DECEMBER|2019
IN THIS ISSUE
Mercedes-Benz Actros named International Truck of the Year 2020 What UK bus fleet engineers can learn from their Chinese counterparts
ELECTRIC DREAM ELECTRIC POWER IS THE FUTURE FOR UK VANS
A VISION OF THE FUTURE?
t seems to be becoming accepted that electricity is the way forward for powering vans and light I commercial vehicles. This was one of the main messages I got from speaking to industry experts recently (see p24) as well as the slew of recent announcements from the big manufacturers. Several manufacturers have announced plans for all-electric versions of established ICE models to come on sale next year, in response to EDITORIAL & DESIGN increasing demand from transport operators, especially those working in the ULEZ in London or other cities around the countries where clean air zones are planned. Immediate Network Ltd Such is the potential for electric vans that it has encouraged new players to Ferneberga House, Alexandra Rd, launch into the market, in the form of Morris Commercial and London Electric Farnborough GU14 6DQ Vehicle Company, which have also announced details of new models to come. t: 01483 546500 But while the smaller end of the commercial vehicle market – in terms of physical w: inl.co.uk size – seems to have its future power route largely mapped out, matters are not so w: cvengineer.com clear for HGVs. EDITOR Electric has not been a viable option to date, simply because of the mileage that they provide. While vans may not travel more than 100 miles in a day, many HGVs Dan Parton on long-haul cover several times that. HGVs would either have to stop at regular t: 07941 979 845 points throughout the day – increasing delivery times – or have numerous sets of e: [email protected] batteries that wouldn’t be practical to carry. This is just one of the reasons why diesel is still king for most HGV operators, ADVERTISING although there are other options out there. For instance, Iveco has been pushing Tony Greville the case for liquefied natural gas for some time. Business Development Director Meanwhile, other manufacturers such as Hyundai have been making advances t: 01483 546500 with hydrogen cell technology. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are essentially electric e: [email protected] vehicles that have the battery topped up by an on-board fuel cell – so they have a much higher range than EVs – and emit no pollutants. They can also be refuelled SUBSCRIPTIONS in a similar time to petrol and diesel vehicles. MANAGEMENT But there is talk that electricity may have been discounted too early. Nikola in
the US has claimed that it has the technology to produce a battery that could give Tony Greville Business Development Director trucks a range of 800 miles. The trucks could also weigh 5,000 lbs less than the t: 01483 546500 competition if same battery size was kept, the company says. e: [email protected] Nikola adds that the technology to achieve this encompasses world’s first free- standing/self-supported electrode with a cathode that has four times the energy Annual subscription density of lithium-ion. (12 editions) £20 + vat (£24) While details won’t be fully announced until a yet-to-be-decided date in 2020, if the company is right it could be a game-changer for EV trucks. The industry will PUBLISHED BY wait with baited breath for this one. Immediate Network Ltd Dan Parton, Editor
THE TRUCK EXPERT THE VAN EXPERT THE CAR EXPERT
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 3 CONTENTS
6>> POINTS OF VIEW Neil Wallis looks at plans for decarbonising transport; Cummins’ Jonathan Wood talks about power solutions of the future.
8>> NEWS The winners of the International Truck of the Year and International Van of the Year 2020 have been announced.
10>> NEWS Hyundai reveals fuel cell concept and gives platooning update; first UK sales of electric JCB Teletrucks.
12>> NEWS Workplace transport instructors lack relevant industry competence, say RTITB; Michelin expands X Multi tyre range.
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4 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER CONTENTS
14>> NEWS HGV registrations fall in third quarter.
15>> FLEET NEWS JW Crowther takes first Iveco Stralis X-Way.
16>> FLEET NEWS First UK Mercedes-Benz Actros Edition 1 hits the road.
17>> FLEET NEWS Air service upgrades with Plaxton coaches; Hambleton Council adds electric vans.
18>> ELECTRIFYING LESSONS FROM CHINA Electric buses are well established in China, so what could UK fleet engineers learn 24 from them? 24>> ELECTRIC DREAMS Electric power is the future for smaller vans, while operators need to embrace increasing connectivity.
30>> NEWS FROM THE NORTH The Truck Expert talks Smart Tachographs and why Volvo Group’s Uptime Solutions operation in Gent is about more than just roadside rescue.
35>> PEOPLE Latest appointments by Marshall Fleet Solutions, Ryder, Iveco, Groupe Renault UK and Scania Apprentice 18 8 award winners.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 5 POINTS OF VIEW
TOWARDS A DECARBONISED FUTURE
he General Election will bring says, will “bring together a bold and a hiatus in transport (and ambitious programme of coordinated T all other) policy making into action needed to end the UK’s transport the New Year. All the signs, emissions by 2050”. though, are that 2020 will be a big year in While, at this stage, it’s only a plan to terms of the climate change and energy make a plan, the Government is signalling agenda, and for transport particularly. that major changes are in the pipeline There are several reasons for this. Firstly, – and whatever kind of government we since last June the UK has been committed have after the election, a plan for transport to achieving net zero greenhouse gas in the net zero context will be needed. emissions by 2050, replacing the 80% It has said that the groundwork for the target from the 2008 Climate Change Transport Decarbonisation Plan will start Act. As the Government’s watchdog, the immediately. The full plan, which could be Committee on Climate Change, has pointed published next year in advance of CoP26, out, the policy actions currently in place would set out in detail what government, would not have put the UK on a trajectory business and society must do to deliver to meet the 2008 target, let alone the 2019 the emissions reductions needed from all net zero objective. modes of transport. The LowCVP-convened Electric Secondly, transport (along with So, what might the plan look like and how Vehicle Energy Taskforce – initiated heating) has proved to be one of the is it likely to affect the road transport sector? by the Government to investigate the most intractable sectors to decarbonise. It’s certain that the still-quite-recent opportunities associated with transport Greenhouse gas emissions from road Road to Zero (2018) strategy will provide electrification – will report its findings early transport are now higher as a share of the foundation for any new plan but it will, in the new year and these recommendations the total challenge, representing about a by necessity, need to be much more radical. should provide a basis for measures in any quarter of the UK’s emissions. We need to Electrification was at the centre of the Transport Decarbonisation Plan. seriously up our game, therefore, in terms Road to Zero, so expect to see moves to The Government previously stated of transport decarbonisation. attempt to accelerate the transition to EVs, that the Decarbonisation Plan will take Thirdly, it was recently announced perhaps by bringing forward the date for a coordinated, cross-modal approach to that the UK will host the landmark 2020 ending the sale of cars with conventional deliver the transport sector’s contribution to Conference of the Parties (CoP 26) in IC engines, from the current 2040 decarbonisation targets. This suggests that Glasgow next November. At this successor target. The Government will be keen for transport demand – as well as low carbon event to Paris 2015, 2020 will be the year in electrification to make inroads into the technology introduction – may feature in which governments review their promises commercial vehicle sector too, but there are the plan. There’s likely to be a greater focus to cut carbon emissions in line with the still quite significant technical challenges on policies to promote modal shifts to less latest science. With the eyes of the world to the electrification of long-haul trucks carbon-intensive solutions; also on efforts on us, the Government – of what may be a and larger vehicles requiring greater to promote the more efficient use of vehicles post-Brexit UK – will be particularly keen range. Consequently, look out for moves to (fewer vehicles shared and/or otherwise to demonstrate that it is still a major player encourage electrification in these sectors used more intensively) and more emphasis in world affairs and, crucially, that it has a through infrastructural support – perhaps on mobility as a service (MaaS). credible plan for delivering its own 2050 catenary wires, battery swaps or high- These are just a few early, high-level target, providing it with the authority to power rapid charge centres – and measures thoughts. But there is no doubt that the lead other nations down a path to net zero. to facilitate progress in the adoption of scale of the challenge requires a radical and Prior to the election announcement, in other potentially low carbon solutions such coordinated plan and we’re going to need its official response to the passage of the as hydrogen. to use all the tools in the box, as well as to net zero legislation, the Government set There will inevitably be a sharp focus on develop some, as yet untried, new ones. out “measures to go further and faster on energy infrastructure and policies to enable climate change”. The UK’s first Transport innovation in the merger of the electricity Neil Wallis, Decarbonisation Plan, the Government and mobility sectors. Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership
6 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER POINTS OF VIEW
POWER SOLUTIONS OF THE FUTURE
Each customer has unique requirements. This technology helps prepare for an We believe customers will continue to uncertain future and is just one way need many types of powertrains from pure Cummins is investing in clean diesel internal combustion engines to hybrids to engine technology. fully electric and, in the future, fuel cells. Diesel will remain a viable power source Cummins has always been at the for many years because of its unique forefront of advancing diesel powertrain power density capabilities. Cummins performance, looking at innovative ways will continue to invest in advanced diesel to pursue every available performance products, while also improving fuel advantage. This is demonstrated by the efficiency and performance. Cummins Components segment, working We are also committed to bringing across on- and off-highway sectors to new power solution innovations to our develop a range of high-performance customers. Our understanding of the components that have helped customers applications, markets, environments hat is the role of components differentiate their diesel engines. and how operators and drivers use the in creating an increasingly The task of meeting emissions challenges equipment and vehicles puts us in a W broad portfolio of power for heavy duty vehicle cycles has inspired position to provide a broad portfolio of solutions for the future? innovations throughout the industry. In late power solutions. Investment in R&D While new power solutions take hold in 2017, Cummins embarked on a project for means we can provide power technologies some applications, the benefits of the diesel cleaner diesel engine technology to address spanning diesel and natural gas engines engine still support its widespread use. The future CO2 and NOx challenges. The to fully electric and hybrid powertrains ability to maintain performance on heavy- result is a concept product: the Cummins including full battery-electric and plug-in duty vehicle cycles is paramount, and while Integrated System. hybrid systems. research and development (R&D) in hybrid Revealed at IAA in Hannover last As Cummins hybrid-adapted expertise and electric is supporting innovation in that year, the concept Integrated System and clean diesel optimisation work space, R&D in diesel demonstrates room seeks to drive closer integration between continues to progress, this will provide for continued advances while maintaining aftertreatment and turbocharger to operators with the energy choice they need the reliability that is required. optimise system level performance. alongside natural gas, battery-electric and Attitudes toward power solutions The Integrated System consists of four other emerging technologies. have changed significantly within core technologies, the high efficiency Cummins is broadening its portfolio the past decade. OEMs have had to turbocharger with new aerodynamics, the of products to include alternative fuels meet new demand to utilise low to Integrated Rotary Turbine Control Valve, and electrification while simultaneously zero emissions power units while still which enables exhaust gases to bypass the investing in continued diesel innovation. ensuring reliability, low operating costs turbine stage and enter the Close Coupled This positions us well for the next 100 years and consistent performance levels. Aftertreatment Unit after the gas has been of transforming our industry. Powertrain manufacturers have responded injected with urea by the new Cummins by developing a diverse range of power UL4 Urea Doser injector. Jonathan Wood, vice president of solutions to meet different requirements. The close coupled aftertreatment components engineering at Cummins Matching power solutions to unique duty unit benefits from higher exhaust gas cycles and environments can be a challenge temperatures to enable more for OEMs and end users alike. effective emissions conversion. It is unlikely that a single solution will When combined with be the answer to low emissions due to the Single Module chassis the range of requirements that face the mounted aftertreatment it sector. For example, heavy duty trucks on has the potential to improve high altitude routes do not face the same emissions particularly challenges of urban double decker buses for cold start and urban working in ultra-low emission zones. driving operations.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 7 NEWS
