Volume 3. No. 1. Autumn 2011

IRELAND’S FOREMOST JOURNAL FOR GREEN TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT

GREEN FLEET MANAGEMENT - A SUPPLEMENT TO FLEET TRANSPORT

Renault Z.E.Affordable Electric Motoring

From Concept to Reality:-

GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 3

www.fl eet.ie

4 NewsEvent: Natural Gas Vehicles Conference • DHL’s Baywatching! • EV record attempt by Toyota Motorsport • VW eCaddy on trial • Low CO2 Roadmap • Merc B-Class F-CELL out on the runway • Audi A8 Hybrid planned

6 InterviewBMW Service Inclusive offerings discussed with Paul Murray

8 Launch PadAll-new Opel Ampera

9 On TrialMini E rolls out!

10 AwardsGreen Commercial of the Year Award 2012 – The Contenders

11 CoverRenault’s Zero Emission range explored

15 TestOn board the Lexus CT 200h

16 PreviewPremiers at the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show @ IAA

17 SustainabilityFord’s drive to hybrid and electric power

18 EconovationVolvo Trucks put FE Hybrid out on the fi eld

22 Go GreenerThe merits of Natural Gas (CNG)

contents Autumn 2011

With new generation eco-friendly and Run-Flat Tyres, surprising concepts in development and a new range

of winter tyres, Bridgestone’s focus at the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show at the IAA is fi rmly fi xed on the future.

Th ree separate zones on the 284m2 stand (Hall 8) show visitors the main elements of Bridgestone’s future strategy: ecology, innovation and reliability.

The left-hand side of the stand presents Bridgestone’s ecology solutions. Representing the expanding line-up of Ecopia tyres, Bridgestone Ecopia EP150 is displayed fi tt ed on the all-electric Nissan LEAF, Car of the Year 2011. A supporting display explains how Bridgestone’s unique NanoPro-Tech™ technology reduces rolling resistance without sacrifi cing grip.

In the middle of the stand, a special innovation zone displays key projects in development: the exciting new “Half Weight” concept tyre; and an innovative CAIS (Contact Area Information Sensing) system that measures tyre strains during rotation. Echoing the 2011 IAA signature, the future “comes as standard” on the Bridgestone stand.

Th e right-hand zone of the stand highlights Bridgestone’s leadership in areas of reliability, illustrated by latest generation Bridgestone Run-Flat Tyres with new heat-controlling technology which off er the same level of comfort as standard tyres. Revealed at the IAA is Bridgestone Potenza S001 RFT, the fi rst RFT for the replacement market incorporating this new technology.

Next to the Run-Flats, Bridgestone unveils its comprehensive new range of winter tyres, including the new Bridgestone A001 Weather Control tyre for regions with mild, wet winters. A DSV (German Ski Association) - branded Audi Q5 fi tt ed with Bridgestone Blizzak LM-80 tyres signals Bridgestone’s determination to support and further strengthen its growing winter tyre business by tying in as sponsor for most of the World Cup Alpine Ski events in 2011/2012.

Bridgestone looks to the future at the 64th IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Fleet Van &

Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer &

Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime/Green Fleet

Management are published by JJDS Pub-

lications Ltd.

Registered Offi ce: D’Alton Street,

Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Co. Reg. 368767

Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Disclaimer: Fleet Transport Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Transport management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers.The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specifi c matter.

Green Fleet Management,

D’Alton Street, Claremorris,

Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826

Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571

Email: green@fl eet.ie

ISSN: 1649-9433

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

Contributors:

Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten

Photography:

Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten

Administration:

Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey, Helen Maguire.

Advertising:

Mary Morrissey, Orla Sweeney.

Design: Eamon Wynne

4 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011

NEWS 1

Electric vehicle record attempt for Toyota Motorsport GmbH

At the time of going to press, Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) will have att emped to set a new electric vehicle

(EV) lap record at the legendary 20.832km Nürburgring Nordschleife. TMG has developed a high-performance 280kW electric powertrain which uses two electric motors and thereby form the basis of the record att empt, which was scheduled for the end of August. Th e TMG 100% electric car, which is based on a two-seater sportscar chassis fi tt ed with TMG’s exclusive EV technology, has a top speed of 260km/h and can travel from 0 to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds. It weighs just 970kg. Th is car is ideal for a single-make electric motorsport EV championship and TMG aims to prove that green-thinking motorsport can generate emotion among fans by using innovative technology to deliver high performance.

Its challenge is to break the existing EV lap record of 9min 1.338secs set earlier this year. Already the TMG electric powertain has bett ered this time during unoffi cial testing and it is expected to make a signifi cant improvement during the offi cial timed laps.

Rob Leupen,

TMG’s Director of Business

Operations, said: “We are extremely confi dent we can break the record by some distance,

which is an indication of how EV performance is continuously improving. TMG is a leader in high-performance powertrains and we want to show the world how far this technology has developed. Our mission is to advance this technology, not only in motorsport but in the

automotive sector in general, to deliver products with more performance and bett er durability for our customers.” Ludwig Zeller, TMG’s General Manager Electrics and Electronics, said: “TMG has developed a very robust and reliable electric powertrain, which has been proven in several products already. We have built up

a tremendous amount of knowledge about such high-performance powertrains,

particularly batt ery management systems and vehicle control units, during our development programmes. Our lap record att empt brings together this knowledge and it should clearly show the great potential of high-performance electric powertrains.”

A Conference entitled ‘Fuelling Ireland’s

Tra n spor t Fut u re’ is dedicated to the energy and transport industries with a focus on promoting Natural Gas as a transport fuel. With the availability of Natural Gas from the Corrib fi elds, the Conference hosted by SEAI - Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland - sees this energy source going beyond power generating, heating and cooking.

Natural Gas or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as it’s known in the transport industry, is extensively used all over the world with an estimated 13 million CNG powered vehicles in operation. In Europe, fl eet managers of trucks and buses are increasingly looking to CNG when seeking to reduce fuel costs and reduce vehicle emissions. There are signifi cant environmental, commercial and health benefi ts to using natural gas as a transport fuel. It will be interesting to hear, if any from the event, what fi nancial incentives will be available to potential purchasers

in relation to what’s provided in certain European countries.

Th e Natural Gas Vehicles Conference, to be held at Croke Park on 17 November, is free to att end. It will examine the benefi ts of CNG as a viable alternative transport fuel and explores the potential for developing the NGV market in Ireland. Delegates will hear from international experts in the NGV sector, as well as local speakers, who will discuss how NGVs could be developed in Ireland.Register on time : www.ngvireland.com

Diary Date: Natural Gas Vehicles ConferenceWhere: Croke Park, Dublin When: 17th November 2011

In l i ne w it h i t s c or por ate environmental

policy, DHL Global F o r w a r d i n g h a s s t re n g t he ne d i t s GoGreen programme by raising continuous awareness on the topic and mobilising employees. More than 30 DHL Global Forwarding staff volunteers joined with Fingal County Council to undertake an extensive clean-up of the beaches on the North Dublin coastline during the Summer.

Th is clean up complemented and repeated last year’s successful partnership between DHL

and the Council in cleaning up Broadmeadow Estuary, covering 10 beaches stretching from Balbriggan to Portmarnock. DHL volunteers and Fingal staff completed the tidy-up working alongside local participants from local community groups, schools and members of the public.“Once again, we were delighted with the

positive reaction of the DHL team to this GoGreen initiative. We were successful last year in cleaning up the Estuary and we felt it was important to stretch our targets to cover a greater area this year,” explained Maurice Meade, Managing

Director of DHL Global Forwarding. “Th e results are absolutely fantastic and a credit to everyone involved on the day,” the MD said. “I am delighted that we were able to work with Fingal County Council to support the conservation of our beaches and we hope to continue in our volunteer work in this area,” he added.

DHL Global Forwarding teams up and cleans up!

GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 5

NEWS 11

On the Stuttgart Runway with Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Heavy Goods Vehicles contribute around 20% of overall domestic transport greenhouse gas emissions

in the U.K. Research conducted by the UK’s Department for Transport (DoT) has shown that the most signifi cant emissions saving from road freight will come from use of lower emission technologies such as hybrid and electric powertrains and alternative fuels (biomethane and compressed Natural

Gas). A long-term strategy aimed at helping manufacturers of commercial vehicles and construction equipment move to low carbon solutions has been published by the Automotive Council established by industry stakeholders backed by Government. The Roadmap is the fi rst to be published in Europe with this level of detail and outlines the drivers and timescales of technology development across the sector from delivery vans to bulldozers.

Th ese technologies include hybridisation, more effi cient Рowertrains and alternative fuels.

The Roadmap will be a useful tool in determining research priorities as well as helping vehicle manufacturers and the supply chain draft long-term business plans.

More details on www.automotivecouncil.co.uk.

