Volume 9. No 2. Summer 2012

THE OFFICIAL IRISH JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL VAN OF THE YEAR & INTERNATIONAL PICK-UP AWARDS

TAKING IT TO THE MAX!TAKING IT TO THE MAX!- The All New Isuzu D-MAX- The All New Isuzu D-MAX

TWIN TEST: Ford Ranger Limited & Wildtrak ALTERNATIVE POWER: Emerald EVLONG TERM TEST: Volkswagen Amarok • INTERVIEW • NEW FLEET • LAUNCH PAD

Genuine Filters, Genuine Saving.Protect your engine and save money withMercedes-Benz Filter Kits.

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 53

www.fl eet.ie

contents SUMMER 2012

54 News• Negatives for LCV industry across Europe • Ford tests new Transit’s doors to the extreme • Further savings all round from Renault Master • Dacia to enter International Van of the Year Award with Dokker Van • New Mini Clubvan is no Minor! • Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles give Pedal to Poland a Big Push!

56 InterviewOne-to-One with Ciaran McMahon, Ford Ireland’s Commercial Vehicle Sales & Marketing Manager

57 AlternativeEmerald – a gem of an Extended Range Electric Van

58 CoverNew Isuzu D-Max

60 Twin TestTest Drive Report; Ford Ranger Limited and Ford Ranger Double Cab AWD ‘Wildtrak’

62 New FleetSales from Mercedes-Benz, Renault and Ford

63 Launch PadJeep’s Commercial Vehicle Range

64 Long Term TestVolkswagen Amarok Trendline 4Motion

66 AwardSix contenders for International Pick-Up Award 2012/13

P 57P 55

Fleet Van&Utility Magazine,

D’Alton Street, Claremorris,

Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819

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Email: enquiries@fl eet.ie

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Editor: Jarlath Sweeney

Contributors: Gerry Murphy,

Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Brian

Weatherley

Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Gerry

Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten,

Brian Weatherley, Torbjorn Ericsson

Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise

Vahey

Advertising: Mary Morrissey, Orla

Sweeney

Design: Eamonn Wynne

Printed in Ireland

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

» From the smallest washer up to the long pipe –

everything has its perfect place.«

www.sortimo.ie

GLOBELYST M – A GENERATION AHEAD!

54 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012

NEWS 1

The dark economic climate across Europe has had a knock-on eff ect on commercial vehicle sales across

the Continent. Four months into 2012, the downturn continues according to fi gures released by ACEA, the association for European Automotive Manufacturers. A 10.1% drop has been recorded as all major markets shrank. France remained the largest market, despite a 4.7% contraction, followed by Germany (-1.2%) and the UK (-9.8%). Spain (-24.1%) and Italy (-36.7%) experienced the biggest drops, refl ecting on their current fi nancial uncertainty. In April alone, demand for new commercial vehicles decreased by 11.9%.

Th at month saw the van segment chart its largest decrease (-13.3%) with a total of 110,573 units. While the French market remained stable (-0.5%) and the German slipped by 1.9%, the British (-19.8%), Spanish (-30.4%) and Italian (-38.3%) faced a double-digit downturn. From January to April, the EU* registered 479,456 new vans, or 11.7% less than in the same period a year ago. Looking at the major markets, downturn ranged from 0.4% in Germany to 5.2% in France, 15.7% in the UK, 23.8% in Spain and 37.8% in Italy.

It is the same story in Ireland but to a lesser degree. April 2012 versus 2011 witnessed a -14.4% decrease (946 units vs 1105) which

transcends into a -1.1% diff erence in the January-April figures (6046 vs 5978).

Sales of medium a n d h e a v y commercial vehicles over 35 tonnes were down by 3.6% for the fi rst four months of 2012 with the French, German, Spanish and Italian markets fairing out worst. Ireland’s MGV/HGV market is down 10.7% overall.

At Ford’s Dunton Technical Centre in Essex, pre-production tests of the all-new Transit van are ongoing before its

launch here later this year. At this Research & Development Centre, Ford engineers have just conducted a series of extreme tests on the latest Transit’s doors in order to withstand the day-to-day usage of demanding customers.

On a purpose built automated test rig, the new Transit Custom’s front doors were slammed 250,000 times, the sliding side door 150,000 times, and the rear cargo door 150,000 times in

a special test facility where temperatures can be plunged to -40 degrees Celsius, sent soaring to 82 degrees Celsius, and deliver 85 per cent humidity. Th roughout the tests, engineers monitored the process, checking the doors regularly for any sign of damage or weakness.

“Th is is a modern-day torture test, more than half-a-million slams, in everything from tropical heat to Arctic cold,” said Barry Gale, Ford’s Chief Commercial Vehicle Engineer, based at Dunton. “ Th e door-slam test is just one of a range of rigorous testing procedures Ford has used to

make sure the all-new vehicle further enhances Transit’s reputation for superb reliability. Th e 250,000 front door slams compare to 84,000 slams delivered by the equivalent car test. Th is refl ects the greater frequency of door-use and tougher treatment of working vans. Aft er our new vans have been through this, they are ready for anything,” added Barry.

Th e all-new Ford Transit Custom one-tonne commercial vehicle will go on sale later this year and made its debut at April’s CV Show in Birmingham.

Th e Transit will be available with advanced technology including Ford SYNC, which enables hands-free voice-controlled use of mobile phones and MP3 players, plus fuel-saving technologies such as Auto-Start-Stop and smart regenerative charging.

Renault’s big van the Master which enjoys a commanding position in Europe aims to consolidate its

No. 1 position in February by introducing emission/fuel savings and specifi cation enhancements.

Cuts of up to 16g/km have been achieved from the 2.3 dCi engine through revisions to the thermal management system, oil and power steering pumps and by fi tt ing energy saving tyres. All this adds up to fuel savings of up to 0.6 litres/100 km.

Other modifications to the commercial vehicle that was introduced in 2010 include

an easier to use and bett er equipped radio with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. Air suspension is now available for front wheel drive Masters (with the exception of 2.8 tonne GV W versions) which provides a constant ride-height irrespective of load. Another advantage is the option to drop the rear air bags to lower the rear sill height. In addition, the towing capacity of the Master 3.5 tonne twin-wheel version has increased by 500kg to 7.0 tonnes GTW. Th e Master is assembled at the SOVAB de Batilly plant in France alongside the Opel/Vauxhall Movano and Nissan NV400.