INTERNATIONAL TRUCK AND VAN OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED
he new Mercedes-Benz comfort, safety, driveability, fuel economy, appreciated the new Active Drive Assist Actros and Ford Transit environmental footprint and total cost system which, in certain operational Custom Hybrids have of ownership. conditions, can take over the longitudinal T scooped the International Professor Uwe Baake, head of product and lateral guidance of the truck, thereby Truck of the Year (IToY) engineering at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, allowing partially automated driving in and International Van of the Year (IVoY) was presented with the award during all speed ranges. Awards respectively. the press day of Solutrans, the biennial Finally, the IToY journalists praised Mercedes-Benz’s Actros held off International Show for Road & Urban the extended functions of the new competition from Iveco’s recently Transport Solutions in Lyon, France. Actros’ Predictive Powertrain Control launched S-Way long-haul range and The Actros had a winning score of (PPC) system and the digital Multimedia Volvo Trucks’ fuel-efficient FH I-Save. 121 votes and the jury praised Cockpit, which replaces the conventional The award was vote for by a jury of 24 Mercedes-Benz’s introduction of the instrument cluster. PPC can now also commercial vehicle editors and senior MirrorCam system, which replaces the be used on winding cross-country journalists, representing 24 major traditional exterior rear-view mirrors routes, saving fuel and reducing trucking magazines from throughout and effectively supports the driver in driver’s workload. Europe. The annual award is presented to manoeuvring, cornering or changing IToY chairman Gianenrico Griffini said: the truck introduced into the market in lanes. Moreover, the new solution not “With the introduction of the new Actros, the previous 12 months that has made the only improves all-around visibility but Mercedes-Benz has delivered a state-of greatest contribution to road transport also aerodynamic efficiency. the-art heavy duty truck that paves the efficiency. Several criteria are considered, During a recent extended test drive in way towards autonomous driving vehicles including technological innovation, southern Spain, the IToY jury members of the future.”
8 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER NEWS
Truck innovation
Meanwhile Hyundai won the second IToY Truck Innovation Award for its Hydrogen Mobility Project, based on its H2 XCient fuel-cell all-electric heavy-duty truck, which promotes the introduction of a ‘green’ hydrogen-fuel road transport ecosystem in Switzerland, and other European countries in the future. With a winning score of 80 votes, Hyundai fought off competition from the Nikola Hydrogen truck range, Freightliner’s eCascadia, Volvo Trucks’ Vera and Scania’s AXL autonomous Van of the Year Van operators need practical and efficient driving vehicles and Renault Trucks’ electrified vehicles that are tailored to Optifuel Lab 3. Ford of Europe won the IVoY title for their business needs, and our new Hybrid The IToY jury praised the its range of Transit Custom Hybrids, Transits offer a range of solutions to suit comprehensive approach to clean comprising the Plug-In Hybrid and different customer use cases.” mobility in the commercial vehicle EcoBlue Hybrid models. Jarlath Sweeney, chairman IVoY, sector, based on the partnership of several Voted by a panel of European said Ford deserve credit on going solo key players in supplying ecofriendly commercial vehicle editors and journalists with its range of hybrid vans: “The jury heavy-duty trucks. The partnership from 25 countries, the new Ford Transit appreciated the direction that Ford has includes H2 Energy, Linde and Alpiq Custom Hybrids scored 97 points, with its taken to develop a viable drivetrain for green energy solutions for hydrogen nearest challenger, the new Ford Transit alternative that meets both urban and production and distribution, together EcoBlue Hybrid, in second place on 54 rural requirements in a most eco-friendly with logistics and retail and trade points. Third was the new Volkswagen fashion. Its Plug-in Hybrid system is zero partners in Switzerland. Transporter T6.1. The other shortlisted emission capable, with no range anxiety, The Hyundai H2 XCient Fuel Cell models were the new Renault Master, has no compromise on payload or load truck, which has has been developed latest Iveco Daily and Fiat Ducato models. volume and has a simple recharging according to European regulations, Hans Schep general manager regime. Basically, the technology is features a new 190kW hydrogen fuel commercial vehicles, Ford of Europe, designed to run on electric power for city cell system with two 95kW fuel cell said: “We are very proud that the IVoY trips – to help improve local air quality. stacks connected in parallel. It has an jury has singled out our Transit Custom No other manufacturer has gone down operational range of around 400km, Hybrid range for this prestigious award. this alternative route, as yet.” thanks to seven fuel-tanks, each with a storage capacity of almost 35kg of hydrogen at a pressure of 350 bar. According to IToY rules a Truck Innovation Award nominee must be an advanced-technology vehicle with a gross vehicle weight over 3.5-tonnes either fitted with an alternative driveline (e.g. hybrid, hybrid range- extender, or all-electric) or have an alternative fuel-system (such as LNG/ CNG/hydrogen or fuel-cells). Otherwise, it must feature specific high-tech solutions with regard to connectivity (whether semi or fully-autonomous driving systems) a ‘platooning’ capability, or advanced support services such as remote diagnostics.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 9 NEWS
HYUNDAI REVEALS FUEL CELL LORRY CONCEPT AND MAKES PLATOONING ADVANCE
yundai has revealed Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are innovatively developed applying Hyundai a hydrogen fuel cell- essentially electric vehicles that have the designers’ creativity and the company’s H powered truck concept as it battery topped up by an on-board fuel advanced technology.” announces plans to explore cell, and they emit no pollutants. They future powertrain technology in the have the advantage of offering much Platooning commercial vehicle sector. higher range than traditional EVs and It debuted alongside a clean can be refuelled in a similar time to petrol Hyundai has also announced progress energy refrigerated trailer, with the and diesel vehicles, which makes them in another area of technical innovation: firm describing the truck and trailer ideal for heavy goods vehicles. platooning. The company recently trialled combination as ‘a window into the future’ Hyundai also revealed the Nitro platooning of trailer trucks on the Yeoju of heavy-duty transport. ThermoTech trailer, which it says reduces Smart Highway in South Korea replicating The truck, called the HDC-6 Neptune greenhouse gases and dependence on real-world traffic conditions. Concept, utilises a hydrogen fuel cell fossil fuels. The refrigerated trailer cools Hyundai conducted the trial using powertrain similar to that used in the more quickly than traditional units and two trailer-connected 40-tonne Xcient firm’s Nexo SUV. The cab’s design is said to temperatures can be more precisely trucks fitted with various technology be inspired by streamliner railway trams maintained with no effect from the including: vehicle platooning, cut-in/out introduced in 1936, while the large grille outside world. by other vehicles, simultaneous emergency that dominates the front end came from the SangYup Lee, Hyundai Design Centre braking, and V2V (Vehicle to Vehicle) cooling requirements of the powertrain. head, said: “HDC-6 Neptune, the concept communication tech. The speed limit was Hyundai says the concept is designed for the next-generation fuel-cell electric set at 60km/h to ensure safety. to push forward its plans for more truck, embodies Hyundai Motor’s vision Yeoju Smart Highway is a 7.7km testbed hydrogen-fuelled vehicles by 2030. of mobility for a global hydrogen society, within the central region expressway
10 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER NEWS
FIRST UK SALES OF ELECTRIC JCB TELETRUK
he first electric-powered T JCB Teletruks to be sold in the UK have been acquired by an independent timber established by the Korean government for activates lane keeping technology, which and builders’ merchant. the development of autonomous driving means the driver of the following truck can Lawsons, a family-owned company technology. The highway is constantly take their hands off the steering wheel. operating in London and the populated by vehicles for autonomous With platooning, other vehicles cutting Southeast, has ordered five new JCB driving research, making it similar to in and out between trucks can also be 30-19E electric-powered Teletruks actual highway conditions. seamlessly managed. If a vehicle cuts following successful trials of the “We are confident that our industry between the platooning trucks, the machine at several of its sites. leading autonomous driving technology following truck automatically extends the The JCB 30-19E, which features a in commercial vehicles showcased in this gap to minimum of 25m. telescopic forward reach boom, was platooning truck demonstration will When a leading truck makes a sudden launched earlier this year and is the lead into a revolutionary paradigm shift emergency stop due to an unexpected first electric-powered model to be in the freight and logistics industry,” situation, the technology responds by added to the Teletruk range. said Jihan Ryu, head of Hyundai’s enabling the following truck to decelerate Lawsons’ group transport manager, Commercial Vehicle Electronics Control and stop. David Harvey, said: “We are constantly Engineering Group. The V2V system applied to both trucks assessing ways of making our depots This demonstration is part of a project showcased how real-time information more environmentally responsible and initiated by the Ministry of Land, sharing between platooning vehicles give careful consideration to the mix Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT). can improve control over acceleration of materials handling equipment in Since 2018, MOLIT has been working to and deceleration and incorporate ADAS operation, so as soon as we heard that support pioneering efforts for autonomous (Advanced Driver Assistance System) JCB had developed an electric-powered technology. Along with Hyundai, this information from various sensors like Teletruk that is quiet in operation and project involves government, corporations cameras and radar. produces no harmful emissions, we and academia. Furthermore, the Real-time Frontal knew that it would be perfect for us.” The platooning manoeuvre begins Video Sharing feature was enabled by V2V Paul Murray, JCB’s Teletruk general when the driver of the following truck technology. By displaying videos from the manager, added: “The introduction approaches the leading vehicle and leading vehicle, the following driver can of electric-powered Teletruks has activates platooning mode. see the road ahead, solving limitations of been met with an overwhelmingly Upon activation of this, the following forward vision for trailing drivers. positive response from the truck user truck maintains a 16.7m distance, with Hyundai plans to conduct more trials of community. The launch of the 30-19E real-time fine tuning based on the leading high-level platooning technology that will opens up so many new markets for vehicle’s acceleration and deceleration. The have a tighter following distance between us and Lawsons’ order is no doubt driver does not need to put his/her foot on vehicles and implement traffic information the first of many for this hugely the accelerator nor brakes. The mode also for optimised travel. exciting product.”
