08-04-08

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NEWS
Huge backlog in Upgrades

IN BRIEF
for service
stations
More seats
Nissan’s Qashqai, winner of
the best small family car title
road maintenance Drivers should benefit from
higher standards at service
stations in a move which the
Government hopes will increase
at this year’s Fleet News BY EMMA COOPER Government’s lack of provision safety.
Awards, will become for local road maintenance. In its new policy for the opera-
available with a seven-seat Britain’s roads are blighted by He said: “The Government tion and provision of service
version from the summer. more than three million potholes, must increase the funding areas on motorways and major
The third row of seats, which with local authorities facing a provided to local authorities in A-roads, the Highways Agency
fold flat into the load floor, huge backlog of much-needed order that they are able to main- sets out a range of facilities it
have been accommodated by maintenance. tain their roads in a fit and proper expects operators to provide,
extending the wheelbase by The number of trenches and condition, rather than on what from parking to toilets.
135mm. The new version will road openings has also increased seems to be the current ‘patch It will also introduce an inde-
otherwise mirror the over the past year, according to and mend’ basis.” pendent quality scheme to grade
existing five-seat model. the Asphalt Industry Alliance’s Kevin Clinton, head of road services.
(AIA) annual road survey. safety at the Royal Society for the As well as providing higher
Lombard award Local authorities across the Prevention of Accidents, said: quality facilities, the agency
Lombard has been named country admitted to receiving “Good road surfaces help drivers hopes it will increase road safety
best business motor only half the subsidies necessary stop more quickly when they have by encouraging drivers to take
finance provider at the to keep their roads in good condi- to brake sharply and reduce the more frequent breaks.
Business Moneyfacts tion. risk of skidding. Roads minister Tom Harris
Awards. It was also highly The AIA found an 11-year “Roads shouldn’t be obstacle said: “We are committed to
commended in the best backlog of local maintenance courses,” he said. providing and encouraging better
leasing and asset finance work, with an existing shortfall of Potholes are blighting UK roads Last year local authorities paid services for road users.
provider categor y. more than £1 billion. out more than £50 million in “By improving facilities provid-
Jim Crick, AIA chairman, said: historically being treated as the compensation to motorists as ing more choice, we want to
Lex deal “Despite some increase in central Cinderella service.” result of vehicle damage and inju- encourage drivers to take breaks
Lex has signed a deal to Government funding over recent Stephen Kelly, head of urban ries caused by potholes. more frequently and cut the
manage the 1,650-vehicle years, it seems that highways access policy at the Freight Trans- Email emma.cooper number of incidents caused by
fleet of housebuilder Taylor maintenance is still suffering from port Association, criticised central @bauerconsumer.co.uk tiredness.”
Wimpey. Lex will also
manage the sale and
leaseback of 700 vehicles
that originally belonged to Fleets help boost sales growth MoD tests
George Wimpey before it
merged with Taylor
Woodrow.
Rises in business and fleet vehicle
registrations contributed to an
March, and 48.3% in 2008 so far.
Business sales account for 7.6%
The performance so far means
that the first quarter overall is
risk levels
overall increase in new car of the total in March and 7% in almost 20,000 units ahead of the The Ministry of Defence is to
Email changes demand during March. 2008. forecast. trial an in-built driver risk assess-
The email addresses for There were 194,575 fleet sales Meanwhile, the private sector The SMMT is to review its ment tool in a project involving
Fleet News staff have and 34,279 business registrations saw a softening of demand, with predictions for the year during around 2,000 drivers.
changed to reflect the during the third month of 2008, registrations down by 1.4% in this month. The test will involve Green-
title’s new owner, Bauer. increases of 2.6% and 1.8% respec- March and 2.4% over the first Economic data shows that Road Technologies’ Safety
From now on, all tively on February’s figures. quarter. unemployment in the UK remains Centre system, a device which
addresses end in The sales represent a rise of However, volumes are never- low and retail sales are still posi- collects information on 120
@bauerconsumer.co.uk 0.8% in fleet registrations in the theless well above expected tive. driving manoeuvres, being fitted
instead of @emap.com. first quarter compared to 2007, levels, according to the Society of However, the forecasts for to a broad cross-section of the
■ See page 29 for new while business sales remain the Motor Manufacturers and Traders gross domestic product growth in MoD’s common user vehicle
contact details. same. (SMMT). Private sales account 2008 still suggests a softening, fleet, which includes cars, mini-
This means that fleet makes up for 49.3% of the total during which may affect new car buses, ambulances and Land
Touareg power 43.1% of the total registrations in March, and 44.9% so far in 2008. demand. Rovers.
Volkswagen’s Touareg is
now available with a more
powerful and efficient diesel
engine. The 3.0 TDI offers EVENTS ROUND-UP
240bhp (up15bhp) yet CO2
emissions fall to 262g/km. Fleet operators will hear how a They will include in-depth director of the Parliamentary
serious accident led to five briefing on the new Corporate Advisory Council for Transport
companies being investigated by Manslaughter Act. Safety (PACTS), will be
the police. He will also present a detailed The event, which is conference chairman.
UK FUEL David Kay, senior investigat- review of how companies need sponsored by Zurich, includes The conference will hear from
PRICES ing officer for Lincolnshire Road
Safety Partnership, will reveal
to introduce drink and drug
policies to ensure that their staff
presentations from legal expert
David Faithful and fleet
13 speakers.
■ For more information, contact
ppl/ppg the full details of the investiga- are safe on the road. operators from companies Maddie Collins on 01733 468171
DIESEL..............................115.8/525
tion at the Risk in Fleet His presentation will be one of ranging from Whitbread, Office or email madaline.collins
SUPER UNLEADED........113.5/516
Conference on April 22 at the a number focused on a range of Depot and British Gas to @bauerconsumer.co.uk
UNLEADED......................107.3/487
FOUR STAR......................109.3/497
National Motorcycle Museum in issues related to risk manage- Wolseley. ■ The website can be found at
LPG......................................55.3/251 Birmingham. ment in fleet operations. Robert Gifford, executive www.riskinfleet.co.uk
4 10.04.08 www.fleetnews.co.uk
New Ibiza breaks cover IN BRIEF
SEAT has whipped the covers off inside is improved over the out-
its new Ibiza supermini. going model, with more rear
The five-door car, hints of legroom and claimed class-
which can be seen in the recent leading boot space.
Bocanegra concept, marks the Power will initially come from
start of a blitz of new SEAT prod- three petrol engines – a 1.2-litre
ucts over the coming months, with 69bhp, an 84bhp 1.4-litre or a Auris additions
including more Ibiza variants, and 1.6-litre with 101bhp. All have Toyota has introduced two
new saloon and estate models. CO2 emissions of less than new grades to its Auris
Designed by ex-Lamborghini 160g/km. hatchback – the SR and the
stylist Luc Donckerwolke, the A range of TDI diesel engines TR. The SR features lowered
Ibiza features a seven-speed DSG will also be introduced. suspension, 17-inch alloys
gearbox, hill hold assist and a The new Ibiza will go on sale in and a rear spoiler. Prices
socket for MP3 players. Space mid-to-late summer. The new Ibiza marks the start of a blitz of SEAT product launches start at £14,495. The TR
offers dual-zone air con-
Focus falls on
ditioning and 16-inch alloys,
Diesel switch as well as chrome detailing.