Ford tests new Transit’s doors to the extreme

Further savings all round from Renault Master

Negatives for LCV industry across Europe

NEWS 11

FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 55

Dacia to enter International Van of the Year Award with Dokker Van

New Mini Clubvan is no Minor!

Visitors to the Geneva Motor Show last Spring will have discovered the new Dacia Lodgy, the new 7 seater

MPV from the Romanian based (Renault Group owned) car and commercial vehicle producer. From this new, versatile vehicle, a panel van/crew cab will be designed and manufactured, to be called the Dokker. Standing at 4.50 metres in length and 1.75m in width, spaciousness and a low loading bay height will be the Dokker’s biggest selling factors, not to mention an extremely competitive price.

Low running costs will be another signifi cant advantage from the Renault driveline, namely the

75 and 90 hp versions of the 1.5 litre dCi diesel. Load volume is said to extend beyond the 2,617 dm3 currently on off er from the Lodgy.Fitt ings such as speed limiters, rear-parking

sensors, Bluetooth and USB connectivity are pencilled-in for inclusion as standard.

Lodgy and the Dokker are the latest chapters in the Dacia’s success story. Production will be located in Tangiers, Morocco, which will supply the Western European and East European markets following a €1 billion investment by the Renault Group. Dacia has confi rmed that the Dokker will be entered in the 2013 International Van of the Year Award competition, which will be presented at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show in Hanover

in September.

Dacia enters the Irish market later this year.

Inspired by the 1960s Morris Mini Van, the world’s fi rst premium compact delivery van, the Mini Clubvan, has

fi ve doors, but only two seats. Launched initially as a Concept at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the Mini Clubvan is now destined for both business and leisure customers. Inside, the cargo area stretches back 115 cm and, even at its narrowest point just behind the rear doors, is 102 cm wide. With the bulkhead to protect the driver and/or passenger, it can be loaded right to the roof which measures 84cm at its highest point. Th at means 860 litres of space and a maximum payload capacity of 500 kg. In common with all MINIs, the Clubvan will off er owners outstanding driving dynamics. Featuring powertrain and chassis technology from the Clubman, it comes with powerful and effi cient four-cylinder engines. Th ree versions

will be available; the 72 kW/98 hp MINI One Clubvan, the 90 kW/122 hp MINI Cooper Clubvan and the 82 kW/112 hp MINI Cooper D Clubvan. All come with MINI’s familiar front-wheel-drive set-up, Electric Power Steering, MacPherson strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension and powerful brakes. A sixspeed manual transmission is standard, but an optional six-speed automatic transmission is also available.

Built in Britain at Plant Oxford, the Clubvan is true to the now-familiar MINI design language and features the same classic lines that have become the hallmark of the brand. Based on the Clubman platform, its exterior dimensions are identical to those of its sibling. It’s 3,961 mm long, 1,683 mm wide and 1,426 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,547 mm. Th e Clubvan is the seventh unique member of the MINI family, selling alongside the Clubman, Hatch, Convertible, Countryman, Coupe and Roadster.

It is the fi rst commercial vehicle to be off ered since the MINI brand was relaunched under BMW’s ownership in 2001. Because of that classifi cation the model qualifi es for a single commercial VRT payment of €250. Provisional retail prices, including VAT and VRT (prices are subject to confi rmation closer to launch date): start at €17,140 for the MINI One Clubvan.

Pedal to Poland, the initiative by a team of nine amateur cyclists to cycle from Dublin to Gdansk

in time for Ireland’s fi rst round match against Spain in the European Football Championships were given a big push by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles with the supply of a Craft er van for the journey.

Th e cyclists travelled through fi ve countries and cover 1,500km in two weeks while raising money for charity. Arthritis Ireland, Headstrong – Th e National Centre for Youth Mental Health and Renewable World are the three benefi ciaries of the event which saw participants cycle more than 100km per day.

“We came up with the Pedal to Poland idea around Christmas time, when we were talking about how we would get to the

Euros. So we decided that we would cycle and do it for charity. Th e three charities have a specifi c interest to each of us in the group. We are delighted that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has helped us out with the loan of the Craft er as a support vehicle on the event,” said Hugh Arthur, one of the organisers.

The team set off from Volkswagen’s headquarters in Liff ey Valley, Dublin. “We are in full support of this initiative which certainly isn’t the easiest way to get to the Euros,” commented Niall Phillips, Sales & Marketing Manager for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. “The Crafter is certainly big enough to swallow their bikes and gear prett y easily so it is great that they will be in the Continental Irish Van of their Year for their mammoth trip.”

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles give Pedal to Poland a Big Push!

Conn McCluskey, Pedal to Poland, Niall Phillips Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and Hugh Arthur, Pedal to Poland at the handover of the Volkswagen Craft er which acted as a support vehicle for nine cyclists as they travelled fr om Dublin to Gdansk for charity.

56 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012

INTERVIEW

JS. Best wishes on your new appointment. You are coming into the position at an exciting time for Ford Commercials with the new Ranger just launched and with the arrival of the all-new Transit later in the year.

CMcM. Th ank you – yes I am delighted to be heading up Ford’s CV sales and marketing activities in Ireland. It is true that I am taking on the role in challenging times for the industry, but Ford is such an iconic part of the CV sector in Ireland, our Irish pedigree is second to none and even in the current challenging environment we are holding our own as the number one brand within the sector. We increased our market share last year and again in the fi rst quarter of 2012.

Recessions can come and go, but having a tested, proven and award-winning line up of vehicles is the greatest bulwark against tough times and I sincerely believe that our line up is number one because of the quality of our vehicles.

JS. Th e Pick-Up truck segment is enjoying renewed interest with newcomers such as Volkswagen and Great Wall entering the fr ay. With the new Ranger, it is a much improved off ering, will your marketing campaign be diff erent this time around?

CMcM. New Ranger is a completely new vehicle, totally re-engineered from the ground up. Our marketing eff ort will focus on its key att ributes:

Safety: the only Pick-Up truck to achieve a 5 1. star Euro NCAP rating;improved towing capacity of 3.35 tonnes that 2. puts Ranger on a par with any other vehicle in the sector; and the overall muscular ability and great design 3. of the vehicle.

New Ranger has already received very favourable reports from both the media and customers alike. In just the last week, we signed a contract for the supply of 25 units with a State organisation.

JS. Will most of your focus be centered towards the new Transit,what is the launch programme?