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 11 NEWS
WORKPLACE TRANSPORT INSTRUCTORS LACKING RELEVANT INDUSTRY COMPETENCE SAY RTITB
espite having teaching instructor academy manager. “You and preparing training sessions and is qualifications, many wouldn’t take your Porsche to an geared towards those new to teaching D instructors working LGV garage as although they’re and looking to enter the classroom at in the transport and qualified mechanics, they don’t have assistant level. logistics industry may lack the relevant the specialist knowledge and experience “A PTLLS course will typical include competence required for effective you’re looking for. The same principle students from a wide spectrum of workplace transport training, the RTITB applies to training.” backgrounds all preparing to deliver Instructor Academy has warned. For instance, the RTITB cited the totally different types of sessions,” “There are many different routes QCF PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the explained Docherty. “It is usually to becoming a qualified trainer, but these Lifelong Learning Sector) qualification, delivered with limited contact time, don’t all take into account the specific sometimes known as PETALS, which is with the trainee doing much of the work requirements of workplace transport an initial teacher training qualification. outside of the classroom – essentially training,” said Simon Docherty, RTITB It is a basic level introduction to planning working it out themselves.
12 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER NEWS
“What this means is that if you’re relying on people with only a PTLLS qualification to deliver your workplace transport training, you run the risk of using an instructor MICHELIN EXPANDS who is severely lacking in occupational competence. For example, the skills needed X MULTI RANGE to deal with a room full of experienced and highly knowledgeable LGV drivers.” The RTITB pointed to another common qualification, the Certificate in Further Education and Training (CertEd). This provides a formal teaching qualification for those looking to work in further education colleges, sixth forms and private training providers. However, like PTLLS, it does not equip instructors with specialist workplace transport training knowledge, the RTITB said. “These courses are academic in nature and designed to cover generic teaching and instructing principles and methods in great detail – they provide a great foundation to build on but are no ichelin has expanded its as the tread wears down, helping to substitute for a specific instructor X Multi range of regional maintain grip, traction and safety right qualification,” said Docherty. “In our truck tyres, with the down to the last millimetre of tread. experience, we have found that instructors introduction of two new Chris Smith, managing director of who have completed industry-specific Mmulti-position sizes for fitment on the Michelin UK, said: “Both new tyres training engage far better with candidates.” front steer axle. provide at least 15% better mileage The RTITB believe that to equip The 315/60 R22.5 X Multi Z is aimed than the products they replace, which training professionals with the relevant at vehicles requiring maximum load represents a significant efficiency boost understanding and competence, courses height and where there is also the need for fleets.” should deliver theory training in context, to comply with a 4m height constraint, Michelin says the rubber mixtures in alongside practical training in a live as is common across much of Europe. the 385/65 R22.5 X Multi Z have been environment, with less time spent on the Michelin believe this will make the tyre blended to give better mileage, grip and academics of assessment. Courses should popular for vehicles operating on the low rolling resistance. be designed with a greater focus on the continent, typically those carrying light In the 315/60 R22.5 X Multi Z it has mechanics of examination and testing bulk goods such as furniture, white strengthened the rubber compound and give instructors the tools to teach goods and automotive parts, as well as even further by introducing a new information in a logical, systematic and on car transporters. material called Forcion that provides a engaging way. This is something the RTITB The wider 385/65 R22.5 X Multi Z is more cohesive compound, increasing Instructor Academy provides in its ‘train aimed at operators carrying heavy loads the mileage potential of the tyre and the trainer’ and assessor courses for the such as refrigerated goods, tankers, providing greater resistance against transport and logistics industry. bulkers and timber carriers. abrasions, cuts, chunking and chipping. “We believe both confidence and Designed to blend the lowest cost Both new tyres also feature Michelin’s competence are essential if instructors are per mile with outstanding traction all Powercoil technology, which is designed to teach drivers and equipment operators year round, they are rated ‘B’ for wet to add endurance and robustness to to a high standard – these only come with grip and feature the 3 Peak Mountain the casing. They can also be regrooved sector-based knowledge and experience,” Snowflake markings after passing tests and retreaded, to lower the total cost of said Docherty. “What’s more, we have in defined snowy conditions. ownership and increase sustainability. found that industry specific training more This level of grip is maintained The two new products replace the effectively equips instructors with the tools throughout the tyre’s life thanks to a 315/60 R22.5 X Energy XF and the to help employers maximise their return on self-regenerating tread pattern which 385/65 R22.5 X Multi F respectively investment for training.” includes hidden grooves that appear and are available now.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 13 NEWS
HGV REGISTRATIONS FALL IN THIRD QUARTER FOLLOWING REGULATORY CHANGES
egistrations of new HGVs fell by 13.1% from July to September year-on-year, R a decline partly fuelled by regulatory changes that saw operators pull purchases forward into the first half of the year. Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealed that 8,557 trucks were registered in Q3, compared to 9,852 in 2018. This figure was the worst quarterly performance in the past two years. The fall was put down to purchases made by operators ahead of the mandatory fitment of smart tachographs to all new trucks, which came in on June 15. Indeed, in the months April to July, registrations were up by 46.3% year-on-year. Demand fell by nearly a third (32.6%) in Scotland between July and September, and by 22.1% in Northern Ireland. Sales in England also registered a double-digit decline, of 11.2%. Sales only fell by 2.4% in Wales, although that is the smallest market. The most significant decline in registrations was in the >6-16t segment, which saw sales fall by 28.5%. The >16t segment also shrank markedly, by 15.7%. Meanwhile artics registered a more modest fall of 3.4%. Tractors remained the most popular vehicle, despite a 4.7% drop in demand, accounting for almost half of the market. All other body types experienced declines, with curtain sided trucks experiencing registrations show growth, up 16.2% and expect to see the market to continue to the biggest percentage fall, down 28%. 22.4% respectively. rebalance in final part of the year. To Despite the fall in the quarter, the new Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, curtail further losses, however, and to HGV market remains strong in the year said: “Given the rush to register new get more of these high-tech low emission to date, with registrations in the first nine trucks before the introduction of new vehicles on our roads, we need the right months up 18.8% year-on-year to 36,021. regulations in June, the slowdown in conditions to give operators confidence to Both rigid truck and articulated vehicle quarter three was anticipated, and we continue to invest in their fleets.”
