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CablePrice signs deal with Daimler Trucks and Fuso NZ DAF Euro 6 arrives ablePrice has signed two major brands from its six locations throughout p4 sales and service agreements with the South Island. CDaimler Trucks and Fuso New CablePrice will operate with an Zealand for South Island operations. established dealer network with sites It will now be authorised to sell and running out of Christchurch, Invercargill Coronavirus has service the full range of Mercedes- and Greymouth. Benz, Freightliner and Fuso trucks, with CablePrice chairman David Harvey says industry on alert both deals effective from April 1. the company “is delighted” with the deal p10 This is on top of its role as an authorised and everyone is “excited with the potential service dealer in New Zealand for Scania of this new partnership”. Trucks and Buses. As a result of the new appointments, EV van delivers The agreement means Prestige CablePrice will now be actively Commercial Vehicles (PCV) will end recruiting more technicians for its its long-standing representation of the South Island operations. catch of the day Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner and Fuso Continued on page 2 p14

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Continued from page 1 not been meeting the expectations of “The strength of CablePrice comes from Fuso customers. delivering the highest level of after-sales “We have explored a number of service and assistance to our customers avenues to improve this and have now who buy and use the world’s leading made the tough decision to refresh our brands and products,” Harvey says. South Island representation. Daimler Truck and Bus president and “PCV has been the Fuso representative chief executive Daniel Whitehead says in the South Island since 2009. Over the CablePrice ticks all the boxes and the past few years, Fuso’s market share in deal comes at a great time with new this region has seen a significant decline. product launches on the way. “The Fuso New Zealand board feels that “We are excited to have such a well- a fresh approach is required to reverse established and reputable network this trend and that CablePrice has the Daniel Whitehead partner represent our Mercedes-Benz structure, network and ability to deliver and Freightliner brands in the South on that expectation. Island. “This is not a decision that has been “This is a massive win for our customers, taken lightly and I would like to thank who can expect the best sales, service the PCV team for the effort put in to and support from an operation that representing Fuso for the past 11 years,” has more than 65 years of experience Andrews says. servicing the heavy transport industry in CablePrice is a subsidiary of Hitachi the South Island. Construction Machinery with a “The Mercedes-Benz Actros will soon be nationwide sales, parts and service even further improved, continuing its cab- network spanning New Zealand. over leadership, while the Freightliner The company is the only authorised Cascadia is set to become the clear class dealer for Hitachi Construction Machinery, leader when it arrives in the next few John Deere construction and forestry months. equipment, Bell Equipment, McCloskey “It is wonderful to be able to support International, HSC Cranes, Montabert and these ground-breaking products with MB Crushers in the country. such a high-quality dealership network,” Additionally, CablePrice Wellington Whitehead says. branch is the region’s authorised master Kurtis Andrews Fuso New Zealand chief executive truck dealer (MTD) for Isuzu trucks. Kurtis Andrews says the appointment CablePrice was also appointed by of CablePrice followed a wide-ranging Isuzu Australia as the official authorised board review of the performance of the distributor for Isuzu Industrial and Marine Fuso network nationwide. Engines. “For some time, we have been concerned that the composition of our network has Continued on page 3

2 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz NEWSTALK

Continued from page 2 “Modifications required by adapting the Cascadia arrival vehicle to right-hand drive, include the optimisation of the drive system for the The new Freightliner Cascadia was transport tasks in Australia which typically unveiled for the Australia and New exceed 100 tonnes permissible GVW, Zealand markets in Sydney last special bumpers with underride guard, November. as well as a cab developed specially for The event included a visit from Daimler Australia.” Trucks and Buses chief executive Martin The Cascadia, which features partially Daum and Daimler Truck AG board automated driving functions, launched member Roger Nielsen. in North America in 2019. The Cascadia is a market leader in the Around 20,000 trucks of the Freightliner US, making up 38% of the long-distance brand are in operation in Australia and heavy haulage truck segment. It is hoped New Zealand. the truck will deliver the same results Daimler Trucks North America exports its when it hits the market Down Under. heavy-duty long-distance trucks to more Daimler Trucks North America than 30 countries worldwide. In 2018, the says it made “significant financial company contributed almost 40% of the investments” for trials and adaptation total sales figure of the Daimler Trucks of the new truck “in the demanding and Buses business operation, having markets of Australia and New Zealand”. sold around 190,000 units. The company has a “long-standing commitment to these markets”, it says.

MERCEDES-BENZ TRUCKS APPOINTS AUSTRALIA AND NZ DIRECTOR

aimler has appointed Andrew “He has a close relationship with our Assimo as the new director of Mercedes-Benz customers, having helped DMercedes-Benz Trucks Australia them improve their businesses during the Pacific. last few years, and we know they will be He joined Daimler Truck and Bus in pleased with this appointment.” 2007 as a Mercedes-Benz heavy vehicle Whitehead says Assimo takes over the product engineer and was promoted director role at an exciting time for the to senior manager in 2015, overseeing brand. sales, production, operations and “Mercedes-Benz has the best cab-over marketing. truck in the market and is about to move Daimler Truck and Bus president and further ahead with an even smarter chief executive Daniel Whitehead says Actros featuring MirrorCam and a host of Assimo was the best person for the role other upgrades that its rivals simply can’t which covers the Australian and New match,” Whitehead says. Zealand markets. Assimo replaces former Mercedes-Benz “Andrew has played a key role in Australia Pacific Truck and Bus director establishing Mercedes-Benz as the Michael May who is now appointed premier heavy duty cab-over brand for new managing director for Iveco Trucks smart business operators in Australia, and Australia. we are confident he can guide the brand to even greater success,” Whitehead says. Andrew Assimo

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 3 NEWSTALK

DAF EURO 6 RANGE HITS THE ROAD outhpac Trucks is showcasing its south to show our existing customers, new DAF Euro 6 XF and CF models and hopefully a few new ones, what the Sto customers with the first major range is like. shipment only weeks away. “Our New Zealand stock starts arriving in The company, which is the New the next few weeks, so we’ll be able to Zealand distributor for Kenworth and fulfil those orders,” Smart says. DAF, has just finished a country-wide Three trial units have already been “We recently sent roadshow displaying the new range. running in the South Island since The first event took place in Auckland on February last year. two of our specialist February 17 and finished in Invercargill on Southpac has also teamed up with TR driver trainers February 26. MasterDrive which will have a team of 18 Southpac general sales manager Richard driver trainers ready to take operators to Holland to be Smart says up to 40 pre-orders have through their paces when the trucks land. upskilled by DAF already been made and some customers The XF and CF feature the MX-13 have been waiting a few years for the engine which delivers around 10% factory trainers" new models. in fuel saving with the highest range “This is the first time we’ve really shown delivering up to 390kW (530hp) and the product to customers,” he says. 2600Nm of torque. “So, we’re going all the way north to Continued on page 6

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TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 5 VOLUME 8 | ISSUE 8

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RECRUITMENT SPECIALIST / PRODUCTION Continued from page 4 Fran Da Silva 021 933 279 The driveline offers a range of power ratings specialists at 12 locations,” Smart says. [email protected] and the trucks can now cruise with low TR MasterDrive strategic development engine revs at 900rpm for highest efficiency. general manager Neil Bretherton says the GROUP GENERAL MANAGER The models are TraXon 12 or 16-speed team was “delighted to come on board”. Deborah Baxter automated transmission with EcoRoll “TR Master Drive is really excited 027 530 5016 contributing to fuel saving. to support Southpac in delivering [email protected] Safety features include adaptive cruise introductory training to new DAF control, collision warning, emergency products.

MANAGING EDITOR braking, lane departure warning, stability “We recently sent two of our specialist driver Richard Edwards control, tyre pressure monitoring, battery trainers to Holland to be upskilled by DAF 021 556 655 monitoring and protective cab suspension factory trainers. [email protected] and construction. “The team were incredibly impressed by the Southpac and TR Master Drive staff new trucks and eager to show Southpac’s

PUBLISHER / CHAIR recently visited the Netherlands, the customers how to get optimal experience Vern Whitehead home of DAF, to undergo intensive driving them. 021 831 153 instruction to become Euro 6 driver “Working with Southpac fits perfectly with [email protected] trainers. TR Master Drive services’ desire to lead in Smart says the new product “is a completely the heavy vehicle training space and TR Auto Media Group Limited makes every different truck to the current Euro 5, not just Group’s goal to support our customers and endeavour to ensure information contained in this publication is accurate, however we are not liable a face lift – in fact the only thing that hasn’t the industry to operate fleet more safely, for any losses or issues resulting from its use. changed are the wheels and tyres”, he says. efficiently and profitably,” Bretherton says. Printed by: Alpine Printers. “The organisation needed a way to ensure The training in the Netherlands and all the new E6 DAF owners get the best out Germany consisted of all on-road fully of the truck, maximising on the fuel savings loaded Euro 6 products, at times on single but also understanding all the new driver lane roads on the wrong side of the road, aides. fine tuning driving styles, focusing on fuel autotalk.co.nz “We looked at employing someone but savings and setting up the truck to individual autotalk.com.au decided, we simply would not be able to driver preferences. transporttalk.co.nz engage all our clients to give them enough Each new Euro 6 DAF will come with futuretrucking.com.au time. free training for two drivers of six to “After researching the market, we quickly eight hours each, leaving the drivers evtalk.co.nz realised that nobody else could deliver with a Safe and Fuel-Efficient Driving evtalk.com.au this on a national basis other than TR qualification, endorsed by the NZ wheeltalk.co.nz MasterDrive, with their network of 18 training Transport Agency. #1 TRUCK ON NEW ZEALAND ROADS FOR 20 YEARS. Thanks to everyone who has been part of the journey. Here’s to the next 20 years and the road ahead. NEWSTALK

'BUSINESS AS USUAL’ FOR ISUZU TRUCKS AS HOLDEN BRAND EXITS eneral Motors has shocked the of alternative strategies automotive market with news to try to sustain and it will almost entirely exit the improve the business, G together with the local Australian markets – taking the Holden brand with it. team.” However, Holden spokesperson Ed Finn The company says it says this will not impact the sales of undertook a detailed Isuzu Trucks in New Zealand which were analysis of the distributed by Holden NZ. investment required for “We would like to assure you and your Holden to be competitive readers that the situation for Isuzu beyond the current Trucks in New Zealand, following the generation of products. announcement, remains unchanged Factors impacting the and is ‘business as usual.’ business case for further “It is our intention to continue to honour investment included the our obligations under the current Isuzu highly fragmented right- distribution agreement as we believe hand-drive markets, the the current Isuzu sales and after sales economics to support operations in New Zealand will augment growing the brand, and our remaining Holden aftersales network delivering an appropriate operations,” Finn says. return on investment. Sales, design and engineering operations “After comprehensive assessment, Kristian Aquilina of Holden will wind down by 2021 in both we regret that we could not prioritise Australia and New Zealand, while Holden the investment required for Holden Financial Services and Maven in Australia to be successful for the long term in will come to an end. Australia and New Zealand, over all In a statement, Holden indicated staff other considerations we have globally,” will receive exit and transition packages, Blissett says. while work will begin soon on ending “This decision is based on global dealer arrangements, with some being priorities and does not reflect the hard offered the chance to remain parts and work, talent and professionalism of the service outlets. Holden team.” There are 800 Holden employees GM intends to focus its growth strategy across Australia and New Zealand, with in Australia and New Zealand on the 185 dealers in Australia and 31 in New specialty vehicles business and plans Zealand. to immediately work with its partner on GM International Operations senior developing these plans. vice president Julian Blissett says GM While details remain unclear, that is had taken the difficult decision after likely to mean its bourgeoning business implementing and considering numerous selling American sports cars converted to options to maintain and turn around right-hand drive through Holden Special Holden operations. Vehicles – a partnership with Walkinshaw “Through its proud 160-year history, Performance. Holden has not only made cars, it GM Holden interim chairman and managing has been a powerful driver of the director Kristian Aquilina says that given industrialisation and advancement of the significance of Holden through its Australia and New Zealand,” Blissett says. history, it was critical the company worked “Over recent years, as the industry with all stakeholders to deliver a dignified Julian Blissett underwent significant change globally and respectful wind-down. and locally, we implemented a number Continued on page 8