CMcM. It is true that Transit is the iconic commercial vehicle in Ireland – far and away the top selling commercial vehicle here since it was launched nearly 50 years ago. And our new Transit Custom will continue that tradition I am sure. Th e vehicle certainly created a stir when it was revealed at the recent CV Show in Birmingham.

Our launch programme for new Transit begins with detailed pre-launch training for all of our key dealers in June. Th en there will be a series of reach out activities to Transit’s wide customer-base with “keep me informed” opportunities so that “fans” can stay updated right up the arrival of the vehicle here in the early part of quarter four.

JS. Are there plans to upgrade spec in the run out of the current model at a reduced price?

CMcM. Th e current Transit model has a very competitive level of spec and I believe is very keenly priced for the current market conditions. We also have a very good consumer off er on the model which is proving itself in the dealership showrooms. Of course, in the current environment, we constantly monitor the off ers on our full range and where needed, those off ers will be tweaked and adapted as and when we deem necessary.

JS. By the end of the year we should have details on the larger Transit and maybe the replacement for Transit Connect?

CMcM. Our company policy is not to comment on future product plans – there have been no announcements yet in relation to availability of either of those models.

With the downturn, the reduced market has led to intense competition among the brands, with some off ering att ractive fi nance packages and extended warranties, what has Ford to off er this sector?

As I already mentioned we have a particularly att ractive package on Transit that directly targets cost of ownership – a crucial factor in today’s market. Th e main points are: extended four year warranty; free servicing for four years; and a €1,000 registration bonus.

Plus, we are continuing to work on our Ford Dealer Commercial Vehicle Specialist network that provides a detailed programme of training and continuous improvement for our guys on the ground raising the standard of our CV sales and

aft er-sales service right across our network.

JS. How is the fl eet sector at present? Recent sales to eircom helps to keep numbers up, any more signifi cant deals in the pipeline?

CMcM. Overall, things are still very weak in the fl eet sector. In particular, large fl eet deals are very few and far between. Also, the small 'owner operator' with one or two vans is still very cautious about investing in a new vehicle.

Having said that, we have had recent notable fl eet successes with eircom (Kuga Commercial) and Citypost (Transit Connect).

I think there is evidence of tentative green shoots in the small and medium-sized company sector where we are seeing an increased level of enquiries – deals that would entail anything from 2 to perhaps 10 vehicles. Our Kuga Commercial has proved very successful in this sector with a number of key small fl eet wins which has put the vehicle at the top of the commercial 4x4 market.

We can only hope that those green shoots blossom into a more widespread recovery very soon!

JS. Any changes afoot to remodel the Ford Commercial Vehicle brand at dealership level?

CMcM. Yes, we are continuing to work on our Ford Dealer Commercial Vehicle Specialist network which as I mentioned provides a detailed programme of training and continuous improvement for our Dealers who have shown themselves to have high levels of expertise in meeting the needs of our CV customers, both large and small.

For all of the Dealers in the network, our CV customers will see a standardised high level of service which among other things, providesextended opening hours to facilitate out of hours servicing and to minimise downtime for CV fl eet owners.

One-to-OneCiaran McMahon, Ford Ireland'sCommercial VehicleSales & Marketing Managerwith Jarlath Sweeney,editor@fl eet.ie

ALTERNATIVE

Text & Photos: Brian Weatherley FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 57

I s it a hybrid? Is it an electric van? No, it’s the all-new Emerald ‘range-extended’, lightweight ultra-low emissions delivery van - and it could do wonders to reduce

your fuel costs. An innovative new electric van with a ‘range extender’ diesel engine that can re-charge its batt ery pack on the move could soon be helping major van fl eet operators to not only signifi cantly cut their CO2 emissions but also slash their annual fuel bills. Fleet Van & Utility recently att ended the launch in London of the lightweight, ultra-low emissions delivery van (LULEDV) developed by Intelligent Energy, Revolve Technologies and co-funded by the Technology Strategy Board (the Government body sponsored by the UK Department for Business, Innovation and Skills) as part of its Low Carbon Vehicles Innovation platform. Working 3.05 tonne prototypes of the stylish panel van have already been vigorously tested at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire and the LULEDV is scheduled to go into full production by late 2014 with 5,000 vans planned for the first year and a ‘base business plan’ of 10,000 vans produced annually. Intelligent Energy has also established a new division, ‘Emerald Automotive’ to bring the range-extended electric van to market, selling it to major van fl eets throughout the Globe under the Emerald brand name. Dimensionally the Emerald electric van is comparable to a SWB Ford Transit - it even uses a number of the Transit’s components, including front and rear suspension, brakes, modified steering system and rear axle with a 70kW traction motor incorporated in the modifi ed diff erential. Revolve’s Technical Director, Paul Turner explained: “We decided not to try and re-

invent the wheel, and used the Transit as a ‘donor’ vehicle.” Likewise, the van’s ‘range-extender’ diesel which powers the generator that charges the van’s mid-mounted lithium ion batt ery-pack is a non-intercooled 67hp version of the Euro-5, 1.4-litre Ford DV4 Duratorq engine used in the Fiesta. It sits transversely-mounted in the front ‘engine bay’ along with the generator, inverter and cooling pack and starts re-charging the batt ery pack when the van has travelled around 60km.

By using the small diesel engine to charge the batt eries, rather than providing direct power to the wheels like in a normal diesel-electric hybrid, on test the Emerald van delivered an amazing fuel consumption (to the UNECE101 cycle) of 232mpg but according to Revolve: “With further development, fi gures of 300mpg are predicted.” Likewise, the electric-powered van has extremely low CO2 emissions of just 31.4gm/km, versus around 192g/km for best-in-class comparable diesel vans with Revolve adding “Th at fi gure can be lowered even further to 25gm/km.”

However, the most signifi cant feature of the Emerald van ‘range extender’ is just how far it can travel beyond the fi rst 60 miles covered in pure-electric mode, as Revolve’s Paul turner explained: “Th e range of the vehicle as measured over the ECE drive cycle is 420 miles. Th is is the limit defi ned by the size of the fuel tank. Th e vehicle can operate continuously as a ‘series hybrid’ should an operator not have facilities to recharge, it just means that the lower cost of the energy from the grid is not utilised to its full potential.” Re-charging time is quoted at around three hours with a three-phase 7kW charger. Based on prototype tests the Emerald van also demonstrated comparable drivability, including acceleration and hill-climbing, to an equivalent diesel van.