It costs £310 less than the
gathers pace equivalent T3 model.
Dealer outlets fall
danger areas
Petrol sales continue to fall as The number of franchised
more and more British drivers dealer outlets in the UK
switch to diesel. fell in 2007, according to
Sales of diesel in the UK rose new research from Fleet
by 869,000 tonnes – about 4% – to News’ sister title Sewells.
21 million tonnes last year, a jump The number fell to 5,273
of nearly 40% over the past outlets last year,
decade, according to a new BY JULIAN KIRK tial risk of an accident and avoid compared to 5,490 in
report from the Energy Institute. the risk of prosecution.” 2006. For more details,
“This level is 38.7% higher than Tired drivers and unroadworthy He added: “Fleet managers of visit www.sewells.co.uk
a decade ago, illustrating how pool cars are the two latest danger pool cars should find these results
strong the move to diesel has areas to be highlighted by new alarming, as their own vehicles Parfitt role
become,” the report said. research in the week that the could currently be at risk of incur- Vauxhall
Petrol sales have fallen by 17% Corporate Manslaughter Act ring high costs and scrutiny from managing
over the past 10 years. became law. the Health and Safety Executive.” director Bill
Diesel has become the fuel of With risk management now an To combat the issue of tired Parfitt (left)
choice for fleet drivers, thanks to even more central part of a fleet drivers – a major problem as one- has been made
its increased fuel economy, lower manager’s job thanks to the new in-five crashes on major roads are chairman of the company,
carbon emissions and tax bene- law, and 65% of company vehicles caused by tired drivers – the replacing Jonathan
fits. involved in road accidents accord- 20% of drivers don’t recognise Government is launching a Browning who has moved to
The switch to diesel has also ing to RoSPA, two surveys have the signs that they are tired campaign which includes a radio GM as vice-president global
been reflected in France, found that 20% of drivers don’t advertisement, online advertising sales, service and market-
Germany, Italy and Spain. Use of recognise the signs that they are Adrian McCarthy, head of RAC on journey planning websites and ing. Mr Parfitt will maintain
the fuel has been rising steadily driving while tired, and around a vehicle inspections service, said: messaging at service stations. It his existing responsibility
by 2% per year. fifth of pool cars on company “It is clear from our inspections is being targeted primarily at for fleet and CV activities
Swiss analyst Petromatrix has fleets are not roadworthy. that pool cars are often neglected those who drive for work. within GM Europe.
forecast that at the current rate, Research by RAC technicians or badly maintained. ■ For the full lowdown on risk
diesel will account for 80% of on more than 21,370 pool cars “With growing concerns over issues facing fleets, Fleet News is Galaxy delivery
transport fuel sales in the five found that 16% of them were duty of care, especially with the hosting the Risk in Fleet conference The first of 600 Ford
major economies in about 10 unroadworthy. introduction of the Corporate on April 22 at the National Motor- Galaxy MPVs have been
years. Around 8% did not have correct Manslaughter Act, companies cycle Museum in Birmingham. delivered to chauffeur
The number of vehicles on UK fluid levels under the bonnet, 14% should look carefully at whether For more details, log on to www. company Addison Lee.
roads reached an all-time high of had incorrect tyre tread or pres- procedures and policies are in riskinfleet.co.uk The high-spec Galaxy 2.0
33.4 million last year, the Energy sures, and 19% did not have a full place to successfully run a fleet of Email julian.kirk TDCi automatics are set
Institute added. service history. pool cars, and minimise the poten- @bauerconsumer.co.uk to enter ser vice at the
rate of about 60 a month
until the end of the year.
New badge heralds change for Vauxhall The vehicles have been
purchased outright and
are set to cover 100,000
miles each over two-and-
Vauxhall will change its 2003. Designers have the new Vauxhall badge seems range, the first car to get the new a-half-year contracts.
corporate identity zoomed in on the very appropriate. It’s an indication badge. It represents a major shift
this summer when animal’s torso, crop- of a new start for us.” in Vauxhall styling, headed by the Prius order
the old griffin ping out its feet and The latest emblem will be rolled new badge sitting in a redesigned Crewe-based Go Green Car
badge will be lower body to out gradually on all brand commu- grille. It does away with the V- and Van Rental has taken
superseded by a create a more nications, from dealership signage shape that currently distinguishes delivery of eight new Toyota
new roundel which dynamic mascot. to corporate letterheads. The first Vauxhalls from their European Prius models, boosting its
will appear first on Fleet marketing building to be rebranded will, mainland Opel brethren. environmentally-friendly
the company’s Vectra manager Paul Adler appropriately enough, be Griffin “The reason for the change is fleet of vehicles to 12. The
replacement, the Insignia. said: “The new Insignia House, Vauxhall’s UK headquar- to define the new-found confi- company has more than 100
The new logo (above) is a will look so different from the ters in Luton. dence we feel the brand is now low-emission vehicles
modernised version of the griffin Vectra – and there are so many Later this month, Vauxhall will showing,” said GM’s European available.
badge that was last updated in other new products coming – that whisk the covers off the Insignia design boss Mark Adams.
www.fleetnews.co.uk 10.04.08 5
NEWS
Nissan teams
up with FLAG GM commits to IN BRIEF
safety initiative
Fleet Auction Group (FLAG) has
entered into a partnership to
manage a vehicle de-fleeting
centre and remarketing website
for Nissan Finance.
All end-of-finance vehicles In demand
from Nissan Finance will be BY SARAH TOOZE reaction to the new legislation, Land Rover’s new Free-
delivered to FLAG’s central de- though. It felt the aim of Driving lander 2 Commercial will
fleeting centre in the Midlands to GM UK Fleet has become the for Better Business matched its make its debut at the CV
undergo pre-sale preparation. first vehicle manufacturer to sign own driver policies and joining Show in Birmingham this
They will then be uploaded in to up for the Department for Trans- was “the right thing to do”. month. Customer demand
a closed, Nissan dealer-only port’s road safety programme, Mr Howkins added: “We, and led to the carmaker
website. Dealers will have access Driving for Better Business. every other vehicle manufacturer introducing a commercial
to around 150 new vehicles every It joined the programme as a which sells to businesses, should version of the latest
month. business champion and will be do our part in ensuring that busi- Freelander, which will be
There, dealers will have the promoting good practice in work- ness car drivers and their organi- available in S and XS
option to buy the vehicle, or place related road safety as well as sations not only have, but versions. It goes on sale
on hold while reviewing the car’s raising awareness. GM will attend understand, the information asso- this month, priced from
specification. The system also conferences organised by Road- ciated with being safe and legal £20,775.
generates an invoice to enable safe, which is managing the GM UK Fleet director Maurice on UK roads while going about
dealers to take the vehicle into programme, and talking with Howkins: “the right thing to do” their business.” Low carbon move
stock immediately. Once this is other companies about their posi- Adrian Walsh, director of Road- The Department for
done, the vehicle is delivered to tion on road safety. cide with the new Corporate Safe, said: “It is vital that business Transport has appointed
the dealer within 48 hours. The campaign aims to reduce Manslaughter and Corporate leaders shoulder their responsi- Cenex, the UK’s centre
FLAG sales director Guy the number of deaths and injuries Homicide Act coming into force. bilities for ensuring the safety of of excellence for low
Pearce said: “This pioneering occuring on work-related jour- “We want to demonstrate both their staff on the road.” carbon and fuel cell
agreement demonstrates the neys. Currently, more than 150 to our customers and our staff The campaign will run until technologies, to work
innovative approach that we crashes each day involve vehicles just how seriously we are taking mid-2009. For more information, with it in developing the
adopt to remarketing, working being driven for work. As part of this new legislation,” said Maurice including how to become a busi- new Low Carbon Vehicle
with vendors to achieve industry- the campaign, employers are Howkins, director of GM UK ness champion, visit www. Procurement
leading residuals while deliver- encouraged to promote health Fleet. drivingforbetterbusiness.com Programme. The
ing best practice and on-going and safety legislation. GM UK He said GM UK Fleet did not Email sarah.tooze@ programme aims to
traceability.” Fleet signed up on April 6 to coin- become a business champion as a bauerconsumer.co.uk accelerate the introduc-
tion of lower carbon
technologies into the UK
New online BCA expands European operation vehicle market.
Materia choice
rental product BCA is expanding its remarketing
activities in eastern Europe.
Inchcape Fleet Solutions will There will be a new auction site
launch a new online rental for its existing Hungarian opera-
product at the end of the month. tion and two new centres, one
IRental will allow customers to each for Romania and Poland.
place, view and amend vehicle The additional centres in
hire bookings at any time of day Romania and Poland will boost Daihatsu is offering manual
over the internet. BCA’s presence to 26 auction models of its Materia to
The system gives customers halls throughout Europe. Motability customers with
access to more than 130,000 “We’ve just signed off the plans no advanced payment.
vehicles, ranging from city cars for three new European centres,” Anyone on the higher rate
to prestige brands, and commer- confirmed Jon Olsen, chief execu- mobility component of the
cial vehicles to cranes and 26- tive, BCA. “We’re moving our BCA has approved plans for three new European auction centres disability living allowance
tonne trucks. existing Hungarian Gyor centre can use it on a Materia on
Inchcape managing director to Budapest. Romania and Poland would staff the centres. “You need Olsen said BCA was also rolling the Motability scheme.
Terry Bartlett said: “We are will be new operations. The poten- a homegrown management team out a common IT system through- Daihatsu has seen a 100%
launching IRental as a result of tial in these countries is enor- that really understands the local out Europe. “This will be able to increase in Motability sales
listening to the demands of our mous.” market. That’s been a strategy of tell us which cars sell best and this year.
customers, who increasingly Olsen said indigenous experts ours throughout Europe.” where,” he said.
want tailor-made solutions to Special campaign
meet their every business Lombard Vehicle
requirement. Management is launch-
“This system gives real-time
access to our extensive network
EU pushes for new vehicle safety rules ing a special campaign
with Vauxhall to target
of rental vehicles, allowing them The European Union (EU) is sponsored by EU institutions to concluded that its requirements small to medium-sized
to book online with the guaran- pushing ahead with the approval force manufacturers into are not technically feasible. businesses. As well as
tee that their vehicle will be deliv- of a compulsory regulation that making their vehicles less So, the European Commis- offering information
ered within a two-hour will insist cars and vans sold in deadly to pedestrians. Voluntary sion tabled an EU regulation – through the 30 Lombard
turnaround.” Europe have new “brake assist” guidelines were followed by a which automatically applies Business Finance
Inchcape has long-standing systems and also meet detailed 2003 directive on compulsory across the EU – which has now Centres, customers can
partnerships with National Car and tough requirements on safety standards, but despite been approved in principle by also find out details
Rental, Enterprise Rent a Car and frontal protection systems. this being updated two years the European Parliament’s through branches of
Northgate Vehicle Solutions, It is the latest initiative later, an EU assessment has transport committee. NatWest and RBS banks.
among others.
�� This week’s vehicle market news and information Edited by Julian Kirk
Improvement vow This

