are familiar only “The key non-financial measure that businesses ALLOW DRIVERS TO MAKE CONTRIBUTIONS with petrol and diesel models, so understanding are taking is making the employee journey a Employers should be flexible with the amount potential barriers to EV adoption is crucial, adds simple one. drivers can contribute to the car scheme to ensure Evans. “Providing tools to help employees navigate a range of EVs are available at all grades, says “Focus on designing policy and issuing clear the decision-making process is crucial to gain For all of your electric fleet Evans. communications that help to inform employee the trust and confidence of employees in the needs in one place For example, if the WLC of a Tesla Model 3 Long choice and remove these perceived barriers,” she electrification process. For our latest electric Range is £600 and a company’s WLC entitlement says. “Engagement and education are pivotal to “For example, highlighting the financial benefits is £500, then without a driver contribution the successful uptake. of an electric car such as the reduction in cost of Call 0344 848 9311 driver guides and insights vehicle would not be available. “Successful policies with good uptake offer private motoring (fuel) could be a factor that [email protected] | zenith.co.uk Visit zenith.co.uk/insights “However, if the driver could pay £100 contribu- driver support and education about available vehi- employees hadn’t previously considered.”
fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 27
FP_FLEETNEW_4243552id4253468.pdf 16.03.2020 15:11 EXHIBITORS TO DATE AID O A f /T f A I A A BP
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T x 86% Q x x NEC B O 6 7 to meet current or , , new suppliers A , D O , S ff xx E V T , V T O Ex A B , : “T E , FlF l tt T , 58% J , : “T , to keep up to date D T T T Q A , with fleet policy Z and best practice , z T T C Z TTTT 56% “W zz , x “W to obtain j TT , information to help ww , me do my job , T EV T T W bbff ( ) x “Y q J XXPI PI x 46% Z to find out about Ex H new products and services FLEET L VE 2019: WHAT M SSE 30% More than 2,000 visitors attended to meet current or new suppliers, to to understand were, said delegates, the biggest issue U Fleet Live last year, taking the keep up to date with fleet policy and more about new facing their businesses over the next opportunity to hear from 44 expert best practice, to find our about new technology 12 months. F speakers across 22 seminar sessions. products and services and to The vast majority of delegates – 71% Walking the floor took them around understand more about the latest – stayed at the show for more than 124 exhibitors – all record numbers technology, including electric vehicles. 27% three hours, while 91% said they had S SS for the UK’s biggest and most Electric was to be the major theme to learn more achieved their objectives. Even more influential fleet show. of Fleet Live 2019, with each seminar about low and zero impressively, 99% said they intended Visitors told us they were at the show packed to standing room only. EVs emission vehicles to return to the show in 2020.
28 A 3 ■ ■ 3 29 THE FLEET & MOBILITY LIVE VISITOR ADVISORY BOARD October 6-7 2020. Hall 20, NEC
The Fleet and Mobility Live visitor advisory board was created to ensure the show fleetandmobilitylive.co.uk meets the needs of fleet decision-makers. The panel meets every two months to discuss new ideas and agree on the core content driving the best practice and strategy sessions. Board members JERRY WARD, JOHN LEWIS PARTNERSHIP manage fleets ranging from fewer than MANAGER, LEGAL OPERATIONS MAXUS GOES ELECTRIC AT F&ML 100 vehicles to more than 1,000. “Fleet & Mobility Live provides a great opportunity to ensure we stay up to date with technology and services, which is vitally ALISON MORIARTY, RISK important. An invaluable part of the show FLEET PROFESSIONAL are the seminars and advice desk where the “If you can only attend one event this year, latest information is available to help fleet make it FML. It is a unique opportunity to operators work effectively. The show is an meet with some truly innovative providers, event every fleet operator should not miss.” big and small, and to see what’s new to the market for all things fleet related. It’s also LORNA CARPENTER, WESTERN UNION FOUR THEATRES TO TACKLE THE BIG TOPICS a fantastic opportunity to meet up with your FLEET MANAGER existing suppliers. There are many industry “Fleet & Mobility Live is a must-attend event NEW ELECTRIC VEHICLE THEATRE specialists in attendance, making it a good for anyone involved in any aspect of your The Government’s recent announcement to bring the ban on new petrol networking opportunity and the seminars company’s decision-making process. and diesel forward to 2035, or potentially even earlier, and include all are informative and thought provoking. Whether procurement, HR or fleet, there are hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles has elevated electric vehicles up the “You will also have the opportunity to visit informative seminars combined with market list of priorities for the industry in 2020. Changes to benefit-in-kind the Advisory Board area where we will be leading and innovative products which help taxation and the explosion of new products from vehicle manufacturers happy to share our experience and best to develop and shape our mobility strategies. Maxus, the new name for LDV, has become the first manufac- looking to rapidly cut emissions has kickstarted the decade of practice and answer any questions you The opportunity to network with industry turer to confirm its attendance at Fleet & Mobility Live 2020. electrification. Expert speakers will investigate the may have - if we don’t know, we will know experts as well as other decision makers is The van maker, owned by Chinese manufacturer SAIC but challenges, opportunities and barriers to increased adoption, someone who does! This really is THE fleet unrivalled and the Visitor Advisory Board will distributed in the UK by Harris Group of Ireland, will be infrastructure, energy management and how the fleet industry will lead event of the year.” be on hand to offer advice meaning you showcasing its new Deliver 9 Euro 6 diesel large van and E the way on EV and meet the challenge of transport decarbonisation. should leave with no question unanswered.” Deliver 3 fully electric small van at what will likely be the public CAROLINE SANDALL, ACFO NATIONAL CHAIR debut for both models. NEW MOBILITY THEATRE “FML is a key event in the industry LORNA MCATEAR, NATIONAL GRID Mark Barrett, Maxus UK and Ireland general manager, said: This theatre is symbolic of the name change for this year’s show as calendar offering the perfect mix of FLEET MANAGER “These new models on new platforms meant the timing was companies prepare for the business mobility as a service revolution. networking seminars and meeting “It’s such an important event for everyone right to rebrand as Maxus. The responsibilities of fleet decision-makers are expanding beyond suppliers and viewing products and from procurement professionals, to HR “It’s really important that we have this mix of electric and automotive and will ultimately encompass all areas of mobility as a services. You can fit so much into one or professionals, to fleet managers, to anybody diesel engines on show at a time where fleets are looking broader concept. Each conference speaker session will have a greater both days - it’s valuable time away from the that wants to get involved in the industry.” to increase their plug-in vehicle fleet mix, but there will still focus on linking fleet strategy to Government policy, helping businesses office - stimulating thought and likely be a split between the two fuel types depending on to understand how decisions at both national and local levels will consideration for the future.” PETER WESTON, ARCUS FLEET MANAGER operational need.” influence the way they move their people, goods and services. “Fleet & Mobility Live is the most important Barrett said Fleet & Mobility Live is a key opportunity for dele- Key areas of focus will be how cities and towns are changing with CHRIS CONNORS, COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTIES event to attend. No matter what you know gates to learn more about electric vehicles and for the Maxus the adoption of their own mobility platforms, how more connected (UK) LTD, HEAD OF FACILITIES & FLEET about fleet, there’s always more you can team to engage with current and prospective customers to hold and autonomous technology will transform the industry and how “FML is the one event of the year where learn – and this is the place to learn it.” their hand and guide them through the way the fleet industry is fleets are thinking beyond automotive. the industry comes together. Important to changing towards electric propulsion. me is the knowledge you can gain from RORY MORGAN, IRON MOUNTAIN HEAD OF He said: “We will be there to help fleets embrace electric with NEW OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE THEATRE your peers and industry specialists, either LOGISTICS SUPPORT elements around assessing suitability for electric vehicles as Presentations from this theatre will focus on top tips and best through the organised seminars or the “The chance to see, experience and learn well as how they can manage charging.” practice advice that fleet professionals and business owners can take informal networking.” about new innovation coming down the line The Deliver 9 will be available in a choice of three lengths, away and put into practice the next day. Improving efficiency and is a major part of Fleet & Mobility Live.” three heights and a choice of front or rear wheel drive. The E safety, and implementing effective service level agreements, will all DAVID OLIVER, SPECSAVERS SENIOR Deliver 3 offers range of up to up 168miles (WLTP) on a single be high on the agenda. These sessions focus on the immediate CATEGORY MANAGER STEWART LIGHTBODY, M GROUP SERVICES charge from its 52.5kWh battery. day-to-day challenges of fleet management for vehicles that are “Fleet & Mobility Live is the most FLEET DIRECTOR currently on the road, assessing where action needs to be taken in productive and comprehensive day or two “It is the pinnacle of fleet events in any year. the short-term in response to ongoing business developments. away from the office.” It’s for this reason I have the pleasure of Speakers at the seminars will be experts in their fields, either sitting among my peers on the Advisory hands-on fleet managers or representatives of specialist industry DEBBIE FLOYDE, BAUER MEDIA Board so we can shape the event to reflect bodies and organisations. FLEET & RISK MANAGER the industry. The chance to meet and discuss “It’s the only event where you can meet our greatest challenges (and successes) DISCOVER FLEET THEATRE dedicated key industry suppliers, account should not be overlooked nor taken lightly. It Vehicle taxation and finance are central to fleet management, and the managers and manufacturers, where you is the place to conduct your fleet business Discover Fleet Theatre offers expert sessions where guidance will be can share best practice and where you can and gauge what others are doing.” designed specifically for the specialist roles that support mobility network with industry colleagues, learn outside the traditional fleet management department. This includes about new initiatives and touch and feel professionals in finance, procurement and HR. The sessions aim to products that are actually relevant to you. provide insight to newcomers to the fleet industry, while broadening You can have a coffee with industry experts the skills of existing fleet managers. Topics will include the latest and become involved in the future of the guidance on taxation, different vehicle funding methods and benefits, industry as it evolves at a record pace and how fleets can improve driver wellbeing. while evaluating both new vehicle and new mobility models.”