Under the stylish bodywork, created by Th at’s It Design, the van has a number of innovative features including an all-aluminium fl oor-pan/chassis, aluminium cargo deck, lightweight cab frame and UMECO composite bodywork which together meet the Euro NCAP 5 star crash rating. Despite the additional weight of the batt ery pack the Emerald van off ers a useful 1,400kg payload while its load volume is comparable to conventional SWB low-roof panel vans.

Another interesting feature is the use of a Telematics/GPS route mapping system which schedules the diesel engine to avoid charging unnecessarily at the end of the route as well as ensuring suffi cient batt ery charge to negotiate hills and to shut the engine down when the van is running in a low emission zone.

Emerald Automotive’s Managing Director, Andy Tempest reported that a number of major van fl eets in Europe and the US including DHL, Royal Mail, FedEx and La Poste have already shown an interest in the van, which will only be sold to large fl eets with their own workshop facilities, rather than consumer buyers which would necessitate the creation of a dealer network. Quizzed on pricing structure and payback for the new van, Tempest said: “We’re looking at a gross retail price of around £32,000, though for large fl eet customers, with a long-term commitment, we would expect to discount on that.” And based on a 100-mile daily usage, the Emerald van’s estimated 4.5 pence-per-mile fuel cost compared to a typical diesel van’s 35-pence-per mile consumption means “Th e fuel savings over four years would be well over £30,000”, he concluded.

Emerald – a gem of an Extended Range Electric Van

The Emerald van’s interior is attractive and comfortable.

58 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012

COVER

“T he new era in Pick-Up trucks has begun. With almost a century of truck manufacturing DNA, the

all-new Isuzu D-Max redefi nes the toughness,” said Mr. Makoto Kawahara, President of Isuzu Motors Company (Th ailand) Ltd to the assembled global press at the Isuzu Motor Company’s production facility in Bangkok. “I would like to welcome all participants from Europe to visit our factory. Let me take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks for your earnest and ceaseless support for Isuzu business in Europe,” added Mr. Kawahara.

“Last year we produced approximately 235,000 units of LCV including KD kit and exported to more than 100 countries. In the Th ai domestic Pick-Up market, we are competing with Toyota

for No. 1 position taking 33.8% market share in 2011, and since then we have launched the all-new D-Max and it is very well accepted by customers and is selling well. As you are aware, due to the great fl ood in Th ailand last year, we were obliged to suspend production for seven weeks. In order to deliver the vehicle to our clients who are waiting for our D-Max, we are producing D-Max at the maximum level of workers’ and facilities’ capacity with the fastest speed of production line and full overtime. As for the European market, we started shipment in April. I believe this new product will meet customers’ needs and requirements in Europe.”

Longer, taller and wider than its predecessors, the new D-Max Double Cab with its more muscular exterior design is in contrast more aerodynamic. Isuzu designers conducted extensive wind tunnel

tests around the world to create this sleeker model, which included the Japan Railway Technical Research Institute, that is responsible for the famous high speed ‘Bullet’ train. Improved airfl ow around the mirrors, for instance off ers bett er visibility but also less wind noise. While the larger interior lends to more space for occupants, while manoeuvrability has improved.

“Th e all-new chassis delivers bett er balance and performance whether loaded or not, delivering superior stability and road holding in all conditions,” according to Mr. Kawahara. “With a larger and stronger rear tray and 4x4 electronic shift on the fl y, there’s not much it cannot handle, 3 tonne towing capacity still remains in this all-new Isuzu D-Max.”

“Th e new interior does not just deliver space

New D-MaxNew D-Max heralds dawn heralds dawn of a new era forof a new era for IsuzuIsuzu

“Th e Isuzu logo is bigger than before proudly announcing the arrival of the all-new Isuzu D-Max,” stated Mr. Kawahara.

Th e All New Isuzu D-MAX was launched at the 33rd Th ailand International Motor Show in Bangkok

Text: Rob Van Dieten - rob@fl eet.ie Photos: Torbjorn Ericsson FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 59

and comfort. At your fi ngertips you will fi nd all the technology, and modern conveniences you have come to expect in a new car. Electro-luminescent instruments, climate control air conditioning, keyless entry, steering wheel controls and a 6 speaker stereo system with iPod and Bluetooth connectivity maximises driver and passenger comfort.” New front seats provide more lateral support too. Th ere are more storage areas than ever before. On the engine development department, the new Euro 5 compliant 2.5 litre two-stage turbo achieves 163hp and 400Nm fl at torque performance with class leading CO2 emissions of 194g/km. “Th e all-new common rail engine has accomplished class leading fuel effi ciency, power, torque and environmentally friendliness all in the same time,” said Mr. Kawahara. “Designed with superior know-how that has seen 23 million Isuzu diesel engines sold worldwide, it realises class leading fuel effi ciency of 7.4l/100km for the combined fuel of Crew Cab/4x4/Manual transmission.”

“Th e new 6-speed has a close ratio gear set,

providing progressive gear changes for an easier, more fl exible driving experience. Safety is our priority,” he added. Th e all-new Isuzu D-Max reaps the benefi ts of Isuzu’s safety policy, there are front, side curtain airbags, an energy absorbing nose section, and side impact anti-intrusion bars. You’ll also have the extra assurance of Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS) and ABS with Brake Assist (BA), not to mention daytime running lights and new LED rear combination-lamps for maximum visibility. Drive with confi dence knowing that all new Isuzu D-Max is our safest car yet.”

“With nearly 50 years of refi nement and pioneering development ensures you can depend on your all-new Isuzu D-Max. Th e origin of Isuzu’s D-Max Pick-Up can be traced back to the Isuzu WASP in 1963, which was produced under the initiative to build a car that looked like a passenger vehicle but functioned as a truck. To this day, over six million people depend on the strength, reliability and economy of Isuzu Pick-Up trucks. History tells. And the new history starts,” he concluded.

New Isuzu D-Max - More detailEmbedded into large chrome side mirrors, • LED indicators give more luxurious and sporty appearance. Increased visibility realises high safety levels.

New Isuzu D-Max is available on Regular • (Extended Single) Cab and Double Cab form off ering 2WD and 4WD models.

The longer wheelbase of the new • D-Max improves the ride and handling characteristics by reducing the tendency to ‘pitch’ backwards and forwards (rocking movements) when driving on the road. Its wider track helps also.

Extensive tests before production brought • the D-Max to Europe in order that it suits the environment that it will work in. Th e global test programme covered a distance of 4 million kilometres or 100 laps around the world.