8 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz NEWSTALK

Continued from page 9 this. “Holden will always have a special place He says although it is early days in in the development of our countries. As relation to the actual financial cost of the Australia and New Zealand grew, Holden Holden brand closure on the Australian was a part of the engine room fuelling economy and more directly the impact on that development,” Aquilina says. the Holden car dealers, it is certain that He says the announcement will be the cost will be significant. “felt deeply by the many people who love Holdens, drive Holdens and feel It’s a fair offer: Holden connected to our company which has But Holden Australia feels the dealers are been with us for 160 years and is almost being treated fairly. ubiquitous in our lives”. “Holden is doing the right thing by “Unfortunately, all the hard work and its dealers during this difficult time. talent of the Holden family, the support We believe the offer is fair,” a Holden of our parent company GM and the Australia spokesperson says. passion of our loyal supporters have “In most cases Holden dealers will not been enough to overcome our receive compensation to a factor of four challenges. times the average Holden new car profit/ “We understand the impact of this unit of all dealerships over the 2017-2019 decision on our people, our customers, fiscal years. This number includes the our dealers and our partners – and sale of highly profitable domestically will work closely with all stakeholders produced Commodore units in 2017/18. to deliver a dignified and respectful “The compensation formula Holden transition.” is using is applied consistently for all Holden says it will honour all warranties dealers and covers reasonable earning and pre-paid service contracts on its expectations from the New Holden vehicles and offer parts for at least ten sales department over the remaining years though aftersales networks. portion of the dealer agreement. “All dealers also have the opportunity Dealers hit back to continue as Holden Authorised However, a number of dealers are Service Outlets, maintaining their current going on the offensive in preparation service and repair client base. This is a for a battle with GM regarding adequate consistently very profitable part of their compensation as the company terminates businesses. new Holden vehicle sales in the “The proposed compensation also Australasian markets. includes a provision to reimburse A group of unhappy dealers lead by the dealers for a portion of their unamortised Australia Automotive Dealer Association investments in their new car showroom, (AADA) met with prime minister Scott as well as full reimbursement of Morrison on February 26, telling him unamortised investments in Holden that the Holden compensation offer was dealer signage,” the Holden Australia “grossly inadequate”. spokesperson says. One dealer told Auto Media Group that a bone of contention was the belief that the New Zealand Holden dealers were getting a better deal: “This is just the start, there is a lot more water to go under the bridge.” The managing director and chief executive officer of Australia’s largest dealership groups says GM has a legal and moral obligation to ensure Holden dealers are provided with adequate compensation packages. AP Eagers boss Martin Ward says there are 943 dedicated GM employees who will be affected across his dealerships. He said there is also GM stock, leases and property that will all be directly affected, Martin Ward and GM need to take responsibility for

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 9 NEWSTALK

CORONAVIRUS HAS TRANSPORT INDUSTRY ON HIGH ALERT

he Government has released an crews are being put on reduced hours or, Transport companies on extra $4 million for businesses worst case, stood down. Regrettably many alert Timpacted by the coronavirus and of our contractors have little alternative transport leaders are warning companies but to lay-off skilled workers,” Weir says. The National Road Carriers Association to be prepared for the worst. Log exports to China were worth $2.7 (NRC) says trucking companies need to Forestry and ports have been hit the billion for the year to the end of December prepare for the impacts of the coronavirus hardest with log exports to China grinding 2019. which is “potentially going to get worse to a halt following the outbreak. “NZFOA members are doing what we quickly”. Gisborne’s Eastland Port, the second can to retain our skilled labour force by China’s shutdowns to control the disease biggest log exporter in the country, sending better logs to domestic sawmills are impacting New Zealand trucking is now left scrambling following the to make up for the shortfall from farm companies which carry exports like logs delays. It’s impacting around 300 woodlots where logging has already and meat, NRC chief executive David workers in the area who contribute ceased. Aitken says. around 6% of the regions $2 billion “We continue to invest in the silvicultural “We are aware of importers who are GDP. work, including pruning, thinning and not able to place orders and expect to Industry workers met with the Gisborne preparing recently harvested land before run short if production doesn’t get back District Council, Eastland Wood Council replanting begins in May or June.” to normal soon. This has consequences and other related stakeholders to plan “Most members will continue building safe for our sector,” Aitken says. how they can support those affected. forest roads and landings to be harvest “Meat works have reduced kills for the Attendees agreed to gather information ready when markets recover. But that may China market meaning farmers are having on the impacts to ensure the right support be some months. to keep stock even during the drought will be put in place. “Many larger forest companies are conditions we are experiencing, so NZ Forest Owners Association (NZFOA) assisting contractors with business stock are not being carried to the meat president Peter Weir say there is almost management and financial advice. processors, and processed goods are no off-take of logs in China for “In Poverty Bay, we are delighted with not transported to ships. We understand processing and the remaining the support we are receiving from freezers and chillers are full so this will log yard space at most ports is local Federated Farmers who further affect the processors’ ability to take quickly disappearing. are looking for jobs to employ stock. It was hoped that business forest workers. Every few extra “There are also limited goods coming out would return to normal after hours of income are most of China, so the number of containers with the extended Lunar New Year welcome,” he says. goods destined for New Zealand shop holiday finished in China but The NAFOA is also working shelves is expected to be down. These “that hasn’t happened”, Weir closely with Forestry New are just some of the effects, all of which Peter Weir says. Zealand in trying to lessen the will reduce the number of road transport “Many Chinese sawmills are impact of the log supply situation. movements,” Aitken says. yet to get back to work. New Zealand “Our members are not looking for The NRC is now advising its trucking exporters have nowhere else to send handouts, but we do want to work company members to be aware of the the industrial grade logs they harvest. out equitable ways for working with situation and plan where possible. “While New Zealand’s domestic sawmills the government to assist the various “We are telling trucking companies to usually take about 40% of the harvest, harvesting crews. They are ones who will do what they can to keep their company sawmills supplying the New Zealand need the help. infrastructure in place. When this virus housing market will only buy stiffer and “We are mindful too that a substantial blows over, which it will, there will be a higher quality sawlogs or knot-free logs reduction in harvesting is likely to have mad rush to move goods around again. from pruned trees for joinery. The upper a major and rapid supply chain effect Chinese people need to eat, and China logs from a pruned true often grade out here in New Zealand, with a large needs materials to get its industries up as industrial logs, and these logs are dedicated workforce in trucking and and running again.” exported. port loading which is also going to feel “In regions where there is no domestic the impact,” Weir says. sawmilling, many harvest contracting Continued on page 11

10 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz NEWSTALK

Continued from page 10 benefits for those affected by this Partners programme to help industries RTF calling on PM economic shock, and that tax relief is around the country impacted by the given by IRD to road freight operators coronavirus. The Road Transport Forum (RTF) is and contractors who will struggle to meet This is on top of $11m provided to help hitting out at the Government’s “lack of upcoming tax payments. Tourism NZ boost visitor numbers. communication” as the situation starts to “We have gone right to the top The funding will include advice on issues impact the freight industry. because operators are telling me how such as payroll and liaising with Inland RTF chief executive Nick Leggett says serious this is getting. We want to Revenue on tax payments, economic he has written to prime minister Jacinda believe the Government has a good development minister Phil Twyford says. Ardern following no response from social plan to get New Zealand through what “Cabinet also agreed to establish up development minister Carmel Sepuloni. could become a global pandemic. to 16 rapid response Ministry of Social The RTF wrote to Sepuloni on February “RTF is listening to operators and we will Development teams to assist with 4 asking for urgent advice from the continue to push the government to help immediate needs such as helping move Government for trucking operators and our sector as the impacts of coronavirus workers into other employment and staff in the log transport industry. really take hold,” Leggett says. referring those in need of further support to It asked for a no stand down period for “The impacts on moving imports and other government agencies,” Twyford says. the unemployment benefit and some exports are not going to be short-term Twyford was in Gisborne recently kind of tax relief. here. I know this because I have been and met with local forestry workers, “We have again asked for immediate talking to ports and to operators across contracting companies, social service removal of stand down periods for sectors, including forestry, freight providers and visited Eastland Port. forwarding, primary sector, and livestock. “As well as putting additional business “We have been disappointed, so far, by support into Tairawhiti, our Government’s the lack of communication to sectors such looking at creative solutions such as using as ours about a whole of government forestry workers to deal with our wilding response to what is already happening pine issue in other parts of the country. across businesses that drive the economy. “The Provincial Growth Fund is funding “Speeches from the prime minister and local roading projects in the area and finance minister do not filter through to we’re also looking at whether this will the government workers on the ground provide an opportunity to help retrain David Aitken in the provinces, at least not for those workers into an area where there are skill in the trucking industry who have tried shortages. to contact them,” Leggett says. “Our Government’s economic response Meanwhile, Leggett says the RTF is to Covid-19 is focused on protecting jobs working closely with operators and has and supporting impacted workers and plans in place if the situations gets to businesses. pandemic and crisis-level. “Because of the underlying momentum “Trucks are a vital lifeline in a crisis - in our economy, the Government’s as we have seen with the Canterbury surplus and low debt, we can bounce and Kaikoura earthquakes - and truck back to the strong level of growth seen operators may be called on to move before the coronavirus appeared,” essential supplies and deal with the Twyford says. aftermath of a pandemic. We will be *More information on Covid-19 can be talking to the government about that. found on the following sites: “The RTF is best-placed to work with • Ministry of Health https://www.health. government and to source accurate govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and- Nick Leggett information, which we can also distribute conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus through our associations to the industry. or Healthline – 0800 358 5453. “While these are certainly worrying • Ministry for Primary Industries times, it is important to keep https://www.mpi.govt.nz/exporting/ perspective. The first priority for coronavirus-and-the-effects-on-trade/ businesses must be the health and • Business New Zealand https://www. welfare of their staff. There is detailed businessnz.org.nz advice about that on our website. • Safetravel – Ministry of Foreign Affairs “Plan for the worst, with a crisis and Trade https://safetravel.govt.nz/ management plan, but hope for the best,” news/covid-19-coronavirus Leggett says. • Information for businesses https://www. business.govt.nz/news/coronavirus- Govt offers relief information-for-businesses • Tax relief https://www.ird.govt.nz/ Phil Twyford The Government is now providing an extra Updates/News-Folder/tax-relief- $4 million to bolster the Regional Business coronavirus.

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 11 REGISTRATIONS OPEN AND FIRST PROGRAMME ANNOUNCEMENT FOR T-TECH he first 26 speakers for the IBNZ Tasman to find out more T-Tech Conference in May have about the numerous Tbeen confirmed, with topics autonomous and ranging from Autonomous Vehicles and connected vehicle trials Emission reductions to Road Pricing and under way there. Demand Management and much more. For all programme ITS NZ is this week announcing announcements and registrations are open for the two-day information on our speakers, continually something that will drive us to continue conference in Wellington, which looks to updating, check www.ITSNZ.org using VC in the future, long after Covid-19 the latest research, trials and innovations to has passed. make transport safer, more sustainable and Responding to the Covid-19 corona virus We’re very lucky to have Fusion Networks efficient. with a modern digital conference as a Gold Sponsors of ITSNZ, Fusion The programme committee selected six In a proactive move to reduce provides dependable support and themes for T-Tech 2020 the spread of the Covid-19 video conferencing platforms for • Safety - Developing, trialling and virus, ITS NZ have made demanding cases like this. integrating technologies to deliver the decision to feature The additional benefit for those Vision Zero. all international speakers attending within New Zealand • Community shaping/placemaking - via video conference and is that we have reduced rates Solutions to improve liveability, access the venue will also increase for attending the conference and environments. measures regarding hygiene. Amy Strang because we no longer have the • Digitalisation Planning for and adopting In doing so we want to provide costs associated with hosting 5G, Automation, Smart Cities solutions. certainty to speakers and those attending professional international speakers. • Freight and Business - Developing in person. Keep an eye on the ITS NZ website for and adopting efficiency innovations to New Zealand has not been the latest updates and information, benefit NZ inc. experiencing the explosion of www.itsnz.org • Sustainability - Energy as a Tech Enabler cases seen internationally, Emission reductions Modal shift and this is a small conference and ITS NZ appoints Amy Strang behaviour change. the Ministry of Health has not and Armin Guttke as first • Resilience Safeguarding and future- called for any restrictions on board members for youth proofing systems and infrastructure. these types of events. The ITS NZ board has appointed The Ministry of Transport and NZTA will be While we deliberated for the the first ever board members providing valuable updates to policy and past few weeks we already had Armin Guttke to help advocate for better agency strategy as will representatives plans to use video conferencing networking, information sharing from local government including Auckland to deliver some keynotes. Choosing to for young people working in transport and and Wellington. The MoT is due to discuss do so allowed us to get access to great transport technology roles. Amy and Armin Autonomous Vehicle policy and Green speakers who can’t commit to travelling will help us develop our support for career Freight. here. Another benefit is that we reduce The conference will also look across the the event’s carbon footprint and that’s Continued on page 13

