Auto Industry Digest Issue no

Issue no.479 This week’s news for company executives July 05, 2012

Fleet file_____________________________________________________

Fleet emissions’ audit trail essential for firms to meet new rules

RECORDING fuel use, vehicle mileage and journey distances is becoming compulsory following the Government’s decision to introduce mandatory greenhouse gas emission reporting for publicly quoted companies from next April, according to fleet software company Jaama.

Approximately 1,800 companies listed on the London Stock Exchange will be subject to the new regulation, which could be extended to all large companies - a potential 31,000 businesses - from April 2016.

Greenhouse gas reporting includes emissions from vehicles ‘owned or controlled’ by companies including cars, vans and HGVs.

But, the forthcoming regulation excludes the mandatory reporting of business travel by means ‘not owned or controlled by the organisation’, which includes employees driving their own vehicles on business trips. The Government has said it has excluded such journeys due to logistical difficulties and the administration burden. Nevertheless, it is asking companies to voluntarily report emission levels linked to such vehicle use.

The leading fleet, leasing and rental management software supplier says technology such as its Key2 Vehicle Management system is an essential tool for businesses to effectively and efficiently compile an emissions audit trail.

The Government says that fuel consumption and car mileage can be converted into CO2-equivalent emissions by applying relevant conversion factors.

Additionally, while Government departments have compiled guidance to help UK firms measure and manage vehicle greenhouse gas emissions, which it says ‘can be a significant source of emissions for many organisations’, it acknowledges that they can be ‘a challenge to report’.

The UK is the first country to make it compulsory for companies to include emissions data for their entire organisation in their annual reports.

The introduction of reports, following consultations with leading businesses, will, says the Government, enable investors and customers to see which companies are effectively managing the hidden long-term costs of greenhouse gas emissions.

Measuring emissions is an important first step to managing them, giving companies an understanding of where their main emissions are, says Jaama. Not only that, but the cost of operating company cars and vans is almost always second only to staff costs for employers.

Jaama sales and operations director Martin Evans said: ‘By accurately measuring and then reporting emission levels, fleet operators can gain board approval for introducing new measures to enhance environmental management, which could include introducing more low emission vehicles, trimming fuel use and implementing mileage management procedures. Overall the effect of introducing an emissions focus will be to operate a cleaner, greener fleet that overall clocks up fewer miles thus potentially cutting costs.

‘Not only that, but just like the implementation of occupational road risk management solutions in recent years which has contributed towards improving organisations’ corporate social responsibility, so emissions reporting can enhance a company’s reputation and brand value.

‘Just as occupational road risk management best practice dictates that companies have a comprehensive audit trail of drivers, vehicles and journeys so greenhouse gas emission reporting necessitates a similar audit trail in relation to vehicles, journeys and fuel usage.’

Although the measure initially only applies to companies listed on the London Stock Exchange, Mr Evans believes that it is almost certain that the Government will extend greenhouse gas emission reporting to all large companies - defined by the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform as one employing more than 250 people, with turnover above £22.8 million and gross assets above £11.4 million. Under the Companies Act 2006 to be classified as ‘large’ the company must meet the threshold for size on at least two of the three measures.

In the autumn the Government will publish a consultation on the draft regulations, which are likely to be effective from April 6, 2013. In late 2013/early 2014 the Government will issue revised guidance on how to measure and report greenhouse gas emissions to highlight regulatory obligations as well as continue to encourage additional voluntary reporting and, in 2015 it will conduct a review to decide whether the reporting requirement should be extended to all large companies in 2016.

Driver safety remains high on fleet agenda

DRIVER safety remains high on the business agenda despite a range of other pressures on today’s fleet professionals, according to new research.

The independent research from the Corporate Vehicle Observatory (CVO) Barometer shows that many UK companies continue to take driver safety very seriously, take responsibility for driver safety and have actions in place to mitigate driver risk.

The annual fleet barometer supported by vehicle leasing and fleet management company Arval, looked at the state of the market across 16 countries with more than 4,800 interviews conducted with fleet decision makers this year.

It shows that 46% of smaller businesses (sub-100 employees) and 63% of larger companies (100+ employees) believe that they share responsibility for safe driving behaviour rather than putting all of the emphasis on the driver. This represents greater corporate ownership of driver behaviour than we see in other European countries.

The survey also reveals that fleet practises are in place to support the ideology with significantly more than half of companies prohibiting the use of hands-free mobile phones - which isn’t a legal requirement - and more than a third having policies in place to restrict unsafe travel, for example in relation to driving home after a work party. Around 10% of companies have also introduced driver incentives and rewards to promote safer behaviour on the roads.

The research also shows that 33% of the largest company’s surveyed (100+ employees) have driver training in place; as do 18% of smaller companies surveyed (sub-100 employees).

Tracey Scarr, fleet and road safety manager at Arval said: ‘Getting driver safety wrong can have disastrous consequences; employee injury or death, damage to corporate reputation and harsh financial penalties are all possible implications. That’s why we believe that modern fleet operators take this area so seriously.

‘We also know from our own experience that a good fleet safety policy can reduce costs. Reduced accident repair costs, lower fuel volumes used, less unplanned maintenance and a fall in vehicle downtime all make for a strong business case.

‘Whilst these results are pleasing the fleet sector can not afford to be complacent and it remains crucially important that we all maintain a clear focus on reducing road risk.’

Third of large UK fleets use telematics and demand is rising

A THIRD of large UK companies (100+ employees) are currently using telematics systems; and the major reason is to track their vehicles.

While telematics are used much less by smaller companies (8%), UK adoption is higher than in other European countries (18%) while further growth is expected this year, according to research from the Corporate Vehicle Observatory (CVO).

Of the systems being used by the larger fleets; reducing fuel consumption, monitoring unauthorised use of a vehicle and monitoring driver behaviour are all significant reasons for use. However, the main motivation is to locate and track vehicles.

This tends to be considered as standard practise for LCV fleets while car drivers sometimes react less positively to this type of monitoring.

Despite this, the research shows that in the opinion of fleet operators half of drivers at larger companies are open to the idea of using telematics and more than a third in smaller businesses.

The annual fleet barometer, supported by vehicle leasing and fleet management company Arval, looked at the state of the market across 16 countries with more than 4,800 interviews conducted with fleet decision makers this year.

Mike Waters, senior insight and consultancy manager at Arval, said: ‘In the right circumstances, telematics systems can have an important role to play within the vehicle fleet. They allow companies to effectively keep track of vehicles, plan workload and manage driver behaviour in order to maximise business performance and minimise costs.

‘It is important to understand that telematics systems must be fitted with a clear benefit return in mind. The adoption of telematics systems is not as widespread in smaller companies as tracking becomes less of an issue, while this technology tends to be more popular amongst LCV fleets because of the nature of the work that they do. For car drivers, the benefits are likely to be far more focused towards improvements in driver behaviour.’

New labelling rules could signal revised fleet tyre management strategy

FLEET managers may adopt a new approach to tyre management with the forthcoming introduction of tyre labelling bringing greater transparency to the market, according to Kwik-Fit Fleet.

All new car, van and truck tyres on sale in Europe from November 1, 2012 - and manufactured from July 1, 2012 - will be classified and labelled for fuel efficiency, wet grip and external rolling noise performance.

The European Union regulation is designed to make fleet operators, company car and commercial vehicle drivers as well as private drivers aware of the individual performance characteristics of every new tyre on sale.

The tyre market is split into three levels of tyre - premium, mid and budget - with a myriad of tyres in each segment. Additionally, tyre manufacturers are introducing a plethora of new tyres in the run-up to the introduction of the initiative to ensure they are optimising tyre performance and score highly against labelling criteria. By contrast budget tyres that perform poorly in tests could be removed from sale.

Typically fleets replace tyres on a ‘like-for-like’ basis throughout the lifecycle of the vehicle. However, Kwik-Fit Fleet sales director Peter Lambert believes that policy could change with the introduction of tyre labelling.

He explained: ‘Fleet managers generally have great knowledge and understanding of tyres but that is typically associated with the premium sector. Tyre quality is very subjective and for the first time the labelling regime will bring a degree of transparency to tyre performance, although only three selection criteria out of many are being measured.

‘Fleet managers will be able to use tyre labelling to compare and contrast the performance of premium tyres from the likes of Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Goodyear, Hankook, Michelin and Pirelli with those from mid and budget brands. We may well be surprised by some of the performance test results.