14 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER FLEET NEWS
JW CROWTHER TAKES FIRST IVECO STRALIS X-WAY
amily-run plant hire and “Compared with other Euro VI vehicles to work in our fleet for a week confirmed bulk excavation specialist JW we had at the time, the Iveco system this was the right truck for the job, and Crowther has added the first eliminated the 40-minute delays we’d we know the team at [dealer Northern IVECO Stralis X-WAY eight- been suffering during forced regeneration Commercials, based in Brighouse] can Flegger to its fleet after being impressed by cycles. These can add up to significant give us dedicated aftersales support when how its HI-SCR diesel particulate filter downtime over the weeks and months; we need it.” technology decreased downtime. but with Iveco, our productivity is The Stralis X-WAY is powered by The 32-tonne 8×4 rigid replaces an increased and we aren’t wasting drivers’ Iveco’s 11.1-litre Cursor 11 engine older competitor model in the Leeds- hours. When the time came to replace delivering up to 420hp and 2,000 Nm based company’s 35-strong mixed fleet. our 32-tonner, Iveco was top of our of torque. Mounted with a Townend The company said it stood out from the shopping list.” tipper body, it has features including competition thanks to Iveco’s patented JW Crowther specified the new air conditioning, Bluetooth, HI-SCR engine technology which Stralis X-WAY with Iveco’s ‘OFF’ chassis reversing cameras and factory-fitted utilises passive regeneration of the diesel specification, with this set-up combining satellite navigation. particulate filter, requiring zero driver excellent ground clearance with an Other key features include Iveco’s involvement, which they trialled in a approach angle greater than 25 degrees. 12-speed HI-TRONIX transmission, demonstrator for a week. The vehicle features an improved steel which offers advanced functionalities Nigel Crowther, director at JW Crowther, bumper, to provide additional protection for off-road driving such as automatic which also provides road sweepers, site when carrying out the company’s main rocking mode to disengage the vehicle clearance work, tankers and environmental work shifting muck from construction when stuck, or ‘creep’ mode for optimal services, said: “Our first experience of HI- sites across Yorkshire. control at very low speeds. SCR was in 2016 when we bought an Iveco “Our drivers were impressed with Likely to remain in service until Eurocargo road sweeper, and it was a real how well the truck handles both on- and 2026, the truck will clock up about game-changer. off-road,” Crowther added. “Putting one 100,000 km a year.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 15 FLEET NEWS
FIRST UK MERCEDES-BENZ ACTROS EDITION 1 DELIVERED
amily-owned haulier Arthur Powered by a range-topping 15.6-litre in terms of safety, not least because Spriggs & Sons has taken straight-six engine which produces a 625hp, it eliminates a major ‘blind spot’, F delivery of the first of just the Edition 1 has a GigaSpace cab with while my seat and bunk are 35 Mercedes-Benz Actros a distinctive gloss black grille, darkened unbelievably comfortable. I love the Edition 1 tractor units to be delivered to a headlamp covers and rims, and an Edition way it looks too. It’s obvious that the UK customer. 1-branded sun visor incorporating four driver was the number one priority for The Edition 1 is a showcase for the fifth extra LED main-beam headlamps. Mercedes-Benz when it designed the generation Actros range, and production Arthur Spriggs & Sons’ managing Edition 1.” has been restricted to just 400 examples director, Chris Spriggs, said: “I’ve been Quinn has a black leather-trimmed worldwide. Arthur Spriggs’ truck wears in this business for 40 years and there’s cab interior – including door handles a special livery that highlights the not much that gets me excited these days. with contrasting topstitching – features Tewkesbury-based operator’s recent When I set eyes on this truck for the first a polished and brushed aluminium 100th anniversary. time, though, my reaction was ‘Wow! Now dashboard badge that confirms it as ‘One Supplied by Marshall Truck & Van, that really is special’.” of 400’ Edition 1s. He can choose from the Actros Edition 1 has joined an all- The Edition 1’s driver, Andy Quinn – who eight colours of ambience ceiling lighting, Mercedes-Benz and FUSO fleet of 60 has been rewarded for his 18 years’ service and sleeps on an industry-leading 900 trucks of various sizes, as well as several to the operator with the keys to its new mm wide bed – described by Quinn as vans that also wear three-pointed star. flagship – echoed the sentiment. “I’m still “a bunk-and-a-half” – and wraparound The Actros Edition 1 has the standard pinching myself, what an amazing truck!” curtain for privacy. range of standard innovations on it – he said. “I’ve come out of a 510hp Actros All new Actros models are offered as including MirrorCam, Active Brake Assist GigaSpace, which was a great drive and standard with a Mercedes-Benz Safety 5, the Multimedia Cockpit and enhanced never let me down, but the Edition 1 is Pack, which includes the latest-generation Predictive Powertrain Control technology something else altogether. Active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking – as well as loads of extra equipment and “Everything about this truck is state-of- system, Proximity Control Assist and a stylish details geared to the driver. the-art. MirrorCam is a real step forward driver’s airbag.
16 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER FLEET NEWS
AIR SERVICE UPGRADES HAMBLETON WITH PLAXTON COACHES COUNCIL ADDS ELECTRIC VANS
ambleton District Council has put two new Nissan H e-NV200 vans into service as it seeks to move towards a 100% electric fleet. The e-NV200s are used to carry out a range of services including the enforcement of fly tipping, waste management and street cleansing. Stephen Watson, portfolio holder for Environmental Health, Waste and Recycling at the North Yorkshire- est Coast Motors has taken of Citylink, it is the only direct service based council, said: “Technology has delivery of five Plaxton between Scotland’s largest city and the improved significantly in recent years, W Panorama double deck country’s busiest airport. enabling us to enter into an agreement coaches from bus manufacturer Alexander Peter Knight, operations director for that can provide us with electric Dennis Ltd, which it will run for Scottish Scottish Citylink, said: “AIR continues to vehicles with a vision of running a Citylink on the AIR service from Glasgow grow in popularity and this investment 100% electric fleet in the future. If to Edinburgh Airport. ensures that we are continuing to deliver we want to encourage residents to be The coaches have been adapted to the further improvements for the many more mindful of the effects their own needs of airport travellers, with, in addition customers who travel on the route. These vehicles have on our local environment, to the luggage hold, a dedicated suitcase vehicles deliver extra capacity and game- then it’s right that we look at our own rack on the lower deck and overhead changing amenities that we believe will fleet and do something about it. luggage racks above all seats. lead to an even more enjoyable travel “We would hope that other Each coach has 75 seats and amenities experience for our customers.” organisations and individuals fitted to the seat backs include fold-down Charlie Miller, regional sales manager would think about how they too can tables, reading lights, mobile device holders at Alexander Dennis, added: “Our Plaxton contribute to the transition from fossil and USB chargers. On the lower deck, vis- coach engineering team has pulled out fuels to alternative forms of transport. à-vis seating is provided around two tables all the stops to combine comfort and We should all recognise the importance with integrated wireless device charging. capacity with easy access and luggage of reducing our dependence on fossil The new Plaxton Panorama coaches storage on these Plaxton Panorama fuels and minimising climate change. upgrade the AIR service, which connects coaches, allowing them to provide These vehicles give us the opportunity Glasgow’s Buchanan Bus Station an upgrade over the single deckers to show how we can tackle emissions with Edinburgh Airport up to every they replace. With our best-in-class from the mileage our staff need to do 30 minutes, 24 hours a day. Provided aftermarket support to back them up, to provide services across the district in partnership with the airport and West Coast Motors will enjoy operating and I look forward to watching how operated by West Coast Motors on behalf these stunning coaches.” this progresses.”
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 17 ELECTRIC BUSES IN CHINA
ELECTRIFYING LESSONS FROM CHINA FOR UK FLEET ENGINEERS
Electric buses are becoming more common in the UK, but we still fall far behind the scene in China. So what can UK fleet engineers learn from their counterparts in the Far East? By Tim Blakemore
e’re getting to the persuading local authorities and many Engineering Group includes DAF point where no other bus buyers to switch from diesel and MAN truck dealers, as well as self-respecting local to electric. The bus and coach division franchises for LDV vans, and small authority in the of Crump’s Yorkshire-based Pelican diesel engines from the likes of Kubota, W country would be Engineering Group is after all importer Yanmar and Deutz. buying diesel buses. So and distributor in the UK and Irish There is far more than simple sales says Richard Crump, managing director at Republic for Yutong electric buses and talk to its boss’s recent observation on Pelican Engineering Group. coaches from China. electrification. Evidence of what Gareth You may be tempted to dismiss the But Crump is a respected figure in UK Powell, managing director of surface comment as just marketing hyperbole commercial vehicle engineering more transport at Transport for London (TfL) from someone with a vested interest in widely – the long-established Pelican describes as a “complete revolution”
18 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER ELECTRIC BUSES IN CHINA
Yutong: growing e-bus customer list in UK includes FirstGroup in Leeds (left) and Newport Transport in south Wales (above)
ELECTRIFYING LESSONS FROM CHINA FOR UK FLEET ENGINEERS
BYD: top-selling e-bus manufacturer in Europe, with Stagecoach’s park-and-ride Guildford operation among the latest converts.
in road transport, primarily in the vehicles from Turkey. But when BMC went Newport Transport in south Wales specification and operation of buses, belly-up, Crump and his colleagues turned was one of the first bus operations to is easy to find. to Yutong in China and clinched a deal in take an interest in the all-electric the summer of 2013. The first Yutong buses (battery-powered) 12-metre Yutong Chinese growth arrived in the UK a year later. single-decker. Following a demonstration, The grand total of Yutong vehicle sales an order for 14 was placed for delivery For instance, take the fast-growing UK in the UK in 2014 was 21. But by the end by April 2020. customer list for the Yutong electric of last year the number of Yutong buses Nine similar new Yutong electric buses supplied by Pelican Bus & Coach, and coaches (mainly diesel-powered) in single-deckers are due to go into service an operation born only seven years ago, operation in the UK and Irish Republic had with FirstGroup in Leeds, West Yorkshire initially to import BMC commercial reached about 430. in May 2020.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 19 ELECTRIC BUSES IN CHINA
Playing catch-up
But Yutong still has a long way to go to catch up with its Chinese electric vehicle arch-rival BYD in establishing a firm foothold in the UK and European bus markets. BYD now claims to be the top-selling electric bus manufacturer in Europe and is poised to introduce a new battery electric truck range at next year’s Hannover commercial vehicles show. After establishing its European base in the Netherlands as long ago as 1998, BYD Europe began manufacturing in Hungary in 2017, at a plant designed to expand into trucks as well, and shortly afterwards set up an electric bus assembly plant in France. An alliance with the UK’s top-selling bus manufacturer, Alexander Dennis Ltd (ADL) was formed in 2015 and all the signs are that this has been a huge success. ADL’s sale to Canadian company NFI Group early this year raised a few question marks over the future of the partnership, but it appears to be going from strength to strength, not least in London where all-electric BYD/ADL buses are an increasingly common sight. A recent delivery of 22 BYD/ADL Enviro200 EV single-deckers to the Go- Go-Ahead and London United: both switching from diesel to electric Ahead London operation for use on its with the BYD/ADL alliance for their London operations. route 214 service between Highgate and the City takes the total number of BYD/ ADL electric buses now in service in the UK to more than 200. “There’s a genuine feel-good factor when travelling Customisation to suit particular in quiet comfort on a vehicle which emits zero operational requirements is one of BYD/ emissions and improves the city’s air quality” ADL’s strengths from a fleet engineer’s point of view. The Enviro200 EVs on the Highgate route in London were specified at an overall length of 10.2 metres, in “The order book looks very healthy Colin Robertson, ADL’s chief executive, the interest of better manoeuvrability for both our single-deck and double- added: “Our customers enjoy the by comparison with the more usual deck products, and against a broadening operational benefits of pure-electric 10.8-metre variant. An even shorter customer portfolio outside of London, too,” drive – lower running costs and easier version, at 9.6 metres, is due to join the says Frank Thorpe, BYD (UK) managing maintenance. And passengers are really Go-Ahead London fleet later this year, director. “Manchester and Birmingham responding, too. There’s a genuine feel- with 13 more at 10.8 metres due for 2020. are switching to BYD/ADL electric good factor when travelling in quiet There are now about 170 BYD/ADL mobility and there’s considerable interest comfort on a vehicle which emits zero electric buses in service in London, elsewhere. There’s a public transport emissions and improves the city’s air not only with Go-Ahead but other revolution taking place in the UK and it quality. As more and more routes are TfL contractors such as Stagecoach is electric mobility that really is leading switched to electric, London is setting new and Metroline. the charge.” standards for sustainable mobility.”
