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17- 19 June 2021. Apply for a booth now to avoid disappointment! Contact us via
[email protected]+60 12 207 2344
SOUTH EAST ASIA’S
LARGEST COMMERCIAL VEHICLE EXHIBITION
MINES International Exhibition & Convention Centre (MIECC) Sri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia
Asian Trucker Exhibition Sdn Bhd No. 27-1, Block C, Zenith Corporate Park, Jalan SS7/26 Kelana Jaya, 47301 Selangor, MalaysiaEmail: [email protected] Web: www.mcve.com.my
Organised by
17- 19 June 2021. Apply for a booth now to avoid disappointment! Contact us via
[email protected]+60 12 207 2344
SOUTH EAST ASIA’S
LARGEST COMMERCIAL VEHICLE EXHIBITION
MINES International Exhibition & Convention Centre (MIECC) Sri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia
Asian Trucker Exhibition Sdn Bhd No. 27-1, Block C, Zenith Corporate Park, Jalan SS7/26 Kelana Jaya, 47301 Selangor, MalaysiaEmail: [email protected] Web: www.mcve.com.my
Organised by
ADVERTISING & MARKETINGSINGAPOREFloyd Cowan
Stefan [email protected]
MALAYSIANicole Fong
THAILAND Songyot Kamontavikun
WEBSITEStefan Pertz
CIRCULATION, CONTRIBUTIONS and [email protected]
WEBSITE and E-NEWSLETTERwww.asiantrucker.com
PUBLISHED BYAsian Trucker Media Sdn. Bhd. No. 27-1, Block C, Zenith Corporate Park,
Jalan SS7/26 Kelana Jaya, 47301 Selangor, MalaysiaTel: +60 12 207 5528, Email: [email protected]
MALAYSIA (HQ): ASIAN TRUCKER MEDIA SDN BHDAsian Trucker Media Sdn. Bhd. No. 27-1, Block C, Zenith Corporate Park,
Jalan SS7/26 Kelana Jaya, 47301 Selangor, MalaysiaTel: +60 12 207 5528, Email: [email protected]
All material in Asian Trucker (print and online) is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The editor welcomes contributions
but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information Asian Trucker / FCowan Media will not accept responsibility or errors or omissions or for any consequence arising from reliance on information published.
The opinions expressed in Asian Trucker are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEFEDITOR
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Floyd CowanStefan Pertz
TonyFloyd Cowan Stefan Pertz
EDITORIAL
The DriversYOUR GUIDE TO ALL
THINGS TRUCK
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Daimler Trucks has recently stated that it is committed to combating child labour. (see the story here: https://www.asiantrucker.com/newsevents/news) They have taken this commitment seriously by assigning millions
of euros to help with the education and improving lives in poorly developed countries. The millions of euros are a small amount of Daimler’s overall profits, but significant to the people being assisted.
Causes that are Relevant It is always good to see companies take steps such as this. Companies in trucking carry out social responsibility in their own way – most often focused on issues that directly affect them. There was a time when reducing vehicle emissions was seen as laudatory – doing something for the environment. Today, if you are not doing everything you can to reach zero emissions then you are really on the wrong side of history.
Over a decade ago, when Asian Trucker began to work with Daimler, we were questioned on who our suppliers were. Daimler wanted a deep dive into all our business partners who helped produce our magazines. It is difficult to be 100% sustainable and socially responsible. As a print publication we would have to know where the printer brought the paper from. For some, paper, in and of itself, is a controversial issue.
Not a Bright Future for MicaWhile it may not be unreasonable to ask if the paper is legally sourced, could we then be asked to explain who makes the ink our printers use? Essentially, that is the step that Daimler has taken – in the past year – as they examined where the mica comes from that goes into vehicle paint. ‘The raw material mica is used, among other things, to achieve the shimmering effect of vehicle paints.’ They learned that children, as young as 10 years old, were involved in the mining of mica. They have known this for some time.
Should they be criticized for taking so long to address the situation or should they be praised for this action which will have a positive impact on individuals and communities?
The Issue of Child LabourWhat about other truck manufacturers? I have not received any media releases from any of them in 10 years of working on Asian Trucker about this raw mica issue. They don’t often speak about what they are doing to trace their supply lines and determine that all work is being done in socially responsible ways, that all resources are being procured sustainably. That children are not being exploited in the making of any part of their vehicles.