30 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 31 SPOTLIGHT: AUTO WINDSCREENS
WINNER
Vans have also been fitted with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including ‘Automation is my buzzword’ collision mitigation with pedestrian detec- tion, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, speed sign recognition, auto high beam and driver impairment monitoring. Fleet software, mileage capture, apps and an integrated telematics-camera Atton has seen first-hand that the collision solution are among the tools Auto Windscreens group fleet manager Shaun Atton mitigation works thanks to camera footage. Any serious incidents are investigated by has adopted, helping to cut costs by more than £150,000. Sarah Tooze reports the driver’s line manager. “They will sit down with the driver and look at the video footage together,” Atton says. “It’s not just to see who was at fault, we have wo-and-half years ago Shaun tyres to a national supplier with fixed rates. FSM handles all elements of Auto Wind- a duty of care to make sure the driver is okay Atton made what he considers These changes saw Auto Windscreens screens’ vehicle repairs and replacement and to see if anything can be done differently his “best career move”. He claim the Fleet News Awards most improved work from jobs booking and parts ordering to avoid it next time.” T switched from being a regional fleet title this year. to technician work schedules and job All drivers are risk-assessed annually and service manager at Auto Windscreens, On the environmental front, Auto Wind- completion. The system now holds lease have their licence checked with Applied looking after London and the east of the screens has become carbon-neutral thanks schedule information, MOT expiry dates, Driving Techniques (ADT). This is followed country, to becoming the business’s group to carbon offsetting, while replacement service intervals and records, mileages and with targeted training. For instance, if a fleet manager, responsible for 81 company cycles have been reduced from four to three vehicle handover forms. driver has six points on their licence for cars and 360 vans. years (cutting CO2 by 5.4%). In addition, the The system has allowed the fleet team to speeding they complete a speed awareness Fleet was initially just a project – he was commercial fleet will all be Euro 6 by the end automate alerts to drivers and line managers module on their tablet. asked by the operations director to look at of this month and hybrid and electric vehicles when MOT and servicing is due and provides Drivers who are unfamiliar with a particular the fleet department from an operational are being introduced to the car fleet. details of what to do next. Service and type of vehicle undergo on-the-road training point of view to streamline processes – but At the start of last year, Atton was also maintenance can be planned around the with Auto Windscreens’ in-house regional Atton says he “fell in love with it” and chose tasked with creating one fleet policy for all technicians’ shift patterns. training officers who have been trained by not to return to his regional manager’s role. the businesses owned by Auto Windscreens’ Drivers use FSM on their tablets to perform ADT to assess and train technicians. “Some people might see that as a back- parent company, the Markerstudy Group, (an vehicle checks and if an issue is highlighted The officers also train high risk drivers based wards step or a sideways step but it’s not; it’s additional 110 vehicles) and, as of October, he it automatically creates an alert for the fleet on telematics data or number of incidents. the best career move I’ve made so far,” Atton assumed responsibility for a five-strong team to act on. “Our in-house trainers visit our technicians says. “I love it, it’s so fast-paced. Every week facilities team, handling compliance and The system also pulls in telematics data at least once a year for their core job so it there is something different happening.” maintenance across 61 sites in the UK. and is accessible to operations managers made sense to tie driver training in,” Atton Atton has worked for Auto Windscreens for Since the coronavirus lockdown, all 61 across the business. says. “Initially, when we tell a driver they are 17 years, initially as an apprentice glass fitting hubs have been temporarily closed Telematics works in conjunction with going to have someone sat next to them the repair and replacement technician, and all back office operations have been set VisionTrack’s 3G connected camera solution. response is ‘I know how to drive’ but when progressing to fitting centre manager, area up to work from home across the Auto “VisionTrack is part of our Markerstudy you get the feedback afterwards they have manager and then regional manager, before Windscreens business. Group,” Atton says. “It partnered with picked up on things from it so it is having a taking on the fleet. That career path has A mobile service is still being provided for Webfleet and we were the first fleet to have positive impact.” proved invaluable. customers who need it, with priority given to the integration so the telematics speaks to The top performing drivers are rewarded “Having the experience of the operations key workers such as the NHS, emergency the camera. If we have an alert on the through Auto Windscreens talent recogni- has really helped me in the role,” he says. services and critical sector fleets. camera it pulls it into Webfleet and puts it all tion programme and last year received High “Although I knew very little about fleet I knew Auto Windscreens and the Marketstudy onto one dashboard. And Webfleet feeds into Street vouchers and were recognised in the a lot about the operation and what the Group have also teamed up with Tunbridge our fleet management system, we’ve company’s newsletter. demands were on the road for our staff, that Wells Borough Council to deliver essential managed to get an open API so everything helps me in the decisions I make.” food and medical supplies to around 1,000 is combined. Automation is my buzzword.” Atton learnt about fleet by speaking to vulnerable residents in the area (see Prior to introducing telematics, a trial was other fleet managers and suppliers and Commercialfleet.org, April 8). held with six technicians at Auto Wind- WHEN YOU GET reading white papers, industry publications screens’ Leicester fitting hub. This provided FEEDBACK (AFTER and “masses of information on the internet”. AUTOMATION vital feedback and helped get driver buy-in. “It was a steep learning curve just dealing Atton has found the secret to juggling his Atton also hosted forums and conference TRAINING) DRIVERS with all the information and putting it into fleet responsibilities is to automate where calls, and went to sites to explain why tele- HAVE PICKED UP ON use,” he says. possible. matics was being introduced. He has now made sweeping changes to the When he took on the fleet role there were The system provides in-vehicle feedback, THINGS FROM IT, SO fleet operation, including implementing a new three administrators dealing with “really beeping when drivers brake or accelerate IT IS HAVING A work-related road risk programme, replacing mundane tasks”, each with their own too harshly, for example. spreadsheets with a bespoke fleet manage- spreadsheet. “It flashes up on the display 20 seconds POSITIVE IMPACT ment system, changing fuel card provider, Now they use Auto Windscreens’ core after an event to say what it beeped for so if switching from pool cars to daily rental, operating system, Field Service Manager you were harsh braking to get out of a sticky changing leasing provider and moving from (FSM), which has been adapted by IT to situation it gives you 20 seconds so it’s a SHAUN ATTON, AUTO WINDSCREENS using independent garages for MOTs and include a fleet management system. minimal distraction,” Atton says.
32 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk 33 SPOTLIGHT: AUTO WINDSCREENS ATTON ON....
As well as the in-house approach to which allows technicians to pinpoint their vehicles as the Custom best suited the busi- which it trialled in London but “it didn’t work”. ...Charities training, Atton has brought accident manage- location to three square metres for break- ness’s needs for load space for carrying its “The claimed range was not what it was ment in-house utilising Zenith Marque, which down providers and emergency services, biggest windscreen and the vehicle is the actually doing and when it was running the Auto Windscreens has chosen to support is owned by Markerstudy. and partnering with Fleet Tyre Network, a right height for the canopies that technicians telematics, the camera, the heating etc. the local charities by featuring their logos on its engineers’ vans. Overall, the changes to risk management national company that finds the closest tyre use for mobile work. mileage was much less than we needed,” “We’ve got 20 areas and we’ve let the have resulted in a 30.9% decrease in inci- and MOT supplier to Auto Windscreens’ Atton says. A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING area managers and their group of dents since 2017, the claims ratio has fallen drivers. The business holds stock of Auto “While it wasn’t doing tasks because it was technicians choose a charity for their from 91% in 2018 to 58% last year and inci- Windscreens’ preferred tyre at its locations, A new racking system has been introduced charging, we were losing revenue. area,” Shaun Atton says. dent costs have reduced by £50,277. reducing downtime. Prior to working with to meet demands for the latest tools and “The day came when the driver rang me By the end of this year all vans will Atton has also taken measures to improve Fleet Tyre Network, Auto Windscreens had tooling technology and ensure health and during the winter. He sent me a link for some feature a logo. control of grey fleet drivers who now all relationships with numerous independent safety compliance. thermal self-charging underwear. I said “Some areas have chosen a charity undergo licence checks with ADT as well as suppliers with no uniform approach in place “We got a forum of technicians together,” ‘what’s that?’ He said ‘I can plug it in over- with a particular story behind it,” Atton providing insurance, maintenance and MOT for drivers or ability to control costs. The new Atton says. “We gave them two empty vans, night and it’s warm for me the next day’. I says. “For instance, the daughter of one records. approach has reduced average tyre costs two lots of van equipment and let them play said ‘why do you need that?’. He said our technicians has an incurable kidney Grey fleet drivers have been given fuel from £97 to £83. around with it for two days and they came up ‘Because I can’t have the heating on in the disease so we are featuring the Kidney cards which are linked to MileageCount, Atton also analysed utilisation of Auto with design so we got their buy-in. It was a van because I’m not getting the range’ so we Care logo.” which automatically records, measures and Windscreens’ eight pool cars across the small change but one that has gone down pulled it back. Another area has chosen to promote manages mileage expenses. country and found they were being used just really well. “We still use it, our mechanic in head office Young Epilepsy as the five-year-old Auto Windscreens switched from using a over 50% of the week. They were an “admin- “The brief was ‘a place for everything’ so uses it to do local journeys for repairs so it cousin of a supervisor, Ellie Ribbans pump price fuel card to a fixed price one with istration headache” too as cars were everything across the fleet now goes in the has got a benefit but not on that scale and (pictured below), suffers from severe BP after a mapping exercise showed that BP returned with damage and needed cleaning, same place so it makes it easier for the area that’s why I’m still not ready to put commer- epilepsy and the charity has provided locations matched with Auto Windscreens’ servicing and maintaining. manager doing van checks.” cial vehicles out there yet.” vital support for her and her family (see sites. He decided to switch to daily rental with All new vans also now feature a charity logo Rapid charging points are in place at 12 of Commercialfleet.org, February 28). The use of telematics, combined with fuel Arnold Clark, almost halving costs to £13,980 as part of a new corporate social responsi- Auto Windscreens’ sites, which are available Atton says that the initiatives helps card data, has cut fuel costs by 5.4% – a per annum compare to pool car costs of bility project (see panel). for customer and staff use, and the business raise awareness of charities and staff are £93,441 saving last year. £26,292 per annum. The company car fleet has changed from an is reviewing which ‘hotspots’ to install further actively encouraged to fundraise for their Technicians can use a card or the BPme The majority of company cars and vans are open choice, which was a “nightmare to points. chosen organisation. app to pay. Atton says using the app rather leased through Arnold Clark, CVM and manage”, to six brands: BMW, Ford, Mercedes- Atton says the charging points and electri- than drivers paying at the kiosk reduces Rivervale with maintenance carried out Benz, Škoda, Volkswagen and Volvo. fying the car fleet sits alongside carbon downtime and increases van security. in-house. “We asked drivers ‘what do you feel would offsetting. Auto Windscreens has worked Other measures Atton has taken to reduce Atton reviewed manufacturers and suit your role out of these 40 vehicles?’. And with BP Target Neutral since 2018, buying downtime include using the What3words app, decided to remain with Ford for commercial we based it on their feedback,” Atton says. carbon credits issued by projects across the “Drivers have a choice of SUVs, estates and globe that are making measurable carbon hybrids and we will review it every six months reductions such as the protection of Zambia’s and then annually to make sure we’re still forests. As a result it has gained carbon meeting their requirements. neutral certification in 2018 and 2019. There are currently 11 hybrids on the car Staff are also encouraged to use BP’s fleet and Atton is looking at fully electric vehi- online calculator to offset their own emis- cles with a view to the entire car fleet being sions generated by flights, driving and other Sponsored by fully electric in five years’ time. journeys. The commercial fleet is more challenging Atton acknowledges that there are critics as the vehicles do high mileages. of carbon offsetting schemes but it is a “hard Auto Windscreens has a Citroën Berlingo feat” for a business of its size to be carbon MOST IMPROVED FLEET neutral without offsetting and he points out OF THE YEAR that the business has introduced other environmentally-friendly measures. WINNER: At its head office in Chesterfield, managers AUTO WINDSCREENS EVERYTHING are encouraged to make their company car ACROSS THE FLEET available during the day for members of their JUDGES’ COMMENTS: team to use for business journeys. Shaun Atton, fleet An exceptional use of data from a variety NOW GOES IN THE “Sometimes it’s a difficult conversation to manager, Auto of sources has driven SAME PLACE SO IT have because it’s their car, they’ve got their Windscreens (left) an effective fleet strategy from a personal belongings in, but they appreciate collected the thoroughly modern fleet manager. Auto MAKES IT EASIER FOR it is saving their department from the cost of ORGANISATION: Auto Windscreens trophy from Neil Windscreens is always looking for a rental car,” Atton says. GROUP FLEET MANAGER: Shaun Atton McCrossan, sales THE AREA MANAGER TIME IN ROLE: 30 months and marketing innovation and fleet manager Shaun Atton He is looking into whether managers with FLEET SIZE: 441 – 81 cars, 360 vans director of has excellent relationships within the DOING VAN CHECKS a company car in London might prefer a Northgate Vehicle business and with key supplier partners. mobility allowance to use on public transport BRANDS ON FLEET: cars – BMW, Ford, Hire, the award The judges praised the role of the fleet instead. Mercedes-Benz, Škoda, Volkswagen and sponsors within the company’s charity work. SHAUN ATTON, AUTO WINDSCREENS “We’re always looking at what is coming Volvo; vans – Ford. next and what can we do differently,” he says.