From now on, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL with its distinctive black and yellow livery will be guiding

aircraft around the runways. With an output of 136 hp and a top speed of 170 km/h, this emission-free car is a true leader in its fi eld, and not only of the planes at the airport. At the hydrogen fi lling station that was opened on the airport campus in 2009, the “follow me” vehicle

can be refuelled with hydrogen in less than three minutes, giving it a range of around 400 kilometres. “So, as you can see, we are keeping up with the latest technological de ve lopment s i n ground-based drive systems,” commented Wa lter Sc hoefer, Managing Director of the company operating the airport, Flughafen Stutt gart GmbH.

Th e everyday viability and technical advancement of fuel cell-powered electric vehicles was put to the test by Mercedes-Benz only recently in its F-CELL World Drive. Between late January and early June, three Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL vehicles drove around the world – covering a distance of more than 30,000 kilometres across four continents and through 14 countries. With this circumnavigation of the

globe, Daimler was also able to draw att ention to the need for a broad-based hydrogen infrastructure. As a catalyst for this process, the company will therefore be working with Linde AG to establish an initial 20 hydrogen refuelling stations.

Volkswagen Commercia l Vehicles and a number of partner companies have

signed a cooperation agreement to put an Electric-powered Caddy to everyday use. Th e aim of the two year trial in the Hanover region with the newly developed all-electric-powered Volkswagen Caddy prototype is to achieve CO2-free mobility with light commercial vehicle in urban environs.

“Th e testing of the purely electric powered Caddy for city services and delivery vehicles is an important milestone for the development of sustainable mobility in the light truck segment,” said Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, spokesman for the Board of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. “And clearly, we test the electrical Caddy in everyday practice standards in Hanover, at our traditional site, with powerful partners, which

are oriented and ecologically sustainable.”

According to Mr. Schreiber, 80 percent of light commercial vehicles using conventional combustion engines cover no more than 50 miles a day and met by frequent Stop & Go leading to relatively slow average speed of fi ve

kilometres per hour and a very high consumption, approximately 35 litres to 100 km. “A batt ery-powered vehicle, which will usually run during the day and at night go back to the socket, could be a much more economical solution,” he said.

Th e electric Caddy which has a range of 110 km, a load volume of 4.2 cubic metres and a payload of 500 kilograms, is therby a fully usable vehicle. “We want our partners impetus to the development of electrically driven, innovative light commercial vehicles to gain valuable experience on economic

aspects, such as operational expenses to collect these cars and jointly test the commercial use of the electric Caddy in the fi eld of city logistics. With CO2-free commercial vehicles, we increase the chances of local emission reduction considerably,” said Schreiber.

Electric Caddy goes on trial in Hanover, Germany

Consistently effi cient – the Audi A8 hybrid

The power of a six-cylinder model, the fuel consumption of a four-cylinder version - that’s the Audi

A8 hybrid which will be starting series production in 2012.

Its 2.0 TFSI petrol engine and an electric motor develop peak output of 180 kW (245 hp) and 480 Nm of torque. Average fuel consumption is below 6.4 liters per 100 km and the fl agship saloon can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h on electric power alone.

Low carbon future mapped out for HGVs

6 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fl eet.ie

INTERVIEW

W hile BMW cars are among the best in off ering the lowest CO2 emissions throughout its model range, once the purchase

is made (as with any car), a planned service and maintenance programme is imperative to ensure that the drivetrain runs as effi ciently as per the fi rst day it came out of the showroom.

A recent chat with Paul Murray, Director, BMW Aft ersales, led to a lengthy discussion about the innovative strategy in place under the BMW service banner. “BMW Ireland off ers a two-tier Service Inclusive pack to ensure BMW owners that their car will be maintained to the very highest standards by BMW Approved technicians. With a one-off payment, that is infl ation-proofed, the car can be covered for up to 5 years or 100,000 kilometres and can be transferred in the event of the car being sold on.” He continued to explain about the two distinct products available as part of BMW Service Inclusive. “Each product covers a diff erent range of items and is priced diff erently for each model. For example,” he said, “the entry level BMW Service Inclusive pack for the 3 Series costs €300 (including VAT) with the Service Inclusive Plus pack priced at €1,200. For the 5 Series (Saloon, Touring and GT) these packs are levelled at €400 and €1500 respectively. BMW’s Service Inclusive pack covers just that, the main service schedule with the ‘Plus’ includes the replacement of the fuel fi lter, brakes, clutch assembly and wiper blades if necessary – see separate table. If either of the packs are purchased within 60 days of the delivery of the new car, that subsidised rate remains. Th en a higher Aft ersales rate kicks-in. Service Inclusive can be purchased up until the

fi rst service has been carried out and the package will commence from the date of registration. In the case of the BMW 3 Series, the basic Service Inclusive pack increases to €850 moving on to €2,100 for the ‘Plus’ pack.”

“To date, since its inception in 2006, there has been an 80% take-up from customers, straight from collecting their new car,” explained Paul. In breaking down the percentages in terms of Basic versus Plus packs, it’s 55% - 45% at the moment with interest in the Plus pack gaining ground daily. “Th e focus primarily is off ering value for money, in that the customer can budget ownership costs for the inclusive period, without the worry of unexpected servicing costs. Bett er residuals are assured also,” he continued.

“We believe that every BMW should stay a BMW. Th at is why all work covered by BMW Service Inclusive will be carried out by a fully qualifi ed BMW Approved Technician who only uses genuine BMW parts with a 2 year unlimited warranty.”

In gett ing down to the knitt y-gritt y element of how it works, Paul explained that information is stored in the remote control key, BMW service staff can download the data to provide an accurate analysis of the parts subject to wear and ascertain the extent of which servicing is necessary.

Paul and his team are looking at ways to fi ne-tune the package on off er, taking into consideration the low years/high mileage owner and maybe include a tyre replacement programme also.

For those interested in Used BMWs, BMW Group Ireland has recently launched BMW Premium Selection Service Inclusive which can be purchased when you buy a Premium Selection Approved Used Car from a BMW Dealer. Sister brand MINI also has a similar aft ercare package termed ‘tlc’ which is priced at €250. MINI tlc covers 5 years or 80,000 kms and is also fully transferable in the event of the car being sold.

BMW Service Package Include Inclusive Inclusive PlusOil Service Yes YesCar Check & Standard Inspections Yes Yes

Microfi lter Yes YesRenew Spark Plugs Yes YesRenew Brake Fluid Yes YesFuel Filter No YesRenew Brake Pads/Discs No YesRenew Clutch assembly (if worn) No YesRenew Wiper Blades No Yes

Model At Registration Aft ersalesBMW Service Inclusive

BMW Service Inclusive Plus

BMW ServiceInclusive

BMW Service Inclusive Plus

1 Series €250 €900 €700 €1,8003 Series €300 €1,200 €850 €2,1005 Series €400 €1,500 €1,250 €2,6006 Series €500 €2,000 €1,250 €2,6007 Series €500 €2,000 €1,250 €2,600Ta

ble 2

– P

rice L

ists

Tabl

e 1 –

BM

W S

ervi

ce

Incl

usiv

e pac

ks

BMW Service Inclusive offers effi ciencies all-roundBMW Service Inclusive Terms and Conditions

1. For the applicable BMW Service Inclusive option: a) BMW Service Inclusive covers the cost of parts, labour and fl uids for the following scheduled service items: engine oil service, brake fl uid, air fi lter, micro fi lter, fuel fi lter (diesel models only) and spark plugs. Th ese items are covered from registration for a period of 5 years or 100,000 kms (whichever occurs sooner). b) BMW Service Inclusive Plus covers the cost of parts, labour and fl uids for the following scheduled service items: engine oil service, brake fl uid, air fi lter, micro fi lter, fuel fi lter (diesel models only) and spark plugs. It also covers the cost of the following maintenance items if required due to wear and tear: brake pads, brake discs, brake sensors, wiper blade rubbers and clutch. Th ese items are covered from registration for a period of 5 years or 100,000 kms (whichever occurs sooner).

2. Items not specifi cally mentioned above including but not limited to tyres, fl uid top ups between services and items requiring replacement or repair due to excessive wear and tear or misuse are not covered by BMW Service Inclusive or BMW Service Inclusive Plus.

3. Work carried out under the BMW Service Inclusive or Service Inclusive Plus programs will be indicated by the vehicle’s on-board computer and BMW guidelines. Work must be carried out in line with BMW service schedules and BMW repair instructions (copies of which are available on request) which may be updated or vary from time to time according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. BMW Service Inclusive and BMW Service Inclusive Plus are not valid on vehicles that have undergone any form of unapproved aft ermarket tuning or performance enhancement.

5. Servicing must be carried out at a BMW Service Authorised Workshop by BMW Approved Technicians as specifi ed in the Owner’s Manual.