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12 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz NEWSTALK EV DELIVERS CATCH OF THE DAY n all-electric chilled van is on the approach to everything we do.” days, quickly delivered to a variety of road in Auckland delivering fresh Sanford’s supply chain general manager customers around the Auckland area with Afish in what’s hailed as a New Louise Wood says the company is the EV van allowing this using the lowest Zealand first. grateful to the Government’s low possible carbon footprint. The Sanford chiller van can carry up to emission vehicles contestable fund, Temperature in the van can be monitored a tonne of seafood between the Ports of administered by the Energy Efficiency remotely to ensure perfect conditions. Auckland and destinations around the and Conservation Authority (EECA), for its The chilled EV van is in keeping with city. support. Sanford’s sustainability focus. It’s a first here because both the “The EECA funding is great because it The company has been listed on the New engine and chiller are fully electric and encourages innovation and investment Zealand stock market since 1924 and has independently powered. to promote, enable and accelerate the sites in 11 locations around the country. The LDV EV80 van in Kiwi seafood uptake of electric vehicles,” she says. Sanford has 1600 staff and sharefishers company Sanford and Sons livery runs “That’s made a big difference to us and throughout New Zealand, also having a on a lithium phosphate battery and has given us the encouragement to try scientific team finding new ways to make has about 150km range, able to be fast something new. “We’re very pleased to the most of seafood’s life-enhancing charged in two hours. have partnered with LDV who supplied properties from anti-inflammatory The eutectic technology involved allows the EV80 as well as PlugnChill for the supplements to skin-nurturing collagen. for cold plates in the van to be filled with eutectic refrigeration and Auckland Auto phase changing material (PCM) which is Air who have customised the vehicle to solidified and stores thermal energy, keep include the fitting of the refrigeration and the van interior temperature at between the insulation.” zero and four degrees Celsius for the Sanford received $40,000 towards the time deliveries are being made. project, the successful fund applicants Sanford chief executive Volker Kuntzsch announced in January 2019. says it’s always exciting to be on the The EV van is owned by Sanford which cutting edge of sustainable technology. has installed a charger at the Auckland “Being able to deliver fresh, chilled Fish Market where Sanford and Sons seafood daily to our customers is an is the hugely popular fishmonger, the absolute necessity and we’re delighted charger publicly available at limited hours we’ve been able to find a solution which – also supported by the EECA funding. is zero emissions, which fits with our Sanford has several fishing vessels Volker Kuntzsch focus as a company taking a sustainable which land fresh fish into Auckland most

Continued from page 12 The speakers included in this first Systems and skills development and also help foster announcement are: • Matt Ensor, Beca passion for Intelligent Transport Systems • Chris Mein, TrackABus NZ Ltd • Mitchell Gingrich, Autonomous and future transport solutions. • Eduard Liebenberger, Jade Software Consulting Amy is a Mechatronix graduate working in • Daniel Headifen, KiwiRail • David Bolt, Kapsch TrafficCom Air New Zealand’s graduate programme, • Mahmood Hikmet, HMI Technologies • Zac Todd, University of Canterbury she represented New Zealand at the • Michael Eaglen EV Maritime • Ralph Samuelson, Climate Change ITS World Congress Youth Leadership • Claire Pascoe, NZTA Commission Programme. Armin Guttke is Wellington • Alan Hill, KiwiRail • Rojina Baisyet, Beca based and works for Inov8 a software • Henry Wu, JYW Consulting • Gareth Robins, EROAD solutions provider who supports • Andrew Rushworth, Zero Emission • Peter Carr, EROAD government and private sector clients Vehicles • Dr Urie Bezuidenhout, Da Vinci including NZTA, Martime NZ, Toyota and • Rhod Pickavance, INIT SE Research Wellington Airport, he is also part of the • Mark Rowland, Arup • Andy Bartle, Abley T-Tech Programme Committee. • Richard Young, Beca • Paul Minett, Trip Convergence Ltd • Mick Spiers, Cubic Transportation • Timothy Lim, Aimsun

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 13 NEWSTALK TRANSPORT INDUSTRY SUPPORTS GOVT MOVE TO REGULATE REFRIGERANTS ackling refrigerant gases is a the resources it provides as ‘free’ and top priority under a consultation disposable. Tdocument released last year by “Regulated product stewardship is associate environment minister Eugenie a step towards changing that and to Sage. designing waste out of production. This Eugenie Sage The Government is proposing new is part of a longer-term goal of moving regulations when dealing with to a more efficient, low-emissions, environmentally harmful products under sustainable and inclusive economy for Environment. the Waste Minimisation Act 2018. New Zealand. The voluntary stewardship scheme This includes refrigerant gases at “Regulated product stewardship helps for refrigerants, Recovery, has been their end-of-life which relates to puts the responsibility for effective operating in New Zealand since 1993. refrigeration and air-conditioning in the material and waste management on However, not all refrigerant importers motor vehicle industry. product manufacturers, importers, are included, such as those which Design of a regulated product retailers and users, rather than on import pre-charged refrigerant units stewardship scheme has already begun communities, councils, neighbourhoods like fridges, heat pumps and air with the establishment of the Synthetic and nature,” she says. conditioning units for vehicles. Refrigerant Stewardship Project earlier Project manager Darren Patterson, of As a result, there is insufficient funding this year. 3R Group, says controlling refrigerant to deal with the mounting end of life The initiative has received $137,000 in gases is vital to tackling climate change refrigerant bank, Patterson says. funding from the Waste Minimisation as, once released into the atmosphere, “Those companies which contribute Fund and the Motor Trade Association they are between 1000 and 9000 times voluntarily to the scheme end up (MTA) is among organisations giving its more potent than carbon. subsidising those that don’t, as it’s not support. “It’s therefore vital all refrigerants possible to distinguish between levied The project’s work is being steered by are correctly installed, maintained, and unlevied refrigerants when it comes a working group which represent the collected and destroyed or reused to to disposal.” interests of key industries affected which minimise this risk,” he says. Recovery programme manager John also includes refrigerant wholesalers, “Co-designed regulated product Bowen says it’s “vital we have all the manufacturers and distributors. stewardship with product controls players involved to make the scheme as “Well-designed product stewardship requires the whole of industry from effective as possible”. schemes ensure that those making, those that import through to installers “Declaration of refrigerants and other selling and using products all help take and those involved in managing the synthetic greenhouse gases as a responsibility to recover the materials gases at end of life to participate which priority product with a co-designed and and avoid them ending up in landfills,” will ensure sufficient funds are available regulated scheme with product controls Sage says. to do this.” levels the playing field as all companies “This is the first time that government Product stewardship sees importers would be required to participate.” has been serious about creating and retailers take responsibility for their Bowen says both industry and the regulated, rather than voluntary, products and ensure they are re-used, public will be widely consulted to product stewardship schemes in New recycled or properly disposed of at the ensure the impact of a priority product Zealand. end of their useful life. declaration for synthetic refrigerant “Like other countries, New Zealand’s Under the Waste Minimisation Act, a gases is understood. economy is based on a ‘take, make and product may be declared a priority *Go to refrigerantstewardship.co.nz for dispose’ model, which treats nature and product by the Minister for the more information.

14 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz NEWSTALK

SUPPLY CHAIN DISRUPTIONS HAVE PORTS ON ALERT

ew Zealand’s major port extreme measures to manage the companies are reporting financial coronavirus risk,” the company Nimpacts from the coronavirus says. outbreak, but it’s hoped this will be Meanwhile, the company has temporary. reported $48.3 net profit after tax Ports of Auckland is reporting a net for the six months to December profit of $17.2 million, down $7.2m for 31. the six months to December. This was down 1.4% compared Revenue was flat for the period with to the same period the previous $123.2m compared to $123.6m for the year. It also saw cargo volumes previous year. down 4.2% to just under 13.3 Container volume was down 2% with million tonnes. 475,173 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent Log exports were down 8.4% to units) and total general cargo volume 3.4m tonnes while dairy exports of 3.297m tonnes was down slightly were up 6.3% to 1.2m tonnes. Port of Tauranga compared to 3.253m tonnes in the Imports were down by 6.7% to previous period. nearly 4.7m tonnes and exports were The company’s year-to-date log export Car volumes were up slightly with down 2.6% to 8.6m tonnes. volumes are up 2.9% compared to the 124,295 units compared to 124,190 units Container numbers increased 3.4% to previous year and this is in line with in the previous period. 642,209 TEUs and transhipment, where expectations. Port chief executive Tony Gibson says cargo is transferred from one ship to However, a slowdown in log exports, and the result was as expected with costs up another at Tauranga, increased 3.7%. possibly other cargo, is expected due to due to the investment programme, higher Port of Tauranga chair David Pilkington the market uncertainty, it says. interest costs, and higher labour costs. says the half-year result was a solid given “While we are unable to quantify the This includes automation, a new car the fluctuation of cargo volumes. potential financial impact at this time, handling building and facilities at the “Total trade was down 4.2%, but we these conditions represent a materially Waikato Freight Hub. managed to increase revenue 1.2% to increased risk to the achievement of Flat growth is expected to remain for $154.8m for the six months. previous earnings forecasts. the full year and the company will not “The longer-term outlook remains for “Napier Port is closely monitoring pay an interim dividend and will pay a cargo growth, particularly in containerised changes to trading patterns, particularly lower full-year dividend as forecast. cargo, so our next stage of capacity as it affects our log export customers and “Our company is in the midst of expansion is already under way,” the key Chinese destination market. delivering our 30-year master plan, a Pilkington says. “The impact on global trade and supply major investment programme which will Port of Tauranga and Tainui Group chains from the coronavirus outbreak is increase capacity, efficiency and returns, Holdings plan to form a 50:50 joint uncertain and we continue to engage as well as lay the foundation for us to venture to develop the Ruakura Inland with our customers to understand the meet our 2040 zero emission goal,” Port at Hamilton over the next few years. possible impacts which will vary by cargo Gibson says. The joint venture will take a 50-year type. Port of Tauranga is lowering its full-year ground lease and aims to open the inland “Log exports continue from Napier Port profit guidance due to market uncertainty port to coincide with the completion however there have been reductions in following the coronavirus outbreak. of the nearby Hamilton section of the log harvesting and current log inventory The company says the full impact on Waikato Expressway, currently scheduled levels on Chinese ports remain high. trade is yet to be determined but the for the end of 2021. Export log prices have reduced to logging sector has been hit the hardest. The 30-hectare Ruakura Inland Port is levels seen during the sharp price It reduced full-year profit guidance from complemented by a 192-hectare logistics correction during 2019. $96-$101 million to $94-$99m as a result. and industrial precinct. It follows the “We understand port operations in Communication with customers is signing of a rail services agreement China are rebuilding towards normal ongoing and the flow-on effect is likely to enabling Port of Tauranga cargo trains to operating capacity, but it is uncertain how vary considerably by cargo. call at the freight hub. quickly this will occur. The trade outlook “The trade outlook for the second half of Napier Port says market disruptions remains uncertain, and dependant on the the 2020 financial year remains uncertain caused by the coronavirus outbreak speed of recovery in China, and other and dependent on the duration of the present an “increased risk” to earnings countries taking measures to manage the market shutdown in China and any with log prices back to levels seen coronavirus risk and any resulting supply slowdown in the other countries taking during last year’s sharp correction. chain impacts,” the company says.