34 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 35 SPOTLIGHT: DRIVE SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS
Julie Meyer is acting CEO Ex-Dragon Julie Meyer before Dave King takes up WE DON’T WANT DRIVE the role later this month TO BE A SMALL BUSINESS, WE WANT IT TO BE A GLOBAL expects big things of Drive LEADER IN ITS FIELD New owner brings tech market know-how to help Drive Software JULIE MEYER, DRIVE SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS Solutions realise its full potential. Gareth Roberts reports
he new owner of Drive Software Also new to the business is Robert Gorby, head relationships, allowing SME fleets and their drivers Solutions believes it has the potential of sales and marketing, with more than 20 years’ to get the same level of service normally reserved to be one of the leading technology experience in commercial management at global for large corporates. T platforms in the industry. technology companies including AVG, SDL, There is multi-level access thanks to a driver’s Its software currently facilitates the management Guestline and Powwownow. app, with vehicle inspections, trip data, mileage of more than one million vehicles worldwide, Former sales and market director Simon West- management and driver licence checking among but Viva Investment Partners (VIP) says the Oliver, a fleet industry IT marketing expert with the services available. Hertfordshire-based business is perfectly placed more than 30 years’ experience, has been named Targeting the SME market through broker to become more than just another fleet strategic partnerships director in the new senior channels, allowing them to provide a full service management offering. management team. sell rather than just the vehicles, the first adopters Instead, it is planning to help the company Meyer, a former ‘Dragon’ on the BBC show are now rolling out fleets. transform the market through its software-as-a- Dragons’ Den, has a history of backing It had expected 50-vehicle companies to be the service (SaaS) platform serving the wider, entrepreneurs, investing some £880 million over sweet spot for adoption, but one broker recently developing mobility market. the past 20-plus years and selling businesses to signed up to a 540-vehicle fleet showing the VIP bought the business in November for an the likes of Google. market’s potential. undisclosed sum and announced Alastair Houston, She now believes she has the right team in place Seeing the software for the first time, Gorby has the former MD of Sandicliffe Motor Contracts, as to help the business grow and transform the been impressed. Drive Software Solution’s new CEO. But, four market. “We want to be one of the de-facto He explains that tech businesses usually either months later, the board and senior management technology platforms in the industry,” explains have a great piece of software behind the system team were overhauled as VIP CEO, Julie Meyer, Meyer. and a poor interface or something that looks took charge as interim-CEO with a plan to build on “There is a really strong cultural energy in the amazing but has nothing new when you scratch its fleet management experience by bringing in company right now, but it’s taken us four or five below the surface. expertise from the technology sector. months to get there and not everybody made it. “We’ve got the substance and the style, and often “Robert, Richard and David have all gone through you’ll find a tech business has only one of those,” NEW-LOOK BOARD private equity transactions and they are all he says. Drive Software Solutions co-founder and former operating at a kind of quark speed in terms of their Development is done in-house, with Meyer director Martin Drake, along with Houston, is level of ambition to transform an industry and build describing the team as “world class” and the ODO among those who left the business in March, while a great business.” product as “Tesla meets Fitbit”. new CEO David King will join the business later this The management team has also been It’s a key reason for VIP’s investment in the month and Richard Parris becomes chairman incentivised with a 30% share in the equity of the business and, with a “wealth of apps” built by third- designate of a new-look board. firm. “That’s a big options pool,” says Meyer. “Most party developers to be used on Drive, Meyer King, a former officer in the Royal Marines, has of the time in the UK, management teams will have believes the company can carve itself a new role worked with technology companies in the UK, US 10-15%. Everybody is an owner of this business.” as a platform business. and Sweden and has served on the management “We enable other players in the industry with our teams of multi-nationals, leading sales, marketing, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT platform,” she explains. “The challenge will be to services and product management. Expertise gained in the creation of software to continue to develop the API – the application “He has run data centre businesses, he has run manage local government fleet requirements in protocol interfaces – that connect all those apps to telecoms businesses; he’s a big hitter in some the 1990s led to the creation of the initial Drive fleet Drive.” respects for a business such as Drive and that’s management software product. Another challenge will be dealing with a market because we don’t want Drive to be a small Today, it has evolved to become a cloud-based, reeling from the effects of a coronavirus pandemic. business,” says Meyer. ‘full function’ leasing fleet management platform, However, West-Oliver believes that as people “We want it to be a very profitable business that with Arval among its customer base, supporting embrace a new digital era through the lockdown, is a global leader in its field.” vehicle management requirements worldwide. Drive Software Solutions is ideally placed to help Parris is an experienced public company Quotations, vehicle acquisition, contract the industry adapt to a new way of working. chairman and CEO with a special interest in management, services and disposals are all He says: “Some businesses will have to dramatically cybersecurity, green technology and fintech. conducted through the platform. reshape how they go to market, how they manage As the founder of software company Intercede “What it gives them is efficiency,” explains West- their fleets and how their drivers interact. Group, he took the company public in 2001 and Oliver. “It gives them a single tool to manage the “The (ODO) platform is about managing a was one of the longest serving public company business, with a minimum number of resources changing marketplace in fleet management for chairman on the London Stock Exchange prior to COMPANY: Drive Software Solutions and connects to all major suppliers.” both the end-user and for the supplier. It’s more his exit in 2018. CEO (INTERIM): Julie Meyer ODO, meanwhile, is the company’s SaaS solution than just another fleet management offering, it’s a He is executive chairman of Sabien Group, a green CEO (INCOMING): David King that allows leasing brokers and franchised dealers service enabler.” technology company listed on the AIM market, and STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR: Simon West-Oliver to manage the administration, service delivery and Meyer, however, accepts there will be challenges is CEO of Salt Cybersecurity, a subsidiary of an SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR: Robert Gorby compliance of SME customers. ahead. “We’ve got a big mountain to climb, but this Australian cybersecurity business. He is a special KEY PRODUCTS: Drive and ODO Launched in 2018, it exploits the functionality business has the platform today that can power adviser and founder shareholder with VIP. within Drive, leveraging the service supplier much more of this industry,” she says.
36 fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 37
Sponsored by FLEET NEWS AWARDS: BMW
and realistic with our planning – it’s about many variables regarding how fleets pay and the FLEET MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: BMW GROUP UK GENERAL MANAGER, sustainable growth. complexities of policy. But it gave us comfort that CORPORATE SALES: ROB EAST opting out is not the panacea for many people. We NEW COMPANY CAR OF THE YEAR: BMW 3 SERIES TIME IN ROLE: 1YR 5M FN: What is driving this renewed optimism? are seeing, with the certainty of BIK post-April 6, TOTAL FLEET SALES (2019) BMW: 106,682 RE: We had the Brexit uncertainty with a lot of a strong desire for some organisations to get BEST COMPACT PREMIUM CAR: BMW 1 SERIES TOTAL FLEET SALES (2019) MINI: 27,836 our end users, who are global organisations. drivers back into the car scheme and out of cash. TRUE FLEET SALES (2019) BMW: 62,124 They now have partial certainty and are more Our approach is consultative; we advise, but it’s BEST PREMIUM CAR: BMW 3 SERIES (LEASING AND FLEET OTHER) confident to look at renewing their policies and not our role to dictate. TRUE FLEET SALES (2019) MINI: 16,055 new bandings. Fleet managers had a tough job, BEST EXECUTIVE CAR: BMW 5 SERIES (LEASING AND FLEET OTHER) but they can now talk with certainty to their FN: Has the exit of the DriveNow car share drivers on tax positions. scheme from London forced you to reassess the opportunities for new mobility services? FN: Which models are they most excited about? RE: London had its challenges with all the RE: The 330e is a strong proposition and we have boroughs, but it is still working elsewhere. We a strong order bank. We will also have a Touring recognise that the way individuals procure derivative and a facelifted 5 Series and plug-in X1 mobility services is changing and will change. It’s and X3 this year. While there is a segment shift about the right propositions in the market. It to SUVs, we see a strong opportunity with the 5 doesn’t reduce or dilute the global priority of Series, especially with the hybrid variants. BMW to have a broad range of mobility services We have a strong plug-in offering throughout for individuals. In business, it (uptake and usage) our range and the models have the athleticism is difficult to predict. We have to take the market and dynamism that is key for the brand. We also step-by-step. The priority now is to update have the Mini electric. Our true fleet order bank policies, then remove grey fleet then the next is double last year. phase will be the next stage in car fleet policies. Looking further ahead, we have the battery electric vehicle ix3 next year and the i4 concept. FN: How big are the opportunities offered by connected services? FN: Will the Government-announced ban on RE: We see a clear trend that customers want to PHEVs – as well as petrol, diesel and hybrid – engage with the car in the way they do with their from 2035 affect uptake of this technology as a smartphone. We have over-the-air updates – stepping-stone to full electric? such as Driver Recorder 360-degree camera – RE: PHEV is still a fundamental part of our which can be purchased as an upgrade. We have powertrain; it’s not a transition technology. For a dedicated corporate development manager in people doing high mileage, it’s a perfect solution aftersales who is talking to the leasing companies with impressive real-world economy. about how we feed information to them so they can use it as an early warning system (for SPONSORS’ COMMENT FN: How do ensure people use your PHEVs in potential faults). Athlon International would like Rob East (seated, holding up his glass) had plenty to celebrate the most efficient way? to congratulate BMW on its with members of his team at RE: They need to put their destination in the FN: What are your priorities for (a post multiple wins at the 2020 Fleet the Fleet News Awards sat-nav and let the car think for itself to maximise coronavirus) 2020? News Awards. the efficiency. The car will assess the journey and RE: It’s about ensuring we have the basics right, The German automotive get there in as efficient a way as possible using the right people and the right propositions for the brand has been recognised by the plug-in technology and regeneration retailers. We have to manage our channel mix the judges across multiple opportunities. We are investigating a secondary and enrichen the First Price customer level. I’m segments that demonstrate the handover where customers are given the constantly challenging my team about where our diversity, range and quality of opportunity to go back to the retailer for a more next level of differentiation is. We are in a rapidly its vehicles. Multi-award-winning BMW is detailed handover, especially if the car is delivered changing market: channels and customer In addition to the Best Car to their home. This will enable customers to expectations are changing, so we have to look at Awards, BMW also won the interact with us on their terms to understand how what we do to give them a great experience. We coveted awards for ‘Company much energy they can recuperate. know that end users want a direct relationship Car of the Year’ and ‘Fleet simplifying its approach to fleet with BMW from a service and aftersales Manufacturer of the Year’ FN: BMW was ahead of the game in sharing its expectation. We are hearing that loud and clear. which is a testament to both the Stephen Briers WLTP data with leasing companies; how much will manufacturing and the brand. Number of sales channels cut from nine to two as part of new strategy. reports the new testing regime impact on fleet choices? ast describes the 2035 petrol/diesel/ Athlon recognises this RE: We were well prepared for WLTP and we hybrid/PHEV ban as “an interesting great accomplishment, as it ob East spent a considerable chunk “If a customer has up to five cars, it goes to the Fleet News: Are you pleased to see the back of worked in partnership with our leasing challenge”, one which is just two underlines the manufacturer’s of time during his first year at BMW retailer through our SME channel; if they have 2019? companies. It is inevitable that post-WLTP we will E lifecycles away for BMW. However, dedication to delivering R reviewing the carmaker’s approach more than five cars, it goes through our direct Rob East: 2019 was tough with all the political and see a different powertrain (mix) with a pull to over the next three years its product portfolio will excellence for all kinds of to the fleet sector. sales model,” he says. economic uncertainty. In fleet, we all felt the plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles. We include 25 electric vehicles, of which at least half fleet drivers. His conclusions? BMW needed to simplify its Like its premium rivals, BMW endured a bumpy same pain with WLTP, policy changes, and we see it immediately with our historic stalwarts, the will be full electric. approach to the market. ride in 2019, with reductions in leasing and fleet also had model changes with 3 Series and 1 320d and 520d, where there is a richer mix with “We have a strong proposition, but we have to Athlon sponsored the Subsequent actions brought together the BMW other registrations and a rise in the more costly Series. But we are satisfied with our performance; PHEV. But it’s also about choice and, for some, understand the Government’s thought process,” Best Compact Premium Car, and Mini fleet teams to facilitate a group policy rental and captives sales. it was in line with our expectations. In Q4 we diesel or petrol is the right option, so we have to he says. “We’ve had uncertainty since 2016 and Best Premium Car and for corporate sales, while a rationalisation of It’s not a trend East intends to pursue, with his started to see the impact of those models and the give them that choice. we need greater clarity with open dialogue and Best Executive Car categories market channels enabled retailers to have a focus on profitable core fleet, dubbed ‘First Price strength of the 330e (plug-in hybrid). transparency. The Government has to understand clearer view of the customer, aided by consistent Level’ (it also includes retail and Motability). This year, we have had a strong start. BMW is FN: BMW did some modelling last year to show the challenges we face as an industry in meeting offers for SME businesses. This category was up 1% in the first two months up 2% in total and corporate is up 4%. We are that the company car was a viable option for the new rules and we have to understand their East, general manager for corporate sales, of 2020, with Second Price Level (rental and having fruitful conversations with our customers. those considering cash. Are you seeing a move key priorities.” opted to cut the number of channels from nine to captives) down 3% before the coronavirus- Policy restrictions have been removed and we back to the company car? Disclaimer: this interview was carried out before the just two. enforced lockdown crippled the market. get a sense of optimism. But we’ve been prudent RE: We did do some modelling but there are so coronavirus lockdown and social distancing.