‘As a consequence we could see fleet operators deciding to fit tyres on a ‘like-for-like’ basis when they know that the vehicle will remain on the fleet for the life-time of the premium tyre.

‘However, as vehicles move closer to defleet, fleet operators may opt for a cheaper mid-range tyre that performs well according to labelling criteria, fits their purpose and in terms of longevity will out last the vehicle’s fleet life.

‘Consequently, in an economic environment when vehicle operating costs are under the microscope the new tyre labelling system may help fleets to save money.”

Kwik-Fit has a responsibility under the legislation to ensure that all customers have:

· Visibility of labels on tyres at the point of sale and the label is shown to them before the sale is completed

· Tyre label information given to them during the purchase process when the tyres offered for sale are not visible

· Tyre label information given on or with the bill.

The issue is complicated for fleets as many new tyres are purchased remotely by fleet decision-makers with vehicle drivers either having pre-ordered tyres fitted at Kwik-Fit centres or by Kwik-Fit Mobile technicians.

Lambert said: ‘We will ensure fleet customers are aware of the characteristics of each tyre as highlighted on the label in advance. This will be contained within our pricing matrix so that clients can exactly see the specific attributes of every tyre available.’

Like the European energy label, the tyre label will use classes ranging from best-performance (green ‘A’ class) to worst (red ‘G’ class), excluding ‘D’ to avoid an average performing tyre.

But, there is a balance to be struck between safety, fuel economy and cost when selecting tyres prompting Lambert to warn: ‘Occupational road risk management has been an agenda-topping issue for the entire fleet industry for many years and remains so. While the fitting of a cheaper lower class of tyre may result in up-front cost savings, it will not meet the safety characteristics or fuel-efficiency of ‘A’ class tyres.

‘Therefore, while we appreciate that fleet budgets must be kept under a tight rein, safety should be the top priority. Additionally, ‘A’ class tyres are likely to return improved MPG as well as have a longer life in comparison with a lower class of tyre in the hands of the ‘average’ driver.’

Lambert added: ‘We expect vehicle manufacturers to want to fit the very best tyres in terms of safety and fuel efficiency to their vehicles on the production line.’

Jaama enhances P11D data validation within Key2 system

JAAMA has made further improvements to the benefit-in-kind reporting capability of its Key2 Vehicle Management system which now provides employees’ with the ability to ‘pre-validate’ their annual P11D declaration.

The service pack update has been welcomed by Jaama customers who could face a maximum penalty of £3,000 for each incorrect P11D submission and is especially important in light of HM Revenue and Customs recent announcement that thousands of employee tax codes could be incorrect, says the company.

All employers must submit completed employee P11D forms containing all of the benefits-in-kind provided within the previous tax year to the HM Revenue and Customs. Additionally, employers must report and pay the related Class 1A National Insurance contributions associated with the benefits they’ve provided.

The P11D reporting upgrade automates the process of sending employees’ a letter or email containing a summary of the benefits received during the preceding tax year.

Martin Evans, Jaama’s sales and operations director, said: ‘This enhancement enables individual drivers to check and report any anomalies for correction in advance of the production and submission of the P11D form itself.

‘We believe this to be an extremely useful tool, particularly in light of the current well publicised concerns in relation to widespread problems in relation to claims that many employees are being sent wrong tax codes.’

HM Revenue and Customs has admitted that approximately 2% of tax codes will be incorrect meaning 360,000 wrong notices being sent out of the around 18 million distributed. More than 700 fleets across the UK use Jaama’s Key2 software to manage their fleet operation.

The tax office state that such errors are caused by the latest data not being available from employers or inaccurate information being supplied by organisations or employees

Evans said: ‘The ability of employees to see tax details in relation to company cars and other benefits-in-kind prior to the formal P11D submission to HM Revenue and Customs should improve the accuracy of data provided which will have been checked and verified well in advance.’

Some fleet decision-makers have already discovered that their company car drivers are among those that have been given wrong tax codes, which is likely to result in incorrect deductions until the error can be corrected.

The Key2 P11D service pack upgrade also includes:

· Managers enabled to have access to data for their P11D reporting responsibilities which can be restricted to just employees within their associated organisational structure.

· The ability to produce single P11D forms by excluding one or more employee from the validation process thus reducing waiting time for all employees to have company vehicle details validated

· The ability to generate and print P11D details to send a letter to employees who either don’t have an email address or have left the organisation.

Additionally, although fleets using Key2 have been previously able to electronically submit P11D(b) - the form relates to Class 1A National Insurance contributions due from employers - returns to the tax office in a single transaction across a secure internet connection, via the Government Gateway, the new service upgrade enables the return to be produced automatically for the first time.

Evans concluded: ‘HM Revenue and Customs is reliant on data being given to them. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that P11D-related information is exact so correct tax codes can be issued to employees. The upgrade to Key2’s P11D reporting capability further improves employers’ reporting procedures and meets HM Revenue and Customs’ accounting requirements.’

Commuting drivers want a ‘crash course’ from their employer

MORE than a quarter of drivers have been in an accident on their way to work, and nearly a third have had a near miss in the last year, according to a web poll of 383 drivers from IAM Drive & Survive.

The survey, which looked at the experiences of commuters travelling to and from work, also found that 98% of drivers said they were exposed to negligent road users on their journey, 40% of them frequently. Additionally, 45% admitted they had made a mistake which had made them worry about their safety in the last year. 

A total of 45% of drivers polled said they would like their employer to provide support for them to improve their driving. A total of 27% said they would like further driver training and 14% want clear company policies on circumstances in which they shouldn’t travel.

IAM head of training Simon Elstow said: ‘Driving to work is a risky business and a bad journey can affect people’s mood at work. It’s in the employer’s best interest to help their staff enjoy a stress-free commute, whether that’s through guidance materials, optional training, company policies, or ride to work schemes.

‘Company driving policy needs to make it clear that while employees should plan their journey to be on time, if they are going to be late they shouldn’t rush or use a handheld mobile [phone] on the move. Traffic is unpredictable, and drivers shouldn’t feel forced to drive dangerously for fear of punishment.’

E-Training World to extend its online driver risk assessment services

E-TRAINING World will be launching a new range of online driver risk assessments in September with the introduction of three new systems.

Companies will be able to assess motorbike riders, emergency services drivers and minibus drivers.

The additions come at a time when online driver risk assessments are accelerating in demand, and follow the launch of E-Training World’s HGV assessment earlier this year.

‘We’re making excellent progress with the development of these three new assessments,’ said Jonathan Mosley, director of sales and marketing.

‘The reason we’ve decided to announce them in advance is because we’d be keen to hear from any organisations operating these types of vehicles who may wish to share with us their own particular experiences around at-work drivers/riders.

‘All of our systems are skills and knowledge based, they are developed by driver trainers, road safety officers and experts in each particular field, and we follow a proven structure of assessing attitude, knowledge, concentration and observation, and hazard perception - all of which result in individual risk ratings per section, and an overall driver rating of high, medium or low.’

Zipcar UK agrees full Michelin tyre contract

THE world’s leading car sharing network, Zipcar, has entered into a full Michelin tyre contract for its UK fleet, which focuses on whole life cost rather than initial outlay.

Zipcar UK, which operates in London, Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford, will gradually introduce Michelin tyres across its fleet of 1,800 cars and vans as part of the new agreement.

David Cruickshank, head of fleet for Zipcar UK, said: ‘At Zipcar, we obsess about the member experience and, under this agreement, we can consistently provide our vehicles with a higher quality tyre, so that our members enjoy an even better drive.

‘We have chosen Michelin for three main reasons; safety, durability and longevity. The safety of our members is paramount, and the team at Michelin has demonstrated to us how the braking response of our vehicles will improve, thanks to the reduced stopping distances of their higher quality tyres.

‘Zipcar is all about providing its members and its business customers with wheels when they want them, so high availability and minimal repairs is essential. The improved durability offered by these Michelin tyres will keep our vehicles on the road and available for members, for longer.

‘Additionally, it is anticipated that by fitting high quality Michelin tyres, Zipcar UK will actually purchase and dispose of fewer tyres, further contributing to Zipcar’s ongoing commitment to the environment.’

The ongoing tyre maintenance and repair of Zipcar’s UK fleet, which includes Audi A3, Volkswagen Golf, Polo, Transporter and Caddy, will continue to be carried out by ATS Euromaster.