20 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER ELECTRIC BUSES IN CHINA
Joe Ma at Shenzhen Bus Group
Streets ahead
New standards in this country, maybe. But old hat by comparison with what has been happening in China. Even with all the activity in London and elsewhere, there are reckoned to be no more than about 400 battery-electric (so not including diesel/ electric hybrids) buses now in service in the UK. The number in service in China is put at about 400,000. What can UK fleet operators learn from their Chinese counterparts about the process of switching from diesel to electric, especially with regard to operating costs? Few people are better placed than Joe Ma to answer such questions authoritatively. Ma is deputy general manager at Shenzhen Bus Group (SBG), a state-owned bus franchisee and the biggest bus operator in Shenzhen, a city with a population of about 13 million and home to a host of giant technology enterprises including Huawei and Tencent. Shenzhen Bus Group: largest operator of “new energy” buses anywhere. BYD is also based in Shenzhen but Ma is Responsibility for overnight bus charging is sub-contracted to charging system providers. quick to point out that it would be entirely wrong for anyone to assume that this means that no other bus and car manufacturer is buses, Ma admits that he still cannot suppliers, Ma points out that the seriously in the running for SBG orders. He say with certainty what the life of a bus company’s own maintenance staff have makes it clear that every supplier must be battery pack will be. had to be retrained as a result of the able to meet strict demands on total vehicle “The warranty we demand from BYD switch from diesel to electric. “So we’ve operating costs. stipulates that if at any time in the planned opened up our workshops to fix other eight-year life of the bus its battery pack operators’ electric vehicles,” he says. Battery life capacity falls below 80% then the pack What about driver training, especially will be replaced,” he explains. “We have when it comes to recharging batteries Take the crucial question of electric bus had some drop below 80% and BYD has instead of refuelling diesel tanks? battery life, for instance. Even though the honoured the warranty.” “Driving electric buses is relatively easy,” switch from diesel to electric was started Though responsibility for maintaining says Ma. “But we don’t want drivers at SBG as long ago as 2008, initially with battery packs, their on-board plugging in buses to charging points. diesel/electric hybrid drivelines but then management systems and electric This is sub-contracted to our charging three years later with 100 all-electric motors lies primarily with SBG’s vehicle system providers.”
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 21 ELECTRIC BUSES IN CHINA
With close to 6,000 buses in its fleet, most of which are now battery- powered, Ma’s claim that SBG is “the largest new-energy bus operator in the world” seems justifiable. He has details of the fleet composition at his fingertips. Single-deckers at 10.5 metres in overall length are the workhorses of the SBG fleet. There are 3,990 of them, supported by about 70 double-deckers at present, though Ma expects that number to grow substantially in the near future. SBG also operates small numbers of midibuses at 7.0 and 7.5 metres in length, together with about 1,000 8.5-metre midibuses. The three bus manufacturers Doubling down on double-deckers: there are only 70 in the huge Shenzhen supplying SBG at present are BYD, Bus Group fleet at present, but that number is set to grow substantially. Nanjing Jiniong and Wuzhoulong. There are around 4,500 BYD buses in the SBG fleet, together with most of the 4,700 New type of charging Shenzhen’s electricity is generated mainly electric taxis operated by the company. by nuclear power stations, but there is a “We were the first operator anywhere As UK fleet operators are now discovering, huge difference between peak (daytime) to start using electric taxis, in 2010,” provision of charging points proved to and off-peak charges. The cost per unit says Ma. “We set up a joint venture be “one of the biggest challenges” in the of electricity can be as low as 0.237 yuan company with BYD.” The city’s local whole process. “We’ve had to introduce a (CNY) – or £0.026 – at night, reckons government decreed that all 22,000 taxis new type of charging technology, called Ma. But during the day the cost rises as operating there had to be electric by the net-type quick charging,” says Ma. This high as 1.2 CNY per unit. end of last year. means several cables running from a single “Buses typically return to depots to “We started the whole electrification charging pylon to enable several buses to be be charged between 11pm and 6am,” process back in 2008, with 10 hybrid charged at once, though naturally charging says Ma. “Our charging pylons have (diesel/electric) buses. In 2011 we started time per vehicle increases commensurately. several cables each. One bus at a pylon running our first all-electric buses, 100 Ma’s figures on electricity costs make can be recharged in two hours but of them. Then within the space of two it easy to see why he is keen to ensure with three or four buses being recharged years, between 2015 and 2017, we moved that most bus charging takes place at the same time it can take about to full electrification.” overnight rather than during the day. seven hours.”
22 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER ELECTRIC BUSES IN CHINA
Cost concerns
It is often claimed that maintenance costs of battery-electric commercial vehicles are substantially lower than those of comparable diesel vehicles. This seems no more than logical, given the relative simplicity of an electric motor by comparison with a diesel engine and the absence of clutches and gearboxes in the driveline. So are such claims substantiated by Shenzhen Bus Group’s experience to date? The short answer is no. Ma explains that a typical total maintenance cost, over an eight-year life in service, for an 11-metre single-decker diesel-engined bus in the SBG fleet had Time is money: overnight charging at off-peak rates means huge savings been around CNY480,000 (£53,000). in energy costs. The Shenzhen Bus Group fuel bill has been cut in half by The whole-life maintenance cost, again switching from diesel engines to electric motors. over eight years, for a 10.5-metre, battery- electric single-decker is budgeted at CNY430,000 (£47,300) – hardly a saving Residual values Last month’s news that Bamford Bus to write home about. Company, owned by a member of the But the overall operating cost picture One key question often raised by bus fleet same Bamford family that runs the JCB for electric buses changes dramatically managers in the UK under pressure to construction equipment firm, may have when fuel costs are considered. A typical switch wholesale from diesel to electric alleviated some worries but it remains to average fuel consumption figure for a concerns the residual value of existing be seen whether Bamford will be as co- diesel single-decker in Shenzhen used to vehicles. Buses tend to have far longer in- operative as SBG’s suppliers have been. be about 40 lit/100km (7.06mpg), reckons service lives than trucks. What happens to “Our calculations on switching from Ma. That made the fuel cost per diesel bus old, or not so old diesel vehicles? diesel to electric were based on the about CNY200 per 100km. Now the typical Even more pressing questions have residual value of our diesel buses,” says energy cost per vehicle for an electric bus been asked in London about the future of Ma. “Some still had about four years is about CNY70 per 100km. This means diesel/electric hybrid Routemasters from life left in them. The suppliers of our the annual fuel bill for the fleet of about Wrightbus following the manufacturer’s new electric buses, mainly BYD and CNY800 million (£88 million) has been cut collapse into administration a few Nanjing, bought the diesel buses to circa CNY480 million (£53 million). months ago. from us.”
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 23 VANS AND LCVS
ELECTRIC DREAMS
Electric power is the future for small vans and manufacturers are offering electric versions of established models. Innovations in other areas such as connectivity also mean that vans are increasingly sophisticated beasts – and require a different method of selling. By Dan Parton
n October, the van Since 2019, all new models launched by and 186 miles on the WLTP cycle equipped market gave another Groupe PSA come with either all-electric or with a 75 kilowatt/hour battery. clear indication that its plug-in hybrid powertrains. The aim is for Xavier Peugeot, senior vice-president of I future lies in electric: the Group’s entire passenger car and LCV Groupe PSA’s Light Commercial Vehicles Groupe PSA said that it range to be electrified by 2025. Business Unit, said: “Groupe PSA is was planning to have all-electric versions The electric versions of all four brands’ pushing ahead with the electrification of its of its Peugeot Expert, Citroën Dispatch, compact vans will have two levels of travel LCV range by offering electric versions of Vauxhall Vivaro and Opel Vivaro available range: 124 miles on the WLTP cycle compact vans for business and individual from 2020. equipped with a 50 kilowatt/hour battery customers. Without compromising on
24 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER VANS AND LCVS
Citroen Dispatch
Peugeot e-Expert
“Many vans do not cover a great distance each day and battery electric vehicles offer a viable alternative to conventionally powered vehicles”
features, the range will help strengthen our will also be launching an all-electric version variants of the Peugeot Expert and Citroën leadership in this segment in Europe. In of its Berlingo van in 2020. Dispatch next year and then the Partner 2021, our entire range of LCVs and their More are to come too, according and Berlingo after that.” passenger car equivalents will be electrified.” to Emma Murphy, product manager Murphy adds that electric vans have a big Groupe PSA’s new generation of commercial vehicles at Citroën UK. “For future in the UK market. “Many vans do not compact vans has been designed around light CVs the focus in the next few years is cover a great distance each day and battery the EMP2 multi-energy platform to going to be on providing battery electric electric vehicles offer a viable alternative offer zero-CO2 mobility for individuals variants of all light CV models in the to conventionally powered vehicles,” she (passenger car versions) and freight Peugeot and Citroën ranges,” she says. says. “There are a range of advantages (commercial vehicle versions). “At the CV Show this year, we showed from low fuelling costs to concessions for Since then, individual manufacturers prototype electric versions of the Peugeot entering congestion charging zones and under the Groupe PSA umbrella have Boxer and Citroën Relay and these models low emissions zones to grants for charging made further announcements on plans for will be available within the next few points in the workplace and at home, electrification. For instance, Citroën said it months. This will be followed by electric among others.”