It is difficult. The world is a complex place. What I can see happening, and I hope happens, is that child labour becomes the issue of the day and others jump on board and take action. That others give money to support schools and teachers. That they use their considerable resources to get children out of mines, off factory floors, get them off streets and into schools where they can study based on their interests and find jobs important to them and forge careers that will not only give them a better life, but improve the entire community.
People ask, “Isn’t it better that children have work in a factory than be out on the street?” I am not sure, but I do know it is better that they be in a classroom than in a factory.
Social Responsibility in the Trucking IndustryChildren shouldn’t be in mines and factories but in classrooms, writes Floyd Cowan
EDITOR’S NOTE ASIAN TRUCKER | 4
AMHCMC21_205x275 AsianTrucker_en artwork.pdf 1 9/7/2020 12:00 PM
CONTENTS
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REGULARSEditor’s NoteEventsIn the HeadlightsNews & Notes
MARKET UPDATES‘BharatBenz Exchange’ Taps Used CV MarketKerry Logistics Network Wins Best Practices Awards for Fourth Year RunningMercedes-Benz Econic helps with Recycling in Singapore
FEATURE STORYHoysan Group Takes Delivery of Scania’s ‘King of the Road’ New Truck Generation V8 SAFE ROADS Scania’s Introduces First Commercial Electric Truck Range
FOCUS ON SERVICE Man Customer Service Provides Support Worldwide
LAUNCHESMitsubishi Fuso Launches New eCanter With Advanced Safety SystemDAF introduces CF Electric with Extended Range
EVENTSRetreading & Fleet Tyre Management Key Topics at TyrexpoAsia 2021
IN THE HEADLIGHTS
SPECIAL REPORTTata Motors Redefines Transportation in India With Its Future-Ready Range of Commercial Vehicles
NEWS & NOTES
‘BharatBenz Exchange’ Taps Used CV Market
Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) in early August announced the launch of ‘BharatBenz Exchange’, its new offer to the used commercial vehicle segment. By leveraging its growing customer base and nation-
wide dealer network, BharatBenz Exchange will supplement its existing new vehicle sales model by offering an exchange platform where customers can exchange their used vehicles of any brand for new or used BharatBenz vehicles.
Mr. Satyakam Arya, Managing Director & CEO, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles said, “As the number of BharatBenz owners rapidly increases, we feel it is the right time to tap the massive potential presented by the used commercial vehicle segment. We look forward to delivering BharatBenz’s superior quality, service and TCO to an even larger customer base.”
BharatBenz Exchange will provide buyers with a carefully-picked pool of used trucks that have undergone thorough quality checks, made available via its nationwide dealership network.
“With BharatBenz Exchange, used vehicle sellers and buyers no longer have to haggle over the right price or worry about incomplete paperwork. Our trained experts will ensure that both parties have the best customer experience. We see enormous potential here to show even more customers the quality of BharatBenz products and services. This also ensures the complete lifecycle of
the vehicle is taken care of,” added Mr. Rajaram Krishnamurthy, Vice President Marketing & Sales and Customer Service.
BharatBenz Exchange aims to provide customers with the best resale value and smooth management of the end-to-end documentation process for optimum customer satisfaction. The experts at BharatBenz will also support used vehicle buyers (both individuals and companies) with a large portfolio of vehicles suitable to their application by providing the right AMC and Extended Warranty options for their range of refurbished trucks. The team will even assist in identifying the right financing partner.
DICV is in the process of digitalizing services to better promote the used vehicle business. Interested buyers and sellers can check the BharatBenz used vehicle sections on their website and browse the catalogue. DICV is also looking into tie-ups with leading online Used Vehicle platforms and auction houses in order to reach a larger customer base.
7 | ASIAN TRUCKER MARKET UPDATE
(HONG KONG, CHINA 26 August 2020) Kerry Logistics Network Limited has been conferred the titles of the Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Best Practices Awards (the ‘Awards’) for the fourth consecutive year, winning the “2020 Asia-Pacific Logistics Services Provider of the Year Award” and the “2020 Asia-Pacific
Kerry Logistics Network Wins Best Practices Awards for Fourth Year Running
Road Transportation Services Provider of the Year Award”. The Awards were presented August 25, 2020 in a virtual ceremony.
Organised annually by global business consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, the Awards recognise outstanding achievements in the Asia Pacific covering various sectors. The recipients are selected through a rigorous measurement-based methodology that encompasses industry trends analysis and research interviews, according to parameters including revenue growth, market share in specific category and growth in market share, demonstrated leadership in new product introduction and innovation, breadth of products and solutions, major customer acquisitions, subscribers and growth in subscriber base and business/market strategy.