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 15 NEWSTALK

TREESCAPE INNOVATION THE ROOTS OF SUCCESS nnovation has always been at the logs … I immediately knew we needed forefront of Treescape operations – to switch it up because I didn’t want to Iright from the very beginning. break my back forever. Initially, I guess I When Brandon Whiddett started was driven to innovate simply by wanting Treescape in 1981 with Ed Chignall, he to find ways to do things that required came to the conclusion pretty quickly less labour,” he says. that they needed to do things differently Not technically trained in engineering, to become a long-term sustainable Brandon could always draw, but it was business. The company now operates his on-the-ground experience that made throughout New Zealand and Australia. him fine-tune his product design skills. “We were young – about 24 – and “When we first started Treescape I every day was such hard work, manually wanted to learn about the machinery, but stacking logs on to a trailer, dragging of course at that stage we couldn’t afford to own any of our own. Tom Shepherd owned the Riverhead Sawmill – for fun I’d go and work with him after hours, driving loaders, his log skidder and logging trucks in the yard. It was a heap of fun and I learnt so much,” he says. In the early days, Brandon and Ed would use sub-contractors with the right gear, before they owned any of it themselves. Being around these subbies taught Brandon a lot. “If you don’t know how to build and use it, you don’t know how to design it. Our first sub-contractor had a Palfinger crane and I’d be watching, thinking, talking – putting all the bits together in my head, figuring out how it worked and how we could improve it. “I was passionate about what we were doing but I was also impatient … I wanted to get the job done in 10 minutes and make the money, so I needed an easier way and that was machinery.” A six-week trip to America saw Brandon

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16 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz NEWSTALK

Continued from page 16 can be operated by one person, which is more efficient. This design has now been buy 3 LR45 towers and two brush bandit appropriated by Onehunga Transport model 90 chippers – he worked with Engineering Ltd. fabricators over there, pulling apart the Today, in his position as chief towers, rebuilding them with cranes engineering officer, Brandon has and throwing them all in an open-top 14 employees working with him in container to bring home to reassemble the company’s workshops, on their and build them to our design. That was extensive fleet, including trucks, utes, the beginning of a career of modifying cranes, grapples, transporters and gear to suit Treescape’s operations. chippers. “I can copy really well – copy and And the team extends to long-time improve is how I work. I guess that’s outsiders too, who Brandon counts as an innovation. I just focus on improving integral part of the team. every time, making things faster, safer “People like Brent Hepple from Komatsu, and more efficient,” he says. Lyndon and Aaron from Hino Trucks, Brandon says his inspiration comes from Steve from Ace Tyres, and John Ryan people sharing problems they have – from Total Hydraulics who have been a that’s the drive he gets to then design part of so many of our developments. bespoke gear to solve it. “I’ve been working with these people for “Our Aussie teams were having an issue over 30 years – they’re trusted partners. because a lot of roads over there have I’m big on being brand loyal – working these really big swell drains that you can’t long-term with like-minded people on a fleet and arb industry. drive trucks over – even just to park on common goal. For me, the journey of life Brandon says it’s the combined input the roadside. is business and pleasure and people like from others that gives true innovation, but “So we developed this Morooka tower, this make it a pleasure.” that’s not to say his colleagues are always basically a 6-tonne tracked carrier with He’s also not afraid of re-doing work immediately convinced by his designs. very low ground pressure – half that of and admitting there’s a better way. “They often say no the first six months, a human foot. It can also traverse steep “Ego doesn’t make money. When we’re until I wear them down!” slopes. changing gear, we’ll get people from Next, he has his eye on developing “It can now go into paddocks where the field in, senior managers, my team his designs of an electrical truck and no vehicles could previously go. In the and we’ll [do it] – ‘What are we going to chipper, building them to be eco- past, because of the lack of access, our change? How could this work better?’” friendly, quiet and small and nimble guys had to trek in and either climb the In 2018, Brandon was awarded the NZ to navigate residential streets – a true trees or use long pole saws, usually Arboricultural Association Innovator innovation for the industry. around powerlines – it was dangerous for the Industry, which recognised his “That’s the plan, anyway. We can always and slow. Now they can hoon there at leadership around new technology in the find better ways to do things.” great speed, up and down hills, using the Morooka.” Today, Treescape has four in their fleet. Another design innovation Brandon is proud of is the accessories they developed for a PC200 excavator to use when site clearing: Stump grinders, mulchers, tree shears and a unique bucket winch. “I wanted a winch but I didn’t want a full skidder so I built a winch and put it into a bucket – it worked well and we still use it today,” he says. Often, the best innovations are the simple ones. Like the standard urban EPV (elevated work platform) on the back of a ute – Brandon and his team used the same concept but turned the crane around to make it more functional and added a chip bin below it, to catch the chip to make the Urban Terroriser. Having the EPV mounted on small truck rather than a 10-footer makes it easier to navigate tight inner-city streets, plus it

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 17 NEWSTALK

KIWIRAIL REPORTS $33.7M HALF-YEAR LOSS iwiRail is reporting a net loss of coronavirus,” Miller says. and re-flagged in New Zealand. $33.7 million for the six months to “We’re making good progress, but we are • Appointment of naval architects KDecember 2019. still dealing with the results of many years and ship brokers to facilitate the It marks an improvement on the of under-investment that has limited our design and supply of new ferries $104.6m loss in the previous year, ability to continue to provide the services for interisland connectivity in New boosted by government spending from our customers need, and to realise the Zealand through $35m Budget an allocated $300m of the Provincial full potential and value of rail. funding. Growth Fund. “This is a watershed year for KiwiRail, • Launch of work on double tracking of Its half-year revenue was up $4.8m year- as we start the transformation of our the Hutt Valley line between Trentham on-year to $333.6m. Excluding the impact business. The Government has made and Upper Hutt, to increase capacity of fuel cost recoveries, its underlying a huge commitment to rail, and the on the line. revenues grew by $8.2m or 3% for the investment that is being made in our • One of the biggest Christmas work half-year period. network and in our rolling stock will blitzes in Wellington, making large KiwiRail chief executive Greg Miller position us well to meet the current and strides towards completing a major says it’s a solid performance despite a future demand of our customers. upgrade of the metro network. challenging business environment. “We aim to keep a strong commercial • Arrival of the first 450 wagons as “We are pleased we have held the focus for KiwiRail, while also focusing part of the rolling stock replacement revenue line in a difficult environment on the added benefits rail brings by project. that included an economic downturn reducing heavy commercial vehicle • PGF funding announced for the in multiple markets, along with natural wear and tear on roads, sustaining revitalisation of the Hillside workshops events that damaged the network. freight transport that reduces with $20m to upgrade and create new “Despite these challenges, we saw our emissions by 66% compared to road facilities. import/export business grow by 5% transport, and reducing congestion on compared to the previous half-year,” roads,” Miller says. Miller says. Highlights for the half-year include: KiwiRail’s operating surplus was $26.9m • Regional rail investment through the and saw the impact of softer freight Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) including volumes and passenger numbers and the $94.8m for maintenance and remedial unexpected eight-week line closure at work to the Northland line (the Omoto due to slips. additional $109.7 million package was “Looking ahead, we expect market announced at the start of the second challenges to continue into the second half-year). half of year. • Launching the design for a new "KiwiRail will be affected, as are other Palmerston North road-rail freight hub New Zealand transport, import and with $40m PGF funding. Greg Miller producer companies, by the effects of • Kaiarahi ferry purchased in November

18 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz NEWSTALK

NZTA WINS $532,000 CASE AGAINST SEMENOFF

he NZ Transport Agency has won of overweight infringement a High Court case relating to a offences being committed by T$532,878 road user charges (RUC) Semenoff and referred their bill against Stan Semenoff Logging. concern to NZTA for further However, NZTA has withdrawn its investigation, according to court decision to revoke Semenoff”s transport documents. service licence. Investigators found 68 per cent The payment was due in January 2019 of the 17,200 trips assessed were but was appealed by Semenoff which overweight during the period – claimed only $135,365 was owed. around 11,690 trips. NZTA claimed Semenoff’s vehicle trips The assessor then calculated “were significantly over” licensed weight the difference between the requirement “on numerous occasions”. RUC paid for the particular Semenoff had distance licences allowing trips and the charge properly it to carry a maximum of 44 tonnes before payable which totalled February 1, 2017 and 46 tonnes thereafter. $532,878. Police became concerned at the number Continued on page 20 0800 555 453 [email protected] • sweeneytownsend.co.nz

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TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 19 NEWSTALK

Continued from page 19 your vehicle is not negotiable,” Patena Semenoff stays on the road Semenoff sought a review with its legal says. The NZTA has also withdrawn its decision team claiming NZTA’s methodology “is “RUC charges help pay for the roads to revoke Semenoff’s (SSL) transport totally arbitrary and bears no relation to commercial transport operators use service licence. the actual distance travelled overweight”. so it’s important this money goes back NZTA first gave notice of its decision to Semenoff claimed the costs are “based into the system. revoke the company’s licence on March on the period of the licence which the “If other road users are picking up the tab 15, 2019, claiming the firm was “not fit and operator happens to have purchased for operators who fail to pay RUC for the proper” in regards to public safety. and bears no or insufficient relationship appropriate weight, that’s not fair on the However, NZTA and Semenoff have now YOUR LOCAL to the cost which an operator’s vehicles road users who are doing the right thing. “agreed to certain conditions relating to generate on the respondent’s roading RUC revenue is vital to New Zealand SSL’s operation and staff management network”. having a safe land transport system. which SSL has undertaken to adhere to TRANSPORT However, Justice Gordon recently upheld “I have spoken to industry and for six months”, NZTA senior commercial NZTA’s approach to calculating RUCs representatives who have told me they transport manager Brett Aldridge says. and says “the onus falls squarely on the want the Transport Agency to be an “With the decision to revoke being operator not to overload” and “a vehicle active effective regulator to ensure withdrawn, there is no existing PARTNER operator is required to ensure that it has there is a fair and level playing field for proposal to revoke SSL’s transport the appropriate distance licence at all commercial operators. service license. times”. “As part of delivering a level playing field, “SSL of course remains subject to NZTA regulatory services general we are rolling out Weigh Right stations ongoing oversight by the Transport manager Kane Patena says the decision across the country that use intelligent Agency, as is the case with all transport Through rapid accessibility to crucial is important as it confirms the agency’s vehicle screening software to target service providers,” Aldridge says. spare parts & equipment we help to approach to RUC assessment. potentially overweight non-compliant Company boss Stan Semenoff says he “Justice Gordon’s ruling sends a message vehicles. This allows compliant heavy respects the High Court’s decision but minimise downtime & maximise your to operators: Paying the right RUC for vehicles to continue on their journey believes the ruling is wrong. “I, like most hard-working Kiwis, am very productivity. grateful for our courts and justice system. I respect the judge on her decision- making regarding our case. “But my experience over my lifetime is that judges can sometimes get rulings wrong. The methodology used to reach Parts & this ruling was not appropriate and we stand by that. Equipment: “Over time, I will be proven right as far as our case is concerned,” Semenoff says. • Heavy Transport • Safety SSL is the largest logging haulage company in Northland and is responsible • Light Trailer • Oil & Filtration for 50 per cent of Northland’s wood flow and log haulage. SSL’s business involves • Transport Equipment • Workshop the transportation of logging material from the forest to Whangarei’s Northport. • Auto-Electrical It employs around 55 people and around 48 logging truck drivers. It maintains a fleet of 55 vehicles and has contracts with over 25 companies, without interruption. including suppliers and logging operators “We have also recently set up a new throughout Northland. team focused on commercial licensing and revenue recovery,” Patena says. Newly appointed NZTA commercial licensing and revenue senior manager Paul Fantham says the organisation will be “ramping up” its regulation of RUC payments in the commercial transport sector. The decision “gives us an endorsement that our approach to calculating and Proudly Playing a Part in BRANCHES NZ WIDE Kane Patena collecting RUC is firm and fair”, he says. Stan Semenoff NZ Road Transport Since 1966 0508 677 704 TWLNZ.CO.NZ

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New Vehicles NEW AND USED TRUCK REGISTRATIONS DOWN IN FEBRUARY

ommercial last year. registrations have Fuso is in second Ctaken a steady dip in spot for the February with both new and month, down used trucks down more than 17.6% with 84 20% year-on-year. units registered Total registrations of new and a 16.4% trucks and buses over 3500kg share. GVM sits at 372 units for Hino is third, February down 25.5% This is down 21.7% compared with 38 units to the same period the registered and a year prior which saw 10.2% share. 475 registrations of new Scania follows, commercials for the month. up 145.5% A total of 842 new trucks and with 27 units buses have hit the road in the registered, Iveco unchanged GVM sits at 153 units for Toyota is market leader for year-to-date compared to 993 with 22 units, Fiat up 5.6% February. used trucks in February with for the same period last year. (19), Mercedes-Benz down This is down 24.3% compared 40 units registered and a Isuzu is market leader for 43.8% (18), UD Trucks down to the same period the 26.1% market share. It was February with 84 units 5.6% (17), Kenworth down year prior which saw down 2.6% compared to the registered and a 22.6% 46.4% (15) and Volvo down 202 registrations of used 39 units in the same period market share. It was down 33.3% (14). commercials for the month. last year. 9.7% compared to the 93 units Total registrations of used A total of 286 used trucks and Isuzu is second, down 2.8% registered in the same period trucks and buses over 3500kg buses have hit the road in the with 35 units and a 22.9% year-to-date compared to 386 share. NEW HEAVY TRUCKS : Over 23,001kg for the same period last year. Continued on page 24 FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change '20 '19 Market '20 '19 NEW LIGHT TRUCKS : 3,500 - 9,000kg ISUZU 21 19 10.5 14.0 46 48 FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change SCANIA 20 9 122.2 13.3 43 18 '20 '19 Market '20 '19 FUSO 17 24 -29.2 11.3 31 40 ISUZU 36 29 24.1 27.3 60 52 KENWORTH 15 28 -46.4 10.0 37 50 FUSO 31 26 19.2 23.5 57 60 VOLVO 14 19 -26.3 9.3 52 69 FIAT 19 18 5.6 14.4 47 40 HINO 11 18 -38.9 7.3 29 40 IVECO 13 12 8.3 9.8 23 19 UD TRUCKS 10 8 25.0 6.7 20 19 HINO 10 14 -28.6 7.6 28 25 MAN 8 17 -52.9 5.3 12 31 MERCEDES-BENZ 9 17 -47.1 6.8 23 26 DAF 7 12 -41.7 4.7 17 38 FORD 3 3 0.0 2.3 6 6 MERCEDES-BENZ 7 12 -41.7 4.7 20 18 OTHER 11 23 -52.2 8.3 36 45 OTHER 20 17 17.6 13.3 54 44 TOTAL 132 142 -7.0 100.0 280 273 TOTAL 150 183 -18.0 100.0 361 415 NEW BUSES : Over 3,500kg NEW MEDIUM TRUCKS : 9,000 - 23,000kg FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change FEB FEB % of YTD YTD '20 '19 Market '20 '19 MAKE % Change '20 '19 Market '20 '19 FORD 6 9 -33.3 35.3 11 9 ISUZU 26 40 -35.0 35.6 56 87 MAN 3 1 200.0 17.6 4 5 HINO 17 19 -10.5 23.3 33 39 FUSO 2 3 -33.3 11.8 8 7 FUSO 11 20 -45.0 15.1 26 39 SCANIA 2 1 100.0 11.8 7 2 UD TRUCKS 7 10 -30.0 9.6 12 15 ALEXANDER 1 21 -95.2 5.9 1 45 IVECO 4 2 100.0 5.5 8 5 DENNIS OTHER 8 7 14.3 11.0 14 12 OTHER 3 17 -82.4 17.6 21 40 TOTAL 73 98 -25.5 100.0 149 197 TOTAL 17 52 -67.3 100.0 52 108