38 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 39 Sponsored by TODAY’S FLEET: COMPANY CAR RENAISSANCE
Just like Rocky Balboa in Sylvester Stallone’s 1977 return of the company car is being driven by a Six months before that, Lex Autolease had and have more choice – as there are fewer Caddick, head of business development at Oscar-winning film, company cars have been new-found certainty over emissions and BIK rates suggested the number of company car taxpayers cost penalties in the private market for JCT600 Vehicle Leasing Solutions. taking a beating, with punch after punch being – with new bands making electric and plug-in could fall to 832,000 by April this year as a result drivers of high-emission vehicles.” “This decision is often influenced by the landed on the benefit. hybrid vehicles particularly attractive. of the optional remuneration arrangement (OpRA) Analysis by KPMG has found that the BIK fact that it was the most cost-effective SPONSOR’S These include ever-increasing tax bills for both Here we look at the state of the market and what tax changes and the introduction of the WLTP tax a company car driver has faced has risen solution for decision-makers themselves,” employer and employee, the introduction of the the next few years could have in store. emissions regime. by more than three-quarters in the past six he adds. COMMENT WLTP emissions test which affected both CO2 Chris Chandler, principal consultant at Lex years. “However, just as the company car may not emissions and vehicle availability, uncertainty over WHAT HAVE THE TRENDS BEEN? Autolease, this month told Fleet News: “In recent “If we look at a Volkswagen Golf diesel with be the answer for them, cash certainly isn’t By Ben Creswick, managing director, future benefit-in-kind bands, and more attractive Latest HMRC figures – released in June last year years, we’ve seen a significant increase in the a list price of £30,000 and CO2 emissions of right for all employees.” PCP deals on new cars for retail buyers. – showed the number of company car drivers in number of non-essential users looking outside of 110g/km, a 40% taxpayer would have been JCT600 Vehicle Leasing Solutions However, while Rocky was able to summon inner 2017/2018 was 890,000, a 5.3% fall on the previous company car provision. paying just over £2,000 in tax six years ago, WHAT HAS CHANGED? In light of COVID-19 it feels reserves of strength to make his comeback, the 12 months. “This has typically been to avoid company car tax compared to £3,600 in 2019/2020,” says Fundamentally, recent developments have David Raistrick, senior manager at KPMG in seen organisations and drivers receive rather bizarre to be writing the UK. certainty over the tax implications of this commentary. As a “This equates to a 76.5% increase, which is operating company cars for the next five way over and above inflation.” years. nation we are navigating The company car fights back Providing the cash allowance can also be The WLTP testing regime became fully the unprecedented cheaper for the employer, he adds. operational on April 1, while in the Budget challenges aºffecting the “If you look at the cost to the business of last month the Government confirmed the The company car sector looks like providing that car, incorporating the lease BIK tax bands up to and including the country today. At this time, our message Andrew Ryan cost, maintenance cost, road fund licence, 2024/25 tax year. to the industry is simply – We are it is set to grow again. insurance, Class 1A NIC, it costs about “The fact rates are now known for the next thinking of you all, stay safe and if you £7,000 a year to provide that car.” five financial years – a full replacement cycle looks at the reasons for this and Many companies have also forced the hand for vehicles – gives planning confidence to need us, we are here. how fleet decision-makers can of their employees by closing their car both fleet decision-makers and company car “Cash v Car” is not a new conversation schemes and enforcing policies to ensure drivers,” says Caroline Sandall, co-chair of but has become more complex. Really, help ensure its future success drivers take the cash route, says Christopher the Association of Fleet Professionals. it’s a case of Cash v Structured Cash v ECOS v Salary Sacrifice Car v Traditional Company Car. Multi-solution schemes are in existence, which provide such choices to employees, but making the right decision for the employee and employer is often difficult. Employers try and balance costs, risk and duty of care and the employees consider cost, flexibility and their own appetite to risk. Risk levels that in the current climate may rapidly change – and all difficult elements to juggle without all the facts. To make this decision simple, you need real time access to all the facts, in a simple format. At JCT600 VLS we have invested heavily in a new system to simplify the cash v car conundrum for both employee and employer. The system is Origo, a platform designed to pull all the funding options available together and provide a simplified side by side cost comparison for each of your individual drivers and their journey profiles. When the time is right for you, we look forward to demonstrating how Origo will benefit you.
40 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 41 JCT600VLS-Origo-FN-FullPg-Ad-March2020(Dev3).pdf 1 30/03/2020 14:19 adRocket
Sponsored by TODAY’S FLEET: COMPANY CAR RENAISSANCE This was going to be an advert for The tax bands also heavily incentivise the experienced this transition. “We’re seeing potentially increase the take up of cash. adoption of electric cars, with drivers of battery employees who once opted for cash look to opt “However, the ability to move these employees electric vehicles not having to pay any BIK in back into schemes where EVs are available and a into EVs will make a significant difference in our new platform 2020/21. resurgence of salary sacrifice for cars, especially converting significant mileage to electric delivering A survey of 2,000 business employees by leasing at the management and senior management a real reduction in emissions and a fantastic company DriveElectric found, following this level,” says Caddick. savings to both parties.” decision, that eight out of 10 respondents who “Where the predictability of people’s journeys Shaun Sadlier, head of consultancy at Arval UK, But that was then and this is now. currently opt out of a company car scheme are will allow, we should also see more progress in adds: “More broadly, we are also starting to ‘likely’ or ‘very likely’ to move back into company the roll out of EVs to job-need fleets as the range see plenty of examples of drivers opting back cars, with those vehicles being electric. of the more affordable EVs increases. into company car schemes now as a result of Other leasing companies, including Lex “This is a population where the use of AMAPs the certainty around tax and expect that trend Autolease, Arval UK and JCT600 VLS, have already and cash could currently deliver savings and to continue.” JCT600 VLS are thinking about our customers, drivers, supply partners, industry colleagues and all your family and friends during this unprecedented time. We are here if you need us on
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M 0113 250 0060 or contactvls@jct600.co.uk
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MAKING THE CASE FOR COMPANY CARS TO EMPLOYEES
For many employees, the chance to opt for a employee’s burden of worry. becomes even stronger if the employee is able cash allowance to buy a car they want, free “They are not tied to a personal financial to choose a PHEV or BEV. from any CO2 or brand restrictions imposed contract. All repair, maintenance, servicing For example, in 2019/20, the annual BIK cost by a company car choice list, has been too and insurance costs are usually covered by the to a 20% taxpayer for a Kia E-Niro was £1,214, tempting to resist, particularly in the light employer and they do not have to worry about but this falls to zero in 2020/21, £76 the of rising BIK bills. depreciation costs as they never own the following year and then £152 for the next three Many of these drivers are signing up to vehicle,” he adds. tax years up to and including 2024/25. attractive-looking PCP or PCH finance offers Money also talks, of course, and the new BIK The tax savings obviously become greater the offered by manufacturers. rates mean the case for the company car higher the P11D price of the car, as well as the However, the saying ‘if it looks too good to be income tax bracket of the employee. true, it probably is’ is relevant here, with PCP “If you drive a BMW 320d and switch to a Tesla deals typically limiting annual mileage to 10,000 AT A GLANCE: THE TOP BENEFITS OF TAKING Model 3, how much BIK will you save a year? It’s with a charge of 3p to 9p per mile over this, A CAR INSTEAD OF A CASH ALLOWANCE £4,500 take home,” says Simon King, director of meaning the driver could end up with large, ■ A driver is not personally tied into a sustainability, social value and fleet at Mitie. unexpected bills at the end of the contract. financial contract “So if I take away your BMW 3 Series and give Employees who opt for cash also find them- ■ Insurance, servicing or maintenance you a Tesla instead, that’s the same as giving selves responsible for arranging associated worries are usually covered by the you an £8,000 pay rise, assuming you are a 40% services such as insurance and maintenance. employer taxpayer. What’s not to like about that?” “Many who liked the idea of cash three to four ■ There are no depreciation costs for the Sadlier adds: “There may never have been a years ago are opting back in because the reality driver as they never own the vehicle time, certainly within corporate memory, when of being responsible for the cost and ongoing ■ For plug-in vehicle drivers, the benefit- the company car has been such an attractive hassle of running a vehicle, without the support in-kind is generally lower than compared proposition. of their employer and suppliers, was not worth to the cost of buying and running their “If employees opt for the right vehicle, it’s the originally assumed benefits,” says Caddick. own vehicle potentially free. All they have to do is fuel or Simon Staton, director, client management ■ No need to worry about reselling the charge and wash it. for Venson Automotive Solutions, says that car at a later date “For the vast majority of people, the choice is essentially having a company car reduces an Source: Venson quite simple.”