William Ma, Group Managing Director of Kerry Logistics, said, “We are thankful to the organiser for recognising our dedication and achievements over the years. The accolades are a testament to our commitment to industry best practices and our strengths as one of the very few Asia-based global logistics companies. While the global economic outlook is overcast by uncertainties, we are confident that we will leverage our extensive geographical coverage, solid presence in various markets and diversified business segments to continue serving our customers well.”
MARKET UPDATE ASIAN TRUCKER | 8
Mercedes-Benz Econic helps with Recycling in SingaporeThe Econic scores points with its DirectVision cab and for creating fewer back problems and less time off thanks to low entry.
points: thanks to the low DirectVision cab the driver is always at eye level with other road users – a decisive safety advantage that can save lives.
The Econic is equipped with comprehensive equipment with state-of-the-art safety assistance systems. Depending on the driving situation, four exterior cameras make the entire area around the truck visible to the driver on a display. Blind spots are thus reduced to a minimum. The emergency braking system Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and autonomous intelligent cruise control complete the safety package.
Test PassedAfter the first Econic successfully passed the test phase in south-east Asia, Sembcorp ordered three more Econic 2630 L ENA/6x2. In the main, the trucks collect household waste in Singapore’s city centre and on the exclusive island of Sentosa before delivering it to the recycling process.
Thanks to the low-entry design, the crew can enter the vehicle simply using two steps – unlike with other trucks, there is no need to climb three or four steep steps to get into the cab. An advantage that pays off when the job involves climbing in and out of the cab frequently. And for the waste collection team that is the order of the day. As a result, older drivers can be employed longer at Sembcorp and time off due to back and joint problems is reduced significantly.
(Singapore) The words “Don’t trash it, repurpose it” can be read on the new Mercedes-Benz Econic waste collection vehicles in Singapore. Don’t trash it – repurpose it: in Singapore, not only waste avoidance, but recycling is also an important strategy for keeping the megacity clean. For that, local waste management company, Sembcorp, relies on the new Mercedes-Benz Econic with its comprehensive safety equipment.
Top of the AgendaToday, around six million people live in the booming Asian metropolis Singapore where they produce just under 5000 tonnes of waste – every day. That is why waste disposal is top of the agenda for the city state’s government. A year ago, Sembcorp, the company entrusted with the city’s waste disposal, ordered a three-axle Econic with a steerable rear axle and rear-loader body manufactured by Zenith for test purposes.
The Econic with DirectVisionIn addition to its agility, the good view of traffic all around the truck is of particular importance. And with regard to the view, the Econic scores double
9 | ASIAN TRUCKER MARKET UPDATE
Hoysan Group Takes Delivery of Scania’s ‘King of the Road’ New Truck Generation V8 Hoysan Group continues its long association with Scania by adding the latest ‘King of the Road’ to its growing fleet.
(SINGAPORE – September 9, 2020) Scania Singapore handed over its first-ever V8 truck from the New Truck Generation to Hoysan Group today. The unit delivered was the Scania R730 truck powered by the V8 engine, dubbed the ‘King of the Road’ for its high performance, power and fuel efficiency.
Robust and Powerful“The ‘King of the Road’ stands out as a legendary vehicle for its incredible driving experience, with a characteristic engine sound that announces its incomparable power and robustness,” said Anders Liss, Country Manager of Scania Singapore. “As a heavy-duty truck, it combines amazing drivability with outstanding performance and fuel efficiency to drive business profitability further.
The New Truck Generation V8 made its debut in Singapore in late 2018. The eight-cylinder engine is built in a V-configuration with four cylinders on each side in a compact, robust design. Using selective catalytic reduction technology
– which works with the Scania Opticruise gearbox for optimised gear changes – the V8 engine together with the redesigned New Truck Generation reduces fuel consumption by up to 5% with fewer emissions over the previous generation.
Strong Track Record“The Scania R730 truck with V8 engine offers the power and performance specifications we need to handle very heavy cargo,” said Steven Tan, Director of Hoysan Group. “Having used Scania for eight years, we find the trucks fantastic, and we are excited to be the first in Singapore to own the new ‘King of the Road’.”