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 25 VANS AND LCVS
Morris Commercial’s recently-announced striking all-electric JE
Newcomers Production is stated to begin in Alternatives late 2021, and with a retail price of The potential for electric is demonstrated about £60,000. But electric is not the only show in town by the entrance of electric-focused Meanwhile the London Electric Vehicle when it comes to fuelling vans. Iveco, newcomers to the market with big plans. Company (LEVC), unveiled its challenger which will be launching its second- For instance, Morris Commercial, a start- in the LCV market – the what-it-says-on- generation electric LCV next year, also up that has acquired the historic Morris the-tin LCV – in September. Rather than currently offers a CNG (compressed name, unveiled its new all-electric entrant being pure electric, it is a hybrid EV natural gas) option on its Daily range of in November, the JE. and petrol. vans and chassis cabs. This striking van has more than just The zero-emission capable LCV is based As Mike Cutts, Iveco business line a nod to Morris’ iconic J-type of 1949- on the same architecture and e-City range director LCV, admits, there is no “one 61 in its looks, but underneath it is extender technology as LEVC’s TX Taxi. solution fits all” when it comes to strictly 21st century: the JE has a fully The LCV will give an electric range of 80 alternative fuels. “Electric power is one electric lithium-ion battery powertrain, miles and a combined petrol and EV range option and is complimented by CNG and, lightweight modular chassis and carbon- of 377 miles, according to the company. going forward, hydrogen,” he says. “Electric fibre body construction. Targeting those who travel about for last mile deliveries in cities with the The JE’s modular chassis makes it 100 miles a day, LEVC’s LCV will offer ULEZ restrictions coming into place is adaptable for future derivatives, such as ‘distribution to door’ – not just last one opportunity for sure but is dependent a pickup, minibus or camper van, the mile – providing the link between out of upon users having the ability to set up hub company says. town depots and city centres, capable of and spoke logistics models.” In addition, the combination of the collecting goods outside of a major city in Of course, there are still plenty of chassis and a carbon fibre body makes range extender mode, before switching diesel vans available, and they have not the Morris JE relatively light, which to EV mode in an urban ultra-low had their day. As Jason Hodge, LCV means the resulting power-to-weight emissions zone. product manager at Peugeot, notes, van efficiency is hoped to give the vehicle LEVC’s LCV is scheduled to go on sale manufacturers are still looking to reduce a range of 200 miles. in 2020. the environmental impact of diesel vans.
26 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER VANS AND LCVS
Mike Cutts, Iveco business line director
“We have seen an ongoing process of Mercedes-Benz’s PRO connect software gives users a wealth of data engine downsizing, the introduction of engine stop/start systems and there is further scope for the development of the internal combustion engine,” he says. “Embracing the technology is the next “Look at the Partner and Berlingo as an epoch moment for us and that’s what we example; the core diesel engine is the 1.5-litre BlueHDi range, which has replaced are helping customers with right now” the former 1.6-litre BlueHDi engine range, while offering more power options. Groupe PSA companies were among the between now and then that will continue “We have got to move from ‘cool’ to first to develop diesel technology and the to enhance automation and further reduce that ‘eureka’ moment, and that’s what we company is constantly evaluating further driver intervention through advancements are working on. As a business we need improvements to this proven technology.” in technology,” he says. to be more of a holistic transport-based This drive for efficiency has continued Connectivity will also only increase, solutions provider, rather than just simply with innovations such as the eight-speed Cutts adds. “[Iveco’s] technology is focused building vans. But in order to do that we automatic transmission now offered in on helping the driver and fleet manager need our salespeople to embrace a new some of Groupe PSA’s LCV models, which understand the SMR requirements on a way of engaging with clients and, more helps to minimise fuel consumption with live basis, with tailored packages based on importantly, what items and features they optimised gearing, Hodge adds. actual WLC of the user.” need to be engaged on in order to make a Iveco also offers its Hi-Matic class eight- Vans today are more connected than ever difference to the customer’s world. speed automatic gearbox on the established before and can provide a wealth of data “In the 1980s, you would walk up to a Daily product range. Cutts says that the on everything from whether the driver is van, open the back doors and say ‘ta-da’ company will continue to develop this in braking too hard to an issue with a tyre that [and] tell them the payload it carried. conjunction with other mission-driven end- the driver may not know about. But this Loads and dimensions are still important user requirements. can be intimidating to those who are not of but there is much more to it now. The guys a technological disposition, and as a result in sales and service have a much more Get yourself connected might not get the best out of it, says Simon fundamental part to play in exploiting the Neill, sales director at Mercedes-Benz Vans. technology on the van that customers get to Innovation is not limited to the fuel used Mercedes-Benz has its PRO connect help make a difference in their world. to power the vehicle; the technology inside integrated vehicle monitoring software “It is more about asking customers them is also advancing rapidly. For instance, system, which gives operators a wealth ‘what do you do and how do you do autonomous features are increasingly of data on the vehicle and how it is it?’ It is getting under the skin of how becoming standard, such as driver aids, being driven. the operation works [and bringing] a like lane departure warning, lane keeping “Embracing the technology is the next consultative sell approach and ensuring assist and adaptive cruise control with city epoch moment for us and that’s what we the system can be exploited – and braking, Cutts says. are helping customers with right now – we what’s coming in the future – to help the “We don’t foresee fully autonomous need to put them in a place where they can customer beat their competition.” commercial vehicles for some years yet, see a tangible business benefit [of using it],” Neill adds that it is a similar task for however there will be many advances Neill says. salespeople to convince operators to
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER > DECEMBER 2019 27 VANS AND LCVS
invest in electric vehicles. “Those who the heavier ones. There is a demand for Capacity questions sells vans need to change their approach those as you can put more in them. to ensure there is the take-up of electric “There is a frustration that the big Charging electric vehicles is another area vehicles that the government wants – and names haven’t got their vans to market of worry for FTA members, according to a that operators get the most out of the yet and those that have, have very long survey they organisation conducted in the technology on their vehicles.” delivery times.” summer, Beedell added. While there have been early adopters of But Beedell has sympathy with the “A lot of members want to do the right electric vehicles and connected vehicles, the manufacturers, noting that the UK is thing, it is part of their CSR [corporate key is ensuring that the mass market come something of a niche market – “our steering social responsibility] commitments, a lot on board too – which is something sales wheel is on the wrong side” – and there of larger operators want to be seen to be teams of all brands are working on. are huge demands from other areas of the leading on this, but they equally recognise “Their concerns are [often] about world, particularly the Far East. there is a very big challenge from running batteries and we have to help clients to What this does mean is that demand a successful trial of 10 vehicles or less to overcome that and reassure them what is still strong for Euro-6 vehicles and will upgrading a fleet of 500 to electric, not least we can do if something happens,” Neill be until the supply of electric vans has because of grid capacity. says. “We have taken the decision with our significantly increased. “There are technologies out there such as electric proposition to mainstream it – it This lag in time of introducing electric battery storage and other techniques and will be like-for-like with diesel, so it will vans onto the market could have a knock- processes to help charge more vehicles. But have the same support package, warranty, on effect of delaying the time it takes to if you are operating in cities, particularly mobile van – if you run out of power we achieve air quality objectives, Beedell notes. London, you run into space issues. will come out free of charge and get you to “Decisions are being made [by] operators “If your vehicles need to be charged the nearest safe charging location. We are in London or other areas where clean air overnight because they are busy all day they trying to overcome the reasons to say no zones are being planned on vehicles coming have to be at the depot plugged in – it’s not right at the outset.” to the end of their life cycle. If they need like queuing up at the petrol pump. It’s a He’s also careful to note that electric to replace their vehicle now, it might be huge ask if you need to upgrade your grid vehicles may not be right for every operator another five to seven years before they buy supply – I have heard £100,000 quoted but – and the salesperson has to be honest with again so… this could have an impact on air it depends on the number of vehicles. the customer and say that. quality objectives around the country.” “If you’re the one who needs the upgrade, “It is recognising that the customer needs Another reason for the reticence you pay for it 100% – even if other people to come first,” he says. “They might want an in buying electric vehicles is that the benefit from the substation upgrade – and electric vehicle but if it isn’t right for them, technology is still developing – some it’s an asset you can’t take with you. Bigger we can’t take the order. operators are wary of getting stuck with companies are reluctant to do it, as it “Certain applications mean that diesel early generation technology and find it doesn’t look good on the balance sheet.” is appropriate but as an OEM we need to is superseded quickly. “That’s always the Beedell adds that the FTA is calling for a make sure we have programmes to help dilemma for early adopters,” she says. fairer and more equitable way to strengthen shift customers from older, less efficient, “Once greater mileage comes in, it will grid capacity so it works in our cities for more polluting vehicles into cleaner fleets.” be more useful for vehicles operating in everyone who wants to go down this route. areas where there are not necessarily a “Decarbonisation is a government policy, Supply issues great number of on-street chargers or more but we feel it is wrong for industry to remote areas or rural areas.” entirely foot the bill for this.” Despite this, some operators are frustrated by supply issues of electric vehicles across various marques, according to Denise Beedell, head of van policy at the Freight Transport Association (FTA). “[Our members say] availability is still a big problem and there aren’t enough models, especially at the heavy end,” she says. “In the 1-2 tonne van sector, which are usually car derived, there are more electric models available and there is an abundance of panel vans, but it is the other types of van Vans plugged into charging points are set to become a familiar sight vehicles that are in short supply as well as
28 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER
NEWS FROM THE NORTH
were the only method used to assess THE TRUCK ADVOCATE brake performance on all inspections, this would be considered inadequate. Traffic Commissioners, Kevin Rooney
GRT is a transport and training organisation specialising in road transport in particular, have been vocal about legislation and regulation, offering a range of operator licence compliance ‘meaningful’ testing in recent times. An services, advising on a number of issues, and operating across Scotland empty, unladen vehicle presented for test and the north of England. rarely provides much valuable insight to In conjunction with Transport News, GRT presents this regular Q&A column its full braking capability. dealing with compliance and legislation issues relating to road haulage. Readers Some maintenance providers partially who have any queries can call 0141 237 6950, visit www.grtconsultants.com or post questions on our Facebook page, @GRTConsultants. load vehicles where possible before performing brake tests. The extra weight gives a better indication of how Q We have recently taken Q We recently purchased a new well the vehicle would stop in everyday possession of new vehicles, vehicle which was then resprayed. use. It also prevents vehicles from passing some of which are fitted with Smart It was identified when the vehicle the test simply because all wheels have Tachographs. However, with one returned that the tachograph ‘locked’, something far likelier vehicle, we have so far been unable calibration plaque had been removed. when unladen. to download the head. Is there What must we do? Inspection of the braking system is a any difference in the download crucial part of a safety check and if it is procedure? Tachograph recalibration would not being carried out to a sufficient level A be required in the event that the must be addressed as a matter of priority. Various download equipment plaque is missing. If operators experience problems with A suppliers have started to offer braking performance either at annual test ‘upgrades’ to existing tools in order to Q Our fleet of vehicles are inspected or during roadworthiness inspections, be compatible with Smart Tachographs. by a mobile mechanic who the Traffic Commissioner may take This is because the new units include attends our yard to carry out regulatory action. a new data field; Global Navigation inspections. We have noted that since Satellite System (GNSS), which monitors a new fitter has been completing our Q I operate a fleet of vans and the vehicle’s location at the start, end inspections that no brake testing occasionally we hitch up to a and throughout daily use. More detailed information is listed on the reports. small trailer to transport small pieces information on faults and events are also Is this satisfactory? of plant. One of my vehicles was recorded. The first port of call should be to recently stopped by the police and my the manufacturer of your download tool. Every safety inspection must driver was advised that he should be The way in which you perform A assess the braking performance using a tachograph. He also suggested downloads will not change although of the vehicle. It is strongly advised that an operator licence may be needed. the new units do allow for remote a calibrated roller brake tester is used Could you advise? downloading. Additional hardware/ at each safety inspection to measure software will be required to do this. individual brake performance and overall Provided the vehicle combination DVLA confirmed that company braking efficiency. A when towing the trailer is over 3.5 cards issued from early 2019 would It can also be acceptable to use an tonnes, and being used for a commercial be fully compatible with the new units approved, calibrated decelerometer to purpose, then a tachograph would be and that currently issued cards should test vehicles to overall brake efficiency required and drivers’ hours complied with work with the software. However, there values. Any printout should be attached when coupled to the trailer. would appear to be some occasions to the safety inspection record or if this is If you are using a vehicle with a gross where this has not been the case; in not possible, the information should be weight of less than 3,500kg and this event, a replacement card may recorded on the report. are towing a small trailer with an be required. The absolute bare minimum as far unladen weight of less than 1,020kg, you If the issue is only affecting one as brake testing goes would be to carry will be exempt from operator licencing vehicle, it would be recommended out a road test in controlled and safe unless you are operating for hire or to return the vehicle to the dealer conditions, and annotating the brake reward. In this example, you are moving for assessment at an Approved performance section of the report with your own equipment, therefore you Tachograph Centre. ‘road test only’. That said, if road tests would be exempt.