week
BY PHILL TROMANS
More powerful TDI for Tiguan Mercedes-Benz UK has vowed to

improve its offering to fleets after
More power admitting things were not yet up

to scratch.
for Tiguan Wilfried Steffen, managing

director of the car maker’s UK
operation, said too many inter-
Volkswagen has put a new diesel mediaries were coming between
engine into the Tiguan SUV, the firm and its customers, and
making it the most powerful said much work was being done First drive – p14
variant yet. to develop personal relationships Honda Accord exclusive
The 2.0-litre TDI puts out through the local dealer network. Mercedes-Benz may bring Bluetec technology to the UK in the future
168bhp and 258lb-ft – more “We prefer to have the retailers’
torque than the Golf GTI. Never- corporate team work with our addressing the corporate market. At the moment, the technology
theless, it will still return 40.4mpg corporate customers,” Mr Steffen “We built better relationships – which works by injecting urea
on the combined cycle, and emits said. “We want to bring a lot of with wholelife cost administrators into the engine to reduce NOx
185g/km of CO2. The power is fleets back into the retail network, and talked about product attri- and particulate matter emissions
delivered through a six-speed which provides the best service butes much earlier so that they – is considered uneconomic to
manual gearbox to the 4MOTION any customer can get. We want to are properly reflected in the way bring to Britain. Under the
four-wheel-drive system, which build a personal relationship, we present ourselves in the current company car tax legisla-
can put 100% of drive to any because then you get your needs market. tion, drivers are not incentivised Road test – p15
wheel, depending on the traction better addressed.” “These are a lot of small steps to reduce anything other than Citroën’s stylish new C5
available. The new Tiguan can Mr Steffen say the way fleet that improve the overall product CO2. Mr Steffen hopes that will
reach 62mph from rest in 8.9 customers have been dealt with and the service proposition.” change in time, bringing the UK
seconds, and hit 125mph. has not been up to standard, but During an exclusive interview in line with other countries. For a full road
The new engine will be avail- said much was being done to with Fleet News, Mr Steffen also “We think Bluetec will be rele- test archive, visit
able in SE and Sport trim levels. improve things. said he hoped the newly-launched vant in the UK later on, maybe in
fleetnews.co.uk
Prices start at £22,670 for the SE, “Last year we improved the Bluetec efficient diesel technol- 2010,” he said.
rising to £23,370 for the Sport quality of the people on the corpo- ogy could come to the UK in the Email phill.tromans
model. rate teams and our capacity in future. @bauerconsumer.co.uk
THINKING CAP
Hardworking Martin Ward scours the globe for the week’s insider fleet intelligence
SUNDAY TUESDAY and it does exactly what it is of all worlds. We drove various
Down to SEAT’s factory in A nice local trip in Yorkshire supposed to do. engines and the most impressive
Barcelona to have a look at for a change – over to He says breaking into fleet was the extremely quiet and
some of the first of the new Harrogate to see Paul is not going to be easy, but powerful 2.0 TDI with 170bhp. I
Ibizas to come off the produc- Williams, managing director the majority of customers will spoke to Gerhard Mauter, who
tion line. The five-door version of Koelliker UK – the new want to finance or lease cars, is head of ergonomics and
goes on sale in July, with the importer of Ssangyong. and he is happy to talk to any haptics at Audi AG, and he told
three-door due next February. Paul is best known for his Paul Williams, Keolliker UK MD leasing company and show me that having the right touch,
On close inspection of the previous role at Kia, but he them his three current feel and sound on all compo-
Ibiza, you cannot help but notice now intends to put this other new models coming between models. nents is now paramount.
the huge improvement in Korean manufacturer firmly 2010 and 2014, the future Switches are tested 100,000
quality, especially the interior fit, on the map. He says that the looks bright. WEDNESDAY times, rotation buttons – such as
finish and materials used. The awareness of Ssangyong in Ssangyong is not going to Ibiza was the destination for the those used on radios and
exterior gaps are now much the UK is poor with 99% of advertise in national international launch of the new heaters – 500,000 times, but the
closer and consistent through- people not having heard of newspapers, but will target Audi A4 Avant. We drove it on a MMI control is now rotated and
out the car. SEAT wants to have them. the audience in caravan, variety of roads, including some pressed more than a million
Audi quality, but at lower prices. According to Paul, the agriculture, boating, countr y nice twisty stretches, and the A4 times before it is passed off for
The new car certainly has reason most people go into a pursuit magazines and felt safe and solid in all production, with all of them not
style and, if it is priced right, Ssangyong showroom is shows. Paul admits that the conditions. only working correctly, but
there is no reason why it should because they are lost. But product does not have the The A4 as a saloon is a very sounding and feeling the same
not be on choice lists alongside Paul and his small manage- reputation or image of other stylish car, but as an estate it is after so much use.
the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, ment team want to change competitors, but is two-thirds even better and will continue to
Martin Ward is
Peugeot 207 and Renault Clio. this, and sell up to 3,000 of the price, reliable, be the choice of many fleet CAP’s manufacturer
We drive it next month. vehicles this year. With 20 practical and high quality, drivers as it offers them the best relationships manager
NEW LAUNCH: HONDA ACCORD
Taking the fight upmarket

Honda sets the bar high for its new Accord – and 1,000 miles later, we find it doesn’t disappoint
BY STEVE MOODY
Honda has been doing rather well BEHIND

of late, with plenty of plaudits and THE WHEEL
plenty of fleet sales for its new
CR-V and Civic. But now it faces Such is the importance of the new
its biggest challenge. Accord to the fleet sector, Fleet
It wants to take the Accord News was the only magazine in the
upmarket to challenge the Audi world invited to drive the new
A4 and BMW 3 Series for a slice Accord before its launch. In fact,
of the premium pie. we drove it to the launch venue, in
Oh dear, we’ve heard this Austria, in the weeks preceding the
before, and the litany of cars that event.
have gone up against these giants A thousand miles with the car
of the corporate market reads like certainly gave us a chance to
a who’s who of nearly-men: Lexus understand what a high-mileage
IS, Jaguar X-Type, Alfa Romeo driver will get from the new Honda.
159 and Volvo S60 to name four And the biggest leap forward is
from the recent past. in refinement and comfort – pretty
So why should the Accord be important features for the target
any different? Well, Honda customer.
reckons that the average transac- The new i-DTEC diesel is very
tion price of the CR-V is now refined – most of the time. It’s a bit
£24,000, compared to £18-19,000 on the clattery side at lower revs,
for the old one, with some selling but smoothes out above 2,000rpm.
for up to £30,000. Also, it says Once at a steady cruise it lapses
sales are being picked up from fall in brand equity. That seems a of the outgoing model. At impressively into near-silence, with
previous premium compact much more achievable goal. first glance its familiar only some tyre and wind noise
saloon owners. It believes this So how have the engineers proportions are almost all apparent.
shows that Honda can sell cars at concocted a heady brew that will too familiar, but it is signifi- The cabin is certainly bolted
that premium price level. see Audi and BMW buyers come cantly wider and slightly together well, but the styling and
Possibly that’s not comparing flocking? lower than its predecessor, layout will be a matter of opinion.
eggs with eggs, but you have to By benchmarking BMW for and the subtleties of the To my eyes, it’s a little cluttered, not
remember that Honda isn’t ride, handling and engines, Lexus changes become more having the studied cool of an Audi,
actually pitching the Accord at for technology and Audi for obvious as you look at it: but once you learn where
the 3 Series and A4 ranges per se quality and consistency. If it has creases heading in seem- everything is on the multitude of
in the fleet market. It is aiming hit all those targets, Honda has ingly conflicting directions, buttons and knobs, it all works
squarely at A4 2.0 TDI and 318d/ got itself quite a car. while the long front lights efficiently enough.
320d in particular, where it feels Taking on the German attitude, and wide grille create a What is not in doubt is how
its higher levels of equipment, rather than the usual Japanese sharp look. conditions during cornering or comfortable it is. The driving
space and a dash of trustworth- approach of revolution, the new The Accord has fully Euro under braking and automatically position is excellent while the seats
iness will make up for any short- Accord is very much an evolution V-compliant engines from launch, initiates small steering inputs are exceptional. I did 1,000 miles in
with the new 2.2-litre i-DTEC aimed at prompting the driver to two days and there were no
diesel a key engine for the fleet steer in the correct direction. complaints from my body.
sector. Power and torque levels Bernard Bradley, Honda UK Apparently, Honda spent so much
have been increased with output general manager – cars, expects money on the seats that there
at 147bhp, while there will be a fleet sales to increase with the wasn’t enough left to make the
much-needed higher power launch of the new car and the spare wheel well round – it had to
version later. You can’t go up fleet mix to increase from the be a cheaper square shape.
against the premium boys without current level of 40%. He said: Ride quality is good, softening
power and performance. “Our most recent Accord deriva- out the sharpest ridges, while
Two petrol engines complete tive, the Sport GT, was designed through corners it feels what it is: a
the line-up, in the form of a 153bhp to appeal directly to the corpo- wide, flat car. Not BMW exciting,
2.0-litre i-VTEC and a 196bhp rate market, with high interior but nicely composed. What more
2.4-litre. All three engines are spec and great exterior styling. do you want every day?
matched to six-speed manual It’s no surprise, therefore, that
transmissions, while both petrol the car quickly became our best
engines have the option of a five-
speed automatic.
seller, making up 50% of total
corporate sales. The new Accord
VERDICT
FACT FILE Although the new Accord is
significantly more expensive than
will be an evolution of this car.”
With current Accord starting
The new Accord is vastly more
comfortable and refined than its
Model: 2.2 i-DTEC 2.0 i-VTEC 2.4 i-VTEC
the outgoing one, it is still better at around £16,500 and the new predecessor with much more
Max power (bhp/rpm): 147/4,000 153/6,300 196/7,000
value than an Audi or BMW, and model at £19,250, this represents presence and a lot of kit as stan-
Max torque (lb-ft/rpm): 258/2,000 142/4,300 172/4,500
Max speed (mph): 131 133 141 there is a lot of hi-tech kit a significant risk. Early indica- dard. It’s a really good car that
0-62mph (secs): 9.6 9.3 7.8 available. Vehicle Stability Assist tions are that residual values will gets better the more you live
Fuel consumption (mpg): 50.4 39.2 32.1 (VSA) is standard across the match low-end 3 Series models in with it. But is it good enough to
CO2 emissions (g/km): 148 170 209 range while an innovative system the low-40s for three years/60,000 live with Audi and BMW on the
On sale: June 1 (Tourer – Sept 1) Prices (OTR): £19,260–£25,860 called Motion Adaptive EPS miles, which suggest it’s a risk choice list? That will be up to
detects instability in slippery that might well pay off. your drivers to decide.
ROAD TEST: CITROËN C5 2.0 HDi VTR+
Stylish Citroën is THREE RIVALS TO CONSIDER
a real contender ■ Ford Mondeo 2.0