6. BMW Service Inclusive and BMW Service Inclusive Plus are transferable to subsequent owners of the car but not transferable to another car.

7. Th e prices above are valid from January 2011 but BMW Group Ireland reserve the right to amend prices without notice.

8. Costs paid for BMW Service Inclusive and BMW Service Inclusive Plus are non refundable.

9. Th e prices quoted in this document are inclusive of VAT at 13.5%.

Smith Edison

Available in Van,Cab/Chassis andMini Bus version

Burlington Business Park,Tullamore, Co. Offaly.Tel: 057 9361488Email: sales@electricvehicles.ie www.electricvehicles.ie

7.5, 10 & 12 TonneGVW

Various Bodyoptions

Smith EdisonAlkè ATX

Sole Importers & Distributors of Smith & Alkè Electric Vehicles

Thursday 17 November 2011• Croke Park, Dublin

A conference exploring opportunities to reduce vehicle fuel costs and emissions

Natural Gas Vehicles

This conference will examine the potential of natural gas as a viable

alternative transport fuel. The conference will be of interest to all those

involved in fleet, vehicle and transport management.

To registerThe conference is free to attend. Places at the conference are limited and allocated on afirst-come, first-served basis. Online: www.ngvireland.com • Email: bookings@energyireland.ie • Tel: +353 (0) 1 661 3755

Supported by

8 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fl eet.ie

LAUNCH PAD

Opel Ampera -

Go Anywhere

Anytime

Electric Vehicle

FFrom its distinctive ‘boomerang’ headlamps, every aspect of the new Opel Ampera car has been designed with effi ciency in mind. It’s an electric

hybrid with a diff erence – revolutionary, sleek and practical. Th e Ampera is one of the most aerodynamic, energy-conserving vehicles to come onto the market.

Th e wheels of the Ampera are electrically driven at all times. A unique 16 kW lithium-ion batt ery pack feeds an advanced, 111 kW/150 hp electric drive unit to deliver between 40 and 80 km of pure electric operation with zero emissions – depending on terrain, driving technique and temperature – when fully charged. On the road, the Ampera’s Voltec electric propulsion system ensures lively performance and promises an impressive driving experience. Instant torque of 370 Nm enables zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around 9 seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h. Th e Ampera delivers nearly silent electric drive under batt ery power and a highly refi ned performance even in extend-range drive mode.

While independent research shows that the Ampera’s pure batt ery zero-emissions driving range is suffi cient to meet the daily needs of 80 percent of European drivers, it also provides a total driving range of more than 500 kilometers thanks to its range-extending gasoline engine. Th is is seamlessly engaged to generate electricity if and when the batt ery has reached its minimum state of charge.It is also a car that’s practical to use. The fi ve-door body format provides comfortable accommodation for four adults with fl at-folding rear seats.

Th e Opel Ampera is receiving enthusiastic reaction across the board. It has already been chosen as the winner of numerous awards by both the media and public. Opel’s EV is also electrifying thousands of ePioneers across Europe. Th ese are potential customers who were among the fi rst to take the Ampera for a test drive. Th ey are receiving exclusive information and services, together with a host of other benefi ts.

Over 5,000 potential customers have already joined the ePioneer community at www.opel-ampera.com. Opel expects Ampera sales in 2012 to reach around 10,000 units.

Th e electric drive unit, located under the bonnet alongside the 1.4 litre 86bhp petrol engine, consists of an electric traction motor, an electric generator/motor, and a planetary gear set that improves overall effi ciency by reducing the combined rotational speed of the electric motors. Unlike a conventional drivetrain, there are no step gears.

Opel expects that 90 percent of the time, drivers will select one of the two main driving modes: Normal and Sport. ‘Sport’ mode increases the sensitivity of the accelerator pedal. Th e unique T-shaped, 198 kg, 16 kWh (installed capacity) batt ery pack is positioned in the centre tunnel of the vehicle and protected by ultra high-strength

support rails. Th e Ampera is easy to recharge and comes equipped with a six metre long charging cable conveniently stowed in the boot. Using a standard 230V/16A power outlet, owners can fully recharge the batt ery in less than four hours and also program the charging time to take advantage of lower, off -peak electricity rates.

Th e interior of the Ampera refl ects the ground-breaking nature of its propulsion system. Replacing conventional instruments in front of the driver is the Driver Information Center (DIC), a reconfi gurable graphic display. Designed for maximum ease of use, the DIC is combined with a full-colour, touch-screen display in the top of the centre console, which is the primary interface for all infotainment, navigation, climate control, power use and charging functions.

In addition to the standard electronic climate control and radio with steering wheel controls,

a Bose® premium audio system is off ered together with a navigation system as an optional package. Th e Bose® Energy Effi cient Series sound system delivers a superior listening experience while consuming 50 percent less energy than a conventional audio system with similar performance.

The A mpera’s core body structure ensures outstanding crashworthiness and stiff ness. More than 50 crash tests at various speeds and angles were conducted in the

development of the Ampera’s safety systems, including front, side and rear impacts as well as rollovers.

A number of tests were also carried out to ensure the safety of the lithium-ion batt ery system, including its water tightness in wet or fl ooded road conditions. In an emergency, the batt ery pack can be easily disconnected by rescue services.

Pricing for Ireland is yet to be confi rmed, but Opel Ireland expects it to be in the region of €44,000.

ON TRIAL

U nderstanding how electric cars are driven in the real world has taken an important step

forward with the release of data from the MINI E fi eld trial in the UK. With 62 members of the public and 76 pool users running the batt ery-powered hatchbacks over two six-month periods, the Government-supported trial is the most in-depth of its kind.

A huge amount of data was collected electronically by data-loggers in the car and the home charging points, and also from extensive driver research carried out by Oxford Brookes University. Th e early fi ndings have already informed the development of the 2011 BMW ActiveE car, a four-seat car based on the BMW 1 Series Coupe, but the biggest benefi ciary will be the BMW i3, the fi rst purpose-built EV from the BMW Group, set for launch in 2013.

Th e trial discovered that everyday use of the electric MINIs didn’t radically diff er from the typical driving patt erns of a control group of drivers of conventionally powered cars in the same segment. In fact, the daily journey distance of 29.7 miles was slightly more than the 26.5 miles recorded by the control cars, a mix of MINI Coopers and BMW 116i models. Interestingly, the UK average daily distance driven for private cars overall is less than 25 miles. With information gathered by on-board data-loggers, the average single trip distance was recorded as 9.5 miles compared to the UK average of seven miles.

Four out of fi ve people reported that 80 percent of their trips could be done exclusively in the MINI E, and this increased to 90 per cent of users saying that with the addition of rear seats and a bigger boot, all their trips could have been done in the MINI E. 84 percent said that the severe low temperatures during both phases of the fi eld trial aff ected the distance that could be driven between charges, but despite that, four out of fi ve participants told the researchers they thought the MINI E was suitable for winter use.

Given the daily driven distance of just under 30 miles, the drivers felt confi dent enough not to have to charge their MINI E every night. In fact, the average was 2.9 times a week according to information fed back via electricity smart metres, with special night-time tariff s successfully encouraging individual drivers to charge when it was cheapest, which coincided with a low demand period and a greater proportion of renewable energy in the grid mix.

9 out of 10 drivers told the researchers that charging actually suited their daily routine, with 81 percent agreeing with the statement “I prefer to plug in the car than go to a fuel station”. Th e running cost-savings were appreciated by users, with one participant telling researchers the thing she’d miss most was: “the money I will have to start paying for fuel again!”

Most charged at home, with 82 percent using their wall-mounted charging box 90 percent of the time. Th e lack of a comprehensive public charging infrastructure in the UK was noted, with four out of fi ve participants (82 percent) saying they thought that it was “essential” that a network of charging points was established. However, almost three quarters (72 percent) said they were able to use their car perfectly adequately right now as they had access to private charging.

Asked about their driving experience, the trialists were full of praise. Every single one enjoyed the quietness. And they all agreed with the statement: “electric vehicles are fun to drive.” Th e reason was partly down to the “fast pick-up and quick acceleration” of the 204hp 2-seater MINI. One even went so far to say it was “absolutely the best car I have ever driven”.

Driving efficiently to extend the range was seen as part of the

enjoyment. Understanding that use of the regenerative braking could

increase the range by approximately 15 percent, three quarters of the users (74 percent)

agreed with the statement that it was “a game for me to use the regenerative braking in a way that enables me to reach my destination without draining the batt ery.”

Asked by the Oxford Brookes University researchers for suggestions to deal with the potential danger from the low noise at low speeds, over half (56 percent) said that instead of an artifi cial noise, the driver should pay more att ention. However just over a quarter (28 per cent) said they’d like to have a warning noise below 12.5mph.

96 per cent said they’d consider buying an electric car as a result of taking part, and 51 percent revealed they would pay a third more for an EV. A third said they’d consider taking the plunge within a year, while 55 percent said they’d hold fi re for two or more years.