COVER

Old versus New

TWIN TEST

A few months ago, the all-new Ford Ranger made history when it became the fi rst Pick-Up truck to achieve the maximum 5-Star crash test safety

rating by testing body Euro NCAP. It was awarded one of the best overall scores ever with a strong result in adult, child and pedestrian protection. For a vehicle of this shape and size, that is an achievement worth noting.

Under the direction of Chief Designer Craig Metros (who we met at the Ranger’s Global Press launch in South Africa last year) the Ranger is totally new from the ground up. Craig headed up a team of 500 engineers based in Australia to design and develop a top level Pick-Up in every area that is relevant to customers, especially those who use it for both work and leisure purposes. At 5,359mm long and 1,850mm wide, the new Ranger is bigger than the previous generation model and is off ered in two cab body-styles for the Irish market – Double and Regular (single). Four trim levels are available – XL, XLT, Limited and Wildtrak.

Created on a new platform, Ranger now delivers more payload and class-leading towing capability while at the same time providing practical and comfort features that a dual user desires and

appreciates. Craig’s design and product development teams had full access to Ford’s global engineering expertise from its extensive Pick-Up truck heritage (in North America where Craig worked on the F150) and broad testing facilities. Th e collaboration has resulted in what the designers call ‘21st Century Tough’ as the stylish yet muscular vehicle is equally at home on a construction site or in a city carpark.

While larger than the outgoing model, it remains easy to manoeuvre due its responsive steering system that requires no more than 3.5 turns of the wheel lock-to-lock. At the back end, the regular cab has the biggest box volume in its class at 1.82 cubic metres while the Double Cab is among the top with 1.21 cubic metres. It also boasts outstanding payload capacity of more than 1340kg (regular cab) as well as impressive ground clearance of up to 229mm. It can tow more, carry more, wade deeper and climb higher than many of its competitors. New Ranger can pull up to 3,350kg while the 4x4 can wade through 800mm of water even when fully laden. Its off -road capability has been improved by an all-new compact front diff erential, an upgraded rear axle and lower overall ratios. Th e electronically controlled transfer case, allows the driver to shift on the fl y from 2WD to 4WD anytime by fl icking the

switch on the centre console.

Power to the wheels is provided by a 2.2 litre 150PS TDCi Duratorq diesel that delivers 375Nm of torque through a 6 speed manual or automatic transmission. Th ere is a 125PS /6 speed/4WD version at entry level and a range topping 3.2 TDCi 200PS 4WD also available.

Having driven the Volkswagen Amarok extensively over the past while, it was interesting to see how the two fared out against each other. In the overall looks department the Ranger wins with its more sporty lines but as this is not a beauty contest, the Amarok wins out on overall smoothness on the road and bett er load capacity. Both are priced around the same, in the mid (30k’s). Best interior honours go to the Ranger for its roominess, att ractive console and dash area design plus its higher level of specifi cation. Th e Volkswagen wins out a fuel economy too with up to 2.5L/100kms bett er – 8.6l/100 versus 11.0L/100km from the Ranger and that’s with the Ford being empty and the VW payloaded with 200kg.

Off -road the Ranger performed admirably, pulling away up a hilly fi eld with a load of timber on board

Ford Ranger Limited 2.2 TDCi 150PS 4WD2.2 TDCi 150PS 4WD

60 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012

Test DriveTest Drive

Reports:Reports:

with ease. In fact Ford’s system is three fold – 2WD, 4WD high and 4WD lower. Th e latt er was chosen for the above chore with grip optimised by its Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) system. A similar exercise was tried with the Amarok but as the grass surface was greasy and incorrect tyres fi tt ed, we got stuck!

As Pick-Ups are driven mostly on-road their ride and handling are so important. While the Ranger feels a litt le giddy over some of our non-National

roads, its handling quality is not in question.

In conclusion, we concur with the statement made by Ciaran McMahon, Ford Ireland’s new Commercial Vehicle Sales & Marketing Manager. “Our engineers have done a great job in developing the all new Ranger – it really is the complete package,” he commented. “We wanted to give customers a tough

truck that they can truly rely on whether in high waters, on challenging terrains, or just commuting to work – with the new model, all of that is there and much more.”

TWIN TEST

T he occasion of attending that unforgettable night in Munich in which Chelsea snatched the European Champions League Cup

right from the hands of Bayern Munich in its home ground will go down as an ‘I was there moment in time’. Ford, sponsors of the UEFA Champions League since its inception 20 years ago laid on some test drives for journalists to enjoy in the build up to the big event later that evening.

Th e availability of the all-new Ranger in its fi nest form the 3.2 litre V6 Wildtrak (in gleaming frozen white) was appreciated as a few months have passed since driving it at the International Press launch in South Africa. Taking the Ranger fl agship along the foothills of the Bavarian Alps on a 114km route that twisted its way from Southern Munich to the lower end of Lake Tegernsee was most enjoyable. Ranger Wildtrak deceived its name-tag as it off ered a most refi ned, smooth drive aided by the slick, silent gear changes from the 6 speed autobox. Pumping out 200PS, the 3.2 litre Duratorq TDCi fi ve-cylinder diesel engine produces 90% of its 470Nm peak torque between 1700rpm and 3500rpm. Combined fuel consumption is estimated (by Ford) to be around 9.5l/100km (which is almost 30mpg) on the 4x4 manual transmission version.

For off-road excursions, the Ranger’s new electronically controlled transfer box (for both types of transmissions) allows drivers to shift on the fl y from 4x2 to 4x4 ‘high’ anytime via a knob on the centre console at speeds of up to 120km/h. New Ranger’s overall design both inside and out is very appealing as stated before. One can see the time and eff ort Chief Designer, Craig Metros put into creating this all-purpose vehicle – for utility work and leisure pursuits. Th e interior styling is of particular appeal as driver and passenger comfort is to the fore. Th is model had electric adjustable leather seats, voice controlled radio, Radio/CD, iPod/USB/Bluetooth connectivity, electric air-con with dual-zone climate control together with a 5’’ colour screened sat-nav that brought us precisely to and from (see list). Th e return leg, albeit shorter was mostly motorway at higher speed than the previous journey. Again the Ranger Wildtrack excelled. It did not suff er from the regular litt le shudders experience while driving the 2.2 litre Duratorq TCDi (150PS) version on Irish roads. Maybe it’s our unique terrain!