TDCi Zetec 5dr
P11D PRICE
■ Mazda6 2.0d
TS2 5dr
■ Volkswagen Passat
2.0 TDI Highline
Bold lines and pleasing interior make C5 stand out from crowd Less than £1,000 separates the Mazda6 £18,255
most expensive from the cheapest, C5 £18,305
and all are very similarly specced. Mondeo £18,705
The Passat is the priciest, but comes Passat £19,215
with leather seats and cruise control upholstery, and only the Volkswagen
as standard. The rest have cloth and Mazda have 17-inch alloys.
EMISSIONS AND TAX RATES

The Mazda sneaks under the Mazda6 149g/km/20% £60
150g/km mark, which puts it into a Passat 153g/km/21% £64
lower band than its rivals. A 20% C5 157g/km/22% £67
company car taxpayer would have Mondeo 156g/km/22% £68
the lowest bill with the Mazda at bill is £64, while the Ford and C5
£60 a month. The Passat’s monthly are £68 and £67 respectively.
SMR COST
Despite having 17-inch wheels and ppm/60k total
hence higher tyre costs, the Passat is Passat 3.27/£1,962
the cheapest to maintain over a fleet Mondeo 3.77/£2,262
C5 3.86/£2,316
life of three years/60,000 miles. The
Mazda6 4.38/£2,628
Volkswagen has variable servicing,
BY PHILL TROMANS armrest? It means you can’t keep while the Mazda and Ford have C5 needs attention every 20,000
The Citroën C5 has provoked a

FACT FILE anything in the storage space in
case you want a drink, and also
slimline 12,500-mile intervals. The miles.
fair degree of interest in the

motoring press recently, mostly
P11D value
CO2 emissions (g/km)
£18,305
157
means you can’t rest your arms
while you have a drink on the go.
FUEL COST
BIK % of P11D in 2008 22%
involving the phrases “German Secondly, the hands-free phone. The Citroën is the thirstiest of this Mazda6 9.86/£5,916
Graduated VED rate £140
quality” and “French flair”. Insurance group 10 In an age where even the Ford quartet, with a combined mpg of Passat 10.21/£6,126
Such statements accurately Combined mpg 47.1 Fiesta is available with a Blue- 47.1. It will cost an extra £400 to Mondeo 10.38/£6,228
reflect the hopes of the French CAP RV (3yr/60k) £6,850/37% tooth connection, why does run over a three-year/60,000-mile C5 10.55/£6,330
carmaker, which wants to revital- Monthly lease (3yr/60k) £320 Citroën insist on forcing drivers fleet life than the most frugal car, while the Passat manages 48.7 and
ise its fleet presence with the new to take their phone apart, remove the Mazda. It has an mpg of 50.4, the Mondeo 47.9.
■ Looks
C5, its answer to the likes of
Volkswagen’s Passat and Ford’s ✔ ■■ Build quality
Comfort
the SIM card and then break their
nails trying to get a microscopic
DEPRECIATION COST
Mondeo. SIM-carrying drawer out of the
Historically, Citroëns have ■ Cup holders dash? Rant over. Residuals are not Ford’s strong point Passat 18.56/£11,136
been all about Gallic swishness,
but have lacked the build quality
✖ ■■ Wallowly
Fiddly hands-free kit
cornering
On the move, the C5 is very
good. The 138bhp diesel engine
due to the volumes it sells. With CAP
estimating an RV of 33% after a
C5
Mazda6
18.96/£11,376
19.13/£11,478
and general feeling of indestruct- barely purrs as it wafts you along three-year/60,000-mile fleet life, it’s Mondeo 20.88/£12,528
ibility that tends to accompany There are plenty of other nice in the way that only Citroëns can in last place. The Passat benefits with an RV of 41%. The C5 and
cars from Germany. touches, too. waft. It’s not fast – 62mph takes from Volkswagen’s brand image, Mazda are on 37%.
The C5 is touted as being the The door pockets have a motion 11.6 seconds to reach – but it’s as
best of both worlds. Can it
deliver?
sensor in them that switch on a
light to help you see what you’re
smooth as double cream. Through
the corners, there’s a fair amount
WHOLELIFE COST
Initial impressions are good. grabbing for in the dark. of rocking and rolling about, but It might be the most expensive car Passat 32.04/£19,224
The car certainly stands out from The car I drove had optional there is nimbleness in the chassis, to buy, but rock-solid performances C5 33.37/£20,022
the ranks, with some striking electric front seats that include a like a former heavyweight boxer in other areas mean the Passat is Mazda6 33.37/£20,022
lines. massage feature. These work who still has twinkle in the toes. the cheapest to run over a typical Mondeo 35.03/£21,018
The bonnet is stretched taut surprisingly well, gently pummel- Citroën has taken a big leap fleet life. The Citroën and Mazda will while the Mondeo’s RVs let it down
over two rising spines level with ling the lumbar region. Great for forward with the C5. The build cost exactly the same as each other, and leave it almost £1,000 adrift.
the headlights, and similar lines long journeys, but possibly not quality is better, if not quite on par
run down the flanks, giving a
muscular look to the Citroën
great enough to justify the £1,550
asking price.
with its Teutonic rivals, but it’s
much more stylish and very
VERDICT
family face most recognisable Build quality is dramatically comfortable, occasional niggles With Volkswagen’s new Highline edition offering a stack of extra kit as
from the C4. improved on previous Citroëns, aside. standard, the Passat proves a strong match for the other cars. Yes, it’s getting
The design inside is also pleas- and the quality of materials used It could be a real contender. on in years, but its equipment list is now bang up to date and the base car is
ant on the eye, particularly the is excellent. a very competent one. With typically strong Volkswagen residuals, cheap
dashboard instruments, which However, the C5 is not as prac- SMR costs, decent fuel economy and acceptable emissions, the Passat is the
pack a lot of information into tical as it is pretty. Firstly, the one to go for. The Citroën is a huge improvement over its predecessor and
three aviation-inspired dials. At cupholders. It’s not unreasonable does extremely well to be on a par with the Mazda6 in second place. The
night, the whole dash console is to expect drivers to want a drink Mondeo is a great car, possibly the best car to drive here, but it can’t
lit by a reddish-orange glow that during long hours on the road. compete on price.
also emanates from under the Why then, is the one and only
glovebox. cupholder located under the
■ WINNER: Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI Highline
SPECIALIST VEHICLES: GM POLICE FLEET PREPARATION
Undercover operation
Anonymous GM factory makes sourcing police vehicles a largely hassle-free task
BY PHILL TROMANS ingly popular among the UK’s GM has based its Special Vehi- pretty much standard, but are Each car is given its own
M
police forces. cles operation at Millbrook since engineered to the customer’s special vehicle identification
illbr ook In an anonymous-looking shed last year, and has just celebrated specifications. The exact options number, in addition to the number
P r o v i n g is a production line of GM vehi- the milestone of 999 vehicles available are agreed by the manu- found on cars bound for more
Ground in cles. They drive in one end, driving out of the production line, facturers beforehand, but police normal fleet or retail lives. It also
Bedfordshire looking like any other car or van. ready for action. forces wanting a high- comes with a list of the various
is one of the But they leave ready to tackle The operation has been so specification engine don’t neces- options due to be installed on it
foremost automotive test centres crime across the country, dramat- successful that work is already sarily want the leather interior by the 17-strong staff at the
in the UK. It is used year-round ically reducing the time and underway to expand the opera- and other luxury extras found on factory.
by manufacturers and other resources historically needed to tion to cope with demand. cars destined for retail or more As the car comes in to the
motoring firms to test new cars bring police cars up to spec. As Dick Ellam, the facility’s conventional fleet customers. production line, panel protectors
and technology before they are the cars are prepared by the manager, explains how the opera- Other changes from standard are installed on the bodywork,
released to the general public. manufacturer, rather than a third tion works. cars include larger capacity and engineers begin to strip out
But amid the environmental party, the car and all its specialist “Cars come to us from various batteries and alternators to cope the interior. They install a special
chambers and heavily-disguised equipment is covered by the factories around Europe and all with the extra power required by wiring loom designed to carry
prototypes, tucked away near the same manufacturer warranty. of them go through this produc- the vast array of electrical equip- electricity to the extra equipment
700-acre site’s entrance is a niche This all adds up to a lot less tion line,” he says. ment that modern police vehicles installed by GM, as well as any
operation that’s proving increas- hassle for police fleet operators. The cars that come in are carry. other specialised kit that individ-
‘
BEHIND THE WHEEL
As a representative of such an
austere publication as Fleet News,
IT TOOK A
it’s very important that I maintain LOT OF SELF-
a certain air of decorum and
professionalism when on official
RESTRAINT
’
business. TO AVOID
Sometimes, however, that’s
easier said than done. When
LETTING OUT
handed the keys to the 999th car MY INNER
off the GM Special Vehicles
production line, it took every ounce
12-YEAR-OLD
of my self-restraint to avoid letting
out my inner 12-year-old. they need to be in complete
Each blue light vehicle is built to control, communicate with fellow
the customer’s specifications, rather officers and not have to put every
than fitting in to the traditional trim ounce of concentration into not
levels. The car I drove is a fairly flying off the road.
basic Vauxhall Vectra, but with a Barely able to stifle a huge grin
2.8-litre V6 turbo under the bonnet. and a few shouts of glee, I was
As well as a siren and a plethora of allowed to hit the “blues and
flashing lights, the high-speed twos. A plethora of buttons on the
A giant tray on the
top of the cars means pursuit vehicle also has sports car’s roof activate all sorts of
all components can be suspension and top of the line VXR lighting options on the car’s light
kept together brakes. It’s a serious bit of kit. bar and behind the grille. I
Fighting the urge to slide over enthusiastically prodded them all,
the bonnet and roar off after any and then punched another button
bad guys that might be roaming to switch on the siren. Nothing
Millbrook Proving Ground, I settled happened initially, but then Carl
THE CUSTOMER’S VIEW for a drive around the Hill Circuit, explained that the siren is
a loop of alpine-style roads used operated by hitting the horn.
Ian Godolphin is head of the Chiltern “Before the operation went issues as to whether they were the by manufacturers to test new cars. Doing so also cycles through the
Transport Consortium, GM Special in-house, we were almost dealing reponsibility of the manufacturer or With 246bhp going through the different siren tones, used on the
Vehicles’ largest customer. The with two separate organisations – one the converter. Things took longer and front wheels, the Vectra has some job to increase awareness of
consortium provides vehicles for to get the cars, the other to get them there was much more administration. serious acceleration, and thanks to drivers in front of the police car
Thames Valley, Bedfordshire, and converted for police use. There wasn’t “Now, we can get the product the uprated suspension it handles that officers are closing in on them
Hertfordshire constabularies, as well a single point of contact. engineered to a high standard with beautifully through the tight at speed.
as the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, “Given that the police need to set the same people that we’re corners of the Hill Circuit. Stamp While out on the circuit, I came
which polices nuclear sites and the standards for the marketplace and purchasing the vehicle from. We can on the brakes in the approach to a across two items of expensive
materials. promote safety, it was always a bit of liaise with a single point of contact bend and the huge discs and six- exotica testing, presumably on
“For us as a customer, the GM a risk for us not having manufacturer and order a complete vehicle with pot calipers wipe off speed with behalf of their manufacturers. Quite
operation removes links from the approval on the final build vehicle. If confidence. It reduces hassle, and the very little effort. But despite some what the drivers of the Porsche 911
supply chain,” he says. there were any problems, there were time from order to delivery.” very impressive performance, the Turbo and Maserati Gran Turismo S
car never feels dramatic in the thought as a police car, lights
slightest. Even when pitching in to flashing and sirens wailing, closed
n fits the Bill