42 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk
FP_FLEETNEW_JCT600VLSOid4265814.pdf 03.30.2020 15:45 Sponsored by TODAY’S FLEET: COMPANY CAR RENAISSANCE
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REGISTER MAKING THE CASE FOR COMPANY CARS TO EMPLOYERS
While company car drivers who operate BEVs managers making their case to the board.” or PHEVs will be the biggest winners under the All company cars, regardless of powertrain, new BIK tax regime, organisations which add ALMOST HALF OF share the same benefits to an employer, EVs to their fleets will also make tax savings. CONSUMERS LOOK including meeting duty of care responsibilities The Class 1A national insurance contributions and mitigation of risk, cost and control of cost (NICs) for company cars is calculated using the FAVOURABLY ON and employee recruitment and retention. BIK tax band; organisations will pay no Class 1A BUSINESSES WITH “A business that requires staff to be out on NIC on pure electric vehicles in 2020/21. the road has a duty of care to ensure the vehicle Using the same Kia E-Niro as in the employee ELECTRIC OR is roadworthy, taxed and insured,” says Staton. example, companies paid Class 1A NIC of £838 LOW-EMISSION “By encouraging employees to take a company in 2019/2020. In 2020/21 this will be zero, car, fleet managers know the vehicle being 2021/22 £52, and then £105 for the next three FLEETS driven is regularly serviced and maintained, tax years up to and including 2024/35. ensuring the company is compliant with its There is also the potential to make significant corporate social responsibilities.” savings through reduced fuel and SMR bills CHRIS CHANDLER, LEX AUTOLEASE Industry evidence also suggests that (see Save money and the planet: Making the employees’ own cars have significantly higher case for EVs, Fleet News, January 2020). CO2 emissions than company cars, he adds. “The fleet industry is leading the transition to “Businesses should be clear that while a zero emission future, so providing electric AT A GLANCE: BENEFITS OF PROVIDING company car schemes may sometimes seem company cars will help businesses to achieve A CAR INSTEAD OF A CASH ALLOWANCE onerous, taking a risk by having a large grey their sustainability objectives – in turn driving ■ Meet duty of care responsibilities by fleet may prove to be an even bigger cost, as NOW the UK towards its 2050 net-zero target,” says knowing vehicle is roadworthy and taxed well as a health and safety administration Chandler. “We also know from our recent ■ Can help meet sustainability headache,” says Staton. flfl andmandm bb ll ylyl vv .. mm research into electric vehicles, almost half of objectives by lowering vehicle CO2 A company car scheme can also help consumers look favourably on businesses with ■ Company cars help staff recruitment businesses attract the best candidates or electric or low-emission fleets. and retention help existing staff to stay. F “Opting for low emission vehicles can result in ■ Can result in lower costs than cash “It is a great incentive and a way of making lower costs for the business in comparison to allowances if EVs are adopted them feel rewarded and valued – which can cash allowances – a compelling point for fleet ■ Help ensure strong brand image lead to higher productivity and loyalty,” he adds.
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44 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk In association with TODAY’S FLEET: DEBATES
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Look beyond the 8 9 11 0% BIK on BEVs say fleet bosses More and more fleets look to electrify, but 5 7 10 other powertrains may be more appropriate 2
By Andrew Ryan diesel. They flow through that chart lectrifying fleets is a dependent on what they do day-to- priority among fleet day, week-to-week, where they live, decision-makers in etc. They take all those kinds of E 2020, as new benefit- scenarios into consideration so they in-kind (BIK) tax rates and a greater can make the right decision. A lot of choice of electric vehicles (EVs) are people are just looking at the 0% introduced. BIK tax for battery electric vehicles Safety also continues to be high on (BEVs), but that’s wrong. the fleet agenda, with many organi- Ian Thorn, fleet operations sations using telematics and dash- manager, CEF: When you look at cams to monitor and improve driver EVs, the wholelife costs come into it behaviour. too. The list price of BEVs might be EV is involved in a collision, it’s going foot as well. Fuel savings are very the driver and line manager or fleet money from when false claims ATTENDEES These were among the topics more than petrol and diesel cars, to have to go to a specialist dealer to good. manager. This may lead to some come in. We’ve had claims where 1 Paul Taylor, fleet manager, Morgan Sindall debated at a recent Fleet News but when you look at them on a be repaired. There is also a higher Martin Saxton: We are looking at in-vehicle training, which is a bit like someone has said one of our vehi- 2 Alan Akester, head of corporate services, Remit Group roundtable, sponsored by Hitachi wholelife cost basis, they do start to risk of the vehicle getting written off mileage reduction – if you want to closing the door after the horse has cles has been involved in an acci- 3 Tamara Parsons, senior buyer, National Grid Capital Vehicle Solutions, which make sense. if the battery is damaged. We’ve had decrease emissions, then don’t do bolted because something has dent and the four people in the other 4 Stephen Kirby, fleet manager, Morgan Sindall took place at the Forest of Arden Martin Saxton: Cost is a big plus, problems with Tesla. Someone had the journey if you don’t need to. We happened before we take action. car have all got serious injuries. You 5 Peter Jardine, group fleet director, Countrywide Hotel and Country Club, Coventry. but what is also a positive is that a rear bumper repaired and it was have a regional network of offices However, we have also developed watch the footage back and nothing 6 Michael Brown, fleet manager, Virgin Media manufacturers are starting to literally just a new bumper that and we found people were travelling in-house an online safety learning has happened. Within a couple of 7 Ian Thorn, fleet operations manager, CEF Fleet News: What are your priori- launch more BEVs into the main- needed to be put on. Our approved between them for something prob- module which we put all of our car weeks of installing our dashcams 8 Kimberley Wileman, associate buyer – fleet, National Grid ties for 2020? stream rather than the high-end bodyshop wasn’t allowed to touch it ably insignificant. These journeys and commercial drivers through. It we had one claim for £30,000 from 9 Martin Saxton, transport and fleet manager, BCS Group Stephen Kirby, fleet manager, vehicles we’ve been seeing. so they had to put it on a recovery are now being monitored and cut has a test at the end of it and it someone. Under normal circum- 10 Morgan Migallos, fleet administrator, Close Brothers Morgan Sindall: We’re looking to Paul Taylor, fleet manager, truck, drive it 200 miles to a Tesla- out if possible. Car-wise there is a makes them aware of how their stances our legal team may have 11 Jack Tanner, strategic sales manager, corporate sales, Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions get electric vehicles on the car list Morgan Sindall: The problem, approved repairer and then the lot fewer miles being driven, but we driving impacts on vulnerable road turned around and said you need to as soon as we can. We’ve been particularly with electric commer- driver sat there and waited while it can’t really do that with our vans. We users and that sort of thing. do a 50:50 or try to settle, but as we working on this for several months, cial vehicles, for us in the outlying got repaired. introduced Microsoft Teams last Ian Thorn: We do a similar thing. had the footage we could defend it. does help with complaints. Our instances where one has driven looking at processes and what we areas is getting the maintenance year and that took off pretty well, We have an online risk assessment This paid for the cameras. drivers all see this as a benefit as in exceptionally well to avoid some- need to do to get the drivers aware done because the EVs don’t have FN: How else are you reducing CO2 and we are also putting more tech- and if that flags up an issue, then the Martin Saxton: We do a lot of off- a lot of cases it is used to defend thing and we can then commend of what their needs are and if they that big a range. When we put our emissions? nology in our offices which will employee goes on a driver training road work and have a zero-toler- them. If the system flags up an alert, them. qualify for EVs. first few EVs in at Heathrow Airport Ian Thorn: We’ve got Lightfoot (a reduce the need to travel. course. This is done at induction as ance approach to bad driving. Our then we can listen to the relevant Michael Brown: You can also use Martin Saxton, transport and we were told where the nearest telematics/driver behaviour tool well before they even get into a car. camera system has impact alerts audio, but nobody sits there and the footage in training. We’ve got fleet manager, BCS Group: We’ve dealer was and I said I couldn’t get with an in-cab traffic-light display to FN: What action have you taken to We have upgraded modules which and sends me video straightaway, listens to hours of conversations. examples of where people have been looking at our company car there. Manufacturers are still give drivers instant feedback on improve safety? the drivers do every so often as well, and one time it sent me footage of Not one driver has raised an issue gone into the back of someone, but choice list and have devised a flow playing catch-up when it comes to their driving) on our Ford Transits Stephen Kirby, fleet manager, and we also do daily safety checks. drivers racing around a field at with the company for either we’ve used that footage in training chart to help the drivers decide maintaining EVs. and that’s been fantastically Morgan Sindall: We look at certain 35mph. I sent this off to the opera- recording footage or conversations. videos to say ‘actually your driver what route they should take when it Michael Brown, fleet manager, successful. We’ve seen a fuel saving areas within our work-related road FN: Has anyone fitted dashcams? tions manager and the next day they Stephen Kirby: It works both ways pulled over, he went to see if the comes to fuel, whether its full elec- Virgin Media: You need to look at of 15% and accidents have reduced. risk policy such as speeding Michael Brown: We’ve got forward- were sacked for abusing company We’ve identified instances of poor member of public is okay’. This tric, plug-in hybrid, regenerative vehicle off-road time as well. You It’s transformed our fleet. offences and collisions, and they are facing ones. Our vehicles are heavily property. Our dashcams have also driving and we can go and talk to the helps show people what to do in the hybrid, mild hybrid or even petrol or need to build in factors such as if an Michael Brown: We’ve got Light- linked to potential interviews with liveried and we’ve saved lots of got a voice recording facility and it drivers, but we’ve also seen event of a collision.