In the R730 truck configuration, the V8 engine delivers 730 horsepower and a maximum torque of 3500 Nm, ideal for heavy transportation of more than 200 tonnes. The R-series
Anders Liss, Country Manager of Scania Singapore (left), hands over the new truck to Steven Tan, Director of Hoysan Group.
cab which stands at 3.9 metres height, features the New Truck Generation design improvements including a more robust monocoque structure using high tensile steel, improved braking distance as well as a rollover side curtain airbag to enhance driver safety.
The truck’s optimised A-pillar design, a lower instrument panel and a more forward driver positioning closer to the windscreen work to maximise driver visibility, safety and comfort.
Specialised Cargo HandlerWhile this was the third Scania R730 truck Hoysan Group acquired, it was the first unit from the New Truck Generation. The truck would be used with modular trailers to transport long-length and out-of-gauge cargo such as turbines, tunnel-boring machines and long-length beams.
The group has also signed up for Scania’s repair and maintenance contract to maximise vehicle uptime in its fleet. For a fixed cost, the Scania workshops ensure its trucks are operating at peak performance and availability with less unexpected disruptions. The group is also using Scania Fleet Care to optimise its fleet performance.
After Sales Support“We find it easier and more hassle-free to use Scania’s repair and maintenance services and Fleet Care to upkeep our trucks at a predictable operating cost,” said Steven. “We are very confident we are in good hands, and we are assured of Scania-original parts for our trucks.”
Hoysan Group is expecting delivery of three Scania P410 trucks from the New Truck Generation over the next month as it further expands its fleet. With these latest acquisitions, the group will operate a fleet of 52 Scania trucks. All four units, including the V8, are being financed by Scania Credit Singapore, giving Hoysan Group a tailor-made flexible financing solution with competitive interest rates and predictable cost over the entire lifecycle of the vehicle.
Providing Port ServicesEstablished in Singapore in 1983, Hoysan Group delivers integrated port and logistics services to port operators, vessel owners, shipping agents, freight forwarders and cargo owners. These services include cargo handling for containers and general cargo; land transportation services such as cargo delivery and container transshipment, and other ancillary port services.
Anders Liss, Country Manager of Scania Singapore (right), explains the features of the V8 engine to Steven Tan, Director of Hoysan Group.
11 | ASIAN TRUCKER FEATURE STORY
Scania has stepped into the sphere of the electric trucks to begin a journey it will be on for some time to come.
Scania has commercially launched its range of electric trucks, a milestone in its aim to be leading in the transition to a sustainable transport system. The high-performance plug-in hybrid and fully electric trucks initially focus
on urban applications, including distribution to retailers.
Full Range to be DevelopedWith Scania’s proven record in delivering premium diesel and renewable fuel trucks, the launch marks a significant step in the company’s development. Over the coming years, Scania will continue to develop its range of electrified vehicles for all applications, including long-haulage and construction.
“It is with a great deal of pride that we announce the start of Scania’s long-term electrification commitment,” says Scania’s President and CEO Henrik Henriksson. “We will, over the coming years, annually launch electrified products for our entire range and we are presently reorganising our production towards that end. Of particular significance is that we will, in a few years’ time, also introduce long-distance electric trucks adapted for fast charging during drivers’ compulsory 45-minute rest periods.”
An Attractive OptionElectrification of the heavy commercial truck fleet is decisive in reaching the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to well below 2°C. E-vehicles will therefore increasingly be an attractive option for progressive customers. Scania will in the initial stages, develop and deploy hybrid and fully electric trucks in partnership with these forward-looking customers.
The Scania fully electric truck – offered with L- and P-series cabs – is equipped with a 165–300 kWh battery pack for the 230 kW electric motor, equal to approximately 310 hp. Customers can select either five or nine batteries, the latter for a range of up to 250 km on a single charge.
Hybrid TrucksScania’s plug-in hybrid truck, also available for L- and P-series cabs, provides opportunities to travel long distances in a combustion engine mode and subsequently drive up to 60 km in an electric mode when required. Combined with renewable fuel, operators can significantly reduce their climate impact.
Both these technologies build upon the Scania’s modular system with components tried-and-tested throughout Scania’s truck range, well-known for their durability and reliability. “With these electrified trucks, customers can be assured of the same Scania brand of premium quality and reliability as well as our unwavering commitment to maximising uptime and profitability,” says Anders Liss, Country Manager of Scania Singapore.