bends at speeds that get the tyres in on them, is anyone’s guess. They
squealing, everything feels safe could be forgiven for thinking that
and sturdy, far from the on-edge they were safe from prosecution at
thrill-ride that I was expecting. a private test track, but no one gets
This, according to GM SV’s head away from the long arm of Tromans
of technical operations, Carl Field, of the Yard. Amusingly, they slowed
is deliberate. He says that the down and pulled over to let me
police don’t want exciting drives – past.
ual forces put in when they take ing such light bars has involved all the equipment tested, using they need the speed and handling For anyone that’s ever dreamed
delivery of the car. This requires drilling holes in the roof, but the extensive facilities available at that the Vectra provides but have of driving a police car at breakneck
seating and trim to be carefully recently a new version of the light Millbrook. to be able to do it as easily as velocities, I can only tell you that it’s
removed and then replaced. A bar has been developed that fits Dick Ellam explains that bring- possible. In a real pursuit situation just as much fun as you think it is.
giant tray sits on the bonnet of all into the roof rail slots on the car. ing its blue light operation in-
the cars as they pass down the This brings considerable time house gives GM a unique selling
production line, and any compo- and expense benefits when point over the opposition, cutting
nents taken out of the car are kept constabulary cars reach the end out middle men suppliers and
in it, rather than being taken else- of their police life, as there are no offering a purpose-built solution
where where they run the risk of holes that need filling before the straight from the manufacturer.
being lost. vehicle is remarketed. Customers get one invoice, and a
Lights and the associated elec- Once all the equipment is full warranty. “Everything is
trics are also installed behind the installed and the car is driven out tested for reliability and durability
vehicle’s grille. Other equipment of the doors at the end of the line, to the same standards as the base
‘
fitted includes a light bar on the the reflective livery is fitted and vehicles,” he says.
’
roof, which carries all the lighting
PICTURES: Derek Goard
options needed by forces today,

such as flashing blue and reds BRINGING ITS BLUE LIGHT Buttons in the roof control
and powerful side beams designed
to light up alleyways as officers
OPERATION IN-HOUSE GIVES the police car’s light bar
drive past. In days gone by, install- GM A UNIQUE SELLING POINT

DAILY RENTAL: CAR CLUBS
Time to join the club?