46 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 47 IGNITION: FIRST DRIVE IGNITION: FIRST DRIVE
AUDI A3 SPORTBACK PEUGEOT 3008 HYBRID Improved performance, now with mild hybrid and plug-in options to boost fleet appeal A super crossover-type SUV but the pricing puts it head-to-head with premium rivals
By Dave Humphreys By Matt de Prez he Audi A3 enters its fourth generation, ew benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax rates, building on the bolder styling of the combined with the introduction of T smaller A1. That design is enhanced N WLTP, are pushing company car further with greater differentiation drivers in a clear direction. Electric, or between specification grades. at least partially electric, cars are becoming It is now 30mm longer and 18mm wider than significantly more attractive than their petrol or before with more headroom and elbow room in the diesel counterparts. front and rear. Sportier S Line models include ‘Sport’ Peugeot, along with just about every other suspension, that reduces the ride height by 15mm. manufacturer, is adapting its model range to suit. Boot space stays at 380 litres – matching the BMW The new 3008 plug-in hybrid goes on sale alongside 1 Series and 10 litres more than the Mercedes-Benz its Vauxhall and Citroën stablemates, while at the A-Class can hold. With the rear seats folded, the A3’s same time, Ford launches its Kuga plug-in hybrid. capacity increases to 1,200 litres and a shallow load A high-quality finish Available in two guises, front-wheel-drive 225PS An upmarket interior adds lip makes it easy to lift bulkier items in and out. to the A3’s interior Hybrid and all-wheel-drive 300PS Hybrid4, the to the 3008’s appeal This A3 features a more driver-focused layout. plug-in 3008 immediately becomes the most A 10.25-inch ‘Virtual Cockpit’ digital instrument tax-efficient model in the range. display is standard, with a larger 12.3-inch version Audi will offer the most comprehensive array of 150PS version gets a multi-link design) and found it CO2 emissions start from 30g/km and all variants different levels of fuel economy depending on how and the car doesn’t always serve up the performance optionally available. All models get a 10.1-inch engine options to date with the A3 as mild hybrid and to ride well and offer plenty of composure on a can cover more than 30 miles on battery power, they’re driven and how frequently they are charged. with the urgency you’re expecting. touchscreen display for the infotainment system. plug-in hybrid models join the range. variety of road surfaces. Optional adaptive suspension putting them in the 10% BIK band. Fuel economy We’d expect higher-mileage users to achieve In electric-only mode, both cars can cover around Overall, there is a high quality to the cabin’s finish. The first diesel model to arrive in the UK will be operates over a broader spectrum between ranges from 157-235mpg, according to the WLTP between 40-50mpg, which is about the same as a 30 miles at speeds up to 84mph. The car defaults to the 35 TDI, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four- suppleness and firmness in its sportier modes. figures. Of course, plug-in hybrids can offer wildly diesel 3008. Those that commute over a shorter electric mode when you set off and uses the battery cylinder engine that produces 150PS. You can expect We liked the mild hybrid A3 35 TFSI model with its distance and plug in every day may hardly burn any unless you switch to hybrid mode, where the engine FLEET PICK A3 35 TDI TECHNIK S TRONIC up to 56mpg and CO2 emissions from 118g/km. 150PS petrol engine. Aside from lacking in brake fuel at all. But let’s be honest, it’s the BIK advantages and electric motor work together. It’s best for longer Improved engine performance makes it smoother pedal feel, it’s smoother during start-stop, and the FLEET PICK that are going to attract drivers to this car. journeys where battery charge can be saved for city 3008 HYBRID 225 ALLURE SPECIFICATIONS and quieter with all models getting acoustic battery enables the engine-off coasting for short The 3008 is one of the best crossover-type SUVs driving later on. The Hybrid4 has a second electric P11D Price £28,085 windscreen glass to reduce noise. periods to save fuel. SPECIFICATIONS in its segment. Not only does it have sharp looks motor in the rear axle, giving all-wheel-drive. While Monthly BIK (20%) 30%/£140* The power delivery is smooth with plenty of From launch, the A3 will be available as a 35 TFSI P11D Price £36,530 and an upmarket interior, it’s also great to drive. the Hybrid makes do with one gearbox-mounted performance thanks to its 360Nm torque output, with a 150PS petrol engine and a six-speed manual Adding the hybrid system has affected that last motor. Both use the same 1.6-litre turbocharged Class 1A NIC £1,162 Monthly BIK (20%) 10%/£61 while the S Tronic automatic transmission offers or a 35 TDI also with 150PS and a seven-speed characteristic, somewhat. The battery, motor and petrol engine and 13.2kWh battery pack. Annual VED £215 near-seamless gear changes. Expect the 116PS 30 S Tronic automatic transmission. Class 1A NIC £504 charging components add almost 300Kg to the Prices start at £36,530 for the Hybrid in Allure RV (4yr/80k) £9,575/34% TDI version to be popular with fleet users when There will be three core trim levels: Technik, Sport Annual VED £0 car’s weight. On the Hybrid4 it’s 360Kg. trim and that’s where it doesn’t stack up. The petrol Fuel cost 9.1ppm introduced as it has lower CO2 emissions, starting and S Line. All will come with LED headlights, while RV (4yr/80k) £10,924/29.9% While the new models pack more punch, and and diesel models are already priced ahead of their from 111g/km, and fuel economy up to 60.1mpg. S Line models receive LED rear lights with dynamic perform better, the weight can be felt in the corners rivals and this model costs about the same as a Fuel cost n/a AFR 11ppm Aside from slower acceleration there is little to fault indicators. Additionally, Audi will offer Edition 1 and and will clearly impact the fuel economy once the BMW 320d. Opting for a more desirable GT Line Running cost (4yr/80k) 36.5ppm with this engine. Its manual gearbox has a positive Vorsprung models above the S Line version. AFR 14ppm battery runs out. The flagship Hybrid4 is the most model, with some options, will be close to £40,000. CO2 118g/km* action with gearing designed for economy; it should Pricing will start at £24,900 for the 35 TFSI Technik Running cost (4yr/80k) n/a powerful production Peugeot ever made. Its 300PS The range-topping Hybrid4 GT costs almost suit most buyers as it can be frugal over longer manual, rising to £31,650 for the 35 TDI S Tronic S and 520Nm output gives a 0-60mph time of six £47,000. The 3008 is a good car but it may not Fuel efficiency 56mpg* CO2 30g/km journeys. We drove this with the standard suspension, Line. Pricing and CO2 data for the mild hybrids will seconds, but this isn’t a performance-oriented car. appeal to drivers able to get premium-badge *provisional figures based on German specification which includes a torsion beam rear set-up (the follow and a plug-in hybrid is also in the pipeline. Fuel efficiency 222mpg The eight-speed transmission is a bit dim-witted models at this price point.
48 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 49 IGNITION: OUR FLEET VIEW OUR FLEET IN DETAIL AT fleetnews.co.uk/cars/long-term-car-reviews
ŠKODA SCALA BMW 118i 1.0 TSI SE L M SPORT
By Sarah Tooze By Matt de Prez CITROËN MAZDA3 Like many fleets we’ve been affected by the halt Sporty trim levels seem to be the most popular to non-essential vehicle deliveries during the with UK company car drivers and with the BMW C5 AIRCROSS SKYACTIV-X SPORT coronavirus lockdown. Our long-term Scala is 1 Series that is certainly the case. 130 BLUEHDI FLAIR PLUS currently at Skoda’s workshop in Milton Keynes, Currently 58% of 1 Series sold in the UK are in waiting to be returned to us after a minor repair. the M Sport trim, which features aggressive By Gareth Roberts Judges at the World Car Awards appear to It was due to come back at the end of March, then styling, larger alloy wheels and firmer By Luke Neal nowhere to take all the unwanted items. That’s Lockdown for the Mazda3 has given me the agree. The Mazda3 has just won the World Car mid-April and now we expect it in May, although suspension. In last month’s review I wrote about Citroën’s where the C5’s spacious interior has come into play. opportunity to appreciate the all-new saloon from Design of the Year award, following the lead of that could change too if the lockdown continues. The ride height is 10mm lower than standard, Advanced Comfort programme and the C5 With 720 litres of boot space (seats up) thanks to its kerbside and there’s a lot to like. the Mazda MX-5, which received the same The Skoda press office has been proactive, with giving the car a more aggressive stance. Our car Aircross’s seats and suspension. Soon after three individual sliding rear seats and removable The Mazda3 saloon shares just its bonnet and award in 2016. regular calls and emails to inform us of the is enhanced further by 19-inch alloy wheels, as writing, the country went into lockdown and I boot floor, the C5 is ahead of rivals such as the windscreen with the hatchback, giving it an Mazda UK managing director, Jeremy changes, and had kindly loaned us another Scala part of the optional £1,800 M Sport Plus package. have had little opportunity (or need) to enjoy the Nissan Qashqai (430l) and the Mazda CX-5 (506l). executive look distinct from its stablemate. Thomson, said: “In the Mazda3 we simply have prior to the lockdown while ours was fixed. When I took delivery of the car the first thought Citroën’s levels of comfort – or, in fact, drive With rear seats folded flat the space increases Sharing an identical wheelbase, the saloon is one of the best-looking family cars in the world, Like our long-termer, it is an SE-L (the most that came to mind was: “blimey the ride’s a bit anywhere. The car currently sits on my drive to a generous 1,630 litres. More than enough for 200mm longer, while the 444-litre boot (compared and this award cements that achievement.” popular trim, along with the SE, for fleets) and firm”. Now, I’m not too bothered by a harder- with a tank of diesel which I filled more than my current needs. with 351 litres) offers a good level of practicality. In the UK, there are 27 models across the has the same 1.0-litre TSI 115PS engine. However, riding car. On the right road the 1 Series is three weeks ago. Loading is made easy thanks to the electrically- Mazda talks about its Kodo design philosophy combined hatchback and saloon line-up. It’s it has some sporty additions, including 18-inch enjoyable and it feels more planted on the What this period has given me is time to clear operated tailgate although the foot-operated and how it is inspired by the “purest traditions of available in five trim levels – SE-L, SE-L Lux, alloy wheels (for £680) rather than the standard motorway. In short, the car handles brilliantly – it out the house of everything that my family no sensor sometimes takes a lot of foot waggling. Japanese art”, but, in layman’s terms, it’s a good- Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech – and is 17-inch on our SE-L, which don’t make any has very quick and direct steering, helped by longer needs or wants. However, with recycling Hopefully, things will return to some sense of looking car. offered in the UK with a choice of petrol engines. difference to the CO2 emissions figure (113g/km). plenty of grip. centres and charity shops closed indefinitely, I’ve normality soon and I can get the car emptied. It has also been specified with a sport interior My dog, however, isn’t such a big fan. If I take pack, which includes black sports seats, stainless him out in the car it usually results in him being steel pedals and a black ceiling cover for £645. I unwell. The ride in the 1 Series is very jiggly. On was already a fan of the Scala’s premium-like rough road surfaces it does give your back a bit interior and this pack gives the car a different feel of a pounding, which is less than ideal. again. I’ve also noticed those big alloys tend to dig into Complementing the interior is the addition of grooves on the motorway and cause the car to sport chassis control with drive mode select tramline. For the first few days I though the car (£505), which lets you switch between ‘sport’, had an over-aggressive lane-keeping assist ‘normal’, ‘eco’ and ‘individual’ modes. system! Unsurprisingly, the fuel economy suffers by If I were to configure a 1 Series again, I’d think around 5mpg when in ‘sport’ mode compared to carefully about opting for the larger wheels. ‘eco’ although I haven’t been able to do a long Another feature of the aforementioned M Sport journey to properly assess how economical the Plus pack that’s worth highlighting is the BMW ‘eco’ mode is. M Sport brake upgrade. This adds larger calipers, The car is finished in ‘race blue’ metallic, which finished in metallic blue, and larger front discs. I prefer to our ‘Rallye green’ metallic (although I Stopping power is immense. A similar setup is VOLVO XC60 may be in the minority on that score) and has a used on the Mini Clubman JCW, which has more LEXUS UX tailgate design pack costing £280. than double the power of our 118i. D4 MOMENTUM The Scala’s tailgate already features the Adaptive dampers are optionally available on 250H brand’s new ‘design language’, with Škoda in the 118d and 120d, but not the 118i. For £500 block lettering instead of the traditional rear these enable the driver to soften or firm up the By Stephen Briers had issues with the voice recognition system. badge. I find it ride to suit their requirements. By Andrew Ryan materials and design. However, that was in I was expecting to be writing about the final test of I hadn’t, although I confess it isn’t one I have Fo r d - e s qu e, We were impressed by the system on our There’s a hackneyed old phrase among football Barcelona, with its glorious sun and well- the Volvo XC60 this month following the conclusion used much. However, our reader had been hit however, and it is previous 520d long-termer. pundits when discussing some of the world’s maintained roads. This time, I was driving in rainy, of our four-month loan. by a number of faults with the device on his S90 arguably a case best foreign players: “Yes, but could he do it on grey Peterborough. The focus would’ve been about technical (another Volvo we’ve tested and loved). of change for a rainy night in Stoke?”. Was I still impressed by the SUV? Yes. In my gremlins not spoiling our enjoyment of an It had been updated six times over the past change’s sake. It’s supposed to highlight that things always regular, everyday driving, the CV gearbox was outstanding family car that offers excellent value three years with issues including turning off the This model has look better when they’re in ideal circumstances slightly better and less rev-happy than I for money due its generous equipment levels. heating without instruction, navigating home also been fitted and question whether their qualities would still remembered, making the driving experience even However, due to the coronavirus lockdown, all unprompted and misunderstanding instructions. with adaptive apply in tougher conditions. more refined than anticipated. Average fuel our cars are remaining on our fleet for a little while He wondered if other readers have suffered cruise control That was the case when I borrowed our long- economy was 49.7mpg. longer – albeit, they are getting minimal use. similar fates, but then added: “I enjoyed the car (£415), blind spot term Lexus UX a few weeks ago. It was a The ride also impressed, while the interior It seems that I’m not the only person to have so much I have just bought it from the contract detection (£535), reunion of sorts as I was able to drive an UX on matched the high standards I remembered, firmly fallen for the charms of Volvo’s latest models while hire company despite the voice gremlins. Good which is very its European media launch a year ago. establishing the UX as a strong contender in the forgiving some of their software glitches. A reader value for money for a car with lots of safety noticeable, and a Then, I was impressed with its refinement, premium small SUV sector. from north of the border got in touch to ask if I’d whistles and bells.” boot pack (£80). ride and the high quality of its cabin’s build, Yes, the UX can do it on a rainy night in Stoke.