While its muscular looks stake a claim for its off -road capabilities, they fl att er to deceive when it comes to its on-road ride and handling. It has achieved an enviable safety rating too in becoming the fi rst Pick-Up to achieve 5 stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests scoring 89% overall – one of the highest scores recorded by Euro NCAP for any type of vehicle.

As the new Ranger continues to impress fellow members of the International Pick-Up Award, it will be interesting to see how it fares against fi ve other new contenders for this prestigious prize when the test trials to be held in the UK later this year.

Make/Model Ford Ranger Double Cab LimitedEngine 2.2 litre Duratorq diesel

Power 150PS @ 5500rpm

Torque 375Nm@1500-2500rpm

Transmission 6 speed manual

Tyres 255/70R16

Fuel Economy 11.0L/100km (over week long test)

Price From €35,394

Ford Ranger fl agship revisited - Going Wild!

Spec Check

Ford Ranger Double Cab AWD ‘Wildtrak’ series

3.2 – litre 200PS Duratorq TDCi with cDPF• Optional 6-speed automatic transmission• Load adaptive ESP with Hill Launch Assist and • Hill Descent Control4x4 transfer box with ‘shift on the fl y’ functionality *• 18” Alloy wheels• Cruise control• Remote locking• Air conditioning, dual automatic temperature • controlBluetooth & Voice Control, USB connectivity• Ford Sat Nav System• Rain Sensing Wipers• Auto lighting, Fog lights• Heated windscreen• Power Mirrors, heated and foldable• Rear Parking Aid, Rear View Camera.•

* Allows switching from 4x2 into 4x4 ‘high’ while driving with speeds up to 120 km/h. For switching into 4x4 ‘low’ the vehicle must be stationary, in neutral gear and the clutch must be pressed (with manual transmission only).

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 61

62 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie

NEW FLEET

Ford Kuga Commercial in tune for eircom

Newly established company Moy Transport, aft er a successful tendering process, has taken on the nationwide distribution contract for United Drug.

To carry out this work, Moy Transport has acquired 14 new Renault Master vans from Jacob's Van Rentals, Foxford, County Mayo and supplied by Shaw Commercials, Castlebar, County Mayo.

Th e 3.5 tonne panel vans are powered by Renault's new 2.3 litre dCi 125hp Euro 5 engines. Specifi c to the job-in-hand, these light commercial's load area is ply-lined. TomTom Business telematics have also been fi tt ed by local agent C&C Cellular, Castlebar, County Mayo.

Fans of the popular US series Th e A-Team will remember the black and metallic grey GMC Vandura Van used by Hannibal and his pals. Well, Ireland’s answer to the A-Team, the

Automotive Team, which specialises in fl eet car and motoring media management from its Sandyford Industrial Estate headquarters has added a new Renault Master to its growing fl eet. Th e 125hp 3.5 tonne model will take on missions of a logistical nature with the help of Kelvin ‘Murdock’ Hughes, Lorcan ‘Face’ O’Samhraid and Adam ‘B.A.’ Collins!

Collectively, they love it when a plan comes together!

eircom’s national team of radio site engineers are now driving around in 20 new Ford Kuga Commercial

SUVs. Four-wheel-drive capability enables the eircom teams to gain easy access to off road sites.

Michael Lynch, Head of Transport & Logistics for eircom, commented on the deal: “Our teams need a tough, reliable vehicle in their daily work and the initial reaction to the new Kuga has been very positive. Th e Kuga has the right mix of style, versatility and toughness”.

Powered by Ford’s effi cient 2.0 litre TDCi diesel engine, standard specifi cation on the Kuga Commercial includes ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), 6 airbags, air conditioning, 17-inch wheels, 6-speaker remote radio CD, front fogs, trip computer, keyless start with Ford Power butt on, body colour rear spoiler and leather steering wheel. Th e Kuga has best-in-class Euro NCAP safety ratings, with a 5 star rating for adult occupancy protection.

Vestas in full sail with Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Mercedes-Benz delivers for FedEx

Sprinter is No. 1 choice for Swan Plant Hire

Vestas Celtic Wind Tech nolog ies ha s added to its Mercedes-

Benz Sprinter fl eet with the purchase of three new 313/36 medium wheel base high roof models. These latest editions which brings the fl eet number up to 19 units have been supplied by Dublin Mercedes-Benz dealer MUTEC on a 5-year contract hire, inclusive of maintenance, tyres and road tax. Th ese vans, each fi tt ed with a workshop designed to store specialised parts, will off er backup assistance to the installation crews of the wind turbines farms located around the countryside from from Donegal to Kerry.

Worldwide express delivery company FedEx has added three new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans to its fl eet – 1x 313 Long Wheel Base panel van and 2x 313 Medium wheel base versions.

Th ese units, which have been fi tt ed with walk-through bulkheads and parcel shelving, will be based at the company’s Dublin depot.

W ith branches in Cloghran and Ballymount, Swan Plant Hire, is one of Dublin’s largest Plant Hire companies and recently it put a new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 long wheel base on the road.

Supplied by MUTEC Dublin, the panel van will be used for the maintenance of heavy plant machinery on long-term hire throughout Leinster.

Renault Masters Flow for Moy Transport ………….

…………. While the Automotive Team relies on Master too!

Michael Lynch, Head of Transport & Logisitics, eircom; Willie Garbutt , Fleet Manager, eircom; and Ciarán McMahon, Ford Ireland’s Commercial Vehicle Sales & Marketing Manager.

T he entire Jeep range is now available in commercial form from Jeep Ireland, including the Jeep Wrangler (SWB) and Wrangler

Unlimited (LWB); the Jeep Compass in range-topping 4X4 Limited specifi cation; and the fl agship Jeep Grand Cherokee in both Limited and Overland versions.

J e e p C o m p a s s C o m m e r c i a lTh e Jeep Compass Commercial from €26,015 (excluding VAT) is powered by a 163hp 2.2-litre CRD engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and an on-demand all-wheel transmission which off ers a maximum towing capacity of 2,000kg and a maximum payload of 470kg within its 1,269-litre load volume area. It comes equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels; cruise control; UConnect Bluetooth with music streaming; electrically-adjustable leather-trimmed seats; climate control and advanced stability control.