With car clubs gaining in popularity, we look at the threat they pose to daily rental
BY SARAH TOOZE City Car Club says business box as their fleets are made up of bays also mean that the cars are vans this year, but car clubs
C
customers have grown from 10% low-emission vehicles. available around the clock and generally offer business users a
ar clubs, which let of its total membership 18 They also encourage custom- there are no reps to meet. A car more limited choice.
members drive months ago to 25% now. This is ers to use public transport by can be booked at short notice. Daily rental companies claim
cars on an hourly expected to increase to 40% having cars parked at train Car clubs also claim to offer their green credentials are
rate, are relatively within the next two years. stations. The idea is for custom- fleet managers big savings. improving. Many offer hybrids
new on the vehicle WhizzGo, another club, already ers to get a train to another city Rather than having to pay for a and as their fleets are around six
rental scene but have already has 45% corporate usage. and then pick up a car from the whole day, a car can be booked months old they use the latest
made an impact in the business So should daily rental compa- station rather than driving the for an hour, with prices starting technology. Europcar and
market. nies be nervous about the rise of entire journey. at about £5. Fuel is included in National now provide CO2 emis-
Streetcar has seen its corpo- car clubs? And what do they For local journeys, a customer the price and there are no deliv- sions information for their vehi-
rate membership increase by offer fleet managers? can walk to a car parked in one of ery charges. For longer book- cles and a large fleet customer
50% in the past three months, the allocated bays in their neigh- ings, car clubs say their rates can make a reservation by emis-
with corporate usage rising by Why join the club? bourhood, which means no one are competitive. For instance, a sions rather than car group.
75% in the same period. Car clubs tick the environmental has to deliver the car. Parking Volkswagen Golf can be booked Car clubs don’t yet rival rental
on a weekly rate of £195 with companies’ network size.
Streetcar. WhizzGo has locations in just 12
ARE CAR CLUBS A THREAT TO DAILY RENTAL? WhizzGo offers value pack- cities and most of Streetcar’s
ages for members who are likely locations are in London. In
No return to base. They’re not good Maybe to drive more than 10 hours a contrast, Lex can deliver a
David Alexander, operations when you need to do one-way trips, Andy Lewis, head of month. Customers can buy £250 vehicle and the customer is free
director, National and a long journey or use different marketing and e-commerce, worth of use, which includes a to return it anywhere in the
Europcar: vehicles. That’s when rental comes Budget Rent-a-Car: 15% discount and double the country. One-way trips are not
“It’s the same effect as low-cost into its own.” “Car clubs are a good innovation mileage allowance. possible with car clubs as the
airlines – they are a perceived threat and we’re keeping a close eye on However, unlike a rental vehicle has to be returned to a
but they actually grow the market. No them. We’re still deciding if it’s a company, a membership fee has parking bay.
Their impact is positive. They Ian Drayton, daily rental sector we want to play in. Budget to be paid. Streetcar’s annual The level of management
highlight the benefits of part-time manager, Lex: was involved in the very first car membership fee of £99 covers information may not be as devel-
car ownership. “Hourly rental is not something our club in the early 1990s in any number of employees. oped with car clubs, and it is not
“Europcar doesn’t need to customers are really asking for. If Edinburgh, but it was ahead of its viable for them to provide extras
respond as we’ve offered hourly you’re in a major city like London or time then. Daily rental’s plus points like handheld sat navs as vehi-
rental for the past seven-and-a- Manchester, car clubs can work but “I think there’s room in the Rental companies have a broader cles are left unattended in
half-years. most of our customers don’t rent for market for car clubs and daily rental; range of vehicles – customers parking bays overnight.
“For fleet managers, car clubs are one or two days, the average is 12 they’re a complementary product to can choose anything from a ■ Would you consider using a car
not sufficiently developed to be a days. We would talk to our suppliers daily rental. small runaround to a van. club or do you use one already?
credible provider. They’re fantastic if lots of customers asked us to do “Logically, I’d say car clubs do Streetcar already provides Email fleetnews@emap.com
for short, local journeys when you hourly rental.” take some business from us.” vans, with City Car Club plan- ■ To find out more, visit www.
ning to add people carriers and carclubs.org.uk
Your jobs, your questions, your chance to get involved Find your
favourite
More UK firms
s
FLEET CV
Nigel Letters – p25
turn to coaching
Trotman
Fleet Institute of Car Fleet
manager Management chairman
Whitbread Roddy Graham responds to
Group comments that company
bosses are reluctant to pay
for fleet manager training.
Describe your fleet BY EMMA COOPER most effective form of in-house
We have 500 mixed badge training. Helpline – p27
cars – BMWs, Audis and A growing number of UK busi- Dr John McGurk, learning,
Volkswagens – most of nesses are using coaching as a training and development adviser
which are on two-year means of training staff and at the CIPD, said: “Coaching is
contracts, and one van. promoting development. not just a popular technique but
More than two fifths of firms an immensely powerful one for
How did you get into the now offer in-house mentoring to supporting personal develop-
fleet industr y? all their workers, with 71% of ment. There is no doubt that What choice is available
I was given the fleet to run companies coaching a selection of coaching is having a significant for fleets wanting cars
following an internal employees, according to the impact both on individual and with emissions below
reorganisation. Chartered Institute of Personnel organisational performance. 130g/km?
and Development (CIPD). “It is a win–win solution to
What advice would you The majority of coaching falls workforce development, offering First car – p29
give to a starter in fleet? to line managers (30%) and HR the scope to help employees
Get out and meet other and training specialists (30%). reach their potential, while
people in the industry as More than half of businesses improving the competitiveness
much as you can, especially (53%) believe coaching conducted and productivity of the business
through organisations like by line managers to be the as a whole.” Coaching is a win-win solution
ACFO. Listen and learn – we
all like to help newcomers. APPOINTMENTS ■ email: fleetnews@bauerconsumer.co.uk Lex Corporate’s Steve
Hornsey recalls his first
Have you ever had a bad
day at work?
Balshaw runs Smith appointed MD at Windsor company vehicle – a Ford
Escort Van with 120,000
Yes, the day I had to
discipline the chief
Toyota Fleet Berkshire-based Windsor Vehicle Leasing has named Philip Smith as
managing director. Reporting to chief executive officer Philip Newton,
miles on the clock.
executive’s chauffeur on my Richard Balshaw has been named he will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the company, as Competition – p29
boss’s behalf, which was an general manager of Toyota Fleet. well as developing Windsor’s long-term business relationships. Kerry Win a place
uncomfortable experience. Replacing Tim Copland, he will Eggins has been made head of HR. on an ICFM
be responsible for the overall foundation
How is the industr y management of Toyota’s UK fleet course for
changing?
It’s becoming increasingly
sales. Mr Balshaw has worked
for Toyota for 14 years. Mr
New rental role for Alexander new entrants,
covering the
complex and we are affected Copland has been made general David Alexander has been appointed operations director at Europcar principles of
by more and more manager of dealer development. and National Car Rental. He will be responsible for a combined network car fleet
legislation, especially of more than 250 Europcar UK Group locations. He has seven years’ management.
concerning health and safety experience in vehicle rental and was previously operations and finance
and environmental issues. director at Europcar.
Job of
What would be your ideal the week
weekend?
A weekend in Florence,
Ogilvie appoints area manager ESSEX COUNTY COUNCIL
staying in the old city and Ogilvie Fleet has appointed Paul Carter as area manager. Reporting to Vehicle leasing manager
not having to queue for any Nick Hardy, he will be responsible for managing and developing the £28,500-£42,000 p24
of the galleries or museums. company’s UK client base. With more than 10 years in fleet finance, Mr
Carter was previously a fleet account manager at Hitachi Fleet.
How was your first day? What is the biggest challenge more than 15 years and still prospects, attending an
SETTLING IN It was great, with lots to take in, you’ve faced so far? enjoy the way changes in exhibition or working with our
new faces to remember and a Constantly working towards legislation and improvements in development team back in the
Jon
Pritchard
new product to learn. developing solutions to solve the technology present new office.
Pre-sales issues facing today’s fleet challenges.
consultant How does your role differ manager. How do you relax at the end
Civica from your job at Fleetplan? What’s your average day? of the day?
My role with Civica has given Do you enjoy working with There is no such thing as an By sharing a few beers with my
me the opportunity to use my the fleet industr y? average day. I could be out friends and family, or going to
experience to advise new clients. Yes. I’ve been in the industry for visiting customers, new watch my team, West Brom.
Recruitment
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mobile: 07918 707743
email: penny.care@emap.com
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LETTERS ■ Email: fleetnews@bauerconsumer.co.uk. Please include name, job title, company and address
Interface
Paying our
way already
Fleet training Here’s what
visitors to
our website
have been
��
��
has real benefits

commenting
on this week (we use
In reply to LemonHop’s screen names):
comments regarding taxation
based upon mileage rather Gas guzzlers
than emissions (April 4), I The Government
would like to remind readers I wish I could deny that the situa- might claim it is
that every time we re-fuel a tion outlined by your correspon- making progress when it
vehicle tax is gathered for the dent (March 27) did not exist but tells us the UK’s CO2
Privy Purse. The Govern- it is, I am afraid, not an altogether emissions are down 2% but
ment is already taxing the rare state of affairs. The point is: what ‘encouragement’ and
operator/driver on the does your head of procurement or example is it providing?
mileage that they drive. HR have relevant qualifications? Last week you said a high
Whatever the total amount Without doubt, the personal number of official cars were
gathered by the various taxes networks established through gas guzzlers... What does
placed on motorists and ACFO membership will provide the DEFRA attribute the 2%
vehicle operators, one can be valuable opportunities and represent the second highest cost a number of formats and, while drop to? I bet that’ll change
assured that only a fraction of insights. It is also the case that for a business. To incur costs of the costs of tutor-facilitated when they add air travel...
that will be spent on the road- other organisations can offer fleet £1 million, it’s only necessary for programmes are of course higher, RoadRunner
ways and vehicular infra- management training and the a fleet to operate 125 cars. the costs for distance learning
structure of the nation. fleet management or contract hire Even a 1% reduction in these packages can be very low. Fast food
Regretfully the motor provider may well offer help. costs will cover four or five partic- We provide a scholarship “Even if no crash
vehicle has been viewed as a For many, however, there is a ipants on the ICFM Fast Track scheme which can give financial occurs, the conse-
“cash cow” ever since Herr real desire to gain accredited programme. As well as reducing support in cases where funding is quences of eating behind
Benz got his prototype to qualifications and it is in this area costs, we would expect a properly not available from an employer. the wheel can be severe.”
work in 1885. It was then that that ICFM education and training trained fleet manager to be able to We will make more widely avail- Yes I’d agree with this. Indi-
highway robbery began as a has much to offer. identify appropriate actions to able a guide to better evaluating gestion, heartburn, and
state venture rather than as a I fear that all too often there is a protect the business from the the investment in fleet manage- food in the upholstery. We
private finance initiative. failure in many businesses to myriad of legal compliance risks. ment training. warn our people about this
recognise the real and total costs The introductory and certifi- but trust them to drive
Charles J A Brickley of running a fleet. The operation cate training programmes RODDY GRAHAM responsibly. What we don’t
of a vehicle fleet will typically provided by ICFM are available in Chairman, ICFM agree with is Brake and
others’ OTT reaction that
any kind of activity while
Outsourced fleet services in demand driving is tantamount to

dangerous driving. There is
little evidence that eating or
I read with interest your story In fact, the overall situation as increasing, sometimes quite drinking is a significant
“Carmakers put faith in sales we see it is quite complex. dramatically. Indeed, we have factor in accidents.
teams” (March 20) about our Some manufacturers are seen a lot of activity in this area Richardtechnik
forecast that more headcount bringing on board more fleet this year and are in dialogue with
reductions are likely for motor sales staff but others are invest- at least four manufacturers at the Looking good
manufacturers in 2008. ing heavily in outsourced fleet moment to provide outsourced The average woman looks
The writer of the article sales operations. fleet sales services. in a mirror every 25 minutes,
correctly stated that, while this So even at some manufactur- does she? Interesting. Do
was taking place, some manufac- ers where the headcount itself is COLIN BRUDER they have similar informa-
turers are also investing in falling, the actual resources Managing director, tion on vehicle mirrors?
expanded fleet sales operations. being put into fleet sales are Network Automotive Steve Chevin
ONLINE POLL FleetNews COMMENT