Telematics crucial to large fleets capturing vehicle mileage

MORE than two thirds of UK businesses, which employ in excess of 1,000 people, have adopted telematics to capture accurate mileage readings and thereby deliver cost savings associated with running their fleet of company vehicles, according to the results of a new survey of finance directors by ALD Automotive.

According to the AA the UK currently has the eighth highest petrol price in Europe and the second highest diesel price. With the average price of fuel currently costing over 138p a litre, large UK businesses are increasingly turning to their fleet suppliers for strategic advice to help them reduce costs and improve the efficiency and productivity of their fleet.

 

Telematics is one technology that businesses are more commonly embracing to deliver cost savings, with particular emphasis on helping reduce their fuel bill.

Drivers, it seems, are also embracing telematics; in separate research undertaken by ALD Automotive, over 87% of 500 business drivers surveyed by YouGov said that they would approve of telematics on board their vehicle if it helped reduce their fuel bill.

 

ALD Automotive’s award winning ProFleet2 telematics solution is one such service being used to tackle the fuel cost issues.

Keith Allen, managing director of ALD Automotive UK, said: ‘Over the past seven years, telematics technology has evolved hugely, delivering a wide range of functionalities that can help businesses to better manage the costs and risk associated with their fleet.

‘At the same time business drivers have also become far more positive about the use of telematics, recognising the benefits it can deliver to themselves as well as their employers.’

‘Unique’ CX-5 to raise Mazda corporate sales, say fleets

MAZDA’S ground-breaking all-new CX-5 compact crossover SUV featuring breakthrough SKYACTIV technology is set to increase the brand’s penetration of the UK fleet market.

Fleet managers and representatives of contract hire and leasing companies gave the CX-5, which marks the debut of Mazda’s unique SKYACTIV fuel-sipping, emissions-busting technology, the thumbs-up at the model’s fleet launch at Rockingham, Northamptonshire.

SKYACTIV technology, which has as its three key attributes economy, safety and performance, promises to redraw the automotive landscape as it is rolled out across the Mazda line-up with the launch of new models.

Promising enhanced efficiency and performance from petrol and diesel engines, the key model numbers relating to list price, emissions, benefit-in-kind tax (BiK), MPG, residual values and indicative total operating costs met fleet decision-maker approval.

On-the-road prices for the 18-strong CX-5 range start from £21,395 for the 2.0 litre SE-L SKYACTIV-G 165 PS petrol and rise to £28,795 for the flagship 2.2 litre SKYACTIV-D 175 PS diesel Sport Nav Auto all-wheel drive (AWD).

The 2-wheel drive (2WD) petrol engine range gives drivers a choice of SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav trim levels. Emitting 139g/km and returning 47.1 mpg on the combined cycle no competitor models can match such figures given the available power.

Diesel engine performance - 2.2-litre powerplants with a choice of SKYACTIV 150ps or 175 PS engines with 2WD or all-wheel drive (AWD), manual and automatic transmissions and four equipment levels (SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav) - is similarly unmatched in terms of both emissions (from 119g/km) and fuel economy (from 61.4mpg on the combined cycle).

Tony Leigh, head of car fleet services at PricewaterhouseCoopers, which has a fleet of some 2,500 cars, was impressed with the CX-5. He said: ‘The CX-5 has style. It is entering a sector of the market where there are a lot of competitors. A low CO2 figure is important and, with the price of fuel, economy is crucial, so it all comes down to cost. The CX-5 looks to be very competitive.’

Malcolm Hird, national field services manager and in charge of the 232-strong fleet at Dyson, famed for its vacuum cleaners and hand dryers, said: ‘Today’s company car drivers are looking for a vehicle that has load-carrying capability but is not too large, is practical and stylish. They are also conscious of their benefit-in-kind tax bill and fuel costs and the CX-5 delivers.

‘There is a uniqueness about the CX-5 and I thought the 2.0-litre petrol engine was perfectly balanced, while the 2.2-litre diesel was lively and responsive. The CX-5 would earn a place on our fleet.’

During the event, decision-makers were able to drive the CX-5 back-to-back with key competitors such as the Ford Kuga and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Lorraine Johnson, new business development consultant at Huntingdon-based Marshall Leasing, which operates a fleet of 6,000 vehicles, said: ‘The CX-5 handled very well in comparison with its competitors. It is a very comfortable car with plenty of room and the practicality of a larger vehicle.

‘The arrival of SKYACTIV technology across the Mazda range will increase demand for Mazda vehicles because it drives down CO2 emissions.’

Mazda head of fleet Steve Tomlinson said: ‘The arrival of the CX-5 marks the dawning of a new era for Mazda as we defy convention and focus on the evolution of petrol and diesel engine technology, which we believe will find favour from fleets in preference to the electric and hybrid alternatives of other marques.’

EST begins search for England’s ‘greenest’ fleets

PUBLIC and private sector businesses are being encouraged to enter the race to find England’s greenest fleets with the launch of the Energy Saving Trust’s 2012 Fleet Hero Awards.

The awards highlight public and private organisations that are reducing fuel bills and lowering carbon footprints through better transport policies and more efficient use of their fleets. The awards also recognise companies that supply cost and fuel saving products or services to fleets.

Now in its seventh year, the Fleet Hero Awards are open to organisations with fleets in England.

Philip Sellwood, chief executive of the Energy Saving Trust, said: ‘Research shows that road transport contributes to around a fifth of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with businesses in England playing a major part in this. The Fleet Hero Awards recognise businesses that are helping the country to reduce this figure and achieve its sustainability targets.

‘This year we have introduced additional categories to honour even more businesses for their contribution to the progressive reduction of emissions from vehicles.’

The 12 categories are: Best Public Sector Fleet; Best Private Sector Fleet; Smarter Driving; Grey Fleet Management; Business Mileage Management; Industry Supplier of the Year; Transport Solutions Supplier of the Year; Innovation in Car and Van Manufacturing; Innovation in Services and Systems; Innovation in Fleet Management; Leadership Award; and Commercial Vehicle Management Award (including HGVs).

The awards are free to enter and the application process initially requires a 250 word entry outlining why an organisation should win. The deadline for entries is Friday, August 17.

Successful first round applicants will be notified by Monday, August 27 and invited to submit a second, more detailed application by Friday, September 28. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Tuesday, November 20.

Cobra launches UK’s first windscreen-mounted telematics device

COBRA UK has unveiled the UK’s first windscreen-mounted telematics box which, the company says, offers a range of additional benefits to fleet operators, including enhanced data provision, an optional eCall button and reduced installation time.

Cobra’s ‘Black Box’ technology is currently fitted to thousands of vehicles across the UK and mainland Europe.

The new device can be fitted in minutes, according to Cobra, and provides a constantly visible reminder to those behind the wheel, encouraging responsible driving behaviour and delivering enhanced vehicle security.

Cobra’s new windscreen mounted ‘black box’ is manufactured to OE standards and detects everything from movement, speed, cornering and braking, to rollover and impact events, providing fleet managers with trip statistics, driving behaviour and policy information for their drivers, as well as eFNOL automatic crash alert after an incident, and incident reconstruction. An internal GPS and GSM antenna enables location, mapping and reporting, plus theft tracking when required.

Andrew Smith, managing director at Cobra UK, said: ‘The usage-based insurance market is growing rapidly as innovative technology delivers proven, scalable and highly efficient ways for insurers to reduce risk, based on actual driver behaviour.

‘Insurance premiums are rocketing out of control and our windscreen mounted device is a new development that we know will help to further reduce premiums, as well as contributing to improved road safety, by encouraging safer driving.’

Model update________________________________________________

New brand Dacia says it will clean up with Duster SUV

EUROPE’S fastest growing car brand for the last eight years, Dacia, has arrived in the UK with the Duster, an SUV with on-the-road prices starting at £8,995 on-the-road and a 4x4 option available for £10,995.

The Renault-owned subsidiary has established a UK network of 127 dealers and each one has a left-hand drive Duster on display as pre-ordering gets underway ahead of the arrival of right-hand drive models.

First customer deliveries of right-hand drive models will be in January next year with buyers having the option of two engines and three trim levels - Access, Ambiance and Lauréate.

The engines are a 1.6 105 bhp petrol powerplant and a 1.5 110 bhp diesel unit with the former available on entry-level versions and the diesel on the upper two trim levels. Duster 4x4 versions are available with either engine.

Dacia expects UK sales to be predominantly 4x2. However, with 4x4 versions starting at £10,995 on-the-road, the company says that ‘nothing else in the market offers the same size, price and equipment for the money’.