30 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER NEWS FROM THE NORTH ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN
Domestic UK breakdowns are handled through the VAS centre at Rugby.
Action Stations! From a humble start in Britain, Volvo Action Service is now a global operation and Brian Weatherley discovers the Volvo Group’s Uptime Solutions operation in Gent is about more than just roadside rescue.
t’s four o’clock in the maker’s Gent assembly plant which builds look after.” And not just Europe either. morning. You’re hoping FM, FMX and FH. Gent’s VAS customer base includes I to make an early start. VAS is just one part of the Group Truck Morocco, Turkey and southern Africa. You turn the key in the Operations’ ‘Uptime Centre’ which not ignition… nothing. Who are you going only provides 24-hour pan-European SPEAKING FOUR LANGUAGES to call? Ghostbusters? International breakdown and technical support to Rescue? If you’re a UK or Irish Volvo Volvo truck and bus operators, but Why based in Belgium? When the customer the easy to remember number also Renault Trucks’ ‘24/7’ back-up decision was taken to set up a pan- for Volvo Action Service (freephone by service, with the latter using the same IT European call centre (based on the the way) wherever you are is 0800 92 92 infrastructure and call handlers. original and successful template first 92. Likewise, other countries have their The remarkably efficient system created in 1990 by Volvo Trucks in the own national number to call, regardless removes the need for separate breakdown UK) it was the obvious location. Paul of where the truck is. Alternatively, if teams for both brands as Paul Martin, Martin again: “Most people spoke four you’re driving an FM, FH or FH16 you’ll director of Uptime Solutions, explains: languages and that’s really why we’re here. probably just press the handy ‘VAS On- “The system tells us who’s calling in In Belgium, speaking foreign languages Call’ button beside the steering wheel (see and our operators will see that on their is something they learn at an early age. tint box) and you’re already half way home. screens.’ Thus, depending, on the I have to be honest, some of them speak Today, all the truck chassis manufacturers brand, the handler will answer ‘VAS’ better English than me!” For the record, offer their own unique breakdown service. or ‘Renault 24/7’. English is now not only the common In the case of the Volvo Group, its main “We’re handling all the queries for language between VAS teams Volvo Action Service (VAS) call centre is all the Volvo Group brands,” adds Paul. for case logging, but also within the based in Belgium at the Swedish truck ‘There isn’t anywhere in Europe we don’t Volvo Group.
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OPERA will ensure a quick update to operators on VAS attendance.
Gent operates in parallel with Volvo’s park-up so we see calls dropping off,” UK VAS centre in Rugby whose phone he confirms. team handles all UK/Irish domestic Over the past 30 years operator breakdown calls operating 24/7. Rugby’s expectations for VAS have significantly also home to a VAS ‘International South changed reports Paul. “Today, 25% of all Region’ team who, working in harmony VAS calls aren’t actually breakdowns… with their opposite numbers in Gent, it’s customers looking for support. In provides cover for the French, Spanish particular, the Eastern Europeans have and Italian customers broken down in driven it.” their own markets from 06:00 to 23:00 With vehicle uptime all important it’s Monday to Friday. Outside those hours, not unusual for Volvo’s Eastern European when there isn’t enough work to justify customers to use VAS to book their trucks two separate teams, all calls are answered in for a service, or to sort minor damage or Paul Martin: Operators are driving by Gent, although a driver with a broken a fault code query, at a dealer in another new additions to VAS. down truck wouldn’t notice any difference. country, thereby keeping them on the move. It’s what Paul Martin calls a ‘virtual “Technically the truck’s still mobile,” Today, that original four language operation’, and he adds there are no says Paul, “But these people don’t want ‘competence’ has grown to an impressive 19. hard and fast rules as the flexibility of to be planning services. It’s pretty much And the weirdest one is? Actually, says Paul, the VAS system allows calls to be routed like Kwik-Fit. They want to drive in and it’s Finnish. “We employ Finnish speakers between different teams during busy drive out anywhere there’s a dealer.” But because we’re committed to providing 24/7 times to ensure maximum efficiency and is that really the purpose of VAS? Paul coverage. Our challenge is to find Swedish limit delays in answering calls, as well remains pragmatic. “They’re maximising and Finnish (speakers) together.” as ensuring full liaison with the local their uptime and we’ve invested in service Meanwhile, IT also helps overcome repairing dealer. The busiest time for planning and getting these vehicles into the language difficulties. “We have automation VAS breakdown calls is between 05:00 workshops so the dealership should be able that can translate in the case logging tool… and 06:00 when the working day begins. to plan for VAS and their regular work.” we’ve moved on from 30 years ago when it Thereafter, at around 19:00 to 20:00 it It’s not just stranded drivers who use could be a headache,” he says. starts to wind down “As trucks start to Gent or Rugby to sort out problems.
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Paul Martin explains: “Instead of the technician arriving at the scene then spending 10 minutes trying to make a phone call to say they’ve arrived, they can now hit the app and ‘boom’ it, which automatically updates our system, so a customer can see ‘Oh he’s arrived’ and doesn’t need to ring us.” OPERA is currently being rolled out through the dealer network, but the plan is to extend its application to VAS customers so drivers can track the progress of a breakdown van to them on a smart phone, thus making the usual call: ‘Where is he… and how soon before he gets here?’ redundant. Ultimately, VAS is all about supporting Volvo Group customers with whatever problem they have. “Every call is important to us,” VAS offering 24/7 coverage throughout Europe asserts Paul. “Each operator treats every call as ‘unique’ from the and beyond. start.” Around 95% of the 75% of ‘normal’ breakdowns involve a common component failure. But you do get odd-balls. “VAS is also the out of hours support for parts,” explains Paul. “I remember one case where we had a circus truck breakdown “So if somebody (e.g. a dealer) needs a part at two o’clock in the with lions in the back and we asked the technician to take some morning they ring us.” Again, it’s just another part of the service, meat out with him to feed the lions. We didn’t actually ask and as long as it’s not abused he won’t refuse a call for help. “If him to feed them though! Actually our coordinators love those there’s really a genuine breakdown we’ll not decline a request, cases because they’re a break from the norm.” Hungry lions we’re customer orientated.” notwithstanding, VAS clearly isn’t only about breakdowns. Talking to Paul Martin it becomes apparent that our perception “The perception of what it is, is different to what it actually is… of VAS, purely as a ‘breakdown’ service, is well wide of the mark. and what it will become,” insists Paul Martin. Many of the additional services it offers, like its ‘Standard Towing Assistance’ and ‘Towing Assistance Extended’ programmes, are in response to customer requests to gain better control on towing costs from third party contractors. Paul says: “It’s like an insurance policy. You pay X-amount per chassis and we guarantee we’ll handle it.” Along with towing it can include load protection, jump starts, repatriation and any damage caused by the recovery. Currently, Towing Assistance and Towing Assistance Extended are available in every European market except the UK. Why not us? Paul simply says “Not in the UK… yet.”