50 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 51 IGNITION: OUR FLEET COMMERCIAL FLEET: FIRST DRIVE
THINKING CAP By Martin Ward, Cap HPI manufacturer relationships manager
As we all get used to, or not get used to working from home, not allowed to visit family, friends, and waiting patiently to go into a supermarket for essentials, life has changed dramatically and beyond all recognition. AUDI A4 Things are moving at pace, and will have changed even more from the time of 35 TDI TECHNIK writing this to it being read. Nobody really knows how long this crisis will last and what will happen to the industry when it all By Andrew Ryan compliant 194PS Mercedes-Benz C220 2.0d is reverts to some sort of normality. But, who The premium car sector is one of the most subject to 31% BIK despite emitting 143g/km. knows how long this will take? competitive for aspirational company car drivers. This means that in the 2020/21 tax year, a 20% Many have compared the current crisis The Audi A4 is traditionally one of the taxpayer would face a monthly BIK bill of £192 DAF XF FTP with the global financial problems in 2008. heavyweights in this sector along with the BMW 3 for the A4, £1 less than the driver of the 320d There are some similarities, but there is Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, with often and £3 more than an employee with the C220. Advanced driver assist systems, used properly, have a big impact on fuel consumption much that is completely different. little to separate them on paper or on the road. The cost to the employer is similarly close. For example, back in 2008 everybody Analysis of the latest generation of models – They would pay monthly Class 1A national could move around and businesses could including our A4 35 TDI Technik – shows this insurance contributions of £133 for both the A4 continue operating. Nothing was shut for remains true as far as cost to both employee and and the 320d, and £130 for the C-Class. By Tim Campbell mixture of tag, mid-lift and steered, with perhaps any length of time. The fact that the motor employer goes. According to KeeResources calculations for hen it comes to describing a typical the most popular the 6x2 air suspended FTP model. industry stayed open really harmed values With CO2 emissions of 134g/km, our 163PS wholelife costs – which covers depreciation, UK fleet tractor unit, I suspect many The FTP choice is not just limited to axle and we saw prices fall dramatically. One or diesel A4 sits in the same 33% benefit-in-kind tax SMR, and fuel – the 320d does eke out an people would mention the Daf CF. It configurations but also the major driveline items two manufactures had large amounts of band as the 190PS BMW 320d SE, while the RDE2- advantage over its rivals. W offers a good balance between, power, with four power ratings encompassing two engine nearly new vehicles, and they had to move cab and total life costs. Equally impressive in this types, and three gearbox offerings as well a couple them to get cash in. These cars were sold area is the XF being tested here which appeals to of variations on the axle loadings. at ridiculously low prices, and everything customers wishing for a larger type cab for longer Power options include Paccar’s own Euro VI MX-11, else and every manufacturer followed suit fleet haul operations . which delivers up to 440PS, and the MX-13, which in an effort to try to get some cash in. Once the decision on the type of cab has been starts at 430PS but rises to 485PS (tested here) and Every car kept its relationship in terms of made, the choice doesn’t get any easier as the XF tops out at 533PS, the higher end of the UK cab sector. pricing with everything else, if a large 4x4 range has a mixture of rigids and tractor units. In Behind the MX engines is a mix of gearbox options, came down 20%, then a small had a fact, there are six choices of three axle tractors, with the TraXon 12-speed considered as the UK similar percentage drop. Once this started, with five of these as 6x2s. standard for many of the UK’s national general The driver’s seat there was no going back, the slippery-slide In 2019, the market for tractor units rose by 12.6% haulage requirements but there is the option of a is air-suspended started quickly, and how it snowballed. compared with 2018, as 22,191 models joined UK TraXon 16-speed and also a 16-speed manual. There was a recovery, and prices did, roads and the popular three axle artics increased As explained, the FTP version is a 6x2 configuration. eventually, return to pre-crisis levels. their share by 14.5%. The front axle is rated at eight tonnes with options The cab interior trim colour is officially called dark This crisis is different. There is little or no In fact, the tractor market remained by far the either side of this (7.5 and nine tonnes) with the sand and basically converts to a beige colour activity in the market. Everything is shut, most popular segment taking 44.6% of the total second lift axle having a rating of just 4.4 tonnes on complimented by black infill and also a generous the trade can neither sell nor buy vehicles. heavy truck market above six tonnes gross vehicle/ 235/75R17.5 tyres. Finally the drive axle is a more amount of wood-style trim. The driver’s seat is air The editors at Cap HPI have taken the combination weight, with demand growing 12.9% standard 11.5 tonnes. This combination results in suspended although the passenger seat is fixed and decision to only move prices when there is VW CADDY compared with 2018. the gross vehicle weight of the FTP to be rated at there’s a single bunk to the rear with a second sufficient data on used car sales, which, in Two axle tractors are outnumbered by three axle 23,900kgs and a rear bogie weight of 15,900kgs. optional. Climate control and an auxiliary cab heater reality, will be very little. STARTLINE SWB 2.0TDI 102PS DSG units by almost 10 to one and, as mentioned, Daf As far as the chassis is concerned there are two (water) takes care of the cab temperature and The ‘pause’ button has been pressed on has five models in the 6x2 axle combination with a wheelbase variants, a 3.85m and 4.05m when there’s a manually controlled aluminium roof hatch. the motor industry and every other measured from the centreline of the front axle to The XF is probably one of the most familiar cab industry and life in general. By Trevor Gehlcken I can’t list all the kit on this van as it would fill MODEL TESTED the centreline of the rear (Axle 3). There is a standard types on UK roads, and is a consistent winner of At some time in the, hopefully, not too We are already halfway through our three-month the whole page. But, suffice to say if your drivers DAF XF FTP rear bogie spread of 1.1m on both. many truck awards. As you climb inside the Space distant future, the play/resume button will test stint with the Caddy and I’m loving every minute. manage to crash a Caddy, then they probably SPECIFICATIONS The Paccar MX engine features a three-stage cab the semi wrapround dashboard really makes be pressed and we will all come out of The Caddy is due to be replaced early next year. shouldn’t be working for you. Model XF 480 Space cab 6x2 engine braking system (a ZF intrader is available as you feel welcome, in fact the dash is more of a full ‘hibernation’ and things will return to some But, if I was a fleet driver I’d be more than happy VW also added a few extras for us, too. The an option), ventilated disc brakes are on both front wrapround and that’s a plus. Obviously long haul GVW/GCW sort of normality, and hopefully vehicle with what’s on offer in the current model – and blackberry metallic paint job at £528 gives the 23,900kgs/44,000kgs and rear axles, and, of course, there’s the normal type cabs don’t necessarily need the driver to have values will start where they left off. I don’t that’s saying something as vans on run-out are vehicle a really stylish look while the lumbar Payload (exc trailer) 35,911kgs array of electronic braking features such as EBS, cross cab access other than for the overnight stay know more than anyone else, but I would usually beginning to look and feel their age. adjustment on the driver’s seat (£174) is a must Wheelbase 4,050mm EBA and EBS as well as lane departure warning and obligatory rest periods. like to think that this is what will happen. The Startline is the lowest model in the range for old groaners like me who suffer from back and vehicle stability control (VSC). The XF features an array of advanced driver assist Engine Paccar MX-13 litre but, even so, boasts a stunning array of kit as twinges on long journeys The super-snazzy The XF tractor range has two cabs available, the systems including an eco mode driver scoring standard – not least of which is the city emergency entertainment/sat-nav package is stunning but, Power 485PS (355kW)@1,600rpm Space cab sleeper and the top of the range Super system. My driving guru, Mandy Wannerton from braking system that stops the van in its tracks at at £900, it’s unlikely fleet drivers will get it. Torque 2,500Nm @ 900-1,125 rpm Space cab. Both are 2,490mm wide and have LED DAF Trucks, suggested we complete two circuits, any sign of a prang under 30mph. This is standard I’ve already added nearly 2,000 miles to the Gearbox TraXon 12-spd automated daytime running lights as well as galvanised steel one without coaching and one with and using all the on all VW vans now and the manufacturer has to Caddy’s clock since its arrival and every mile has bumper, tinted glass, main/wide angle controlled driver assist systems. The difference is amazing Warranty be hugely praised for its safety stance. been a sheer driving pleasure. 2 years vehicle, 3 years drive line and heated along with electrically windows. with a double-digit potential saving in fuel.