Based on Renault-Nissan Alliance four-wheel-drive technology, Duster’s petrol engine returns fuel economy of 39.8 mpg (35.3 in 4x4) and emissions are 165 g/km (185 g/km 4x4).

The 1.5 dCi unit is Renault Group’s best-selling diesel engine. In 4x2 models it offers 130 g/km and 137g/km in 4x4, together with 56.5 mpg (53.3 in 4x4).

In 4x2 models, the 1.6 is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. 1.5 dCi 110 versions, are paired with a six-speed manual, as are 1.6 4x4 versions. The Duster’s flagship is the £14,995 1.5 dCi 110 4x4 Laureate.

Standard exterior features on the five-seater include, 16-inch steel wheels and longitudinal roof bars, while on the inside, the model offers electric front windows, four airbags, height adjustable steering wheel and ISOFIX points on the outer rear seats. An emergency spare wheel is also fitted free-of-charge to 4x4 versions. ABS and Emergency Brake Assist, plus remote central locking are also core features, together with radio and speaker pre-wiring.

The Duster’s boot gives 475 litres of space (408 litres in 4x4 with spare wheel), while optimum load space once the rear seats are dropped climbs to 1,636 litres.

All new Dacia’s come with a three-year/60,000 mile warranty

Shortly after the arrival of the Duster, Dacia will launch the all-new Sandero supermini in the UK.

Chevrolet reveals pricing for Cruze estate

THE new Cruze Station Wagon will go on sale in the autumn with on-the-road prices starting at £15,375, Chevrolet has confirmed.

The largest model in the Cruze line-up, it offers up to 1,478 litres of load space.

Three engines and three trim levels will be offered in the UK at launch, with the range-topping 1.7 VCDi LTZ NAV costing £19,785.

Three trim levels will be available - LS, LT and LTZ Nav. The entry-level LS, which comes with a 124 PS 1.6 litre engine, has as standard: air conditioning, follow-me-home headlamps, electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors, front electric windows with ‘express down' facility, roof rails rear and boot 12v power sockets, cargo restraint hooks, remote central door locking, electronic boot release, ESC and traction control.

The LT model is offered with a choice of 1.6 litre 124 PS petrol, 1.8 litre 141 PS petrol Auto or 1.7 litre 130 PS diesel engines producing emissions of 119 g/km.

The top model in the line up, the LTZ NAV, is available with the 1.7 litre 130 PS diesel engine coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox.

Jaguar introduces new engine to 2013 XJ

JAGUAR has revealed a host of changes to its XJ models for the 2013 model year including the introduction of a new 3.0 litre petrol engine.

Significant transmission, engine and dynamic developments mean the XJ, Jaguar’s most technologically advanced car, becomes more efficient and refined.

Jaguar has introduced an eight-speed ZF transmission with Intelligent Stop-Start as standard resulting in improved fuel consumption (47 mpg) and emissions (159 g/km, a 14% improvement).

The 2013 model year XJ marks the introduction of a new 3.0 litre, supercharged V6 powertrain replacing the 5.0 V8 engine. Producing 340 PS and 450 Nm of torque, the new engine also powers the forthcoming F-Type sports car, available from 2013. The XJ is also available with a 3.0 V6 diesel engine.

Inside the XJ, DAB is now fitted as standard and a new premium sound system has also been installed.

On-the-road prices for the model start at £56,260 for the standard wheel base 3.0 diesel Luxury trim model with long wheel base variants available for an additional £3,000. Models powered with the new petrol engine start at £65,365 for the Premium Luxury trim.

Jaguar XF Sportbrake pricing revealed

JAGUAR has announced pricing and the engine line-up for the new XF Sportbrake - the first deliveries of which will take place in the UK towards the end of the year.

Powered by a range of diesel engines in 2.2 and 3.0 litre capacities, the XF Sportbrake marks the debut of new derivatives based on the 2.2 litre diesel unit.

The engine is now available in 163 PS and 200 PS outputs - the latter replacing the existing 190 PS output engine. Emissions start from 135 g/km and fuel economy of 55.4 mpg.

The Sportbrake will also be available equipped with a 3.0 litre turbocharged V6 engine in 240 PS Diesel and 275 PS Diesel S derivatives. Each emits 163 g/km and returns 46 mpg on the combined cycle.

On-the-road prices for the Sportbrake start at £31,940 for the 2.2 diesel SE Business and extend to £51,505 for the 3.0 Diesel S Portfolio.

The XF saloon also benefits from the new engine upgrades. Applied to the saloon, the new 2.2 litre diesel engines share the same economy and emission figures as the Sportbrake. Deliveries of the saloon commence in September with prices starting at £29,940 on-the-road for the 2.2 Diesel SE.

The XF saloon and Sportbrake will both adopt the eight-speed automatic gearbox and Stop/Start as standard across the engine range - improving emissions on the V6 diesel engines by 6% on the saloon.

Also joining the range is a new 3.0 litre supercharged V6 petrol engine developing 340 PS. The engine, which is also set to appear in the new F-TYPE, replaces the naturally aspirated 5.0 litre V8 in the XF range.

The 3.0 litre V6 S/C is capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 155 mph, returning fuel economy figures of 30 mpg on the combined cycle with emissions of 224 g/km.

Renault unveils fourth generation Clio

THE fourth-generation Renault Clio will go on UK sale early next year following its world debut at September’s Paris Motor Show.

New Clio is said to stand out through its front-end design which features a prominent Renault logo, set bold and upright to a gloss black background. The frontal treatment is further emphasised by the headlights - the lower edge of which is picked out in chrome - and LED daytime running lights.

Offered only in five-door form, new Clio has a sporty silhouette, accentuated by integrated rear door handles concealed close to the rear quarter lights.

Exterior and interior personalisation was dialled into new Clio’s design process at the outset. From launch, buyers will be able to personalise the outside of their car with a selection of colour touches to the front grille, rear and side door inserts.

To personalise the interior, the menu covers the dashboard, door panels, steering wheel, grab handles, gear lever and air vent surrounds, upholstery materials and optional floor mats.

Petrol and diesel engines have been updated in new Clio. The two petrol engines are Energy TCe 90 and TCe 120. The former debuts in the Clio and is the first three-cylinder powerplant ever produced by Renault. Equipped with Stop&Start it is said to deliver the performance of a normally-aspirated 1.4 litre powerplant. An economy-optimised version with taller gear ratios and fuel consumption of 65.7 mpg, equivalent to emissions of 99 g/km will be available delivering a 21% fuel consumption and emissions saving compared to the TCe 100 it replaces.

Diesel engines include the new Energy dCi 90, a version of the 1.5 dCi, equipped with Stop&Start. An economy-optimised version with taller gear ratios the powerplant also qualifies for the Renault eco2 signature with fuel consumption of 88 mpg, equivalent to emissions of 83g/km.

The new TCe Clio will be available with the new six-speed EDC transmission (Efficient Dual Clutch), a first for Renault in the B segment:

In the first half of 2013 Renault will introduce a new four-cylinder 1.2 litre engine to the range with the promised performance of a normally-aspirated 1.6 engine. The manufacturer says that it will be among the most powerful, yet most economical, engines in its class. It will be introduced alongside an EDC dual clutch transmission for the dCi 90 engine.

Over and above the engineering developments, new Clio offers drivers an integrated suite of efficient solutions to help them reduce their fuel consumption and emissions. The range of tools include: an ECO mode that allows drivers to reduce fuel consumption by as much as 10% by modifying the car’s performance parameters at the push of a button; a driving style monitor (green, yellow or orange) and a Gear Change Indicator (GCI) on the dashboard to help drivers improve their driving style to reduce fuel consumption.

New Clio features a number of new innovations including as standard from Dynamique upwards, Renault R-Link. It is a seven-inch touchscreen, intuitive voice commands and, as a market first, a home page that can be personalised by the user for safe and simple access to essential functions, without the driver having to take his or her eyes off the road.

Accessible benefits include TomTom navigation, an eco-driving function (Driving eco²) which analyses a driver’s behaviour and provides advice to help reduce fuel consumption and the automobile world’s first ever Application Store, which enables users to view or download a comprehensive and varied range of apps from their car or computer (via ‘My Renault’).

The scope of R-Link’s connected functions will continue to expand thanks to ‘Paris Incubateurs’ - a Paris-based hot-house for young talent) and to an appeal extended to start-ups at the LeWeb’11 show.