Do you think the LAST WEEK’S POLL When you look at all the potential savings for a badly-run banks to bail out over the next two or
CO2 threshold for company switching to low-emission cars, the idea three years.
100 Does your employer still expect too
tax and NI benefits does look very attractive. Perhaps Alistair Darling and Her Majesty’s
much of your drivers?
will drop below What’s interesting is that nearly all the money Revenue and Customs already have it in mind to
80
120g/km in the saved is money not going to the Government. offset any shortfalls somewhere else. Or maybe
next five years? 60 Massive reductions in National Insurance, they’re gambling on the likely fact that we won’t
If so, vote “yes” in benefit-in-kind tax and the duty on all that fuel all rush out and replace every vehicle with cars
the online poll at 40 that won’t get burned are going to leave a hole. and vans that emit 120g/km of CO2 or less.
Fleetnews.co.uk. It might be best to act now. Take advantage of In fact, there’s probably a plan being hatched
The poll is bottom
left of the home-
20
0
58% 42% all these incentives quickly because the Govern-
ment will probably miss that £3 billion a year you
right now to reduce the critical carbon cut-off
point to 115g/km. Which will be interesting for
page. YES NO won’t be paying them, especially if there are a few the thousands of 119g/km drivers.
FREE GIFT Get a letter published in Fleet News and you’ll receive a fantastic
512Mb computer memory stick worth £15 courtesy of fleet soft-
■ Email: fleetnews@bauerconsumer.co.uk or write to: The Editor,
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HELPLINE ■ Do you have a problem with your fleet? Email: fleetnews@emap.com
Interface
LOW EMISSIONS PRIVATE
INSURANCE
Take your pick if you Q When employees are
involved in an accident
in a company vehicle our
want to cut emissions

company insurance would
cover this. However, would
they have to declare these
incidents to their own
personal car insurance at
renewal time?
Q I’d like to introduce a

new scheme where only
cars emitting less than
choose from in this category,
including the Ford Focus, Audi
A3, Citroën C4, Volkswagen Golf A If you are driving under a
company insurance policy
130g/km of CO2 are allowed and BMW 1 Series. yet at the same time also have a
on my fleet. But what sort of Going up to a 130g/km limit policy in your own name with a
thing will I be able to get that would expand this choice to no claims bonus (NCB), then
fits under this limit and will more larger vehicles. any accident that you have
they be acceptable to my sales But as you’ve taken the plunge involving the company insurance
reps? After all, they are a to go down to 130g/km, why not will not affect your own policy
pretty status-conscious go the extra mile and opt for a and NCB.
bunch. 120g/km limit? This will open up The NCB will only reduce if
a raft of cash savings, not only to you claim on that policy.
A You would be amazed at the

number of cars available
under your set limit – and not all
your drivers but also to the
company.
Cars emitting 120g/km of CO2
However, a policyholder is
required to advise their own
insurer at each renewal of any
of them are small city cars. or less fall into a new 10% benefit- material fact that may affect the
Fleet News recently produced in-kind tax band (13% for diesels) assessment of the risk premium
(March 27) a guide to all the cars so this means company car tax and we would advise that it is
on sale which emit 120g/km or savings for drivers. There’s a surprising choice available for fleets wanting cars with always better to declare an
less of CO2, and this would be a Companies will also benefit emissions below 130g/km, including the BMW 1 Series accident that was covered under
good place to start. from a number of taxation another insurance.
As well as city cars and savings on these vehicles. ‘CO2 guide’ into the search JULIAN KIRK It is most unlikely that their
superminis, there are a number For more information, log on engine and you’ll have all the Deputy editor, personal insurer will increase
of lower-medium models to to www.fleetnews.co.uk and type information at your fingertips. Fleet News the premium because of this
disclosure, but it is advisable to
tell them. The NCB on that
policy cannot be reduced
TRACTION CONTROL because there has not been a
claim under that policy.
The only other issue relates to
Q I read with interest your

stor y in the March 27
edition about fleets being
A As usual, vans are lagging
behind cars in this respect
and although the situation is
across the range. All the others
either have it as a paid-for option
or don’t offer it at all.
If I was buying a fleet of vans I
would insist that they had ESC
fitted.
a company car driver taking out
a new personal insurance in
their own name. Most insurers
urged to equip their cars slowly changing there still are In my view ESC is the single If you are buying fleet vans will allow an introductory bonus
with ESC traction control not many vans that come most effective safety enhance- from one manufacturer and that if the driver has not been
systems. The stor y didn’t equipped with ESC as standard. ment you can get – unlike ABS manufacturer insisted on involved in any claims on the
mention vans at all. I As far as I know, the Ford brakes it just works on its own payment for the addition of ESC, company policy and can prove
would like to ensure that Transit, Mercedes-Benz without any input from the maybe you could use this as a this over a number of years.
all my vans have ESC but I Sprinter and Vito and the driver by detecting and bargaining tool to get the price Clearly, the rules of disclosure
can’t seem to find any Volkswagen Crafter and correcting any sideways down – no ESC, no deal! apply here as well.
information about which Transporter are the only vans movement of the vehicle (mind
ones have it and which which feature ESC traction you it won’t save you if you lose TREVOR GELKEN ANDREW WALLACE
don’t. control as a standard fitment it big time). Editor, Fleet Van Direct Fleet Insurance
Services
FLEET QUALIFICATIONS
Q I want to enrol myself on

a course at the Institute
of Car Fleet Management so I
education and training from their
employers. It is possible to
obtain financial assistance of up
your experience in fleet
management or administration.
The modules are now
have some formal to 50% of the course fees. In the available in CD-ROM format as
qualifications. But my boss first instance, you will need to well as hard copy versions.
says he won’t pay for it and become a member of the Further scholarship funding
won’t allow me any time off Institute (application form is available and is allocated on a
to study. What can I do? available from our website) and “first come first served” basis.
then apply for help from the Contact me on 01769 520609 for
A Unfortunately, we hear all

too frequently of people in
your predicament.
scheme which is a straightfor-
ward process.
Given that your employer is
further details.
STEVE HOOK
The ICFM Scholarship not prepared to allow you time Education and training
Scheme was set up several years off I recommend that you study manager, ICFM
ago to offer financial support to for either the Introductory or ■ For your chance to win a free
members having difficulty in Certificate level qualification via ICFM introductory course, see
gaining sponsorship for distance learning, depending on page 27.
Fleet services Call Dee Kennedy: 01733 468275
email: dee.kennedy@emap.com
Leasing
Contract Hire Software
Open The ToolBox

at chevinfleet.com
0800 977 4090

enquiry@chevinfleet.com chevinfleet.com
CHEVIN
FLEET SOLUTIONS
If you would like to advertise on this page call www.fleetnews.co.uk

Dee Kennedy on 01733 468275 www.fleetnews.co.uk
AND FINALLY... Interface
‘
You couldn’t make it up... There seemed nothing
unusual about this particu-
lar vehicle when it turned up
at the auction for disposal.
CONTACT US
Fleet News, incorporating Company Car, is
Real-life stories about your fleet’s dimwit drivers As a matter of course, we

published by Bauer Automotive, Media
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EDITORIAL
Road Fund Licence. EDITOR
However, this vehicle had Martyn Moore 01733 468024
martyn.moore@bauerconsumer.co.uk
no tax disc holder – so DEPUTY EDITOR
instead the driver had Julian Kirk 01733 468308
julian.kirk@bauerconsumer.co.uk
decided to glue the disc on NEWS EDITOR
to the inside of the wind- Daniel Attwood 01733 468294
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SECTION EDITOR
efforts, we completely
’
Adele Barry (on maternity leave)
failed to remove it in one MOTORING WRITER
Phill Tromans 01733 468314
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tatters, which meant it was FEATURE WRITER
Sarah Tooze 01733 468901
worthless. I took the driver sarah.tooze@bauerconsumer.co.uk
to one side next time I saw REPORTER
Emma Cooper 01733 468309
him. emma.cooper@bauerconsumer.co.uk
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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KEY ACCOUNT DIRECTORS
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Win an ICFM online course

Penny Care 01733 468375
April 15-17, NEC, Birmingham. CLASSIFIED EXECUTIVE
www.cvshow.com Dee Kennedy 01733 468275
FLEET NEWS RISK IN FLEET PRODUCTION