A Range of ApplicationsIn addition to general cargo and temperature-controlled transports, e-trucks can be gainfully deployed with bodywork as hooklifts, tippers, concrete mixers and refuse collectors as well as for fire and rescue services.
Scania’s Introduces First Commercial Electric Truck Range
E-MOBILITY ASIAN TRUCKER | 12
“The Scania e-trucks are a good fit for a number of urban applications in Singapore, which do not require long distances of driving,” says Mr Liss. “Transport operators concerned about their carbon impact can take advantage of the opportunity to jump in early to future-proof their fleets while reducing emissions.
“The threat of climate change can no longer be ignored. As more organisations are greening their supply chains, transport operators will be considering more sustainable solutions to comply with their customers’ requirements. Being an early adopter allows an operator to brand itself ahead of its competition.”
Silent DeliveryBoth the plug-in hybrid and fully electric trucks will be essential for operating in the growing number of urban areas around the world with low-emission city centre zones. They also provide opportunities for increased vehicle utilisation. With silent deliveries, transport services can be extended well into the night and early mornings, avoiding traffic congestion and parking difficulties. Studies show that off-peak deliveries can be more than 30% quicker than on equivalent daytime transport routes thanks to simpler parking at delivery points, less queuing, higher speeds and more frequently green lights at intersections.
The fully electric truck comes with an option for five batteries for a total of 165 kWh or nine batteries for 300 kWh installed capacity. With the combustion engine removed, one battery is placed in the former engine tunnel with the remaining four or eight batteries placed along the chassis side.
Charge Me UpThe batteries can be conveniently charged by 130 kW DC using a Combined Charging System (CCS) connector. The charging time is less than 55 minutes for the five-battery option and less than 100 minutes for the nine-battery option. Meanwhile, the batteries are continuously charged in motion through regenerative braking energy.
Since the plug-in hybrid truck also has a combustion engine unit, the available space for batteries is less. It is equipped with three batteries for an installed capacity of 90 kWh for the 115 kW electric motor. The charging time from nil to 80% is approximately 35 minutes and in addition to charging via regenerative braking energy, battery power can be topped up during loading and unloading. The electric powertrain is combined with a 280–360 hp combustion engine. The range in electric mode alone is 60 km.
With the silent mode of both trucks and the remarkable acceleration of the fully electric truck of 2200 Nm torque, they offer a very different and exciting driving experience.
THE HOT SANDS OF SAUDI ARABIAThe man on the phone is excited, he is speaking a difficult to understand mish-mash of English and Urdu, the national language of Pakistan. No problem for MAN Customer Service in Saudi Arabia, which is run by the major automotive service provider Haji Husein Alireza & Co. Ltd. Their multi-national team can be reached around the clock and an employee who understands the caller and can help him is quickly on the spot.
The Pakistani trucker is standing with his MAN truck, fully loaded with dairy products, on a motorway hard shoulder on the way to Jeddah. The truck battery has to be replaced. Customer Service sends a mobile workshop car,
which is fortunately not far from the breakdown location. Soon the battery is replaced, and the dairy products arrive on time at their destination.
Harsh ConditionsCustomer service for trucks that is ever present plays an important role given the hot climate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, because vehicles here are exposed to harsher conditions than in Europe, for example. “Sand dust and temperatures of 50°C increase the general wear and tear on vehicles. Fuel quality does not correspond to the current European Euro standards and impurities affect the engines”, states Ahmed Hamdi, regional service manager of the Haji Husein Alireza retail group that has its headquarters in Jeddah. It sells, repairs and services both MAN trucks and recently also buses. Fuel transport by tanker plays a major role, given that it is the most significant
Multi-lingual team (from left to right) Tiju Joy (service technician), Pradeepkumar Eswaryamm (warranty administrator), Ahmed Hamdi (regional service manager) and Mamoun Mahmoud (spare parts supervisor) from Haji Husein Alireza & Co.
Ltd look after MAN customers in Saudi Arabia.
Man Customer Service Provides Support WorldwideBush, desert, or mountains – trucks are exposed to different stresses depending on the region. But MAN Customer Service provides reliable global quality to ensure that a vehicle is never stranded anywhere in the world.
FOCUS ON SERVICE ASIAN TRUCKER | 14
economic sector in the region. But the dairy and food company Al Marai Co. operates the largest fleet of MAN trucks in Saudi Arabia, reveals Ahmed Hamdi.