All versions of new Clio are available with a sound system integrated into the front doors’ loudspeakers. Known as Renault Bass Reflex, the system delivers the volume and listening enjoyment of a 30-litre home speaker system.

The entire new Clio range features Bluetooth-equipped radios for hands-free telephone operation and audio streaming from portable music players with excellent sound quality.

Citroën gives C5 a boost with styling upgrades and new technology

CITROËN has updated the C5 with new technologies and styling features consistent with the brand’s current design cues and future ambitions.

The C5 saloon and Tourer now features the brand’s new chevrons, which update the car’s expression with their enhanced curves. The C5 also gains the option of 17-inch ‘Egée’ alloy wheels on Exclusive models and a new pearlescent body colour - ‘Guaranja Brown’. Citroën C5 Exclusive models are available with a new part-leather upholstery and new interior design components.

To make driving easier, the C5 can be specified with a new eMyWay satellite navigation system combined with a Connecting Box - jack socket, USB port and Bluetooth® - as part of a new Techno Pack option.

On the C5 Tourer, the eMyWay system can be hooked up to a reversing camera to make parking manoeuvres even safer.

The new Techno Packs are introduced across the entire C5 range. Priced at £700, they offer similar equipment across all three trim levels including alloy wheels, rear parking sensors (front parking sensors on Exclusive models) and chrome window sills.

The new C5 range is now on sale and costs from £19,895 for the entry-level saloon HDi 115 manual VTR and £20,995 for the equivalent Tourer model.

Kia adds new flagship model to Sportage range

KIA has launched a new top-of-the-range KX-4 version of the Sportage that features a higher output turbodiesel engine alongside the most luxurious level of specification yet seen in the company’s crossover model.

The KX-4 2manual is priced at £27,195 on-the-road and the automatic at £28,500.

The Sportage KX-4 uses a 181 bhp version of Kia’s 2.0 litre CRDi turbodiesel engine mated to a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions and an intelligent All-Wheel Drive system.

The model builds on the specification of the KX-3 Sat Nav by adding a Parallel Parking Assist System - complete with all-round parking sensors - a keyless smart entry system and engine stop/start button and stainless steel door scuff plates.

Standard equipment also includes a full leather upholstery, 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, seven-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system with EU mapping, Xenon lights, automatic lights and wipers, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, heated front and rear seats, cruise control, iPod connectivity, colour reversing camera and a seven-speaker stereo complete with external amplifier and subwoofer.

The powerplant develops 383 Nm (282lb/ft) of torque from 1,800 rpm to 2,500 rpm in manual guise. The automatic develops 392 Nm. The KX-4 completes the 0-60 mph dash in 9.4 seconds and, when fitted with the six-speed manual transmission, top speed is 120 mph, emissions are 158 g/km and 46.3 mpg is achieved on the official combined cycle. 

The six-speed automatic has a top speed of 121 mph whilst emissions are 189g/km and the official combined cycle fuel economy figure is 39.2 mpg.

Infiniti adds second hybrid to M model line-up

INFINITI has extended its M line-up with the launch of a GT version of the world’s fastest-accelerating hybrid saloon.

Costing £42,020 on-the-road, the M35h GT costs £3,970 less than the M35h GT Premium which until now was the sole version available.

Both versions of the M35h fall below 160 g/km prompting Infiniti UK fleet sales manager Simon Lewis to say: ‘Cost of ownership is an important consideration in any new car purchase. With the M35h GT grade it now means that the P11D values have been reduced and along with the recent improved emissions rating there are lower bills for companies and for their drivers.’

Previously the navigation system was available only as part of a package with 16-speaker Bose surround sound. But, in response to customer wishes, a new separate option of Connectiviti+, Infiniti’s navigation/entertainment system, has been introduced on GT and S models at a cost of £1,800.

Manufacturer news___________________________________________

Price fixing: OFT probes Mercedes and five truck and van dealers

THE Office of Fair Trading (OFT) claims that Mercedes-Benz and five of its truck and van may have infringed competition law.

The OFT has issued a Statement of Objections against the organisations, which now have an opportunity to respond to the allegations. If found guilty the manufacturer and the dealers are likely to face substantial fines.

The case comprises five separate alleged infringements that took place at different periods between March 2007 and January 2010. Each alleged infringement involved two or three dealers. The OFT’s provisional finding is that Mercedes-Benz was also involved in two of the alleged infringements.

The precise content of the arrangements differs among the five alleged infringements but all contain, to varying degrees, at least some element of market sharing, price coordination and/or exchange of commercially sensitive information. Three of the alleged infringements concern vans and two concern trucks.

The evidence also suggests that, in respect of two of the alleged infringements, Mercedes-Benz helped to facilitate or consolidate the arrangements amongst the dealers.

Ali Nikpay, OFT senior director of cartels, said: ‘Based on the evidence currently before us, we have reason to believe that these dealers co-operated to limit competition in their areas.

‘This case, which involves dealers who are mainly active in areas within the North of England and parts of Wales and Scotland, shows the OFT’s commitment to pursuing allegations of serious competition law infringements irrespective of the size of the companies involved or the geographic scope of the case.

‘These are the OFT’s provisional findings only. All parties will now have a full opportunity to respond to our statement before we decide whether competition law has in fact been infringed.’

The dealers implicated are: Ciceley Commercials Limited and its ultimate parent Ciceley Limited; Enza Motors Limited, its parent Enza Holdings Limited and its ultimate parent Enza Group Limited; H & L Garages Limited and its parent Dusted Powder Limited; Northside Truck & Van Limited and its ultimate parent S.A.H. Limited; and Road Range Limited.

A Statement of Objections gives notice of a proposed infringement decision under the Competition Act 1998 to the parties involved. The parties then have the opportunity to make written and oral representations in response to the case set out by the OFT.

BMW and Toyota extend business partnership

BMW and Toyota have extended their co-operation with a new agreement relating to the development of powertrain electrification, research into lightweight technologies,

the development of fuel cells, and future vehicle architectures - for a sports car, for example.

The new memorandum of understanding builds on an agreement signed last December and a further agreement signed in March relating to the research in the field of lithium-ion battery cell technology.

BMW will also be supplying Toyota Motor Europe with 1.6 litre and 2.0 litre diesel engines from 2014.

Light commercial vehicles______________________________________

‘White van man’ turned Olympian urges van drivers to plan ahead

 A FORMER ‘white van man’ who is competing at the London 2012 Games is urging the capital’s van drivers not to get caught out and to start planning now so they can operate smoothly during the Olympic Games, which open on July 27.

 

Simon Terry, a Team GB archer, has teamed up with Transport for London (TfL) and London 2012 to encourage white van drivers and traders, such as electricians and plumbers, to plan ahead to avoid delays and congestion during this summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games, which open on August 29.

 

According to a survey of 1,000 businesses that make deliveries in London conducted by TfL and London 2012, over three quarters (77%) say they are prepared for the 2012 Games.

However, only around one in five (19%) have considered using alternative routes to avoid congestion hotspots, and even fewer (18%) have considered re-timing deliveries to be overnight.

With less than three weeks to go before the Olympic Route Network (ORN) comes into operation on 25 July, all businesses including van drivers are being urged to use TfL’s Freight Journey Planner at http://freightplanner.tfl.gov.uk to plan routes through affected areas.

 

The Freight Journey Planner has been designed to help delivery and servicing companies of all sizes plan their delivery and driving routes around London during the Games, based on the date and time of day, and size of their vehicle. It will help businesses identify where they are permitted to load/unload and park and estimate a time of arrival for each route based on traffic information.

Businesses can also get information on the impact of the Games on roads and how to plan ahead at www.GetAheadoftheGames.com.

 

Ben Plowden, director of planning at TfL Surface Transport, said: ‘During the Olympic and Paralympic Games, London will become a massive sporting and cultural venue so we don’t want people to get caught out. Roads in central London, around the Olympic Route Network, road events and venues will be exceptionally busy. All companies and trades people, including van drivers, should plan ahead to avoid the busiest times and places wherever possible, and allow more time for their journeys to be made.’

 

Terry, who is competing in this summer’s Olympic archery event for Team GB and used to be a roofer, said: ‘From my experience, driving to and from jobs is a vital everyday activity for many trades people. It will be essential for businesses, from builders to couriers, to change their usual journeys. By planning ahead, they will be able to avoid any road restrictions, re-schedule work for outside peak times or leave extra time for journeys to allow for delays.’