HEAD OF PUBLISHING
CONFERENCE The ICFM is offering a place course, covering the principles assessment fees. Sandie Hurford 01733 468312
April 22, National Motorcycle on its online foundation of car fleet management for To stand a chance of sandie.hurford@bauerconsumer.co.uk
Museum, Birmingham. SENIOR ART EDITOR
new entrants to the profession. winning, answer the following Luke Neal 01733 468262
www.riskinfleet.co.uk
Requiring about 12 hours of questions. luke.neal@bauerconsumer.co.uk
PRODUCTION EDITORS
BRAKE FORUM: DRIVER study and including a job- 1. Where are BCA’s new Andrew Ryan 01733 468310
BEHAVIOUR based assignment, it will lead European centres? andrew.ryan@bauerconsumer.co.uk
Alan Salt 01733 468267
April 24, Cranfield University, to the Introductory Certificate 2. What insurance group is alan.salt@bauerconsumer.co.uk
Cranfield. www.brake.org.uk in Car Fleet Management and Citroën’s new C5? DIGITAL PRODUCER
Jeremy Bennett 01733 468298
an upgrade to associate 3. Who is the new general jeremy.bennett@bauerconsumer.co.uk
BEN LADIES LUNCH member status within the manager of Toyota Fleet ? EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
April 30, Millennium Hotel, ICFM. ■ Winner of the competition for Colleen Dixon 01733 468306
colleen.dixon@bauerconsumer.co.uk
London. www.ben.org.uk Worth £99, the package a Parrot hands-free phone kit in
includes one year’s affiliate the issue of March 27 was PUBLISHING
ZERO EMISSION TRANSPORT MANAGING DIRECTOR
membership, application fee, Chris Nicholls, of Constellation Ed Kenyon 01733 468862
CONFERENCE
May 1, Arup Campus, Solihull. remote trainer support and Europe, Bristol. ed.kenyon@bauerconsumer.co.uk
MANAGING DIRECTOR’S PA
www.arup.com Vicky Meadows 01733 468319
vicky.meadows@bauerconsumer.co.uk
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MY FIRST COMPANY CAR NEXT WEEK

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© 2008 Bauer Automotive.

My first company car was a
Ford Escort Van. It had done
other by giving them awful
cars and then getting them to
ROAD TEST ISSN 0953-8526. No part of this magazine
may be reproduced without the permission of
120,000 miles and rust was compete. The first to exceed Volvo’s entry-level the publisher. You can purchase words or
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Ford leads way with

ESP
Carmaker
praised for
standard
fitment
of safety
equipment
tgtg
ESP is standard
on all new Ford
Focus models
N
early two-thirds of all standard and it is standard on like this by up to 59%. The
Ford cars sold to UK 99% of Transits, except on All European Commission is pushing
fleets in March were Wheel Drive and petrol models. for ESP to be standard on all
fitted with Electronic UK government research has new cars in Europe by 2012,
Stability Programme (ESP) as found that vehicles equipped but fleet organisations – led by
standard – almost double the with ESP are 25% less likely to be the Association of Car Fleet
average for fleet cars generally. involved in a fatal accident than Operators (ACFO) – want fleets
Overall, only about a third of the those without. to support a recommendation to
top ten sellers in fleet have ESP, According to this research, it make it standard equipment in
according to figures quoted by would mean about 380 fewer advance of that date. Mondeo: “a superb car”
Fleet News. fatal accidents on UK roads ACFO chairman Julie Jenner
Every Focus, C-MAX, Mondeo, each year if all vehicles were said: “Ford is to be commended Mondeo hailed
S-MAX and Galaxy includes ESP fitted with ESP. The research for making ESP a standard part
as part of its standard safety said ESP is especially effective of the comprehensive safety as class leader
package. in helping to prevent accidents package of the majority of all
The new Ford Kuga, which that involve a vehicle skidding or vehicles it sells to fleets. We The new Mondeo has been
goes on sale in the middle of overturning, with the potential would like other manufacturers to described as “a superb car” by Auto
this year, will also feature ESP as to reduce serious accidents follow suit.” Express, which put a Mondeo 2.0
TDCi Titanium and two of its major
Four new One Stop Shop models

rivals through their paces before
declaring the Ford the winner.
The magazine said the Mondeo
Ford’s Transit One Stop Shop Ford has combines driver appeal with great
range has launched four new launched long-distance ability and low running
models for 2008 – single and a new costs.
double cab three-way tippers and curtainside “Versatile and easy to live with,
a new curtainside in two variants. Transit it remains the best family model
The line-up now comprises in two around,” said Auto Express.
single and double cab dropsides, variants It described the Mondeo as class
one-way and three-way tippers, in its One leader and great to own, and a car
box van in two chassis lengths, Stop Shop with “real presence”.
curtainside in 3.6m and 4.0m load range The magazine’s road tester praised
lengths, nine- and 12-seat shuttle the Mondeo’s cabin as “a high class
buses and 4x4 Ranger tipper. place in which to spend time” and its
Now in its tenth year, the One driving dynamics.
Stop Shop range has been so
successful that it accounts for
43% of all Transit chassis cabs Transit, Transit Connect and For further information on
sold in Britain. Ranger models, including the new
A Transit One-Stop Shop Sport range – Transit SportVan, any vehicle in the Ford
curtainside, three-way tipper Transit Connect SportVan and range please contact the
and double cab dropside will a Sport version of the Ranger Ford Business Centre on
be among 18 vehicles on Ford’s Wildtrak double cab pick-up.
08457 23 23 23, email
stand at the CV Show next week. The show is open from 8.30am-
The Ford line up on stand 5.30pm on April 15-17. For more info@fordfleet.co.uk, or
10/330 at the NEC, Birmingham, information go to www.cvshow. visit www.fordfleet.co.uk
will include a number of other com. Also see www.fordvans.com
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Ford leads way with

ESP
Carmaker
praised for
standard
fitment
of safety
equipment
tgtg
ESP is standard
on all new Ford
Focus models
N
early two-thirds of all standard and it is standard on like this by up to 59%. The
Ford cars sold to UK 99% of Transits, except on All European Commission is pushing
fleets in March were Wheel Drive and petrol models. for ESP to be standard on all
fitted with Electronic UK government research has new cars in Europe by 2012,
Stability Programme (ESP) as found that vehicles equipped but fleet organisations – led by
standard – almost double the with ESP are 25% less likely to be the Association of Car Fleet
average for fleet cars generally. involved in a fatal accident than Operators (ACFO) – want fleets
Overall, only about a third of the those without. to support a recommendation to
top ten sellers in fleet have ESP, According to this research, it make it standard equipment in
according to figures quoted by would mean about 380 fewer advance of that date. Mondeo: “a superb car”
Fleet News. fatal accidents on UK roads ACFO chairman Julie Jenner
Every Focus, C-MAX, Mondeo, each year if all vehicles were said: “Ford is to be commended Mondeo hailed
S-MAX and Galaxy includes ESP fitted with ESP. The research for making ESP a standard part
as part of its standard safety said ESP is especially effective of the comprehensive safety as class leader
package. in helping to prevent accidents package of the majority of all
The new Ford Kuga, which that involve a vehicle skidding or vehicles it sells to fleets. We The new Mondeo has been
goes on sale in the middle of overturning, with the potential would like other manufacturers to described as “a superb car” by Auto
this year, will also feature ESP as to reduce serious accidents follow suit.” Express, which put a Mondeo 2.0
TDCi Titanium and two of its major
Four new One Stop Shop models

rivals through their paces before
declaring the Ford the winner.
The magazine said the Mondeo
Ford’s Transit One Stop Shop Ford has combines driver appeal with great
range has launched four new launched long-distance ability and low running
models for 2008 – single and a new costs.
double cab three-way tippers and curtainside “Versatile and easy to live with,
a new curtainside in two variants. Transit it remains the best family model
The line-up now comprises in two around,” said Auto Express.
single and double cab dropsides, variants It described the Mondeo as class
one-way and three-way tippers, in its One leader and great to own, and a car
box van in two chassis lengths, Stop Shop with “real presence”.
curtainside in 3.6m and 4.0m load range The magazine’s road tester praised
lengths, nine- and 12-seat shuttle the Mondeo’s cabin as “a high class
buses and 4x4 Ranger tipper. place in which to spend time” and its
Now in its tenth year, the One driving dynamics.
Stop Shop range has been so
successful that it accounts for
43% of all Transit chassis cabs Transit, Transit Connect and For further information on
sold in Britain. Ranger models, including the new
A Transit One-Stop Shop Sport range – Transit SportVan, any vehicle in the Ford
curtainside, three-way tipper Transit Connect SportVan and range please contact the
and double cab dropside will a Sport version of the Ranger Ford Business Centre on
be among 18 vehicles on Ford’s Wildtrak double cab pick-up.
08457 23 23 23, email
stand at the CV Show next week. The show is open from 8.30am-
The Ford line up on stand 5.30pm on April 15-17. For more info@fordfleet.co.uk, or
10/330 at the NEC, Birmingham, information go to www.cvshow. visit www.fordfleet.co.uk
will include a number of other com. Also see www.fordvans.com

08-04-08

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Ford leads way with

Four new One Stop Shop models

Ford leads way with

Four new One Stop Shop models

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