J e e p W r a n g l e r C o m m e r c i a lWith a 200hp, 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder “VM Motori” turbo-diesel engine and a rugged all-wheel drive transmission, the Jeep Wrangler Commercial is

equipped with (in Unlimited six-speed manual guise) a maximum towing capacity of 2,200kg, a load bay of more than 1,000 litres and a maximum payload of 633kg. A fi ve-speed automatic is standard on SWB and optional on the LWB Unlimited models. Available only in Sahara specifi cation, the Jeep Wrangler Commercial is fi tt ed with 17-inch alloy wheels; body coloured mudguards; UConnect Bluetooth with music streaming; climate control; ESP and Hill Descent Control as standard and priced from €29,272 (excluding VAT).

Jeep Gra nd Cherokee Com mercia lBoasting a payload of 677kg, a cargo volume of more than 1,500 litres and a maximum towing capacity of 3,500kg, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Commercial is an immensely capable workhorse but, at the same time, it is also luxurious and refi ned. It comes with electrically-adjustable, leather-trimmed seats; dual-zone climate control; keyless entry/start; xenon headlamps; cruise control; 18-inch alloy wheels; a reversing camera and a premium touch-screen infotainment system as standard.

Th e Overland model adds 20-inch alloy wheels; Quadra-Lift air suspension; a panoramic sunroof; ventilated front seats; radar-controlled cruise control; satellite navigation and a Nappa Leather/ wood trimmed cabin. Powered by the acclaimed, 245hp, 3.0-litre, V6 “VM Motori” turbo-diesel engine, the Jeep Grand Commercial boasts a five-speed automatic transmission and a sophisticated all-wheel drive drivetrain (including Selec-Terrain chassis control and self-levelling shock absorbers). Prices for the Grand Cherokee Commercial start at €44,378 (excluding VAT).

No word as yet from Jeep Ireland whether the awesome Grand Cherokee SRT powered by the 6.4-litre HEMI V8 engine and delivering 461bhp and 624Nm of torque will become available in the new Commercial line-up!

No Limits to Jeep’s Commercial Vehicle Range

LAUNCH PAD

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 63

64 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012

LONG TERM TEST

A las, our six-month love aff air with the Volkswagen Amarok is over. We thoroughly enjoyed our time together, had some memorable

moments and look forward to when our paths cross again. Since coming into the everyday lives of the Fleet Transport Team we have got to know and love the great all-rounder that is the award-winning Volkswagen Amarok.

It arrived on 19 December and was returned a couple of weeks short of the six-month term. In that time the panel of drivers brought it through every hill and vale in the country. Sometimes with a caravan on tow. Th e International Pick-up Award winner from 2010 never failed to deliver. What impressed us most was its smoothness on the open road but ever more signifi cantly was its amazing fuel economy, particularly as this type of vehicle is prone to having a thirst for diesel. Of the numerous reports in Fleet Transport, Fleet Van & Utility

and sister publication Caravan Cruise Ireland plus many ‘tweets’ on the magazines Twitt er accounts @fl eett ransport & @caravancruise, interest and reaction was overwhelming. Staff writer Cathal Doyle had the privilege of writing up the fi rst account of his time on-board. Among his comments included “Volkswagen has redefi ned the Pick-Up category, bringing new levels of refi nement and sophistication to a sector that uniquely straddles commercial and passenger vehicle usage. As a passenger vehicle, the Amarok is comfortable, easy to drive and well equipped. Th e interior layout is classic Volkswagen, that’s a good thing, the Amarok feels very well put together with the quality materials and build quality associated with the brand.”

Cathal continued, “Worth highlighting is the seating position for both rear and front passengers. In other Double Cab Pick-Ups, the rear passenger area has oft en been an aft erthought, with a cramped

and too upright seating position. Volkswagen has clearly put some eff ort into the design of this, and the result is a spacious and comfortable compartment.”

The next update was also featured in Fleet Transport March 2012 writt en by yours truly which stated that ‘Volkswagen entered the Pick-Up truck market later than others but it is obvious that their design team looked at the opposition carefully and took ideas from the best and worked on enhancing them. What has resulted is a four-door Double Cabbed utility and leisure vehicle that combines robustness, innovative design and high safety standards for a vehicle of this type and size. At over 1500mm long and 1620mm wide, petit it is not! What business users will appreciate is its hugh class-leading cargo area that can accommodate a Euro pallet between its wheel arches.”

Th e Spring edition of Caravan Cruise Ireland

Volkswagen Volkswagen AmarokAmarokTrendline 4MotionTrendline 4Motion

Auf Wiedersehen!Auf Wiedersehen!

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie Pics: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fl eet.ie FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 65

LONG TERM TEST

Volkswagen Amarok

featured the Amarok ‘picking-up’ the magazine’s newly purchased Bailey Orion 440-4 caravan which had just docked at Dublin Port. Cathal Doyle ‘hitched’ it up and made his way home to Mayo with litt le fuss. He both asked and answered a few questions, “Let’s consider the att ributes to look for in a good towing vehicle? Ability to pull probably the primary one,” he stated. With a braked towing capacity of 2.8 tonnes, the Amarok will make light work of pulling all but the largest caravans. On the move, the Amarok/caravan combination feel very stable, whether driving on motorways or twisty country lanes. At no time did we experience the dreaded caravan sway. We also liked the fact that being a relatively wide vehicle featuring generously proportioned wing mirrors, we had clear views behind us, and without the need to att ach mirror extensions.”

Th en in the Spring 2012 issue of Fleet Van & Utility the Amarok went head-to-head with the Toyota Hilux. Th e comparison writt en by Cathal Doyle and Gerry Murphy went through the att ributes of both models under fi ve-headings • Exterior • Interior • Engine • Load Capabilities On & Off road • Costs. “Volkswagen outscores the Toyota in a few critical areas,” commented the experienced duo, “notably the larger cargo area, while the 2.0 litre TDI engine is more than a match for the larger (2.5 litre) capacity unit in the Hilux.” Overall verdict? “If price is the critical factor, the Hilux will probably appeal, but if you are looking for the ultimate in load carrying and pulling, combined with a well-designed practical cabin, the Amarok remains a hard act to beat.”

Two issues come to mind here – the cost price and engine specifi cation. Prices for the basic Double Cab Amarok version with the 122bhp 2.0 TDi start at €31,640 with the range topping Highline (163bhp) retailing at €38,110. Th e Amarok Long Term Test Vehicle in Trendline term cost €36,920 (inc. VAT). “163bhp and 400Nm of torque are impressive but more importantly in real life this is a willing unit, well able to pull from low revs whether laden or unladen, or with a trailer behind. A six-speed gearbox has well spaced ratios, while Volkswagen’s four-wheel drive 4 MOTION system is selected electronically, off ering low and high ratio gearing options.”