The 34-year-old organises MAN Customer Service with great dedication: “MAN strives for perfection down to the last detail”, says Hamdi. Specifically, this means: “We cater fully to the needs of our customers. One important aspect is the always reachable telephone support for drivers, for example.” The regional service manager is also very satisfied with the support he receives from MAN. “Whether it’s original spare parts or technological know-how: we receive the best support.” The service team from Haji Husein Alireza & Co. Ltd made it to the finals of the MAN Service Quality Award 2019.
THE WILD OUTBACK OF AUSTRALIAMartin Castledine squints and looks into the sunset. Drilling tower, excavators and mounds of earth are bathed in bright red. The 51-year-old service technician flew by helicopter to this gold mine near Telfer to repair a MAN TGS 8x8 that had broken down due to a fault in the injection system. The defect is rectified in less than three hours, but it’s too late for the flight home to Perth. Castledine is spending the night in a donga, a mobile dwelling for the mine workers. Everyday life for MAN Customer Service in Western Australia.
Martin Castledine works for Penske Power Systems, a company that sells engines and power systems as well as acting as an authorised distributor for MAN Truck & Bus. The Penske subsidiary in Perth looks after MAN customers
in Western Australia in an area that extends 3200 kilometres to the north, 1300 kilometres to the east and 600 kilometres to the south. There are hardly any large towns or cities here.
MAN Delivers MaterialGravel tracks and a few highways traverse the almost deserted outback. MAN truck users in the West Australian desert are mainly raw material conveyors, including Rio Tinto, AUSDRILL and DDH1. “Our customers often use standard MAN trucks, but quite a few of them receive specific modifications. Some trucks are modified with equipment worth more than one million euros”, says Daniel Wurster, a technician in MAN Support at Penske.
The trucks that Wurster and his colleagues service and repair are, however, often in a deplorable condition. “This is due to the hard conditions here. The trucks are exposed to extreme heat of up to 52°C. There are often collisions involving cows, sheep, kangaroos or camels,” Wurster explains about the hardships to which trucks are exposed in the Australian bush.
Perished electrics, clogged oil lines, broken mirrors, battered shock absorbers, mud-encrusted fittings – the Australian service technicians constantly come across trucks in such condition. But regular training equips the MAN service team very well to make such battered trucks roadworthy again and to provide customers with the best support possible. Penske Power Systems in Perth made it to the final round of the MAN Service Quality Award 2019, a global competition for MAN support teams.
Outback adventure (from left to right) Martin Castledine (service technician), Daniel Wurster (MAN technical support)
and Michael Versaico (spare parts manager) from Penske Power Systems make MAN trucks roadworthy again in the
Australian bush.
15 | ASIAN TRUCKER FOCUS ON SERVICE
Mitsubishi Fuso Launches New eCanter With Advanced Safety SystemNew features introduced for safer emissions-free transport for the new eCanter that began selling in Japan in August.
(Kawasaki, Japan) Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), has announced it has introduced a new all-electric light-duty eCanter® truck with enhanced safety features. The upgraded eCanter launched in Japan in August, with further introductions to follow in Europe as well as Asia Pacific in the coming months.
The new eCanter in series production now comes standard with advanced features to better support safety on the road:
Emissions FreeDriven by an electric motor, the emissions-free eCanter is MFTBC’s answer to the increasing need for environmentally conscious transportation. With less noise and vibration compared to diesel-powered vehicles, the eCanter is the ideal solution for urban delivery services that are scheduled late at night or
The Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS) detects vehicles ahead, as well as moving pedestrians, through the millimeter-wave radar installed in the front bumper. The AEBS activates braking and warns the driver when risk of collision is detected.The Electronic Stability Program (ESP)constantly monitors the postural stability of the vehicle with a sensor and controls the wheels’ motor output and braking force when there is risk of rollover or skidding at a curve.The Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) detects lane deviances through a white line recognition camera. When the vehicle deviates from a lane without a turn signal, the system emits an alert to the driver and displays a warning on the dashboard.
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early in the morning. The vehicle can be charged during the night-time, which may boost operational efficiencies. Since its global launch in 2017, the eCanter has been in active operation on delivery routes in Japan and around the globe, winning high evaluations from customers worldwide.
“As the need for environmentally-friendly logistics continues to grow on a global scale,” commented President and CEO Hartmut Schick, “Mitsubishi Fuso is contributing to this cause as a pioneer in electric trucks. Already, our many customers are operating our electric trucks worldwide. The new and improved eCanter is testament to our commitment to Japan and its society as we work towards achieving a CO2-neutral portfolio in the country by 2039.”