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 23 STATSTALK

New Vehicles

Continued from page 23 Hino third, down 46.7% with 24 registered and a 15.7% share. Mitsubishi follows, down 30.4% with 16 units registered, Nissan down 35.3% (11), Fiat up 4.6% (seven), Mazda down 50% (three), Mercedes-Benz up 200% (three), Volvo unchanged (three) and Ford down 75% configurator is also proving month, down 35% with 26 Isuzu leads the segment for (two). popular with customers units registered and a 35.6% the month, up 24.1% with 36 The new heavy vehicle as they can fine-tune and market share. units registered and a 27.3% segment over 23,000kg customise trucks from the Hino comes in second, down market share. GVM was down 18% year-on- chassis up and this is leading 10.5% with 17 registered and a Fuso is second, up 19.2% with year with a total of 150 units into sales. 23.3% market share. 31 units and a 23.5% market registered in February. This “The configurator shows every Fuso is third, down 45% with share. compares to 183 in the same option available and explains 11 units and a 15.1% share. Fiat is third, up 5.6% with 19 period the previous year. its benefits. It lets operators UD Trucks follow, down 30% registered and a 14.4% market Isuzu leads the segment for choose the best performance with seven units and Iveco up share. the month, up 10.5% with 21 and the best return,” Stephens 100% (four). Iveco follows, up 8.3% with 13 units registered and a 14% says. The new light commercial units registered, Hino down market share. The new medium truck segment between 3500kg 28.6% (10), Mercedes-Benz Scania is second, up 122.2% segment between 9000kg and 9000kg GVM featuring down 47.1% (9) and Ford with 20 units registered and a and 23,000kg GVM was down trucks, vans, and buses unchanged with three. 13.3% share. 25.5% with 73 units registered was down 7% year-on-year Registrations for new Fuso is third, down 29.2% with in February compared to 98 in with 132 units registered in commercials (under 3500kg) 17 units and an 11.3% market the same period the previous February compared with 142 were down 14.4% with 3527 share. year. in the same period the year Continued on page 25 Kenworth follows, down 46.4% Isuzu takes the top spot for before. with 15 units, Volvo down the 26.3% (14), Hino down 38.9% (11), UD Trucks up 25%, MAN down 52.9% (8), DAF down 41.7% (7) and Mercedes-Benz down 41.7% (7). Scania New Zealand sales director Deon Stephens says enquiries are still really strong although customers are taking a more cautious approach at the moment. Scania’s new online NEW LIGHT COMMERCIAL MAKES : Under 3,500kg NEW TRUCKS & BUSES MAKES : Over 3,500kg FEB FEB % of YTD YTD FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change MAKE % Change '20 '19 Market '20 '19 '20 '19 Market '20 '19 FORD 814 818 -0.5 23.1 1838 1706 ISUZU 84 93 -9.7 22.6 164 197 TOYOTA 799 817 -2.2 22.7 1482 1411 FUSO 61 74 -17.6 16.4 122 147 MITSUBISHI 342 506 -32.4 9.7 709 951 HINO 38 51 -25.5 10.2 90 104 NISSAN 265 335 -20.9 7.5 539 673 SCANIA 27 11 145.5 7.3 55 23 MAZDA 214 196 9.2 6.1 394 359 IVECO 22 22 0.0 5.9 44 37 ISUZU 196 246 -20.3 5.6 393 529 FIAT 19 18 5.6 5.1 47 40 MERCEDES-BENZ 18 32 -43.8 4.8 58 49 HOLDEN 181 302 -40.1 5.1 561 655 UD TRUCKS 17 18 -5.6 4.6 32 35 VOLKSWAGEN 107 119 -10.1 3.0 226 218 KENWORTH 15 28 -46.4 4.0 37 50 LDV 72 140 -48.6 2.0 145 260 VOLVO 14 21 -33.3 3.8 53 73 FUSO 61 73 -16.4 1.7 122 146 Other 57 107 -46.7 15.3 140 238 Other 476 567 -16.0 13.5 1097 1207 TOTAL 372 475 -21.7 100.0 842 993 Total 3527 4119 -14.4 100.0 7506 8115

24 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz STATSTALK

Used Vehicles

Continued from page 24 Overall registrations, including worrying that the commercial units registered in February passenger cars, were down sector continues to be down, If you’re looking compared to 4119 in the same 2.2% (261 units) for the month the fifth month is a row.” to purchase a new period the previous year. This of February with 11,438 new The used heavy truck truck or equipment talk to UDC was the fifth consecutive drop vehicles registered. segment over 23,000kg GVM in registrations for this sector. The top models for the month was down 30.8% year-on-year Ford takes the top spot, down of February were the Ford with nine units registered in 0.5% with 814 units registered Ranger (728 units), followed February. and a 23.1% market share. by the Toyota Hilux (580 Toyota is second, down 2.2% units) and the Toyota RAV4 in Continued on page 26 with 799 registered and a third place with 419 units. 22.7% market share. “The month of February was Mitsubishi is third, down up for passenger and SUV 32.4% with 342 registered and vehicles by 4.4% [331 units] a 9.7% market share. over February 2019, however, Nissan follows, down 20.9% it was down 14.4% (592) for with 265 units registered, commercial vehicles,” Motor Mazda up 9.2% (214), Isuzu Industry Association chief down 20.3% (196), Holden executive David Crawford down 40.1% (181), Volkswagen says. down 10.1% (107), LDV down “While it was pleasing to 48.6% (72) and Fuso down see the passenger and SUV 16.4% (61). market remain strong it is

USED HEAVY TRUCKS : Over 23,001kg FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change '20 '19 Market '20 '19 VOLVO 3 3 0.0 33.3 3 5 HINO 2 2 0.0 22.2 2 3 USED TRUCKS & BUSES MAKES : Over 3,500kg KENWORTH 1 2 -50.0 11.1 3 5 FEB FEB % of YTD YTD OTHER 3 6 -50.0 33.3 7 12 MAKE % Change '20 '19 Market '20 '19 TOTAL 9 13 -30.8 100.0 15 25 TOYOTA 40 39 2.6 26.1 68 77 USED MEDIUM TRUCKS : 9,000 - 23,000kg ISUZU 35 36 -2.8 22.9 56 72 FEB FEB % of YTD YTD HINO 24 45 -46.7 15.7 48 80 MAKE % Change '20 '19 Market '20 '19 MITSUBISHI 16 23 -30.4 10.5 30 44 ISUZU 3 3 0.0 50.0 5 5 NISSAN 11 17 -35.3 7.2 21 39 NISSAN 2 2 0.0 33.3 2 3 FIAT 7 4 75.0 4.6 11 6 OTHER 1 14 -92.9 16.7 9 24 MAZDA 3 6 -50.0 2.0 10 9 TOTAL 6 19 -68.4 100.0 16 32 MERCEDES-BENZ 3 1 200.0 2.0 8 1 USED LIGHT TRUCKS : 3,500 - 9,000kg VOLVO 3 3 0.0 2.0 4 6 FORD 2 8 -75.0 1.3 3 11 FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change Other 9 20 -55.0 5.9 27 41 '20 '19 Market '20 '19 TOTAL 153 202 -24.3 100.0 286 386 TOYOTA 40 37 8.1 29.6 68 75 ISUZU 32 32 0.0 23.7 51 65 USED BUSES : Over 3,500kg HINO 19 35 -45.7 14.1 44 65 FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change MITSUBISHI 16 21 -23.8 11.9 25 39 '20 '19 Market '20 '19 NISSAN 9 13 -30.8 6.7 17 33 ALEXANDER 1 0 0.0 33.3 2 0 FIAT 7 4 75.0 5.2 11 6 DENNIS MAZDA 3 6 -50.0 2.2 10 9 FORD 1 6 -83.3 33.3 2 9 OTHER 9 11 -18.2 6.7 18 21 OTHER 1 5 -80.0 33.3 7 7 TOTAL 135 159 -15.1 100.0 244 313 TOTAL 3 11 -72.7 100.0 11 16 Your first choice in truck & equipment finance Ph 0800 500 832 or visit www.udc.co.nz UDC Finance Limited lending criteria applies.

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 25 STATSTALK

Used Vehicles

15.1% year-on-year with 135 40.5% market share. Class up 50% (6), Deutz-Fahr If you’re looking units registered in February New Holland is second, down up 100% (6), Tractor down to purchase a new compared with 159 in the 40.9% with 13 units and an 69.2% (4), and Fendt down truck or equipment same period the previous 11.7% market share. 25%. talk to UDC year. Massey Ferguson is third, Toyota leads, up 8.1% with down 16.7% with 10 units and 40 units and a 29.6% market a 9% market share. share. Case IH follows, Isuzu is unchanged in second down 58.8% with spot with 32 units and a 23.7% seven units Continued from page 25 market share. registered, Hino is third, down 45.7% with Case up Volvo had three units 19 units registered and a 14.1% 200% (6), registered while Hino had market share. two and Kenworth had one Mitsubishi follows, down registration in the segment. 23.8% with 16 units registered, Used medium trucks between Nissan down 30.8% (9), Fiat 9000kg and 23,000kg GVM up 75% (7) and Mazda down were down 68.4% with six 50% (3). units registered for the month. The new tractor segment Isuzu had three registrations was down 32.3% with 111 and Nissan had two in the units registered in February segment. compared to 164 in the same Used light commercials period the previous year. between 3500kg and John Deere leads, down USED TRACTOR REGISTRATIONS 9000kg GVM were down 29.7% with 45 units and a FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change '20 '19 Market '20 '19 JOHN DEERE 10 8 25.0 16.9 25 29 MASSEY 15 19 -21.1 25.4 17 37 FERGUSON CASE 5 1 400.0 8.5 10 4

INTERNATIONAL 5 3 66.7 8.5 7 5 NEW HOLLAND 5 1 400.0 8.5 15 10 OTHER 19 20 -5.0 32.2 58 45 TOTAL 59 52 13.5 100.0 132 130 USED LIGHT COMMERCIAL MAKES : Under 3,500kg NEW TRACTOR REGISTRATIONS FEB FEB % of YTD YTD MAKE % Change FEB FEB % of YTD YTD '20 '19 Market '20 '19 MAKE % Change '20 '19 Market '20 '19 TOYOTA 430 437 -1.6 49.8 775 836 JOHN DEERE 45 64 -29.7 40.5 79 101 NISSAN 211 213 -0.9 24.4 411 419 NEW HOLLAND 13 22 -40.9 11.7 26 36 ISUZU 41 42 -2.4 4.7 67 81 MASSEY MAZDA 26 61 -57.4 3.0 67 101 10 12 -16.7 9.0 34 36 FERGUSON HINO 22 45 -51.1 2.5 48 80 CASE IH 7 17 -58.8 6.3 14 30 FORD 21 48 -56.3 2.4 61 106 CASE 6 2 200.0 5.4 12 3 MITSUBISHI 18 29 -37.9 2.1 43 64 CLAAS 6 4 50.0 5.4 9 5 CHEVROLET 13 22 -40.9 1.5 24 41 DEUTZ-FAHR 6 3 100.0 5.4 9 8 FIAT 12 24 -50.0 1.4 78 54 TRACTOR 4 13 -69.2 3.6 11 20 HOLDEN 12 13 -7.7 1.4 26 32 FENDT 3 4 -25.0 2.7 13 16 Other 58 66 -12.1 6.7 111 123 OTHER 11 23 -52.2 9.9 38 53 Total 864 1000 -13.6 100.0 1711 1937 TOTAL 111 164 -32.3 100.0 245 308 Your first choice in truck & equipment finance Ph 0800 500 832 or visit www.udc.co.nz UDC Finance Limited lending criteria applies.