Th e trial found that one week was all that was needed for customers to adapt to the characteristics and peculiarities of driving an EV, such as charging, range, regenerative braking and low noise.

Fleet use was a big part of the trial with organisations in the UK and in Europe reporting positive feedback from both individual drivers and also fl eet managers monitoring the MINI E’s use as a pool car. Th ose users who swapped out of their regular car reported that the MINI E was fi ne for 70 percent of journeys made during the working day, while the pool car success rate was even bett er with between 80-90 percent of regular trips achievable.

The speed of charging was an important consideration for fl eet users, while managers also fl agged up the need for a clear procedure for the effi cient charging of pool vehicles.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fl eet.ie GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 9

MINI’s in-depth electric vehicle trial

Fully Charged:

AWARDS

Fleet Transport Awards 2012 –Green Commercial of the Year in association with ESB ecars

10 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011

Award announcement and prize presentation

will be made at the Fleet Transport Awards 2012

Awards Gala Dinner to be held on 3 October at

Johnstown House Hotel, Enfi eld, County Meath.

More details available from orla@fl eet.ie

The Contenders:

Category: Natural Gas

Fiat Doblo Cargo Natural PowerVolkswagen Caddy Bi-Fuel

Category: Electric

Fiat Fiorino/Qubo Micro-Vett Electric Ford Transit Connect Azure Electric Renault Kangoo Z.E.

Category: Hybrid (Diesel/Electric)

DAF LF HybridVolvo FE Hybrid

IVECO Daily Micro-Vett Bi-Power

RR enault’s pioneering strategy on providing sustainable mobility for all is soon to materialise. Th rough its ‘Drive the Charge’ branding, the

French company’s ongoing campaign to reduce the carbon footprint of its vehicles through their complete lifecycle – from their design and production, through to their use on the road and to the end of life. Renault believes it is essential to make the most eff ective technologies available to as many motorists as possible, at prices they can aff ord. According to Renault Chief Carlos Ghosn, “Electric vehicles represent a clean-break solution aimed at making CO2 emission-free mobility in road use.” In his estimation, electric vehicles will account for 10 percent of the world market by 2020.

Interestingly, Renault Ireland predicts that one in ten cars on Irish roads will be electric. Th is statement comes as Renault Ireland prepares to launch its Kangoo Z.E. (in passenger and commercial forms) this November, to be followed by the 4-door Fluence Z.E. saloon early next year. Later 2012 will see two new all-electric models, which will have their own specifi c, innovative designs based on the Twizy and Zoe concept cars. Th is product plan will enable potential customers to fi nd the type of vehicles they are looking for in Renault’s electric range, since the four models – a small city car, a compact hatchback, a family saloon and a light commercial van – are all set to cover a broad spectrum of motorists’ needs in this growing sector. Mentioning concepts or prototypes, Renault has released details and photos of its business/leisure vehicle called the Frendzy which will be offi cially revealed at the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show later this month.

Within the framework of its zero emission strategy, the Renault-Nissan alliance continues to work with Governments, energy providers and other partners. To date more than 60 agreements across the world have been signed, aimed at preparing markets and establishing the necessary infrastructure for the mass marketing of electric vehicles. “Th e privately and publicly steered undertakings indicate that the necessary infrastructures and charging facilities will be operated when the electric vehicles come to market,” said Mr. Ghosn. Th e ESB, through the Irish Government, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Renault-Nissan in 2009. In fact Ireland is leading the charge with the nationwide introduction of electric transport to off er an effi cient, sustainable and clean alternative to fossil-based fuels. By the end of 2011, the ESB eCars project will have installed 1,500 public charge points, 2,000 home charge points and 30 fast charge points. Fast charge points will be the quickest way to charge electric vehicles - capable of recharging a batt ery to 80 percent capacity in under 25 minutes. Th ese will be installed on all inter-urban routes nationwide.

All Renault’s electric vehicles are powered by a latest generation lithium-ion batt ery. Th e batt ery

comprises 48 power modules, positioned in two rows, side by side. Modules are similar in size to a laptop computer and each one incorporates four elementary cells. It is inside these cells that the electrochemical reactions take place, enabling electrical current to be produced or energy to be stored.

Th e four cells of each module store 8.4 volts each, making a combined total of 400 V for the 48 modules that make up the batt ery. Th ese compact recyclable lithium-ion batt eries are produced by AESC, a Nissan-NEC joint venture established in April 2007.

Renault’s strategy - making electric vehicles aff ordable to all - is clearly effi cient in its method of selling its Z.E. - Zero Emission cars and vans to its customers. Th rough a cleaner ownership programme, customers can either buy or lease the vehicle, and then take out a monthly subscription that covers the hire of the batt ery. Renault’s ultimate aim is to market electric vehicles at the same price as a diesel-powered vehicle of an equivalent size and equipment level. Th e TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) of electric vehicles will be similar to that of IC (Internal Combustion) engined vehicles from

launch.

Renault Ireland in confi rming the price of the Fluence Z.E. @ €21,620 (aft er €5,000 Government grant) is Ireland’s most affordable Electric car. Th ere is a separate batt ery lease contract from €79 per month (based on 10,000 kms per year/4 years). “Costing the same as the Fluence diesel, this tempting on-the-road price will undercut every other electric car brand in Ireland, not to mention even

GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 11

COVER

Renault’s Zero-Emission stance Renault’s Zero-Emission stance ensures sustainable mobility for allensures sustainable mobility for all

Renault Fluence Z.E. on charge

12 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011

COVER

Ahead of the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show later this month, Renault has revealed details of its latest concept

vehicle, FRENDZY.

Renault’s latest concept car has a dual purpose and double personality. Th ese days, professional and personal lives are so interwoven that drivers constantly fi nd themselves switching from one world to the other. Th e role of FRENDZY is to be a partner that takes the strain out of this busy lifestyle.

On the passenger’s side, there’s no glazing or centre pillar, just one conventional door and one sliding side door, which incorporates a 37-inch widescreen display. Th is is the world of business and work. Th e driver’s side, complete with side windows (without centre pillar), but with centre opening doors, represents the world

FRENDZY to create a ‘Frenzy’ in Frankfurt!

comparably sized diesel cars,” explained Eric Basset, Managing Director, Renault Ireland.

Att ractive to both private and business motorists alike, the Fluence Z.E. has a high level of equipment including 16” alloys, auto lights and wipers, climate control, cruise control, Econometer, Carminat TomTom smart satellite navigation and charging sockets on both front wings. Th e 5-seater family saloon Fluence Z.E. will also off er an enjoyable driving experience through its 70 kW (95bhp) power and impressive 226Nm of instant torque on tap. Depending on driving and road conditions, the expected distance range is up to 185km. Top speed is set at 135km/h. “Our strategy from day one was to make electric vehicles aff ordable to all and we are standing by this by bringing in our entry electric Fluence saloon at a price that can’t be matched by other manufacturers. Electric is not something that we thought of lightly. It started in 2005, when the Renault CEO worldwide asked what future vision he had for his customers. With increasing oil prices he made two choices that would lead the way for Renault – Diesel and Electric,” added Eric.

“Since then hundreds of Renault engineers have been working on something amazing which is now here and very real.” “We predict that by the

year 2020 there will be close to 200,000 electric vehicles in Ireland. Remember Ireland is leading the way in Europe for infrastructure and availability. We are ready for electric. It’s not our future, it’s the present, and Renault Ireland is ready to sell aff ordable electric cars to suit all lifestyles.”

Both the passenger car/people carrier and light commercial versions of the Kangoo Z.E. will be the initial electric vehicle offerings from Renault in Ireland. For the 2-seater van, will retail at €16,400 (ex-VAT with the Government grant €3,800). The batt ery pack will cost €72 (ex-VAT) per month to lease, based on 15,000 km in 48 months. Aimed primarily at business customers and company fl eets, the Kangoo Z.E. commercial off ers a similar capacity as the standard version:- Volume and payload: 3 to 3.5m3 and 650kg. Smooth and silent driving is provided by a 44 kW (60hp) motor. Torque values peak at 226Nm with top speed at 130km/h. Its driving range is 160km. Th e Kangoo Z.E. Maxi 5-seater comes to market @ €18,200 (ex -VAT) (which includes the €3,800 Government allowance). As per the Z.E. Van accelerated capital allowance is available, in other words, 100 percent tax write-down for the

electric vehicles in year 1 and the batt ery lease of €72 per month (ex-VAT 4 years/15,000 km), purchased through RCI Financial Services.

Th e Twizy – an urban 2-seater will follow in mid 2012 and the ZOE, a stylish compact hatch, is due to arrive in Ireland in late 2012.