By the time the May edition of Fleet Transport came around, an interesting system was fi tt ed to the Amarok. It was the latest TomTom Business Worksmart f leet management solution that provided instant information on everything from smart navigation and the latest orders and job details too. “We’ve been impressed with the information available and the ease of use and fl exibility of the soft ware,” wrote Cathal. “Th e tracking device on our vehicle, the TomTom Link 510, gives both real time and historical information on when, where and how vehicles are used, and driving behaviour. From the driver’s perspective, this is largely invisible, although with the TomTom PRO 7100 sat nav installed, it will highlight your average fuel consumption in red or green depending on whether you are doing bett er or worse than previously recorded data.

On the subject of the fuel consumption, over the six-month period with three diff erent drivers at

the wheel the trip metre recorded 7.8 L/100 at best and 11.5L/100 at worst, the latt er resulting in that there was a 1.3 tonne caravan behind it! Expect around 8.0l/100 for average running, which is considerably bett er than all the others in this specialist fi eld, which is to be joined by more newcomers shortly.

So, there you have it. As you see, we really enjoyed our time with the Amarok. While it does not generate great excitement it will do things well,

on-or off road. Most of all, it will serve its owner for many years, economically and comfortably. Amarok is built to last and outlast. No doubt, this relationship is not over as we await the Single Cab version to arrive. In the meantime we can live off the pleasant times we had together in the 163bhp Trendline 4MOTION Double Cab version over the past six months.

Thanks Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland!

66 FLEETVAN&UTILITY | Summer 2012 Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fl eet.ie

AWARD

Six contenders for theInternational Pick-Up Award 2012/2013

F ollowing the successful inaugural test drive trials held in Ireland two years ago to elect the Volkswagen Amarok as the fi rst winner of the

International Pick-Up Award (IPWA), the next shoot-off will take place in early October in England. On this occasion, the hosts will be the Road Transport Media Group headed up by

Andy Salter who is the country representative on the International Van of the Year jury, the governing body for the IPWA. Th e two day ‘fi eld tests’ will be held during the staging of Commercial Motor Live 2012 at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire where six manufacturers will be in contention for the big prize – the new Fiat Strada, Ford Ranger,

Great Wall Steed, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50 (provisional), Volkswagen Amarok (Single Cab) and SsangYong Actyon. Th e all-new Chevrolet Colorado may also be included as late entry, which has yet to be confi rmed. Details on the contenders for the 2012/13 International Pick-Up Award are as follows:

VOLKSWAGEN AMAROK (SINGLE CAB)News that the Amarok Pick-Up would be manufactured at Volkswagen’s Commercial Vehicle plant in Hanover, Germany clearly demonstrates the success of the vehicle in Europe. With the addition of the Single Cab version, that positive impact will continue. Termed ‘the workhorse’ among Pick-Ups, its large cargo bed is 2.205 metres long which takes two Europallets with ease. Again the highly rated 2.0 litre Volkswagen TDi is used.

ISUZU D-MAXAnother crowd puller at the recent CV Show was the new Isuzu D-Max. According to the design team, it is the most comprehensively engineered Pick-Up in the Japanese company’s history. It features a highly fuel effi cient 2.5 litre twin-turbo common-rail diesel that produces 163PS and peak torque output of 400 Nm between 1400 rpm and 2000 rpm mated to a new 6 speed manual or 5 speed automatic (See Pages 58 & 59).

SSANGYONG ACTYON SPORTSAt the Geneva Motor Show, SsangYong Motor Company unveiled the new Actyon Sports Pick-Up that comes with a fresh interior and exterior design, and a new e-XDi diesel engine to off er bett er fuel economy together with more powerful performance and convenience features. It took two years to develop and €60 million and sparks the return of the Korean brand in Europe. Other new models to follow.

FIAT STRA DAMade in Brazil, the new Fiat Strada follows in the footsteps of South America’s leading light utility. In fact, it’s the second most popular Fiat Professional model (next to the Ducato). Powered by FPT’s 95hp 1.3 litre MultiJet 16V Euro 5 engine, new Strada has 3 body types (Short/Long and Crew Cab) and three fi t-outs – Working, Trekking and Adventure, the latt er which carries four people and off ering a payload of 650kg.

FORD RA NGERTough, capable, stylish, safe and comfortable is how Ford’s marketing team describe the next generation Ford Ranger, which is now on sale. Produced in South Africa (as well as Th ailand), it became the fi rst Pick-Up to be awarded the maximum 5 Star rating from the Euro NCAP crash test programme. Off ered in two bodystyles – Double and Regular, it is powered by either a 2.2 litre 125/150 PS TCDi or a 3.2 litre TDCi which boasts 200PS.

GREAT WALL STEEDChinese newcomer Great Wall has entered European markets with the Steed and from its launch at the CV Show in Birmingham has generated much interest. With design traits similar to Volkswagen, Isuzu and Toyota, it will be sold ‘as the most aff ordable Pick-Up’ in the market – both to buy and to run. Power comes from a 143PS 2.0 litre 16V turbo diesel and the Double-Cab Pick-Up has a maximum payload of 1050 kg.

Terms and conditions apply. * Includes roadside assistance. Available at participating dealerships only. Awarded Irish Van of the year by the IMWA. †Typical Finance example: Crafter 30 109BHP RRP €27,060. Deposit/Part Exchange €8,339.86. 60 monthly payments of €349. Total cost of credit €2,369.86, including acceptance fee (€75) and completion fee (€75). Typical APR 4.9%. Min. deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Volkswagen Bank is regulated by the German Financial Regulator. Warning: you will not own these goods until the final payment is made.

www.volkswagenvans.ie

4 year warranty*

3 scheduled services

2 years road tax

1 Irish van of the year 2012No

Need more reasons to choose a Crafter?Did we mention that it’s available from just €349 a month?† And it’s Ireland’s most fuel-efficient large panel van?

So save yourself money, spend even less at the fuel pumps and drive happily ever Crafter.

But hurry, this limited offer is only available until 30th April 2012.But hurry, this limited offer is only available until 31st July 2012.

TRANSPORT

Citywest Convention Centre, Dublin5th & 6th November 2012

+353 (0) 94 9372826info@fleetexpo.ie

www.fleetexpo.ie

Reach new heightswith Fleet Transport EXPO 12XPO 12sport EX