26 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz SHOWROOM

New Vehicle Industry and Product News

IVECO BOOSTS HEAVY MARKET WITH NEW X-WAY veco NZ is getting ready to release Matched to the new engines is the Smoothing out the bumps are several the new Euro 6-rated X-Way range brand’s market-leading HiTroniX suspension options including front Ifeaturing improved fuel efficiency, 12-speed automated intelligent and rear electronically controlled air reduced emissions and new safety transmission, which provides additional suspension (ECAS), and to reduce features. performance modes and longevity. vehicle build-up costs, the axles feature The model will arrive in April featuring The X-Way also introduces a range of integrated weight scales. Iveco’s patented Hi-SCR technology fuel-saving measures, designed to lower Iveco NZ dealer principal Jason Keddie that requires no parked vehicle fuel use and reduce overall running says there has already been strong regeneration. costs, this includes a Driving Style interest in the new X-Way range from The range includes both prime mover Evaluation (DSE) system that’s integrated existing and prospective customers. and rigid models with a number of cabin into the Ivecoconnect multimedia “The release of the X-Way will options and GVMs and GCMs of up to system. significantly strengthen Iveco’s heavy 25 and 50 tonnes and higher GCMs Safety is also strong in the new X-Way market position in New Zealand, and available on application. and positions the models as segment judging by the pre-launch interest, we Designed and engineered in Europe leaders. think take-up will be strong. and manufactured at Iveco’s Melbourne Standard equipment on all prime mover “A combination of advanced safety production facility, the new range and rigid models includes electronic features, cleaner and more powerful was extensively tested in both New braking system (EBS) with brake Euro 6 engines and breadth of models, Zealand and Australia to ensure it met assistance aystem (BAS), electronic coupled with Iveco’s renowned low the demands of local conditions and stability program (ESP), hill holder, cost of ownership and high comfort applications. adaptive cruise control (ACC), advanced levels, will make the X-Way a strong At the heart of the vehicles are new, emergency braking system (AEBS), and contender for a wide range of powerful and efficient engines with daytime running lights. applications,” Keddie says. output of up to 570hp and 2500Nm. Prime mover models also feature a The new range will be officially launched The engines meet stringent Euro 6 standard extended catwalk allowing at the TMC Trailers Trucking Industry emissions levels through the use of for safer access to the back of cabin Show in Christchurch on March 20-21. Iveco’s Hi-eSCR system as featured in area to connect air hoses or conduct the latest Euro 6 Eurocargo. maintenance.

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 27 SHOWROOM

New Vehicle Industry and Product News PROVIDING MORE X-FACTOR FOR THE FORD RANGER WILDTRAK

etro Vehicle and often it results in a Enhancements degradation of the factory (RVE) has supplied ride quality and R handing of the vehicle. decades of experience in developing and producing However, there is very high-quality accessory little tyre roar from packages to enhance and the 285/50R 20-inch personalise popular mass Goodyear All Terrain tyres market vehicles. fitted to the Wildtrak X, Established in 1968 the steering response is and formerly known as still very crisp and sharp, Auckland Auto Trimmers, and the comfortable ride RVE is a family-owned quality and confident and operated design cornering ability remains company that creates even with the lightly products and packages modified ride height. for popular vehicles that There’s obviously been go above and beyond the a lot of work carried out mainstream constraints of by RVE to maintain and mass production. enhance the integrity RVE is a “one-stop-shop” of the Wildtrak’s factory which designs, consults, dynamics without develops and supplies sacrificing ride comfort unique packages to and safety. The Wildtrak vehicle distributors and X might look a bit more dealerships. intimidating but from Recognising that the behind the wheel it’s top-spec Ranger Wildtrak pleasant to drive and has been a phenomenal has lost none of the success for Ford New performance of the Zealand, RVE challenged standard vehicle. itself to make the best- The rear view from selling ute, better. the driver’s seat is not The X Package for the diminished by the sports new Ford Ranger Wildtrak driver and passenger, a removable bed- bar, and being able to ute was developed by RVE to add rug premium bed liner, custom ROC fitted remotely open and close the cover of passion to enhance this vehicle beyond rubber mats, and a remote electrically- the bed at the click of a button is very the mainstream offering, by creating a operated tray cover. useful when you have your hands full personal statement for the owner. RVE managing director David Stanners of shopping or other items to drop into The Wildtrak X package includes 20-inch says the X package offers Wildtrak the tray. It also facilitates secure storage wheels and all terrain tyres, the X grille buyers a subtle point of difference from for those valuable items that you want with LED driving lights, the colour coded other available aftermarket options. He hidden out of sight. Sport flares on the wheel arches which is particularly proud of the design of both One size doesn’t fit all, and while we can are a unique RVE design and the exterior the tray cover and sports bar which allow see the X package meeting the needs decal kit for $8,299 including GST. the fitting of bike or ski racks, yet still of many discerning Wildtrak owners, no Further options which were fitted to allow easy access to the ute bed. doubt there will be other buyers who the Wildtrak X demonstration vehicle want something a bit more extreme. included a two-inch suspension lift kit, Driving impressions They needn’t worry, because RVE can tinted windows, extended aluminium We’ve driven many utes fitted with a help with that too. sports bar, Monza style sport seats for the bigger wheel and tyre combination

28 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz NZI Fleet Fit. Insurance that drives your fleet.

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New Vehicle Industry and Product News

RENAULT TRAFIC READY FOR BUSINESS

enault New Zealand is ramping the best new van available, but also up its commercial range with market conditions with used imports Rthe popular Trafic van now becoming harder to secure with the ESC available with two-litre diesel automatic rules coming into play. We have plenty transmission. of Trafics on the water and in stock now,” This is available in long and short Willmot says. wheelbase versions and complements The new two-litre automatic transmission the 1.6-litre diesel manual transmission range starts from $53,990 for the short Trafic Trader range, featuring 85kW of wheelbase and $55,990 for the long power and 300Nm of torque, which hit wheelbase. the local market last year. AutoMedia had the short wheelbase It gives Renault a strong portfolio and version out on the road for a week and will help fill a much-needed gap in the found it to be a great van to drive. commercial market with vans being Featuring updated designs, the vehicle the hardest hit segment under the looks smart and tidy featuring a front new Electronic Stability Control (ESC) grille with chrome and full LED lights. legislation which took effect on March 1. The interior is simple and functional Sales and marketing manager Warren with little features that remind you Willmot says Renault NZ has been this vehicle was built with business working hard to update its offering and operations in mind. now have a range of vehicles which are Everything from the smartphone holder, more suitable to the local market. a folding tray for laptops, 90-litres of “We work very closely with our dealers storage space and a 54-litre tray under and consult with them on the vehicle mix the passenger bench seat, the Trafic is for New Zealand. designed to be a little office on wheels. “Even the best car in the world wouldn’t Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is work here if it’s not priced right. available with the multimedia system “Our expectations for Renault are and smartphone replication allows high. Within 18 months, Renault NZ is you to use all apps from the large confident our volume will grow to over touchscreen on the dashboard. Other 1000 vehicles per annum. features include navigation, hands-free “Trafic is exceptionally well placed to calls, radio and streaming. fuel that growth. Not just because it is Continued on page 31

30 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz SHOWROOM

New Vehicle Industry and Product News

Continued from page 30 Safety features include extended grip technology which improves vehicle adaptability on difficult roads such as unpaved or muddy tracks. The computer system uses data from the wheels to optimise performance and when grip is lost, it adapts engine power to each wheel to improve grip and steering. AutoMedia found the two-litre automatic transmission diesel engine provided plenty of muscle and was quick off the mark with 125kW of power and 380 Nm of torque. The drive was smooth and steering was responsive making this vehicle a good work companion for the daily tasks. The Euro 6 rated vehicle also boasts very impressive fuel consumption ratings of 5.8L/100km for the short wheelbase and 5.9L/100km for the long wheelbase. “Renault commercials are known for Dimensions of the short wheelbase around 1.2 tonnes and around 1.7 tonne their performance, durability and version are 4999mm in overall length braked towing capacity and 750kg reliability. With the extended kilometre and 2283mm in overall width including braked. warranty, we want to show our side mirrors. Servicing includes three-year warranty customers and dealers that Renault as The long wheelbase version is 5399mm or 350,000km, 24-hour breakdown a global manufacturer have absolute in overall length and 2283mm in overall assistance with roadside repair or trust and confidence in our quality width including side mirrors. towing for the duration of the warranty. products. Both models come standard with Meanwhile, the Trafic Trader models are “The renewed warranty is also a a new tail lift style rear cargo door, also available in short or long wheel- response to the market demand and twin sliding doors on the sides, anti- based versions priced between $41,990 helps us to deliver on our strategic lock braking system with electronic and $43,990. growth ambitions,” he says. brakeforce distribution, load adaptive “The Traffic Trader models represent a electronic stability control, cruise great quality vehicle at a fair price. It’s control and speed limiter, hill start the vehicle for honest, hard-working Kiwi assist, dual airbags and more. businesses, whatever their trade might The models feature a max payload of be,” Willmot says.

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 31 PEOPLETALK

LONG-TERM PLANNING NEEDED OVER ROADING INFRASTRUCTURE The Government has announced that it is Nick Leggett finally putting some investment into new Is the Road Transport Forum chief executive. He has had a roads. About time! distinguished career in local government, serving two terms Unfortunately, the $5.5 billion spend as mayor of Porirua City from 2010, and was the youngest still leaves plenty of critical projects mayor in New Zealand. He was first elected to council in on the to-do list and with constant uncertainty created by the competing 1998 aged only 19. interests of the three parties in Government it is still debateable road funding after it was announced They also observed that 1500 forestry whether even the announced projects despite having obvious portfolio workers around New Zealand were out will make it to completion. responsibility for it. of work and we know that this trend is It is particularly frustrating for the road According to Genter, the New Zealand flowing on to the log transport industry transport industry that important projects Upgrade falls short of what is required also, with trucks parked up and contract such as the East-West Link in Auckland to “reduce climate pollution, ensuring drivers with no work to do. and the four-laning of Christchurch people have enough to thrive, and Recently, I wrote to social development to Ashburton were conspicuously protecting nature”. minister Carmel Sepuloni suggesting that absent from the Government’s big She then goes on to attack the entire the Government should consider possible announcement. road transport sector as being one of tax extensions for log transport companies These are major freight routes that require the country’s worst climate polluters and remove the benefit stand-down significant improvements to help reduce without any acknowledgement of the periods for workers suddenly laid off. the time and cost of doing business, not critical role it plays in New Zealand’s The coronavirus outbreak is an only for freight operators but also for economic success. extraordinary event that requires a exporters and consumers. Inspite adding further weight to the compassionate and pragmatic response While there are some worthwhile projects perception that this is a shambolic from government and I hope that this that are to receive funding, including Government being pulled in various is forthcoming. I have offered to meet Penlink, the Tauranga Northern Link and different directions by competing interests, with minister Sepuloni on this issue and Otaki to north of Levin, the reality is that it is extremely concerning to know that would appreciate any operators affected this was an announcement cynically timed following the September election it is contacting me with information that may for an election following over two years of entirely possible that even the projects help our case. complete refusal to build any new roads. announced as part of the New Zealand As you all know, it’s election year I am becoming more and more convinced Upgrade plan could be under threat. and transport will be a major issue. that New Zealand needs to completely If the Greens are in a position to form This Government staked a great deal depoliticise transport infrastructure. The a Government with Labour alone, it of political capital on delivering in mechanism is there with the creation strikes me as odds-on that the roading transport and September 19 presents of the New Zealand Infrastructure component of the New Zealand Upgrade New Zealanders with an opportunity to Commission tasked with developing a 30- will be shelved. As for the future of the give their verdict on whether they have year infrastructure strategy. East-West Link or four-laning Christchurch headed in the right direction or not. However, I fear that the hurdle of gaining to Ashburton, you can forget it. In order to provide the transport industry broad public agreement for the strategy Moving on, it is extremely concerning to with the opportunity to hear from all the will derail the commission right from the see the impact that the coronavirus and the major political parties, RTF is organising start. Political parties have long preyed China close-down is having on our exporters a political summit similar to what we ran on these divisions to justify overturning and supporting parts of the economy. One prior to the 2017 election. previous government policy in transport of the worst impacted sectors so far has The summit will take place at Te Papa in and in many ways maintaining the status been forestry, which largely relies on a Wellington on Tuesday, June 30, and I’d quo suits their desire to fight it out on this Chinese timber market that has completely encourage all those with an interest in the ideological battlefield. stalled with logs sitting on wharves at ports future direction of transport policy to save Incredibly this Government can’t even unable to be moved. the date and consider attending. maintain unity within its own ranks on As of early February, the Forestry Industry More information, including registration transport. I was astonished to read Contractors Association estimated that details and a programme for the day will associate transport minister Julie-Anne 30% of contractors had slowed operations be available through a dedicated website Genter’s public essay criticising the new and 25% had closed down completely. to be launched soon.