Information on the Renault Z.E. range, including reservations, is available at www.renault.ie. Registration on the site is free and enables prospective buyers to choose their vehicle and benefi t from priority availability and test drives as soon as it comes to market. Th ese interested customers will then be contacted by Renault as the date of the vehicle’s release approaches to obtain confi rmation of their booking. Th e website will also give registered visitors access to exclusive, electric mobility-related content, services and applications.

Renault Kangoo Z.E. passenger

GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 13

COVER

Renault will manufacture its fi rst Zero-emission vehicles in four diff erent factories around Europe.

Production began in mid-2011 with Kangoo Z.E. manufactured in Maubeuge, in Northern France. Built on the same production line as the internal combustion engined versions, the new model range benefi ts from the same expertise and supply chain as the current Kangoo. A specialist LCV (light commercial vehicle) plant for 20 years M.C.A. - (Maubeuge Construction Automobile) - currently produces Kangoo van and car and Kangoo BeBop (3-door car version available on the Continent). Th e company is able to continuously adapt to demand and the diverse nature of these types of vehicle (for example, short and long wheelbase versions, or those with and without side windows

and tailgates). Th e choice of this factory will also allow the Renault Group to ramp-up industrial production quickly, while guaranteeing high build quality levels. Th e Maubeuge facility is a full-line production plant with its own stamping, welding and paint shops.

Production for the fi rst full year at the Maubeuge plant is estimated to reach 15,000 units for global markets.

While on a visit to the biggest employer in the region, the point was made that Renault’s leanest vehicle is manufactured at its greenest production facility. Over 12 years ago, the Renault-owned plant engineered its own storm water recycling station. Recycled rainwater collected from the roofs and drains from the numerous buildings on site is fi ltered and cleaned to wash down newly spray painted vehicles and

other general usage. 2,200 people are employed here, producing 48 cars per hour (down from a peak of 60 units in 2008, but rising).

A Renault Fluence Z.E has taken fi rst place on the podium in the 300

kilometre inter-city Michelin- sponsored Challenge Bibendum 2011 rally. In doing so it took the title not only from high-performance electric roadsters, but also from hydrogen and fuel-cell vehicles. Th e Fluence Z.E.’s entire well-to-wheels CO2 output, calculated by Michelin’s team of experts based on European electricity production, was 57 g/km, or 8 percent bett er than the vehicle’s homologation fi gures.

Th is victory demonstrates that Renault’s 100percent electric technology, with a price

making it accessible to the largest number of people, is also the most effi cient.

An enthusiastic Grégory Fargier and Sylvie Savornin, Fluence Z.E.’s driver and co-

driver, said at the fi nish line: “We are very happy to have won the challenge ahead of more exclusive competitors. Th is challenge gave us the chance to exploit all the vehicle’s potential. It’s reliable, pleasant and effi cient to drive.”

Th e Fluence Z.E. needed one batt ery change halfway through the rally to complete 300 km, taking 6 minutes on the clock. Th is performance was carried out under rally conditions thanks to a simple modifi cation of the batt ery fi xing system to enable

it to be released with hand tools, since the production fi xing system was being designed for automated power tools.

Green production facility for Green cars

Renault Fluence Z.E. wins the Challenge Bibendum 2011

of the family and leisure. Ease of loading and ease of entry go without saying.

On weekdays, FRENDZY is a vehicle that adapts to the requirements of the commercial user, with a large external screen that can display useful messages or information (such as “making deliveries” or “back in fi ve minutes”, the batt ery-charging method or the remaining charge) or advertising messages, either while parked or on the move. Come the weekend, the vehicle transforms itself into a family vehicle, with a comfortable passenger seat and, in the rear, a big bench seat. Depending on their mood of the moment, children can watch a fi lm or play games on the touch-sensitive pad that slides out from the back of the driver’s seat. Th ey can even draw on a special blackboard-style slate integrated into the sliding door.

Th e driver, likewise, can adapt the vehicle to his or her needs. In ‘work’ mode, the rear-view

mirrors sit upright and the interior lighting is green; in ‘family’ mode, the mirrors swivel round to the horizontal position and the interior is bathed in a radiant orange ambience. Coloured repeater lights in the headlights and tail lights provide an external indication of the mode in which FRENDZY is operating.

On a practical level, the fabric roof adapts itself to the shape of bulky objects, magnetic fi xings allow the load to be secured to the fl oor, and modular stowage systems are a practical bonus for business users. Th e single-piece rear seat is integrated into the fl oor, while the front seat folds forward in order to free up space. Th anks to its practical, modular interior, FRENDZY lends itself perfectly to the requirements of business users and tradespeople.

The user-friendly layout of the driver’s environment and tablet turn FRENDZY into a truly interactive and communicative tool.

Th e BlackBerry®PlayBook™ tablet recently launched by Research In Motion (RIM), plugged into the dashboard, has enabled the concept of an offi ce on wheels to become reality. BlackBerry PlayBook is ultra-portable (seven-inch touchscreen, 425g in weight, measuring 130mm x 194mm x 10mm), yet it delivers advanced performance, uncompromised web browsing with support for Adobe® Flash®, HD multimedia, advanced security features and out-of-the-box enterprise support.

FRENDZY is an all-electric vehicle. Its powertrain is the same as that of Kangoo Van Z.E., although the charging point – located under the Renault logo at the front of the vehicle – is identical to that shown on ZOE Preview. And it’s not beyond possibility that this multi-functional concept vehicle will eventually make it to the production line.

In order to facilitate the market launch of Renault’s new line of electric vehicles, DHL will be the fi rst logistics provider

to implement a comprehensive international solution for the distribution of replacement lithium ion batt eries to the dealers network that has been designed to cope with mass market needs.

Renault has chosen DHL to handle the logistics behind batt ery deliveries to “Expert Z.E.” dealers (equipped and trained for electric vehicle maintenance and customer assistance).

“Renault is the fi rst car manufacture to mass market electric vehicles. In this particular business model, the client will rent the batt ery repairable in Renault dealerships. Our contract with DHL is one of the key elements to ensure that replacement batt eries are available for customers – a key quality point that Renault commits to off er

to all electric vehicle buyers,” says Jacques Daniel, Renault Aft er-sales Director.

Th e logistics solution will include the storage of batt eries in DHL’s facility in Bonneuil near Paris; the transport of batt eries to “Expert Z.E” dealers and importers to countries in Europe and Asia, including all major automotive markets’ and the return of used batt eries to Renault’s Flins repair center. DHL will control the whole logistics process including order, exception and data management via its specialized Automotive Control Tower in Veghel, Netherlands. Th anks to a specifi c Renault IT solution, DHL will ensure that each individual batt ery can be tracked throughout the supply chain.

As another element of the cooperation, DHL will add eight more vehicles of the type Renault Kangoo Z.E. to its road test in the Rhine-Ruhr area of Germany, trialing the operational suitability of electric vehicles

for commercial fl eet operations. Th e road test started in April 2011.

COVER

14 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie

DHL and Renault put electromobility in gear

SAVE is France’s biggest trial programme of all-electric mobility, ultimately involving around one hundred electric

vehicles and around 150 charging spots. Today, the project is well underway with a fl eet of

Renault Fluence Z.E., Renault Kangoo Z.E. and Nissan Leaf vehicles now on the road in the Seine Aval region.

A total of 101 charging points, of which 36 are accessible to the public on the roadside and in a number of Carrefour and Vinci Park car parks, are currently in service for charging up the vehicles.

On Monday, 11 July the the SAVE forum doors opened at the Renault plant in Flins. Present were the partners supporting the project – the Renault-Nissan A lliance and EDF,

backed up by the Paris Regional Authority, the Yvelines Departmental Council and the EPAMSA, in cooperation with Schneider Electric and Total. Th e objective, is to present the fi rst feedback from the deployment of charging infrastructure and the use of electric vehicles by trial-drive customers.

Promising initial feedback

Th e results of the aft ernoon’s discussion with the players taking part in SAVE will be added to the fi rst conclusions of a survey carried out by the ACME Institute in June 2011 involving 36 electric vehicle users taking part in the SAVE project. Results show that customers’ pre-conceived ideas on electric mobility are swept aside as soon as they get behind the wheel. Electric vehicles prove to be a pleasant surprise. Here are a few eloquent examples:

Electric cars are real cars:• “I thought they were just for pott ering around, but not at all,” said one user, who works for Carrefour Property.Charging is easy:• “It’s not complicated at all. Th e station is tactile so it’s easy to use,” said another driver.Silent and also relaxing:• “Electric cars are relaxing to drive. Th ey contribute to the emergence of a new generation of calmer, more respectful motorists. You’re less inclined to stamp hard on the accelerator. You discover a new way of driving, not like it’s a race. When cars with combustion engines have to wait at the lights, the drivers rev the engines. When you’re driving an electric car, that just seems ridiculous. It’s funny really,” said a trialist.