WE SAID ‘YES’
Meanwhile, the scope of VAS customer services continues to grow. In the event of a driver involved in a bad smash suffering serious injury, or worse being killed, VAS can even assist in their repatriation. “We have a set-up with an organisation that we will contact and then they’ll handle it,” says Paul. And there’s more. “We had a case recently where a customer had a truck breakdown in France and the French dealer they were recovered to was selling a used truck. The customer said ‘I know you’ve fi xed my breakdown, but I want to buy that truck, can you organise payment?’ And we said yes.” With the nature of communications ever changing, VAS is introducing new methods of contacting dealers and liaising with customers using its latest OPERA system, short for Operating Platform Excellence Roadside Assistance. Based on new e-service and smart phone apps, OPERA allows a faster exchange of information on location and breakdown status.
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“Running a call centre was not part of our expertise at the time. We had no experience, no infrastructure, no personnel, everything had to be created from scratch.” With mobile phones and email still in their infancy Greg and his colleagues had to rely on then ‘cutting edge’ technology including land line phones, telex, fax machines and video disc mapping. On 1 July 1990 at 01:00 the first customer call to Action Service Europe was taken by Peter Bryant, who still works at the UK VAS call centre today, since it relocated to Rugby, which handles some 30,000 calls a year. Before long, the Warwick call centre was fielding thousands of calls and customers with feedback from drivers and operators extremely It Started here first positive. Impressed by what the Brits had created, in 1993 Volvo he original Action Service “It was very ad hoc and we needed Trucks opened a new, much expanded T Europe breakdown was something more professional,” recalls European breakdown call centre, launched in 1990 by Volvo Greg Williams, the man tasked with Volvo Action Service, in Gent, Belgium. Trucks in Warwick which had previously setting up the first in-house service. Today, VAS is part of Uptime used third party repair and recovery Today, Greg is product marketing Solutions, serving all the Volvo contractors for domestic breakdowns manager within Volvo Group Trucks at Group Truck Operations, employing while international back-up was Warwick, however, he remembers the up to 140 staff speaking 19 different handled by dedicated individuals within enormous challenges of creating an in- languages, working around the clock each market working informally. house service. in Rugby and Gent.
VAS On Call – Rescue At The Touch Of A Button
olvo FM, FH and FH16 chassis as well as current location and possible V built since 2012 have a VAS call fault codes. button located next to the steering The information is then passed on to column. Once pressed, it uses a built-in the nearest repairing Volvo dealer. After SIM card and a mobile phone network making initial contact the conversation to automatically connect the driver to with the driver may then switch to a Volvo Action Service, for UK registered mobile phone or landline, allowing trucks it will be the VAS Uptime Centre multiple stake holders to be involved in in Rugby, with voice communication, the repair or recovery conversation.
34 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER PEOPLE
PEOPLE
ast-growing Cambridge- based commercial vehicle company Marshall Fleet F Solutions (MFS) has continued its plan to expand its sales team with the arrival of temperature-controlled industry specialist Steve Strong as parts sales manager. In his new role at MFS, Steve is responsible for the ‘over-the-counter’ sales of spare parts and accessories, reporting directly to MFS sales director, Michael Kane. Strong is the latest in a series of additional appointments within the new look sales team at MFS, and joins the company from manufacturer Connexas Group, formerly Seven Telematics. Prior to Connexas he spent many years in a senior sales role at Carrier Transicold. “With a long and successful career within the UK temperature controlled transport industry, Steve will further strengthen the expanding customer-focused sales team here at MFS, bringing with him his in-depth knowledge of the commercial vehicle aftermarket, including TK spare Steve Strong parts,” said Kane.
ommercial vehicle contract organisation. The only leasing organisation hire, rental and maintenance I would ever work for is Ryder.” C services provider Ryder has Reporting to John Murray, Ryder’s appointed Phil Ashton as business sales and marketing director, Ashton development director. is focusing on business growth, Ashton joins Ryder from trailer predominantly targeting large lease manufacturer Montracon, where he was accounts for Ryder. sales and marketing director. “We’re delighted to have Phil back on The appointment sees Ashton return board, it means a lot to the company to his old stomping ground - prior to to have someone of Phil’s experience in joining Montracon, he spent 17 years as such a key role,” said Murray. Ryder’s head of area sales. “Recruiting senior salespeople with “I’m delighted to be returning to Ryder,” the right experience can be difficult, so said Ashton. “I’ve recently been working hiring Phil removes any risk and gives us in a capital sales environment but was an industry heavyweight who can hit the Phil Ashton keen to return to a rental and leasing ground running.”
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cania (Great Britain) Apprentice of the Year from each of the The winners received a Scania Ltd has announced three year groups in Scania’s Heavy Vehicle Apprentice of the Year trophy to be the winners of its 2019 Technician Apprenticeship programme. displayed at their dealership as well S Apprentice of the Year as an all-expenses paid trip to the competition, an event The winners were: Scania headquarters in Sweden to designed to test, recognise and reward Year 1: Jack Roffe, Scania visit the production line and spend the skills of its top performing (Great Britain) Ltd – Boston time sightseeing in Stockholm, hosted by apprentice technicians. Year 2: Alexander Myers, Scania technical training manager Dean Rippon. The annual contest is open to all Scania (Great Britain) Ltd – Lincoln apprentices across its UK dealership The full list of finalists at Scania Year 3: Jake Berry, Scania Apprentice of the Year 2019 were: network. Apprentices reached the final (Great Britain) Ltd – Maidstone following nominations based on their Year 3: Jake Berry, Scania aptitude and attitude, behaviour in the Martin Hay, managing director of Scania (Great Britain) Ltd – Maidstone dealership and performance on block (Great Britain) Ltd, said: “Apprenticeships Wesley Davies, Keltruck – Caldicot release, together with feedback from their have long represented a key investment James Dauncey, Keltruck – Cardiff manager and their development coach from for the future of Scania. We are delighted training partner, Remit Group. to have been able to reward this group Kai Pugh, Keltruck – Coventry Following nominations drawn from with Scania Apprentice of the Year awards, Year 2: Alexander Myers, Scania the pool of 243 apprentices currently in which demonstrate their commitment to (Great Britain) Ltd – Lincoln training with Scania, four individuals from developing their knowledge and skill base, Kieran Williams-Denton, each of the three apprentice year groups as well as displaying the attitudes and Haydock Commercial Vehicles Ltd were invited to attend the Scania Training behaviours needed to become technicians of – Preston Centre in Loughborough to complete their the highest quality. Jacob Bell, Scania (Great Britain) Ltd final practical tests. The day involved six “While our congratulations go to all – Dumfries hours of assessment, focusing on three our finalists and winners, I would especially Robert Sandiford, Scania (Great Britain) practical tasks and one knowledge-based like to mention Jake Berry, who has now Ltd – Bridgwater test developed in-line with the apprentice won the event three years in a row, and Year 1: Sam Sheers, Keltruck – Hereford technicians’ progress, development and Alexander Myres, who is celebrating his daily duties while on programme. The second victory in the competition – these Jack Roffe, Scania (Great Britain) Ltd cumulative scores from each task then are truly outstanding and thoroughly – Boston determined who would be crowned deserved achievements. Well done to both.” Shaun Huggins, Pip Bayleys – Bedford
36 DECEMBER 2019 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER PEOPLE
Tim Thornton Thomas Hilse sset Alliance Group has veco has appointed “Thomas brings a very strong track strengthened its presence in Thomas Hilse as its new record in the commercial vehicle business A the bus and coach sector by I brand president. In this and vast international management acquiring Valley Finance, with owner role, he will take on global experience, which will be valuable in and director Tim Thornton joining the product management, sales, marketing steering the future success of the Iveco bus and coach division’s senior team. and network development responsibility brand around the world.” Thornton has more than 30 years’ for the Iveco brand, tasked with building Thomas joins Iveco having spent 22 experience in asset finance, including on the company’s position and expanding years in the commercial vehicle industry providing funding for some of the its presence in the world markets. through various international management UK’s major bus and coach operators. Gerrit Marx, president, Commercial positions for different brands in Europe, He set up Valley Finance in 2004. and Specialty Vehicles, said: “We are NAFTA, Latin America and Southeast Asia. It is believed the move makes very pleased to welcome Thomas into His roles have covered everything Asset Alliance Group the largest our organisation. He joins us at a from sales and business development, to independent funder in the bus and momentous time in our history, when customer service and product planning, coach sector, providing support with we have just launched our new Daily reaching the position of CEO. He studied all aspects of leasing and finance. light commercial vehicle range and the mechanical engineering and business Willie Paterson, CEO of Asset Iveco Way range with the new Iveco S-Way administration at university and holds an Alliance Group, said: “We are excited heavy-duty truck. MA in international relations. about joining forces with Valley Finance and this is an important next step for the Group. “Our team has known Tim for many tephen Whitcombe has been considerable success over the past year years and by combining our skills and appointed head of brand for as we accelerate into 2020.” experience we have strengthened our S Pro+ Commercial Vehicles for Whitcombe started his career in position as an outstanding specialist Groupe Renault UK. Whitcombe’s 1998 when he joined Groupe Renault funder. Our bus and coach division, promotion follows a year in a regional UK as a graduate trainee having led by Michael Bycroft, now has director role for the Groupe, before gained a degree in management huge potential to broaden its product which he spent three years as head studies from the University of portfolio and service offering.” of Total Customer Experience, Bradford. He started out as a The latest deal comes three years Network Engagement. controller in the Sales Finance & after Asset Alliance Group first “I’m delighted to become head of Network Motivation Programmes secured a foothold in the bus and brand at such an exciting time for before moving across to the Renault- coach sector by acquiring Forest Pro+ Commercial Vehicles,” said Nissan Alliance for two years. He Asset Finance. Whitcombe. “Not only have we just returned to Renault Groupe in 2004, Thornton said: “The team at Asset launched New Master and New Trafic, rising through the management ranks Alliance Group share my values Renault continues to lead the way with in sales and marketing, customer and principles, so this is a fantastic its range of all-electric ZE products, experience and network quality and opportunity for us to grow the from the Twizy Cargo through to training, before taking his most overall bus and coach business, while the New Master ZE. We are looking recent role as regional director maintaining business as usual for my forward to building on the division’s in January 2019. existing client base.”
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