32 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz PEOPLETALK

OUR GROWING ENTHUSIASM FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

ast year more than twice as many Kiwi car buyers turned to vehicles Lwith some form of electric power David Crawford than in 2018. That’s a massive jump in Is the chief executive of the Motor Industry Association. any market and clearly indic ates that electrified vehicles are now becoming a viable option for a growing number of us. For the point of clarity, I use the term “some form of electrification” to cover (non plug-in) hybrids in addition to plug- each night or being confined to short stints technology adopter and we can closely in hybrids and pure EVs (BEV). in between roadside charging stations. It’s follow progressive regions, such as Last year, nearly 9000 new vehicles simple convenience and lifestyle. Europe. powered by some form of electrification And as more makes and models with This is already reflected in our emissions. were sold here. That’s more than double longer battery life come on stream we Last year’s drop in emissions of 2.6% was the previous year when fewer than 4000 can expect to see continued growth in our biggest single year drop in emissions were sold. popularity. from new vehicles since 2012. Overall, So, what’s led to the sudden spike However, in all this, the shining stars emissions have reduced from 220.7 in consumers turning to electric? In of the electrification of the car market grams per km in 2006 to 174.4 grams per my view, much of it is driven by remain petrol hybrids. Last year 5883 km in 2019. improvements in technology, better petrol hybrids sold in New Zealand That adds up to an overall drop of 21% pricing, and a big jump in the availability compared to 2140 the year before. since 2006 when the MIA began annual and range of electrically powered options Compare this to the plug-in petrol hybrid recording of average emissions for new in the past year or two – from hybrid to which made a modest gain - 926 were vehicles as they enter the fleet. Not bad plug-in hybrid electric to battery electric. sold last year, up from 703 the year given the change in buying habits for There are now 16 different pure EV before, while total electric jumped from more utes and SUVs. models available in New Zealand and 768 in 2018 to 1881 last year. All this leads to the conclusion that the this has helped to fuel increasing This is telling us that, looking towards the accelerating rate in the reduction of affordability across a whole range future, we won’t be confined to one type greenhouse gas emissions from the of makes and models. Probably the of electric technology. New car buyers new vehicle fleet calls into question the biggest drawcard, however, has been are looking for fuel efficient options that need for the Government to introduce its the arrival of the long range EV battery. will reduce their running costs, suit their proposed Clean Car policies. Last year’s sales data confirms that the lifestyle, help reduce their carbon footprint We seem to be heading in the right biggest selling models were those that had and are affordable – in whatever form. direction as a fast follower of technology. a driving range of 400 to 450 kilometres It’s clear petrol will be with us for the However, if the Government feels the between top ups and were reasonably next few years at least. But already the need to introduce policies to support the priced at just below $80k. More than half the hybridisation of engines in various forms reduction in emission then the proposed EVs sold last year were two models – the combined with increased fuel efficiency, Clean Car discount is all that is needed. Tesla 3 and Hyundai Kona – both these go means we can continue to reduce Quite frankly, the fuel economy standard at least 400km on a single battery charge. emissions in our new vehicle fleet. will achieve nothing other than generate Understandably, most of us want to use As a country, our small market size an unwanted tax and will inevitably distort our EV in the same way that we would means we have minimal ability to directly the market. use our petrol vehicle – filling up when the influence manufacturers but we’re a fast tank’s near empty instead of plugging in

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TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 33 PEOPLETALK

TRANSPORT TO BE A BIG ELECTION ISSUE

fter two and bit years of chaotic mismanagement of the transport Aportfolio by Phil Twyford and Chris Bishop Julie Anne Genter, National will present Is the MP for Hutt South and National’s spokesperson for a credible transport plan this election. transport, infrastructure and regional development. He was Unlike Labour, we have a strong record of first elected to Parliament in 2014. delivering. We are the party of infrastructure and we’re proud of our record on transport investment. The last National what they cancelled. This is great news for fees. government invested more in transport our regions, but it’s deeply disappointing But fuel use is becoming a poor than any other government in New that it took more than two years of faffing estimate of road use as vehicles Zealand history. about to get here. become more modern and fuel- We spent $12 billion on the first Light rail in Auckland was Labour’s efficient. Our proposal, over time, is to seven Roads of National Significance: flagship promise on the campaign trail shift all vehicle users onto road user transformational projects to connect our in 2017. They said it would be built from charges which would see everyone on regions and unlock the potential of our the CBD to Mt Roskill by 2021, and then our roads make a contribution to their cities, towns and provinces. to the airport by 2027. Two years in and upkeep. No-one would argue that Auckland isn’t there are no business case, no route, no We will also focus on congestion which better off for the Waterview Tunnel, costings, and no consents. costs our economy hundreds of millions Puhoi to Wellsford road, the Western Unlike Labour, we have a plan. of dollars a year. By putting a price on Ring Route, and Victoria Park Tunnel. Transport will be a major focus area for congestion, we encourage people to Those are National’s transport legacies us this year. travel at different times of the day, or to Auckland. We’ll take a significant, credible and take a different route, and use public Down the road, the Waikato Expressway costed transport package to the transport. has created a much better and more election. That package will be marked by That’s standard practice in many cities efficient connection between our three characteristics. around the world and has been consistently largest city and Hamilton. It has had a First, it will be a pipeline of projects. We recommended by experts here in New transformational effect on the entire want to set out a vision of what transport Zealand. Both Wellington mayor Andy region. in our cities and regions could and Foster and Auckland mayor are in favour. In Wellington, after 50 years of should look like. It’s time to get on with it. talk, National got on with the job of Second, it will be multi-modal. You will I’m keen to get started on integrated building Transmission Gully as part hear more from us about how to improve ticketing. London’s Tube has accepted of the Wellington Road of National our buses, our rail networks, alongside contactless cards since September 2014, Significance. our roads – and how we can use allowing people to pay for their travel Our opponents say – or used to say – technology to decongest our cities and with a simple swipe of their credit card that National is just the party of roads. make it easier to get around. or even phone. The same system is That rhetoric belies the reality. A Third, the package will be significant. integrated with the bus network. record $2 billion was invested in public We’re the party of infrastructure, and we By comparison, people still pay for the transport under National from 2015 to intend to campaign on that message. train in Wellington the same way they 2017, and now public transport use is at Last year, we released a transport and did 30 years ago – with cardboard record levels. infrastructure discussion document. monthly passes or cash and coins. We It was National, in fact Simon Bridges There’s lots in it, but there are four can do better. as transport minister, that got the things in particular we’ll focus on, Finally, we will look at how transport is transformational City Rail Link project in including a move from fuel tax towards managed and governed in Wellington. Auckland under way. road user charges, congestion pricing, We’re proposing introducing new Compare this to the Labour-led integrated ticketing and governance regional transport authorities in Government which cut $5 billion reform. Wellington and Canterbury that would from the state highway budget and We’re proposing quite a big change in run the public transport systems as well cancelled 12 projects including Melling, the way we fund transport. Our current as manage cycling, parking and roading. Petone to Grenada, the East-West Link, system is a mix of fuel tax, which is As you can see, we have a solid plan and the Tauranga Northern Link. levied on petrol, road user charges backed by a strong record of delivery. Then almost two years in, and they’ve on diesel vehicles on a per-kilometre You’ll hear more about it over the next essentially re-packaged and re-announced travelled basis, and vehicle licensing few months

34 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz PEOPLETALK

WORLD’S LARGEST HYDROGEN MINE TRUCK UNDER DEVELOPMENT he Anglo American mining integrated into an existing mining haul motorsport to “heavy duty” industrial company is partnering with truck, with testing taking place later this applications. TWilliams Advanced Engineering year at the Mogalakwena platinum group Operating within a harsh environment (WAE) to develop its new fuel cell electric metals mining operation in South Africa. is something we are familiar with as vehicle (FCEV) set to be the world’s Through regenerative braking, the sole battery supplier for the Extreme E largest hydrogen powered mine truck. battery system will be capable of programme,” WAE managing director Anglo American has committed to recovering energy as the haul truck Craig Wilson says. reducing its global greenhouse gas travels downhill. “We look forward to working with emissions by 30% by 2030. For the project, WAE has drawn on its Williams Advanced Engineering to Putting electrified vehicles into mines experience as the sole battery supplier deliver this important step-change – from large haul trucks to passenger to the FIA Formula E global motorsport technology, a true world first for vehicles and employee buses – will series for the first four seasons. a vehicle of this size and load help Anglo American reach this WAE is also the sole battery supplier capacity,” Anglo American technology decarbonisation target. to the new FIA Extreme E racing development head Julian Soles says. The FCEV haul truck will be powered programme, which begins in 2021. “We believe Williams can help us to by a hydrogen fuel cell module paired In line with Anglo American’s deliver this ground-breaking project, with a WAE scalable high-power modular commitment to sustainable mining, which is part of our plan to create a lithium-ion battery system. studies will take place after the initial smart energy mix that moves us closer This arrangement replaces the existing trials to understand how these power towards our carbon and energy targets vehicle’s diesel engine, is controlled units can be used to provide energy for 2030 and, ultimately, our vision of by a high voltage power distribution storage in second life applications. operating a carbon-neutral mine.” unit delivering in excess of 1000kWh of “We are delighted to be involved in energy storage. this innovative and exciting project The power units will be designed and which showcases the scalability of built at WAE in Grove, Oxfordshire, and battery technology from automotive and

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 35 PEOPLETALK

GOVT DISHES OUT $19.9M FOR TARANAKI HYDROGEN PROJECT he Government has announced “This initiative is expected to attract BusinessNZ Energy Council executive $19.9 million through the Provincial significant investment from industries director Tina Schirr welcomes the TGrowth Fund towards a hydrogen interested in New Zealand green investment and says it’s “crucial the energy facility in South Taranaki. hydrogen and to be a catalyst for a knowledge gained from this venture is The joint venture between Ballance green hydrogen market and contribute shared with the wider community”. Agri-Nutrients and Hiringa Energy will to major growth through the Taranaki "It is important for the business see the production of hydrogen from region and nationally. community, policymakers, innovators renewable electricity and water at a “In the future, green hydrogen produced and investors to understand the full facility in Kapuni. by these sorts of projects could fuel our range of ways that we can reduce our The hydrogen produced will then heavy transport industry,” Peters says. emissions," she says. be used to power the Ballance Agri- The investment comes from a $40m Late last year, the Hydrogen Global Nutrients’ Kapuni plant. commitment from the PGF to support Initiative was unveiled by the World “The development of alternative renewable energy projects which Energy Council (WEC). energy initiatives like this one is vital includes four hydrogen projects in First Gas, Arup, and the Australian for the Taranaki region’s economy. We Taranaki. government are just some of those are pleased the PGF is working with Another $3.16m has been announced committed to Hydrogen Global - a Taranaki businesses to build sustainable to fund two wind turbines on Stewart platform for companies, governments, long-energy term industry,” deputy prime Island. councils and institutions to showcase minister Winston Peters says. “Projects like this will make a serious their work and learn from each other. “The Kapuni plant is a significant difference for the future of a cleaner, The non-binding Hydrogen Global contributor to South Taranaki’s economy greener New Zealand. We look forward Charter aims to merge global hydrogen and this project will create around to announcing further PGF funding for efforts to send a signal to the market 50 jobs during construction and an Taranaki as New Zealand transitions to a that demand for low carbon hydrogen additional seven jobs after construction. low emissions economy,” Peters says. is on the rise.