SAVE Forum: Electric Car Drivers have their say

Carlos Tavares, Chief Operating Offi cer of Renault, during SAVE forum, in one of the Fluence Z.E used for the SAVE operation, tested here by Carrefour

W ith the introduction of the CT 200h, Lexus achieved a number of fi rsts – it’s their fi rst full hybrid in the premium

compact segment and the fi rst real, att ractive, alternative in the fl eet sector. Not only does this 5-door petrol/electric hatchback come at a competitive starting price of €28,990, but for the company bean-counters its running costs and emission levels are equally low.

What’s more, the driving experience is of a standard expected of larger executive cars. And there are plenty of mod-cons to add to driver comforts too! Build quality is second to none with ultra low NVH - noise, vibration and harshness.

Operating the dual-powered system is a 136 bhp 1.8 litre petrol mated to a 202 volt/37 bhp/27 kW electric motor. Acceleration is seemless through the auto box, which we now have become used to since the early days of the original of the species - the Toyota Prius. According to Lexus, combined fuel consumption is estimated at 3.8L/100 km - which was a bit off compared to the 5.8 L/100 achieved while on a week’s test. But then most of the driving was cross-country with the electric motor having litt le chance to save on juice.

What drivers will like are the two distinct driving moods - Dynamic or Relaxing - in conjunction with the full hybrid’s EV (electric), ECO, Normal and Sport – on-demand drive modes. It’s hard to beat the driving position too, thanks to superb lateral and lumbar support, wide grip steering wheel and well-designed dash with convenient storage areas alongside the driver. While appreciating that, this is a compact segment, boot space is limited due to the batt ery pack stored underneath - but with the rear seats down, it’s comparable to any vehicle in its class. Other likes/dislikes was the reversing camera built in to the rear view mirror, while the view from that mirror through the rear window is tiny.

Producing class-leading CO2 emissions from just 87g/km, the CT 200h is in the lowest CO2-based tax category. In Ireland, Lexus Hybrid Drive allows CT 200h owners to enjoy a hybrid-specifi c VRT rebate of €1,500. Th e CT emits the lowest CO2 emissions of any petrol or diesel fuelled car on sale in Ireland. Th e CT 200h is subject to an annual road tax of €104 with tax band A rating across the range.

Benefi ting from lower parts prices and labour costs, the CT 200h’s service, maintenance and repair costs can be up to 40% lower than those of key segment competitors. With no

starter motor, alternator, clutch or drive belts, its full hybrid powertrain has been specifi cally designed for low maintenance and outstanding durability.

Details in brief:

1.8 litre 99 bhp/73kW VVT-i petrol engine • and 82 Bhp/60kW electric motor for total system power of 136 Bhp/100kW.Lowest CO• 2 emissions of any petrol or diesel fuelled car on sale in Ireland of just 87g/km. Virtually no NOx, zero particulate • emissions and fuel consumption of only 3.8l/100km.EV, ECO and SPORT ‘on-demand’ drive • modes for distinct, Dynamic or Relaxing driving moods.

TEST

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 15

Lexus CT 200h

Lexus Hybrid Drive

Max, system output 136 bhp (100kW)

Transmission Hybrid drive transmission, incorporating E-CVT

Eco & EV (Electric Vehicle) modes

Front wheel drive

Acceleration: 0-100kmh 10.3 Seconds

Electric Motor: Front

Type AC synchronous, permanent magnet (650V)

Max. Output 82 bhp (60kW)

Max. Torque / rpm 207 Nm

Hybrid Battery

Type Nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH), 202 volts

Engine

Type Atkinson cycle, 16 Valve VVT-i, 1798cc

Max. Output / rpm 99bhp (73KW) / 5,200

Max. Torque / rpm 142 Nm / 4,400

Environmental Eco S-design/Dynamic/Executive

Co2 Emissions 87/km Combined 94g/km Combined

Fuel consumption Combined 3.8 L/100 km (74.3 mpg) 4.1 L/100 km (68.9 mpg)

Urban 3.7 L/100 km (76.3 mpg) 4.1 L/100 km (68.9 mpg)

xtra Urban 3.7 L/100 km (76.3 mpg) 4.0 L/100 km (70.6 mpg)

Dimensions/Weights

Length (mm) 4320

Width (mm) 1765

Height (mm) 1430

Wheelbase (mm) 2600

Kerb Weight (kgs) 1370-1465

Model Availability

CT 200h Eco 5 door CT 200h S-design 5 door CT 200h Dynamic 5 door CT 200h Executive 5 door

16 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fl eet.ie

PREVIEW

64th Frankfurt Motor Show –

IAA – 13/15 September 2011 www.iaa.de

September 15 – 25, 2011 Frankfurt/Main64th International Motor Show

Future comes as standard

A U D I S P Y D E R CONCEPT A n o p e n - a i r Spyder version of the Audi urban concept i s r e a d y t o f e a t u r e a longside t he recently announced Sportback model. These radical and weight-optimized 1+1-seat technical studies are not descended from any previous Audi model – their development is based on the strict principles of lightweight construction, effi ciency and reduction.

Two e-tron electric motors provide the instant propulsion while a lithium-ion batt ery supplies the energy.

CADILLAC ELR EV CONCEPTCadillac Converj Conc ept , a dramatic luxury coupe with extended-range electric vehicle tech nolog y, i s moving forward as a production car that will be called the Cadillac ELR.

Th e Cadillac ELR will feature an electric propulsion system made up of a T-shaped lithium ion batt ery, an electric drive unit, and a four-cylinder engine-generator. It uses electricity as its primary source to drive the car without producing tailpipe emissions. When the batt ery’s energy is low, the ELR seamlessly switches to extended-range mode.

CHEVROLETMIRA Y CONCEPTS First unveiled at the Seoul Motor Show i n M a r c h t h i s y e a r , the Chev rolet Miray concept off ers a fresh interpretation of some typical Chevrolet design cues while paying tribute to Chevrolet’s sports car heritage.

Th e Miray is propelled by two front-mounted, battery-powered 15-kW electric motors for quick acceleration and zero emissions in urban driving.

LEXUS PREMIERS NEW GS M a k i n g i t s World Premiere is t he new Lexus GS450h Hybrid. The new GS combines bold and dynamic design, precise handling, innovative technolog y with next generation multimedia, signifi cant advanced safety systems and a spacious contemporary interior. Richly equipped with world-class features and premium details, the new GS is supported by advanced, performance-enhancing technology that makes it more than just a luxury car.

MAZDA SKYACTIV Mazda’s radical new SKYACTIV technology encompasses t he w hole car, through a c l e a v e r appl ication of advanced engine, transmission, body and chassis technology and lightweight engineering. Every Mazda driver will therefore fully benefi t from this new approach to improved fuel economy and emissions, which means lower road fund tax, less company car tax and smaller fuel bills.

P R I U S P L U G - I N HYBRID The new Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a new, more compact lithium-ion bat ter y, which has been developed to meet Toyota’s rigorous standards for reliability.

Th e new batt ery off ers extended EV (electric power only) range, enabling the Prius PHEV to achieve the remarkable fuel effi ciency of 128.4mpg* and to lower CO2 emissions to 49 g/km*, almost half of the standard Prius.

S P Y D E R

a i r n

ehe unced

odel. Theseeight optimized 1+1 seat

ET

Sd

, let t off ers pretation of

Chevrolet design cues

KYACTIV cal new

r of

ngine,, body andnology and lightweight engineering

C ELR EV

verja

le i s

ard as aar that will be

S

t se

wwhe nes

ynamicse handling,technolog y with next

P L U G - I N

ius d

y, een

meet us standards

Text: Jarlasth Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 17

SUSTAINABILITY

W hile Ford’s 12th Blueprint for Sustainability 2009/10 generally concerns Ford’s activities and products in

North America and other global markets, the annual report on Ford’s environmental and social performance has achieved concrete results on the ground here in Ireland. “90 per cent of Ford cars sold in Ireland this year are in Bands A and B – that means they have a CO2 emissions fi gure below 140 g/km, of which the majority are below 120 g/km,” explained Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director, Ford of Ireland. “Compare this with the situation even just three years ago, when the majority of Ford models sold would have been in Bands D and E with CO2 emissions in exces of 155 g/km,” concluded Eddie.

On a global scale, Ford Blueprint for Sustainability 2009/10 reports that the ‘ONE Ford’ Plan is working, as the ‘blue oval’ brand stayed on track to surpass its product portfolio carbon dioxide (CO2) goal, which requires a 30% reduction in the CO2 emissions of new US and European vehicles in 2020, compared to the 2006 model year. Two new hybrid electric vehicles have been developed to begin Ford’s commitment to launch fi ve new electrifi ed vehicles by 2013 to include batt ery electric, plug-in hybrid that will also be available in North America.