 

His three top tips to help firms plan are:

· If possible change your journeys to avoid the busiest times and days, and make sure you know when and where road events are taking place;

· For essential trips, plan each route using the Freight Journey Planner freightplanner.tfl.gov.uk  to avoid congestion and road restrictions;

· Talk to customers, suppliers and employees and explain that the Games may affect how the business operates, then work with them to find solutions.

Calls for vans to be fitted with integrated communications systems

AN integral communications solution needs be to be the next piece of technology adopted as standard by van makers, according to Alex Wright, managing director of Shoreham Vehicle Auctions.

Van manufacturers who ignore operators’ growing appetite to communicate with drivers and their customers directly from the vehicle could suffer from reduced sales and residual values in the long term, he says.

More and more van operators are looking to install communications equipment into the van cabin to help them run their business whilst on the move and provide the best possible service to their customers.

Wright believes that offering integrated satellite navigation or an in-cab phone charge point is now not enough to meet the demands of van operators, who need technology such as in-built docking stations or adaptive cradles for a range of communication equipment that adhere to stringent manufacturer safety guidelines.

He said: ‘iPhones, for example, are used for so much more than just making calls - they double up as a sat nav system, as GPS positioning devices, as well as enabling the driver to safely make calls and stay in touch with the office via email. When 4G hits these shores it is anticipated that smart phones will become an ever more integral part of a van driver’s day-to-day working kit.

‘Offering a more flexible factory-built solution to accommodate these communication devices will immediately translate into additional sales. Vans with these options tend to make more money when it comes to selling them used in three or four years’ time.’

Vans fitted with sat nav systems have commanded a slight increase in used values, but nothing that meets the initial investment. Some manufacturers such as Nissan are now providing sat nav as standard, but to future proof their vehicles on all levels, van makers must look at operator requirements in a far broader fashion.

Currently many operators purchase the base vehicle and then fit their own communications kit, which often means extra cost and time before a van goes into operation, as well as new wiring and installations being added to the vehicle’s factory fitted finish.

At the end of the vehicle’s life the kit then has to be taken out at a further cost to the operator, whilst an integral dash mounted communications system would address all these issues.

‘Van technology now has to move on and we are confident that operators would work with the industry to help make this a reality. Anything a manufacturer can implement to make an operator’s life easier and help develop their business without incurring huge costs will certainly put them at an advantage,’ said Wright.

Transflex hits the road with Bell Truck and Van

 

NEWLY launched business-to-business van rental specialist Transflex has taken delivery of a fleet of Mercedes-Bens Sprinters from local dealer Bell Truck & Van.

 

The team leading Stockton-based Transflex say they drew on their many years of industry experience before placing a series of orders for new Sprinter vans, the latest of which saw the delivery of a dozen 313CDI models.

 

Transflex vans, tippers and minibuses are typically hired out on long-term deals, and a couple of the new Sprinters have been assigned to a two-year contract with a local civil engineering firm.

 

Established earlier this year, Transflex purchased its first vehicles in April and has more than 150 available for hire - Sprinters account for a significant percentage of the fleet, which includes tippers, minibuses, Lutons and panel vans, as well as small car-derived vehicles.

 

Transflex’s latest order was for a dozen Long-bodied Sprinter 313CDIs, powered by 129 bhp Euro5 engines.

Managing Director Peter Abdale who spent 30 years working in senior roles for one of Britain’s biggest rental firms before launching Transflex, said: ‘The Sprinter’s whole-life running costs are the lowest of any vehicle in its class, while the three-year, unlimited mileage warranty underlines the manufacturer’s faith in its product.’

Residual value update_________________________________________

Ex-company car values reach record high in falling market

VALUES of defleeted company cars continued to rise last month and reached a new record, although a change in mix saw headline used car value fall by 2.2% compared to May, according to latest data from BCA.

The fall was generated by lower sale volumes and values of nearly-new cars. As a result, BCA’s figures show that average used car values fell by £134 to £5,964 in June (May 2012: £6,098).

However, fleet values reached a new high point, averaging over £8,000 for the first time on record as BCA sold a slightly richer mix of cars from fleet and lease operators during the month.

Fleet and lease cars averaged £8,042 in June, up £106 (1.3%) month-on-month (May 2012: £7,934). CAP performance climbed by over a point to 96.8% with the average age rising marginally (40.78 months) and average mileage climbing by nearly 500 miles over the month to 48,847 miles. Performance against original MRP (manufacturers’ retail price) was level month-on-month at 39.6% for the second month running.

Year-on-year, the fleet and lease sector recorded a significant 13.7% uplift (compared to the 7.9% rise seen last month), with CAP comparisons improving by over two points.

Part-exchange values also posted a small month-on-month rise of £27, but nearly-new values fell by almost £2,000 as fewer prestige and executive cars reached the market in June.

Across the board, used cars averaged 96.1% of CAP ‘clean’ in June, up by half a point compared to May, while average age and mileage both rose marginally over the month, up to nearly 63 months and 60,000 miles.

Year-on-year, June 2012 average values were a substantial 5.3% ahead of 2011, while average age and mileage have climbed by 6% and 2.5% respectively in the same period.

BCA communications director Tony Gannon said: ‘The market tends to slow down in the early summer and we have also had a short-term hangover from the Jubilee double Bank Holiday. Volumes are down month-on-month, and year-on-year for that matter, underlining the shortage of supply reaching the marketplace.

‘In many ways, this dearth of stock is keeping values high as consumer confidence is still reported to be flat. According to the CBI, retail activity is subdued and uncertainty over the economic outlook is putting a brake on consumer spending across the whole retail sector.’

Class-leading residual values for all-new Isuzu D-Max

THE all-new Isuzu D-Max has unrivalled residual values, according to latest data from valuation experts at CAP Monitor.

They forecast that the D-Max 4x4 double cab will retain a class-leading 39.86% of its original price (£17,749 commercial vehicle on-the-road), excluding VAT, after three years/60,000 miles. 

The figures beat the likes of the Volkswagen Amarok A32 Startline 163 PS (37.91%), Toyota HiLux HL3 Double Cab 144 PS (37.59%), Ford Ranger Double Cab XL 150 PS (36.24%) and Mitsubishi L200LWB Double Cab D-ID 4Life 134 PS (35.19%).

The model officially goes on sale in the UK on July a4 and Tim Cattlin, editor of CAP CV Monitor, said: ‘Having experienced first-hand the new Isuzu D-Max in challenging on- and off-road situations, I’m really impressed with its robustness, build quality and capabilities. Isuzu has built on the rugged qualities of the outgoing Rodeo model and I fully expect that the D-Max will justifiably make a substantial impact in this very competitive sector.’

The model is available with a unique-in-class five-year/120,000-mile transferable warranty. Isuzu says that running costs are kept to a minimum thanks to a 2.5 litre Euro5-compliant twin-turbo diesel returning a class-leading 38.2 mpg on the combined fuel cycle while still delivering 163 ps and 400 Nm maximum torque. 

The new pick-up has payloads exceeding 1,000 kg and a braked towing capacity of 3,000 kg.

William Brown, general manager of Isuzu UK, said: ‘The projected residual values for the D-Max reflect the long-lasting appeal of our strategy for the new model in the UK.  While our tough new pick-up is a very impressive performer on- and off-road, we have complemented its technical capabilities with the best ownership proposition in the sector.’

The new D-Max pick-up is available in three bodystyles - single cab, extended cab (with rear-hinged side access panels) and double cab. Prices start at £14,499 (CVOTR) for the entry-level 4x2 single cab and rise to £21,499 (CVOTR) for the top-of-the-range Utah 4x4 double cab automatic.

Choosing the right colour car can help fleets stay out of the red

WHITE cars hold their value best while greens and maroon models are the kiss of death in terms of depreciation according to CAP, the used car pricing experts.

In a study comparing second hand values to new prices, CAP found that white cars typically held around 5% more of their value than the market average for a typical used car.

The trend marks a complete turnaround from the days when dealers used the name ’60 day white’ to reflect the tendency of white cars to outstay their welcome on the forecourt.

But blue cars still languish below market average values, continuing to earn the trade’s disdain with the popular label of ‘doom blue’.

CAP analysed the trade market performance of hundreds of thousands of vehicles over five years and found that, for mainstream vehicles, white was consistently the top performer. The analysis also revealed that green remained relatively unpopular in the used car market and that the colour most likely to cost owners heavily in depreciation was purple.