NZ’S NEWS SOURCE FOR ROAD TRANSPORT, LOGISTICS & HEAVY EQUIPMENT INDUSTRIES MONTHLY MAGAZINE FOR WWW.TRANSPORTTALK.CO.NZ – VOLUME 7 | ISSUE 12 | JULY 2019 $114 + GST PER YEAR TR Group enters Australia (ONLY $9.50 + GST A MONTH)

R Group is making its entry into Australia with the acquisition of TMelbourne-based trailer rental company Semi-Skel Hire. It comes after many years of inves tigating the market across the Tasman- and fits with TR’s ambitions to provide NZ’S NEWS SOURCE FOR ROAD TRANSPORT, THELOGISTICS NEWS &SOURCE HEAVY FOREQUIPMENT TRANSPORT, INDUSTRIES LOGISTICS & HEAVY EQUIPMENT Have you enjoyed reading this edition of Transporttalk? world-class service in renting and MONTHLY MAGAZINE FOR WWW.TRANSPORTTALK.CO.NZ – VOLUMELet’s 8 | ISSUE 1 |tackle AUGUST 2019 drugged leasing trucks and trailers. TR was founded in 1992 and now has a team of 180 people and a fleet drivers, RTF says of 5500 rental and lease vehicles in Would you like to receive one in the mail each month? New Zealand. ore needs to be done to get The group drugged drivers off the roads 159 deaths on the roads over the last provides cus- Mand this includes tougher two years. tomers with a roadside drug testing polices, the The RTF has submitted on the completeMONTHLY fleet MAGAZINERoad Transport FOR WWW.TRANSPORTTALK.CO.NZForum (RTF) says. Ministry of Transport’s – VOLUME Enhanced 8 | ISSUE 2 | SEPTEMEBR 2019 Scania management ser It comes following the establish- Drug Impaired Driver Testing discus- - vice and provides ment of a NZ standard for oral test- sion document and is calling on a ing in March this year. Call, email or sign up online now to arrange your yearly scales up NZ fresh approach to tackle the problem. Continued on page 5 Ministry of Transport data shows RTF chief executive Nick Leggett INSIDEINSIDE drugged drivers were responsible for says the Government needs to change operations its “single-minded road safety focus, Tackling safety and regulation cania is making its largest ever which is tunnel vision on speed and Truck training boost investment in New Zealand fol- p3 getting vehicles off the road”. subscription of the printed magazine for Christchurch welcomes E-buses lowing more than two decades p6 “The number of people be- S Protecting lone workers of distribution by third party Cable CAL Isuzup11 takes ing killed by drug impaired drivers Price. p19 3 is higher than by drivers above the Scania New Zealand, now a NZ’s6 Gough The new deal will see CAL taking Continued on page 4 wholly-owned subsidiary business, over NZ Trucks - over the Hamilton site in Earthmover kicked off on January 1,Want 2019. an amilton-based CAL Isuzu It’s now responsible for the impor automatedis expanding solution its footprint CresentGroup and the south Auckland, to end Wiri site in Edsel Way. tation, distribution and salesschedule of new your with the recent acquisition to help Hfleet maintenance? The acquisition will see over 35 Scania heavy trucks and buses, as well - of heavy vehicle servicing company staff join the CAL team and brings its as parts and business services.Come and see EROAD at Civil Contractors Conference for a closer look New Zealand Trucks and its branches numbers to around 200 people. It’s being led by managingat our telematic direc solutionAdvanceQuip for a safer, more efficient and productive fleet. Name: in Auckland and Hamilton. The two additional sites adds tor Mattias Lundholm, who has more New Zealand Trucks was based around 15,000 square metres and than 20 years’ experience with the set for Iveco in Christchurch and was owned by sees the company grow to two sites Swedish trucking heavyweight.CCNZ Conference, boothformer NZX-listed# Hellaby Holdings Scania's local headquarters are sales - in Hamilton, three in Auckland plus 31 July – 3 August, RotoruaLimited before56/57 Energy it was Events sold in 2016, Centre sites in Tauranga and Whangarei. in Penrose, Auckland, and a satel- ruckalongside and machinery AB Equipment, distributor to private eq CAL Isuzu ownereroad.co.nz and managing lite site in Wellington is now open uity fund Maui Capital for $81 million. - Continued on page 3 AdvanceQuip has appointed director Ashok0800 Parbhu 437 says 623 he’s very Email: TNoel Macdonald to the role of pleased with the deal which was car Iveco sales manager for the south. p4 ried out in just a couple of months. INSIDEINSIDE Macdonald will be responsible The acquisitions are all about p5 Continued on page 4 for Iveco truck and van sales in the t’s the end of an era for almost 100 Fuso NZ welcomes sales manager p8 8 Otago and Southland regions,4 having years of Gough Group family own- Log prices crash moved from thep13 Manawatu where he in New Zealand and interests in the CablePrice signs deal Iership and it’s “sad to see the end”, was selling the Fuso range of trucks. chairman Keith Sutton says. transport and materials handling Skills training shakeup Number: Now based in the central location The New Zealand-based heavy business in New Zealand and Aus- of Alexandra, he will be readily acces- equipment company is being sold tralia. to Malaysian firm Sime Darby for Founded by Edger Gough, Harry NZ$211 million. Hamer and Tracy Gough as Gough, Continued on page 3 Get into electronic RUC, off-road Gough Group has the local Cater Gough & Hamer Limited in 1929, the INSIDEINSIDE pillar dealerships with service territory company initially dealt in electrical and servicingRTF tackles mental health - goods. Postal: Transdev enters NZ bus sector It secured the Caterpillar fran- For a limited time get accessRuakura to ourgears trusted up for Ehubo1 freight device, pg 6 chise in 1932 and soon became the EROAD’s cheapest andNorthland easiest way rail’s to manage$94.8m electronic boost pg 8 world sales leader for non-United RUC for your trucks – from $35 per month. pg 11 States Caterpillar dealers and is one • eroad.co.nz/rucspecial 0800 376 237 pg 19 of the oldest dealerships of Caterpil- Find out more: 6 lar equipment outside of the US. Affordable light 8 Visa Mastercard vehicle telematics Continued on page 4 A complete fleet solution for only $25 per month. Limited time only Credit Card No: Exp: Find out more: eroad.co.nz/ehubo1-light-vehicle0800 376 237 Scan completed form and email to: Name on Card: [email protected] Signature: or [email protected] or phone Fran Da Silva NB. If you don’t need a printed copy subscribe for FREE and download a PDF www.transporttalk.co.nz/subscribe on +64 21 933 279

36 | TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 | www.transporttalk.co.nz UK petrol/diesel ban now by 2035 The United Kingdom has brought forward by five years its move to ban sales of new petrol and diesel cars, adding hybrids as well. The policy shift from 2040 to 2035 has been announced by prime minister Boris Johnson in launching the 2020 United Nations Climate Change Conference (UN COP 26 climate Toll Group hit by cyber attack summit) in Glasgow in November. Transport and logistics giant Toll Group had to shut down its IT That means more battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are needed systems in response to a cyber security attack last month. for Britain, but many in the automotive industry there say the The company says it was a “precautionary measure” in country is unprepared to move to electric only by the new response to a number of affected Toll customer-facing date. applications. The UK government says that subject to consultation it will It included its MyToll portal system and impacted the stop the sale of new petrol, diesel and hybrid cars and vans in tracking and tracing of customer items. 2035 or even earlier if possible. The company resorted to manual and automated processes Most overseas media forecast the policy change will have a across its global operations as a result which caused some huge impact on the automotive industry and spark an even delays and disruptions. more rapid response. “We can confirm the cyber security incident is due to a targeted ransomware attack which led to our decision to immediately isolate and disable some systems in order to limit the spread of the attack,” the company says. “We apologise for the disruption that some of our customers are experiencing. We’re working with relevant authorities and have referred the matter to the appropriate bodies for criminal investigation.”

VINZ directors appoints chief executive The directors of Vehicle Inspection NZ Ltd (VINZ) have appointed Sean Stevens as chief executive, reporting to the company’s board. Stevens has been acting chief executive since August 2019. He will focus on continuing to grow the business in its key areas of in-service inspection testing, entry certification and solution for its customers. Stevens will also seek out strategic partnership and opportunities to expand VINZ, while ensuring the company provides industry-leading service to its customers. “Sean has led VINZ’s operation delivery in a time of change Daimler opens truck charging stations and growth and we know he has the necessary skills to continue to guide the company’s growth as an inspection Daimler has opened a new charging park for electric organisation,” VINZ director Euan Philpot says. commercial vehicles at its headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. Stevens joined VINZ in August 2015 and was formerly The company says “it’s a further step in the electrification general manager of operation and delivery. His automotive strategy and connected corporate activities”. background includes roles with Ateco and Continental Cars In December last year, the company said it would be Services. investing more in electric vehicle technology. “Sean has a proven track record at VINZ. And was the obvious “The automotive industry is in the middle of the biggest choice for the permanent role. We expect his strengths in transformation in its history,” the company said. customer service management will contribute to stronger “The development towards CO2-neutral mobility requires and deeper relationships with our customers and the wider large investments, which is why Daimler announced in the automotive industry,” another VINZ director Gordon Shaw says. middle of November that it would launch a programme to increase competitiveness, innovation and investment strength.” Continued on page 38

TRANSPORTTALK MARCH 2020 www.transporttalk.co.nz | 37 NEWSINBRIEF

Continued from page 37 cab pick-up to arrive before the end of 2020. The Brazilian-built vehicle is based on Renault’s Duster SUV (which will also enter the market) with an extended wheel- base. The two vehicles feature entry-level pricing. The Oroch sits below Renault’s full sized Nissan Navara-based Alaskan ute and its smaller size will be a real segment-breaker within the New Zealand market. Auckland switching buses to electric It has a payload of around 650kg which is comparable to Twelve Auckland buses will be electric by the end of this year. the old Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore utes and is Auckland Transport and its operator NZ Bus have agreed to driven by a four-cylinder petrol engine in either a 1.6-litre or switch all red CityLINK bus services to electric buses from 2.0-litre variant. the end of the year as part of Auckland’s Low Emission Bus Transmission is either five or six-speed manual gearboxes, or a Roadmap. four-speed automatic transmission. “Electrifying Auckland’s CityLINK buses will help improve air The bed size is around 1175mm wide and 1350mm long, and quality by reducing pollution from black carbon and nitrogen has a capacity of 683 litres. oxide emitted by the current diesel vehicles,” mayor Phil Goff The exact details of variant types to be introduced in New says. Zealand will be announced soon. “Black carbon is associated with health problems and has “It’s a value proposition vehicle, being smaller, petrol with been found in Queen Street at levels higher than in some no road user charges and backed up with a great warranty, major European and US cities, so it’s a priority for us to we expect it to be popular with private buyers and small address this issue.” businesses,” Renault NZ sales and marketing manager Warren Six electric buses will also be introduced on Waiheke Island Willmot says. this year. Auckland Council environment and climate change committee Govt seeking submissions on tyre storage chair Richard Hills says moving to a fully electric bus fleet is The Ministry for the Environment is seeking submissions on critical if Auckland is to meet its emissions reduction targets. potential changes to the proposed National Environment Planning committee chair Chris Darby says Aucklanders will Standard (NES) for the outdoor storage of tyres. soon enjoy a much more breathable downtown area. The proposed NES will provide a clearer regulatory approach Auckland Transport chair Adrienne Young-Cooper says an about how tyres stored outside should be managed under the electric bus was tried on the CityLINK route in 2018 to see how Resource Management Act of 1991. it would cope with the stop-and-go nature of the route and A second round of consultation is necessary, says the Ministry came through with flying colours. for the Environment, due to: “The CityLINK buses carry more than 1.6 million customers - A new proposal that regional councils, instead each year and provide an essential link within city centre of territorial authorities, would be responsible for and with a growing business and entertainment hub in implementing the NES, which will address concerns about Wynyard Quarter.” existing use rights. NZ Bus chief executive Barry Hinkley says the 12 buses are - Consideration of an additional option for reducing the coming from Zhejiang CRRC Electric Vehicle Co Ltd (China threshold for the volume of tyres that can be stored Rail). outdoors on a site before a discretionary activity resource content is required, specifically 100m3, in addition to the 200m3 previous proposed. - The addition of a proposed permitted activity rule with requirements, for tyre quantities between 40m3 and the threshold for resource consent (100m3 or 200m3). Tyres stored outdoors is an environmental and human health risk – causing toxic smoke and leachates. A written submission can be made to [email protected]. nz. Consultation began February 25 and the closing date for submissions is 5pm March 25, 2020.

Keep up with daily AU transport & equipment news Renault NZ to release small ute Renault New Zealand will be adding a compact size ute to its commercial range is expected to arrive in January 2021. Along with the release of its new variants of the popular Trafic transporttalk.com.au commercial van, the company has announced the Oroch dual-

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