“Ford is actively working to address challenges and opportunities posed by widespread use of electric – especially plug-in vehicles. Such a shift could cut greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles, increase the use of domestic engery sources, decrease pressures on petrol stocks and reduce urban air pollution,” said William Clay Ford Jnr., Exectuve Chairman, Ford in the Blueprint. “But it will also require unprecedented levels of collaboration and partnership between automakers, Government

offi cials, utilities, transportation providers and information technology companies.” Ford has begun collaborations with various stakeholders such as utility companies, state agencies and with Microsoft will help owners of plug-in electric vehicles determine when and how to recharge their vehicles. Batt ery recycling is another area being worked on also.

Long term (from 2020) investment in developing hybrid technologies and deployment of alternative energy sources will be made to include increased percentage of internal combustion engines with renewable fuels, volume expansion of hybrid technologies, continued penetration of plug-in hybrid and batt ery electric vehicles, introduction of fuel cell vehicles and clean electric/hydrogen fuels together with continuous weight reduction through use of advanced materials.

Ford’s Blueprint for sustainability drives Ireland

STOP PRESS….

Ford & Toyota to Collaborate on Hybrid Systems for Light Trucks and SUVs

Ford and Toyota are collaborating as equal partners to accelerate consumer availability of a new advanced hybrid system for light trucks and SUVs.

New co-developed hybrid system ready for use later this decade on Ford and Toyota rear-wheel-drive light trucks and SUVs, delivering greater fuel effi ciency while still providing customers the capability they want and need. Ford and Toyota also will collaborate on development of next-generation standards for in-car telematics and Internet-based services.

For years, both Ford and Toyota have been working independently on similar new rear-wheel-drive hybrid systems, aimed at delivering higher fuel economy in light trucks and SUVs. When the two companies began discussing this potential collaboration, they discovered how quickly they were able to fi nd common ground.

“By working together, we will be able to serve our customers with the very best, aff ordable, advanced powertrains, delivering even bett er fuel economy,” said Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally. “Th is is the kind of collaborative eff ort that is required to address the big global challenges of energy independence and environmental sustainability.”

STOP PRESS….

Ford & Toyota to Collaborate on Hybrid Systems for Light Trucks and SUVs

Ford and Toyota are collaborating as equal partners to accelerate consumer availability of anew advanced hybrid system for light trucks and SUVs.

New co-developed hybrid system ready for use later this decade on Ford and Toyota rear-wheel-drive light trucks and SUVs, delivering greater fuel effi ciency while still providing customersthe capability they want and need. Ford and Toyota also will collaborate on development of next-generation standards for in-car telematics and Internet-based services.

For years, both Ford and Toyota have been working independently on similar new rear-wheel-drive hybrid systems, aimed at delivering higher fuel economy in light trucks and SUVs. Whenthe two companies began discussing this potential collaboration, they discovered how quickly they were able to fi nd common ground.

“By working together, we will be able to serve our customers with the very best, aff ordable,advanced powertrains, delivering even bett er fuel economy,” said Ford President and CEOAlan Mulally. “Th is is the kind of collaborative eff ort that is required to address the big globalchallenges of energy independence and environmental sustainability.”

Ford Motor Company’s Bill Ford unveils Plaque at Ford family’s Cork homestead

William Clay (Bill) Ford Jr., Executive Chairman of Ford Motor Company and great-grandson of its founder Henry Ford, recently unveiled a plaque at Ballinascarthy, County Cork, commemorating the Ford family’s connection with the village. Mr. Ford, pictured with Eddie Murphy, Chairman & M.D., Ford Ireland, who was on a personal visit to Ireland with his family, met with the local community of Ballinascarthy and had lunch with Hazel Ford Butt imer, a descendant of the Ford family, before visiting the site of the original Ford homestead.

Mr. Ford’s great-great grandfather, also William, left Cork on a famine ship in 1847 bound for the U.S. Th e company, which his son Henry founded, now employs 166,000 people and sells more than 5 million vehicles a year around the world.

Henry Ford himself visited Ireland 99 years ago this week, paving the way for the establishment of Henry Ford & Son Limited in Cork fi ve years later, in 1917. It remains the only Ford business in the world to bear the full name of the company’s founder.

18 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011

ECONOVATION

A s it is oft en said, “One good story leads to another”. While over in London to assess the Volvo FE Hybrid truck, currently on long-term trial

with environmental services group Veolia, we discovered a somewhat unconventional nature reserve in the middle of a landfi ll site at Pitsea, south of Basildon and adjacent to the Th ames Estuary. Th is unusual, multi-award winning facility was recently visited by the BBC Spring Watch series, which featured its diverse fauna and wildlife activity. Veolia executives invited the TV crew to explore the huge 680-hectare site, which is still in daily operation by the UK’s leading waste management company.

Pitsea Hall Landfi ll is located in part of the Bowers Marshes, south of the A13 on Pitsea Hall Lane, which is where the Wat Tyler Country Park is situated. Waste has been deposited here as landfi ll since the early 1900s and today the

site receives both municipal waste and that from commercial and industrial activities. Veolia’s ongoing investment includes the creation of man-made lagoons as a Natural Leachate Management System. Ten electricity generators are powered by landfi ll gas produced here and there is also a green waste windrow composting facility. In 2008, planning permission was given for an improved restoration scheme, which will see phased release of the site for recreation and nature conservation usage by 2017. Th e fully restored site will be then managed by the wildlife charity RSPB. During the guided tour presented by Veolia UK’s Nick Walker, Manager – Special Projects, Landfi ll, he said that one of the BBC Spring Watch presenters Liz Bonnin (formerly of RTE TV) discovered that there was a lot more to meet the eye on this vast wasteland. Over the fi rst two days of fi lming, she discovered that this is where you will fi nd more foxes per square mile than anywhere else in the UK and

they weren’t shy either as Liz got extremely close to some fox cubs. Over the four days, the Show explored the biodiversity of wildlife living on the landfi ll and learned about how the land around the site is being restored. Th at along with its main role (apart from the dumping of rubbish) is using the site to generate energy and recycling green waste into compost.

Pitsea Hall Landfi ll site is now known for att racting a variety of unusual animals such as lizards, water voles and green woodpeckers. Earlier this year, Veolia was awarded The Wildlife Trust’s Biodiversity Benchmark Certifi cate for all the work put into promote, enhance and protect the biodiversity on site. “Landfi ll and wildlife are not two things people put together, but actually on our landfi ll site here, we really have a diverse range of species,” said Nick enthusiastically. Nick, who began his working life drilling for oil off the Cork coast, added, “Veolia takes great care and pride to protect all the creatures and plants on site while also ensuring we can continue to operate.” Hats off to Veolia for the ongoing investment, commitment and dedication in their continuous eff orts in turning a dump into a place of natural beauty.

In its day-to-day working life over 500 trucks come and go each day, tipping in the region of 3,000 tonnes of waste material. In addition river-borne transport is used to deliver bulky, heavy materials via the Th ames, which in turn reduces noise, air pollution and, of course, traffi c congestion. Soils are loaded into four 350 tonne capacity barges and towed by tug to a buoy at the entrance to Holehaven Creek. A smaller tug then delivers two barges at a time to the re-furbished wharf, which has to be accurately timed to coincide with the high tides. Using a special long-reach excavator, the soil is unloaded into 25 tonne dumper trucks for transport across the site and stockpiling ready for use in the restoration of the landfi ll. In total, fi ve million tonnes of soil will be needed to restore the site by 2017, ready for public access to the nature reserve.

Veolia’s eco-friendliness also extends to the streetscape by leading the way in having the greenest refuse collection vehicle in operation in Britain. Coming near the end of a successful two-year pilot project with a diesel/electric hybrid version of the 26 tonne GVW Volvo FE 6x2 rigid, it is likely that Veolia will put its name on the order book now, that the said vehicle has entered full production for selected markets initially.

Whilst most observers will notice the deliberately chosen registration plate LC02 LOW, what they will not know is that Volvo FE Hybrid is fi tt ed with a fully electric body built by Goesink Norba. It is the fi rst time that this highly energy-effi cient combination has ever been used in the UK. Th e ongoing trial in the Marylebone and Lisson Grove

Volvo Trucks & Veolia Environmental Services – Greening the Countryside & Cityscapes

Maximum power output fr om the 600 volt electric motor is 120 kW. Torque levels fr om the 7.2 litre diesel is at 800 Nm through the 12-speed fully automated Volvo I-Shift transmission

ECONOVATION

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 19

area of the City of Westminster enables Veolia and Volvo Truck to evaluate what savings can be made in frontline operation in a densely populated, urban environment. According to Chris Browning, National Fleet Sales Manager of Volvo Truck UK & Ireland, the projected 30% savings on fuel and carbon emissions compared to standard diesel-powered vehicles is on target and showing similar results to that of similar vehicles running in Sweden.