52 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 53 adRocket
COMMERCIAL FLEET: FIRST DRIVE FORD
RRANGERANGER MAXUS E DELIVER 3 Everything is geared to keeping the body weight down and the payload high
By Tim Campbell axus is set to launch its second van in spring in the form of the all-new ‘E Deliver 3’. Previously called the EV30, M the E Deliver 3 will be one of the first electric-only vans to be sold in the UK, offering a range of up to 174 miles and a payload of up to 1,000kg. It’s not the only renaming taking place: Maxus itself changed names in the UK this month from LDV. Electric van sales are still in the embryonic stage. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, there were fewer than 1,000 registrations in 2018 (or less than 0.3% Unlike most electric vans, there will be no handles well in the corners like most electric vans. of total LCV registrations) but the increasing internal combustion engine (ICE) versions and so There will be two battery packs offered on the scrutiny on diesels is certainly changing the engineers have designed everything around new van; a 35kWh and a 55kWh (this compares picture. It estimates that sales almost tripled last electrification including the use of composite with 40kWh for the eNV200 and 33kWh for the year to around 2,800 units. plastic and aluminium, rather than steel, for body Kangoo ZE), returning a range of 127 miles and 174 Maxus’s current electric van, the eV80, had a panels which helps offset the weight of the battery miles respectively on the NEDC cycle. Real-world great year of sales for both retail and fleet, with for payload and increase the range. and WLTP figures have yet to be published. Milk & More placing an order for 159. Electric The cab is quite surreal in that it gives a futuristic A rapid ‘DC’ charge to 85% takes just 45 minutes, vehicles (EVs) are where Maxus and its Chinese feel with its mix of contrasting black and blue while a Type 2 ‘AC’ charge could take as long as parent SAIC are one step ahead of western plastics on the dashboard. There is an abundance seven hours. manufacturers – after all, more than half of the of storage spaces and it is extremely spacious. UK Maxus will offer both short and long-wheelbase world’s 2018 EV sales took place in China in 2018. models will have an electronic parking brake, variants which, at 5.0 and 6.3 cubic metres and 4.5m rather than the traditional handbrake, which will and 5.1m long respectively, straddle the traditional free up room for an optional extra third seat. small and medium van segments. Of course, MODEL TESTED The Chinese-spec model we were testing came European homologated figures are yet to be E DELIVER 3 with a 70kW/220Nm motor which means it slightly finalised, but preliminary figures suggest there will SPECIFICATIONS trails the eNV200 for performance, but UK models be payloads of around 850kg (SWB) and 1,000kg OTR price £30,000 (est) will have an uprated 85kW (115PS)/255Nm motor. (LWB), with Maxus lifting the GVW for vans with Given its compact size, the driving position is larger batteries to compensate for payload loss. Power/torque 114PS/255Nm quite high which provides commanding all-round Official prices were due be announced in Q1, but Payload 855kg Let nothing stand in the way of your business views. Even by EV standards, it’s effortless to drive bosses hinted the E Deliver 3 will start at around Gross vehicle weight n/a with electrically-assisted power steering and the £24,000 plus VAT for the short wheelbase, 35kWh choice of two throttle modes and three degrees of model when the Government’s PiVG has been Make your business unstoppable with the New Ford Ranger, featuring Load volume 5.0 cu m energy recuperation. taken into consideration, which is only a marginal a Bi-Turbo EcoBlue Diesel engine and up to 3.5 tonnes of pulling power. Fuel cost n/a The MacPherson strut and leaf-spring increase on the eNV200. Available with an embedded modem, SYNC 3 Connectivity and SMR n/a suspension configuration is more geared towards The first UK deliveries will take place in spring interior space for 5, you’ll be ready for anything work throws at you. Running cost n/a taking loads than comfort, and therefore the cab and will be backed by Maxus’s excellent five-year, certainly bears the brunt of speedbumps and 125,000-mile warranty (eight-year warranty on the Range Discover more at ford.co.uk up to 174 miles potholes. However, it is nicely balanced and battery). CITYPICK-UP CAR OF THE THE YEAR YEAR VWFORD UP! RANGER
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FP_FLEETNEW_294825FOBFid4274011.pdf 04.14.2020 10:44 COMMERCIAL FLEET: NEWS
of technology, equipment and trucks this scenario, it is expected to get board as most segments experi- are already being disrupted. back to its pre-crisis growth trend by enced double-digit declines, Pandemic puts clean air zones, “Delaying enforcement will allow the end of 2020. according to the Society of Motor businesses to focus their efforts on In a separate report, the Interna- Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). ensuring the population of London tional Monetary Fund (IMF) said it New LCV registrations fell by continues to receive the food, hygiene expects the UK economy to shrink by 54.3% compared with March 2019, MOT and tachograph rules on hold products and other basic items 6.5% in 2020, while the global with just 30,247 vans bearing the required to see it through this economy will contract by 3%. new ’20 number plate joining the pandemic.” The OBR’s estimates said a three- roads. The impact is expected to be Chapman did warn, however, that month lockdown would push up the far greater in April, with retailers and Government and local authorities delay measures as coronavirus threatens fleet futures a “longer period is likely to be needed UK’s borrowing bill to an estimated GOVERNMENT vehicle manufacturers remaining for businesses to adjust” and it £273 billion this financial year, or 14% MUST closed during the lockdown. would work with TfL on the final of gross domestic product (GDP), By Gareth Roberts limiting it to those transporting He said: “It is vital that all vehicles “To help ease pressure on the timetable. representing the largest deficit as a CONTINUE BAROMETER FOR ECONOMY oronavirus pandemic is certain essential goods. on our roads remain safe to use and sector, I’ve asked TfL to delay the The scheme means trucks share of GDP since World War II. TO DO Mike Hawes, chief executive at the challenging commercial Furthermore, the Driver and their roadworthiness must be main- enforcement of the new stricter entering the capital will have to A survey conducted by the British EVERYTHING SMMT, said: “The commercial C fleets in different ways Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) tained at all times.” rules, initially for four months, to comply with a London-specific safety Chambers of Commerce shows that POSSIBLE TO vehicle market is a barometer for the – some operators are has suspended MOTs for all heavy However, he added: “Routine allow the freight industry to focus on standard or face a £550 fine. a fifth of all firms are intending to wider economy so March’s decline to struggling to cope with demand, goods vehicles (HGVs) and public testing is a vital part of our safety its core operations during the The RHA wants TfL and the mayor furlough their entire workforce and SAFEGUARD the lowest level in more than 20 while others have vehicles standing service vehicles (PSVs) for three culture and we believe it should be pandemic.” to push DVS back by at least a year a further 17% are furloughing more years is stark evidence of a crisis of idle. months from March 20. restored as soon as possible.” Although the new rules under both to give firms time to recover from the than 75% of their staff, equating to THE SECTOR truly unprecedented proportions. The Government has attempted to Lorries and trailers due for test in schemes will still legally come into national emergency. more than nine million workers. “There is no doubt that demand soften the blow through a series of the suspension period will be issued ENFORCEMENT DELAYED force on October 26, no charges will Burnett warned: “Hauliers Designed to support employers will recover once we overcome the financial measures and the relaxa- with exemptions automatically. The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and be payable or enforced for non- supplying London with the goods whose operations have been MIKE HAWES, SMMT challenge that lies ahead. However, tion of some regulations. Some vehicles, such as those due for new rules for London’s Low Emis- compliant vehicles under the new they need during the crisis are adversely affected by the COVID-19 given we do not yet know how long Ministers have delayed the intro- their first MOT test and vehicles sion Zone (LEZ) have also been put standards until the end of February already facing a financial struggle for pandemic, furloughing is a tempo- this will continue, Government must duction of clean air zones (CAZs), returning to service with a test on hold until 2021. 2021. survival. rary measure to provide business struggling businesses,” he said. continue to do everything possible to while Transport for London (TfL) certificate that expired before March, Both were set to be enforced from TfL says the new date for the start “Adding a year to the roll-out of this funding, initially for up to three “FTA has already heard of several safeguard the sector so it is ready to suspended the congestion charge will require an application for October this year, but they have now of enforcement will be kept under scheme would cost the authorities months, and is part of the Govern- organisations that are not paying help operators and the entire country and ultra-low emission zone (ULEZ) exemption certificates. been delayed for four months. review. nothing and save many firms from ment’s Coronavirus Job Retention their furloughed staff until the cash get back to business when that time until further notice, when the lock- The MOT on vans and other light The suspension, ordered by the Natalie Chapman, head of urban going out of business.” Scheme. from the scheme is received – a comes.” down began on Monday, March 23. commercial vehicles (LCVs) has Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, policy at the Freight Transport Asso- Under the terms of the programme, decision which will have a massive Fleet operators can access emer- A spokesman at the Department been extended for six months from acknowledges that demands ciation (FTA), told Commercial Fleet MOUNTING COSTS businesses can reclaim up to 80% of impact on workers.” gency vehicle repair and mainte- for Environment, Food and Rural March 30. currently faced by the commercial that operators are already facing The financial impact of the crisis will an employee’s usual monthly wage, nance services as some garages Affairs (Defra) told Commercial Fleet However, the DVSA is reminding fleet sector could have made compli- significant disruption to their opera- differ across the industry. Estimates up to £2,500 per month REGISTRATIONS FALL and workshops remain open during the Government had agreed with fleets that vehicles must be main- ance with the new standards difficult tions as members of their workforce from the Office for Budget Respon- FTA CEO David Wells says it is vital The latest figures on new van sales the coronavirus lockdown. Leeds, Birmingham and Bath to tained, kept safe to drive (roadworthy) to achieve. fall ill and self-isolate. sibility (OBR) suggest that, based on that fleets can be confident the also reflect the economic impact. Recovery services, including The delay the introduction of the charging and operate within the terms of “Coronavirus has disrupted supply “Achieving compliance with DVS a three-month lockdown, the UK Government’s systems and The new van market fell by more AA and the RAC, are also still oper- zones until after January 2021. operators licence conditions. chains and placed additional demands will require many goods vehicles economy could shrink by a record processes can cope with the scale of than half in March, with just over ating as is parts supply from Euro Ministers have also now tempo- Richard Burnett, chief executive of on the freight industry, making it over 12 tonnes to have additional 35% by June. likely demand. 30,000 units registered as lockdown Car Parts. Other motor factors are rarily removed tachograph require- the Road Haulage Association (RHA), more difficult for new standards to be cameras, sensors and alarms While the UK economy would “If they can’t, it will add further measures came into force. closed, making some parts difficult ments for all drivers, after initially echoed the DVSA’s warning. met on time,” he said. fitted,” she said. “However, supplies contract by 12.8% this year under delay to the provision of vital cash to Demand was down across the to obtain.
56 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk fleetnews.co.uk ■ April 23 2020 57 INSIDE BACK PANEL
THE LAST WORD Boost your
Why fleet? It’s the gift that keeps on giving – but not always the gift you asked for! KEITH COOK But that’s the appeal – no two days Fleet Fitness DEPUTY FINANCIAL CONTROLLER – GROUP FINANCE OPERATIONS, are the same. The industry evolves, COMPUTACENTER like its own little universe. There’s no time for complacency. It presents Cars have always featured in Keith Cook’s life, so when the ‘opportunities’ in an industry filled with generous people only too keen opportunity to add fleet to his portfolio arose, he jumped to share.
at it. Since then, he has run the fleet at technology firm How I got here Computacenter for 30 years My father was an auto-electrician daimler-fleetfit.co.uk and I have fond memories of the oil Using the FREE guide and analysis service available from is My favourite movie quote is smell in workshops that would be The advice I would give to my “There’s a time for daring and unrecognisable today. When a the quickest and most comprehensive way to get a snapshot of your current fleet 18-year-old self is believe in there’s a time for caution, and a reorganisation came along, with the yourself. Be your version of you, not wise man understands which is opportunity to add fleet to my performance. Our consultative approach is designed to help mobility decision makers anyone else’s. Dream big and dare called for.” (Dead Poets Society) portfolio, it was like meeting an old to fail. I might add that you may friend. acquire a deeper understanding of their fleet and consider the multiple factors that want to give 2020 a wide berth! The song I would have on Latest products, developments and my driving playlist is More achievements affect their needs. My first memory associated than Words, by Extreme Most recently I completed a part with a car is a family holiday time MSc, at the University of to Hastings in a split-screen Hertfordshire, in Business and Morris Minor. A book I would Organisational Strategy, conducting recommend to others is research into mobility. Cost Alex’s Adventures in optimisation has also featured Quickly pinpoint key areas for optimization and resolution My hobbies and interests are the Numberland by Alex Bellos heavily; . Currently I’m looking at creative arts, cooking, education, applications for robotic process psychology and family and social automation (RPA). history. I don’t watch TV. If I were made transport minister Enhance your own strategies and internal planning with for the day I’d declare war on My company in three words with help from our Fleet Fit coaches potholes – get potholes done! Innovative, Innovative, Innovative My pet hate is negative people. I am a Pollyanna. Career influence If money was no Early in my career I had a manager, Get clear insight on how to tackle changing business object, I’d be a Linda Powell, who encouraged me philanthropist. to be curious and to treat everything needs and duty of care requirements as an opportunity. If I have to single out one person now it would be Colin Tourick, a wise Yoda, great lunch companion and source of many an inspiration.
What makes a good MD? I’ll tell you when I get there! I would say believe in your employees, have a clear vision and stretch people to be the best that they can be.
If I wasn’t in fleet I had to reset my password in the Apple store. The lady asked me the security question “what job did you want to do when you were a child?”. She prompted me with “most guys put footballer or racing driver...” I confessed, “ballet dancer”. The look on her face was priceless. So, I’d be a racing driver, clearly!
Next issue: Ian Leonard, head of fleet operations at Yodel Delivery Network
58 April 23 2020 ■ fleetnews.co.uk
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