The resurgence of white means that a typical white model can be worth several hundred pounds more after three years than an otherwise identical blue one.

In some cases, niche or sporting models prove especially popular in ‘quirkier’ colours and that accounts for the strong performance of pink and yellow cars. But in the mainstream market for typical family cars, consumer tastes tend to be more conservative.

CAP chief editor Chris Crow said: ‘Reviewing CAP’s disposal data over the last five years black, silver and grey all performed consistently in line with the overall market. 

‘However, colours such as blue, orange and red underperformed whilst gold, green,  maroon and turquoise were complete howlers costing their unfortunate owners anywhere between 4 and 6% against CAP ‘clean’ benchmark trade values.

‘On the face of it, the strong performance of colours such as indigo, pink, purple and yellow may be somewhat surprising but this reflects the niche and often sporty cars wearing them. They are therefore not representative of the run of the mill mass market. 

‘However, it is white cars which outperform the whole market beating other widespread colours, like blue, by up to 6% and green by up to 8%, depending on colour-type and condition.

‘The lesson for motorists is, when you’re choosing the colour of your new car consider how it will look to prospective buyers when you come to sell it as a used car.’

Politics and regulation_________________________________________

Government urged to increase road safety priority as deaths rise

THE Government has been urged to make road safety a greater priority following the first increase in 17 years in the number of people killed and seriously injured on Britain’s roads.

According to new data issued by the Department for Transport the number of people killed in road accidents increased 3% last year to 1,901 from 1,850 in 2010. It was the first increase in fatalities since 2003.

Additionally, the report reveals that the number of people seriously injured increase 2% to 23,122 from 22,660, the first annual increase since 1994.

However, a reduction in the number of slight injury road crashes meant that the overall downward trend in casualties continued with a 2% fall from 208,648 in 2010 to 203,950 last year.

Pedestrians saw the biggest increase in deaths - there was a 12% rise in pedestrian fatalities last year, rising from 405 in 2010 to 453 in 2011. Serious injuries for cyclists rose from 2,660 in 2010 to 3,085 in 2011 (a 16% increase). Cyclist fatalities remained similar to last year at 111 deaths in 2010 compared to 107 in 2011 (a 4% reduction).

Simon Best, chief executive of the Institute of Advanced Motorists said: ‘It is unacceptable that road deaths and serious injuries rose last year, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists who saw the greatest rises. Road accidents usually drop during an economic recession, so this rise after continuous reductions over the last 10 years, is particularly concerning.

‘Ministers should take this as a serious warning. Cutting road safety education, scrapping casualty targets, and reductions in local authority spending all suggest that road safety isn’t a major priority for this Government.’

Road safety charity Brake also urged the Government to give a far greater priority to preventing road casualties and making communities safer.

Brake says successful road safety measures are an investment, not an economic drain, through preventing costly crashes and casualties. The value to society of preventing just one death on our roads is estimated at £1.6 million, it says.

Julie Townsend, Brake deputy chief executive, said: ‘It is unacceptable and shameful that after years of progress in road safety and consistent casualty reductions, we are now seeing an increase in people dying and being maimed on our roads. These violent deaths and injuries cause unimaginable suffering, they are a costly drain on health and emergency services, and yet they are preventable.

‘It is vital the Government wakes up to the very real and human consequences of inadequate action on road safety and moves quickly to address the biggest killers on our roads.

‘We need to see greater ambition on bringing casualties down and making our communities safer places. We need decisive policies on young driver safety and drink driving, and we need investment in measures to protect people on foot and bicycle - which can bring about health, environmental and economic benefits, as well as tackling needless suffering.’

Brake particularly wants to see more 20 mph limits, a graduated driver licence scheme to improve the safety of young and inexperienced drivers and a reduced drink-drive limit similar to that recently announced in Scotland.

Kevin Clinton, head of road safety at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, said the organisation was ‘very disturbed’ at the increase in fatalities and serious injuries.

He added: ‘RoSPA is concerned that reduced public spending on road safety, especially cuts to local authority and road policing budgets, may be partly to blame. The Government and the road safety profession need to urgently get together to understand why road deaths have now started to rise.

‘It is crucial that the Government demonstrates strong leadership by examining what more it can do to help local authorities, the police and other bodies involved in road safety to refocus and reinvigorate their services.

‘National leadership of this area is crucial because the experience of the last three decades shows how effective a strong, comprehensive national road safety strategy can be in saving lives and reducing injuries.’

However, Adrian Walsh, director of RoadSafe and the Driving for Better Business campaign, refused to jump on the call for action bandwagon.

Saying that much was happening behind the scenes with the development of legislation and engagement with the insurance industry, he said: ‘My belief is that the Government is fully aware of the facts and is highly unlikely to deviate far from its current strategic framework.’

DVLA shake-up promises improved service to motorists

ALL 39 local Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency local offices will close by the end of 2013 with the Government promising that new centralised operations will bring efficiencies and a £26 million annual saving.

The move, announced by Transport Minister Mike Penning, follows a consultation last year that focused on the need to modernise the way DVLA services were delivered and to respond to the growing demand for more flexible public services.

Additionally, Penning said that the DVLA would work to ensure that customers in Northern Ireland had access to the full range of vehicle services available to the rest of the UK including the online taxing of vehicles.

The DVLA will also build on what Penning called ‘its successes in electronic delivery’ by providing more transactions online. Local businesses will act as intermediaries to offer motorists more convenient access to certain DVLA services through at least 4,000 outlets nationwide compared to the current 39 DVLA local offices. The DVLA will ensure that alternative service channels will be available before offices close.

Penning said: ‘Many of the concerns arising from the consultation related to issues around potential degradation of services and uncertainty over the alternative channels. The DVLA has developed its proposals to address these concerns. Discussions with stakeholders have helped shape these proposals, which will provide the motor trade and individual motorists with a more efficient and effective service through a greater number of convenient, accessible channels.’

He added: ‘These changes - developed after carefully listening to views expressed at consultation - will ensure that the agency delivers a smarter service to bring real benefits for the motor industry and every motorist in this country.’

     

Key changes as part of the transformation agenda will see:

· Motor dealers able to do far more for their customers using DVLA digital services. This, says the Government, will remove unnecessary burdens on motorists and enable motor dealers to offer a one stop service in the vast majority of new and used vehicle sales.

· Far greater use of front office services by intermediaries. This will mean that over one million licensing applications per year that currently can only be carried out at DVLA’s 39 regional offices will be available via a much wider network of front office services cutting travel time for motorists and giving them much greater choice of where they choose to deal with DVLA.

· The removal of the burden on motor dealers by centralising the printing and despatching of tax discs direct to the registered keeper at DVLA’s HQ in Swansea.

Dealer news__________________________________________________

General motor industry news___________________________________

Fuel costs are biggest concern for used car buyers

MORE than 60% of drivers say the cost of fuel is their biggest motoring concern, according to new research by auction giant BCA.

The BCA data, based on research conducted at the end of May and early June - just before Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne axed the August 1 3p a litre fuel duty rise (Digest: June 28) - also reveals that motorists have been changing their driving behaviour to try to combat rising motoring costs.   

‘Our research shows that the cost of fuel remains the top priority for motorists, with many changing the way they drive to maximise their fuel efficiency,’ said a BCA spokesman. ‘With this in mind, the postponement of the fuel duty increase combined with a general reduction in fuel prices in recent weeks will come as a relief to many motorists.’

The spokesman added: ‘At BCA, we have seen increased demand for smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles, as UK households look to cut their motoring costs and consequently values have tended to rise for these more economical cars.’

Data from the BCA research reveals that 63% of motorists said they have cut back on car usage in the past year due to the increased cost of fuel with nearly 45% opting to walk more as a consequence. 

Using more public transport was the second most popular alternative to save on fuel costs at 33%, with London drivers topping the table for using public transport at 50%.  South East drivers came second at 34.5%, followed by Midlands’ motorists at 29.1%; South West drivers at 27.9%; and North West drivers at 24.6%.

However, despite 63% of respondents from the across the country saying they are limiting their car usage in the face of rising fuel prices, nearly 65% still fill up the tank when they go to the petrol station.

Tyre labelling scheme prompts launch of major information campaign

THE tyre industry has started to roll-out its largest ever customer information programme that will deliver crucial cost and safety information to the UK’s 44 million motorists.

Tyre companies have begun the process of labelling each of the 35 million tyres sold each year in the UK.