Th e Volvo FEs driveline is a parallel hybrid, consisting of a D7, Euro 5 diesel engine, mated to a 600V electric motor (mounted on the chassis on the off side behind the cab). Both the engine/motor can be used either separately or together. As demonstrated by Eamon Wells, Operations Manager, Westminster North, Municipal Services Veolia UK, who brought us on a collection run to the New Holland tractor plant just a few miles away from their Basildon base, each energy source can be used where it is most effi cient – the electric motor works best at low revs with the diesel bett er higher up the rev band. “When starting off only the electric motor is working,” explained Eamonn. When gaining speed, the Deutz diesel is activated and the two work in harmony. “During braking, the electric motor works as an engine brake which reduces brake wear,” he added.

Alun Williams, Sales & Technical Applications Manager at Geesink Norba mentioned to us earlier that the bin lift s and the crushing and compacting mechanisms together with the tipping gear are all electrically powered from a separate batt ery mounted behind the cab. Th e diesel engine plays no part in loading and can even be switched off instead of being revved-up as it is in a conventional vehicle, which creates major savings in fuel and carbon emissions. It also results in a further reduction of noise levels, the sound of a large diesel engine being replaced by the hum of an electric motor, which benefi ts residents and the vehicle’s operators alike.

Normally, the batt ery will contain enough electricity to comfortably power the crushing and compaction mechanisms through the most

demanding of rounds. However, should it ever need it, the batt ery can easily be recharged by power take-off through the hybrid engine. At the end of the round it can also simply be recharged by plugging it into a mains power supply ready for the next day’s work.

This 3-axle hybrid truck is not the fi rst Volvo operating in London as six Volvo (Wrightbus) diesel/electric buses have been put into service around the UK capital since the Summer of 2009. Chris Browning was keen to emphasise the Swedish company’s history in this area of innovation. “Volvo has been studying hybrid technology since the 1980s and has had an advanced engineering project underway since 2002. Th e latest FE Hybrid represents a signifi cant stride forward for environmentally-friendly automotive technology. Caring for the environment is one of Volvo’s core values. Volvo Trucks were the fi rst to have a carbon neutral truck manufacturing plant and we even use an underground river to cool one of its factories,” he said.

Mike Cunningham, Business Area Manager, Essex & Kent Commercial Services UK said, “Th rough introducing the hybrid vehicle into our Westminster contract, we are pleased that the trial is proving successful in achieving its goals. We see the benefi ts for residents as being two-fold: fi rstly, the environment benefi ts in terms of carbon emissions and secondly, the reduction in noise pollution.”

Pictured at the Veolia Depot at Basildon were fr om left ; Dan Lester, Communications Manager Veolia (London), Mike Cunningham, Business Area Manager, Essex & Kent Commercial Services, Veolia UK, Alun Williams, Sales & Technical Applications Manager, Geesink Norba, Eamon Wells, Operations Manager, Westminster North Municipal Services Veolia UK, Jamie Parnham, Volvo Truck & Bus Hybrid Technician, Enfi eld & Chris Browning, Fleet Sales Manager, Volvo Truck & Bus UK & Ireland

Plug-in compactor body connection MCU

…are you registered?From anuary emissions standards are tig teningand more ve ic e types i e inc uded

Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight, (including buses and coaches weighing more than 5 tonnes gross vehicle weight) will need to meet Euro IV emissions standards or pay a £200 daily charge.

Larger vans and other specialist vehicles between 1.205 unladen and 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight, plus minibuses with more than 8 passenger seats weighing 5 tonnes or less, will need to meet Euro 3 emissions standards or pay a £100 daily charge.

Once your vehicle meets these standards, you will need to register with TfL before you drive in to London.

For advice on your options and a registration form, visit t gov u e ondon or ca

22 GREENFLEETMANAGEMENT | Autumn 2011 Text: Rob Van Dietan – rob@fl eet.ie

GO GREENER

I n Ireland, natural gas is an important fuel for power generation, heating and cooking. Natural gas can also be used as a transport fuel, known as Compressed Natural Gas

(CNG). Natural gas vehicles (NGVs) are used extensively all over the world with an estimated 13 million NGVs worldwide. In Europe, fl eet managers of trucks, buses, commercial and transport vehicles are increasingly looking to CNG when seeking to reduce fuel costs and reduce vehicle emissions. Th ere are signifi cant environmental, health, commercial and security of supply benefi ts to using natural gas as a transport fuel.

Environmental and health benefi ts of NGVsTh e transport sector is a signifi cant source of harmful emissions and transport accounts for over 20 percent of Ireland’s total emissions*. Yet Ireland has to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent, by 2020, (from 1990 levels), as well as ensuring more than 10 percent of transport fuel comes from renewable sources by 2020. NGVs can make an important contribution to meeting these targets as CNG powered vehicles have lower emissions than petrol or diesel vehicles. NGVs can be powered by a renewable fuel source through biogas, further reducing emissions. As an inherently clean fuel, with less Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), soot and no sulphur or heavy metals, the use of NGVs can improve air quality and purity levels. NGVs also have lower noise levels than diesel vehicles, contributing towards a bett er neighbourhood environment over all.

Commercial and security of supply benefi ts of NGVsIn European NGV markets, the cost of using natural gas in vehicles is approximately 35 percent lower than using diesel and up to 60 percent lower than using petrol. Use of CNG in transport also reduces Ireland’s dependence on oil and reduces risk to shocks in the international oil market. It also creates fuel diversity and provides security of supply, as natural gas has diff erent sources and a diff erent infrastructure to petrol and diesel.

CNG – An ideal choice for Trucks, Buses & Light CommercialsCNG is ideal for buses, light duty and heavy goods vehicles. In many European cities, CNG is used in commercial fl eets, logistics, transport and local delivery companies. Some of the major success stories for CNG are in replacing traditional fuels in large, high polluting vehicles such as buses and refuse collection trucks. According to the American Public Transit Association, in 2009, 26% of all new transit

bus orders were for natural gas. Also, for example, in Madrid, refuse collection and city cleaning trucks (650 units) are fuelled with CNG. In addition, Madrid has approximately 645 CNG buses, with the aim of reaching 1,300 by 2015. Similar approaches are being followed in other cities including Th e Hague, Paris, Moscow, Barcelona and Rome.

Natural Gas Vehicles Conference: Croke Park, DublinBord Gáis Networks is hosting a major Natural Gas Vehicles Conference taking place in Dublin (Croke Park) on Th ursday 17 November. Th e Conference, which is free to att end, aims to raise the profi le, and highlight the benefi ts of natural gas as a transport fuel, discuss the development of a CNG market in Ireland and will be att ended by key players from across the Irish energy and transport sectors, as well as international organisations with a role in the NGV market.

Th e Conference will be of particular interest to fl eet managers in the transport sector, who will receive details on the cost and environmental savings associated with compressed natural gas as a transport fuel.

For further information on the conference, including programme and how to register, visit the Conference website www.ngvireland.com.

*Source: Environmental Protection Agency

natural gagaasss.s.. n Madrriidddd,,, , nd ciittytyyyyyyy

0 uniittsss))) ) ) ) CNNGGGGG... id hhahaaassss s CNNGGGGG m oofoffff 20155. are beingg ies includingThTh Th ee e cow Barcelona and RoR me

Exploring the benefi ts of Compressed Natural Gas as a transport fuel

Natural Gas Vehicles: Th e statistics

Over 13 million NGVs worldwide• 1.4 million NGVs in Europe• Reduce fuel costs by 30% (average lower CNG • price compared to petrol/diesel reported by NGVA Europe)Italy has approximately 730,000 NGVs• Germany has over 900 NGV refuelling • stations65% of gas used in Sweden’s transportation • sector is renewable biogasMadrid currently has over 480 CNG buses • and 700 CNG refuse collection trucks

Tranzaura route optimisation and tachograph analysis software is designed to help our customers to improve operational effi ciency and ultimately their bottom line.

Reduce fuel by up to 20%.

Reduce driving time by up to 15%.

Improve capacity utilisation.

Improve your driver scheduling and planning processes.

Improve tachograph compliance.

Reduce your risk of fi nes.

e-mail: Mike.price@tranzaura.com web: www.tranzaura.com

can reduce your fuel cost by up to

20%

For a free demo and to fi nd out more about Tranzaura complete suite of service and to hear what our customers have to say about us please log on to

www.tranzaura.com

Or contact: Mike Price Tele 087 6424481 / Tele 0818 287 387

New Peugeot 508. Quality Time.From only €24,850*Visit the Peugeot Stand at the National Ploughing Championships 2011

Scan 508 QR code for more information

NEW PEUGEOT 508.

www.peugeot.ie

*Excluding dealer delivery related charges. Combined fuel consumption (l/100 km): from 4.4 to 5.7. CO2 emissions (g/km): from 115 to 149.