The labels explain the fuel efficiency, safety and external noise level of every tyre on sale in car dealership aftersales departments and fast fit operations across the country.

‘There are more than 150 million tyres currently on UK roads, so any information to help motorists understand crucial safety and performance characteristics is valuable, particularly given the safety improvements and fuel efficiency savings that can be gained from choosing the right tyre,’ said Paul Everitt, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

‘Before this tyre label, customers only had price and brand to distinguish between more than 300 different types of tyres; now motorists have a set of comparable factors to make buying decisions easier.’

From November 1 it will become a legal requirement for tyre retailers to display the new label on all replacement tyres, but labels start appearing in shops and dealerships from this week.

Fuel efficiency (rolling resistance) and safety (wet grip) are categorised using a seven grade ranking scale, similar to the new car carbon dioxide emission or fridge efficiency labels.

A top-ranked A-grade tyre could out-perform the lowest-ranked G-grade tyre by 30% for safety and 7.5% for fuel efficiency, it is claimed. That translates to a vehicle stopping three to four car lengths shorter from 50 mph and a fuel cost saving of around £100 every year for the average motorist.

Franchised dealers and garages subscribed to the Office of Fair Trading-backed Motor Codes garage scheme are briefed with the latest information to provide first-class advice to motorists on the new tyre labelling legislation. Visit vehicle manufacturer websites or www.motorcodes.co.uk to find your nearest dealership or tyre stockist.

Vehicle repair speed is of the essence to Nationwide and Groupama

NATIONWIDE and Groupama are working in partnership to develop numerous initiatives to speed up the vehicle repair process, ultimately improving the overall customer experience.

Having acknowledged the historical differences in a traditional relationship between insurer and automotive bodyshop, and that a decline in claims and shrinking market can put this relationship under additional strain, Nationwide and Groupama resolved to work together to create a more productive and collaborative working relationship.

Traditionally, insurer-repairer relationships have tended to involve the insurer telling the repairer what to do. However Groupama and Nationwide are working together to share best practice and strategy from their respective areas of expertise. Both teams say they have benefited from their greater understanding of the other company’s systems, processes and priorities.

The primary focus of the new, pragmatic approach, is on speeding up the repair time by reducing key-to-key time - the time Nationwide take possession of the keys to the vehicle, to the time the keys and car are returned to the vehicle’s owner - thus positively impacting the customer’s experience of both parties involved.

Nationwide and Groupama have created a reward mechanism designed to provide a commercial incentive on improved performance in key-to-key time and the incentive is triggered at two levels.

Since the incentive started in January, 58% of Nationwide’s network of repair centres have achieved a key-to-key time inside 10 days, one third of which are inside six days it is claimed.

Nationwide Network Services’ managing director Steve Thompson said: ‘The impact this programme has made in such a short time is both encouraging and satisfying, after such a frank investigation with Groupama into the problems faced and the changes both companies would need to make. The importance to Nationwide now is to learn from the process and further develop our open and honest relationship with Groupama.

‘Nationwide Repair Centres have always tried to repair cars as quickly and efficiently as possible, but with any process where there is more than one influencing party, delays can occur that are beyond our control. By actively working with another party to minimise those occasions we have consistently delivered strong results.’

Darren Wills, claims director Groupama Insurance, said: ‘Groupama and Nationwide have employed a very different, collaborative approach to the insurer-repairer partnership which has proven to be much more beneficial for both parties. As a direct result, Groupama has made dramatic improvements to its customer experience, due in large part to the new, engaged and mutually rewarding relationship with our automotive repairer - Nationwide.’

Recession changes shape of UK car parc

THE recession has changed the shape of the UK’s car parc according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Over the last 10 years, the total number of cars on UK roads has grown 9%, but that is a slower rate than the previous decade, which recorded a 17% rise.

To the end of last year, the total parc increased to 31,362,716, up on 2010 by 104,519 units (0.3%).

The average car on UK roads is now 7.44 years old, around two months older than a year ago, suggesting cash strapped motorists are keeping cars for longer, says the SMMT.

However, warns the organisation, that could be a false economy as the average new car is 20% more efficient than a typical seven year old car, saving the average motorist around £400 each year.

In the average car’s lifetime, it will have four owners, but there are 341 cars on UK roads with more than 20 registered keepers, and more than 5.3 million cars over 12 years old.

‘This year, new car registrations are ahead of 2011, but the latest SMMT report shows that with budgets tight, motorists are capitalising on the increasing reliability of new vehicles by holding on to models for longer,’ said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.

‘New vehicles are changing the face of motoring in the UK and it can make financial sense for motorists to invest in a new, highly fuel efficient and technologically advanced new model.’

Motorists continue to have an eye on fuel efficiency as they seek out the most economic vehicles. In 2011 diesel car registrations overtook petrol models for the first time taking a 50.6% market share.

The growing trend of diesel registrations, coupled with the increasing share of alternatively-fuelled vehicles, resulted in there now being fewer petrol cars on the road than at any time since 1988, according to the data.

With fuel efficiency at the front of every motorist’s mind, it is no surprise to see the number of tax-free cars on the road double since last year to more than 120,000 vehicles (cars with emissions under 100 g/km pay £0 Vehicle Excise Duty).

Silver is the most popular colour of car accounting for 25.6% of the car parc followed by blue (22%), black (17%), red (11.5%) and grey (9.9%).

People on the move____________________________________________

Citroën appoints new UK fleet director

CITROËN UK has appointed Martin Hamill as fleet director with effect from Monday (July 9).

His appointment follows Andy Wady’s recent decision to take up a new position outside the Group.

Reporting to managing director Linda Jackson, Hamill will be responsible for Citroën UK’s national fleet business and the re-marketing of used Citroën vehicles.

Hamill (45) has been with Citroën for 13 years - starting out as an area fleet manager, handling Citroën’s fleet car and LCV business in the Midlands. He then moved to the position of commercial manager, working with the Citroën dealer network, and was then promoted to become national fleet operations manager where he was responsible for Citroën’s area fleet team.

In his current role as head of commercial vehicles and business sector, Hamill has delivered business sector car and van sales growth year on year of 39.7% in 2011 and 24.7% to the end of May 2012.

Philpott appointed president and CEO of Kia in UK and Ireland

PAUL Philpott, former chief operating officer at Kia Motors Europe, has taken up his new role as the first non-Korean president and CEO at any Kia subsidiary in Europe.

Philpott (45) was managing director at Kia Motors (UK) Limited from 2007 until he moved to Frankfurt in 2009 and returns to the Weybridge base to head up the UK and Ireland operations.

The move comes as part of Kia’s plan to strengthen its global representation and management in individual markets to further develop the brand’s global activities.

Announcing the move, Brandon Yea, president of Kia Motors Europe, said: ‘The Kia brand is now Europe’s fastest growing thanks to Paul Philpott and he knows very well that we are determined to strengthen local management at all our subsidiary companies in order to become a truly global automotive organisation.

‘Paul brings specific local expertise to a role that we have previously filled from headquarters in Korea and this is the right time - in our best performing market in Europe - to change our strategic focus.’

Philpott said: ‘I look forward to taking Kia right into the top rank of quality volume manufacturers in the UK and helping to ensure our dealers and customers will have an ever-improving experience with Kia.’

Philpott held posts with both Ford and Toyota prior to moving to Kia.

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Published by AWD Communications Ltd info@awdcomms.com www.automotiveindustrydigest.com

This Week’s Briefing

New calls to increase road safety priority as deaths rise

Choosing the right colour car can help fleets stay out of the red

Ex-company car values reach record high in falling market

Calls for vans to be fitted with integrated comms systems

Price fixing: OFT probes Merc and five truck and van dealers

Driver safety remains high on fleet agenda

Model update: Chevrolet, Citroën, Jaguar, Renault

The Editor’s View

BUSY fleet decision-makers are about to see their workload increase even further following the Government’s decision that businesses must start to report their levels of greenhouse gas emissions from April next year. Initially the rules only apply to businesses listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange. However large companies - those typically employing more than 250 people - are likely to face the same requirement from April 2016, although a final decision has yet to be made. In making the announcement Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: ‘Counting your business costs while hiding your greenhouse gas emissions is a false economy.’ The rules state that in reporting emissions in their annual reports, companies must include output in respect of vehicles they ‘own or control’. The inference is clear: just as organisations must have an audit trail in relation to at-work driver safety so they must have a similar record in relation to car, van and HGV emissions. The hope is that by further focusing on emissions fleet operating costs will reduce.

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