PRODUCT LAUNCH ASIAN TRUCKER | 16
DAF introduces CF Electric with Extended RangeDAF Trucks is introducing a new electric truck that with its greater range will better meet the needs of fleet owners.
DAF Trucks is taking the next step in the development of electric drivelines by doubling the range of the DAF CF Electric with VDL e-power technology to more than 200 kilometres. In addition, the introduction
of a new generation of batteries means a weight reduction of 700 kg, which translates directly into higher payload.
Increasing Demand“With its increased range, the new CF Electric strengthens our position at the forefront of electric road transport,” says Ron Borsboom, Executive Director DAF Product Development. “This truck has been developed in response to the rising demand for better air quality in our cities and lower CO2 emissions. 500 fully electric kilometres per day is something transporter operators can really work with.”
Tractor and Rigid DAF is at the forefront of the development and sale of fully electric trucks. Field operational tests of the first models of the CF Electric began in 2018 with Dutch and German customers, after which the second generation – equipped with new software and a new dashboard – went on sale last year.
The DAF CF Electric is ideal for zero emissions and quiet use in urban areas, including general distribution requirements, supplying supermarkets and waste collection. DAF currently offers the CF Electric as a 4x2 tractor (GCW: 37 tons) and as a 6x2 rigid with steered trailing axle for maximum manoeuvrability (GVW: 28 tons).
Proven and Reliable Technology The newest generation of CF Electric vehicles builds upon the proven reliability and user-friendliness of previous generations. A new addition to the current generation is the lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 350 kWh (315 kWh effective capacity).
The battery is conditioned, meaning that the temperature always remains between 25 and 45 degrees Celsius, regardless of the weather, which supports durability and the consistent level of performance of the battery pack.
500 Electric Kilometres Per Day Thanks to the increased capacity of the battery pack – which retains approximately the same dimensions – the CF Electric’s range of over 200k, is
a twofold increase compared with previous generations. Fully charging the battery is usually carried out at the truck’s home base and takes about 75 minutes using a charging station with a capacity of 250 kilowatt.
By recharging the battery while (un)loading or during the driver’s break, it is possible to drive up to 500 fully electric kilometres a day in the DAF CF Electric. This is very advantageous in terms of the truck’s productivity and efficiency.
Specific Advice for Acquisition and Use The use of electric vehicles requires a specific approach from the customer. That is why DAF offers its customers support through advanced route simulation models to help devise the most efficient planning for their vehicle, including useful advice on smart and efficient recharging of the battery. DAF also offers advice – together with selected suppliers, such as VDL – regarding the optimal charging infrastructure.
The CF Electric with extended range went on sale in September, with delivery expected to start in early 2021.
DAF CF Electric | FT tractor — Technical specifications Chassis: 4x2 Wheelbase: 380 centimetres Weight tractor: 9,000 kgElectric motor: 210 kW Torque: 2000 Nm Battery capacity: 350 kWh (315 effective capacity) Range fully charged vehicle: up to 220 km Quick charge batteries: 75 minutes (at 250 kW)
DAF CF Electric | FAN rigid — Technical specifications Chassis: 6x2, trailing axle Wheelbase: 380/420/460/480 centimetres Weight rigid: 10,200 kg Electric motor: 210 kW Torque: 2,000 Nm Battery capacity: 350 kWh (315 effective capacity) Range fully charged vehicle: up to 220 km Quick charge batteries: 75 minutes (at 250 kW)
17 | ASIAN TRUCKER LAUNCHES
A 15-minute ‘Question & Answer’ session will follow each session and a ‘Panel Discussion period of open debate’ will take place in the afternoon. John Stone says, “Fleet Tyre Managers in the global industry have never been more crucial to the success of tyre sales and this conference has been specially designed to provide an informative insight into this market.”
On Day 2, ‘Digitalisation in the tyre industry within SE Asia’ will present topics associated with the ‘digital age in the SE Asian market and the emerging presence of Social Media in the international tyre market’. Several conferences are planned for the second day which will be confirmed later.
Alwin Seow, Project Director at Tarsus says, “The ‘new look’ Tyrexpo Asia 2021 promises to be an informative show with time for networking and growing business contacts. Our dedicated and experienced international sales team are always on hand to answer any enquiries about any aspect of the show including our Hosted Buyers scheme.”
[email protected] [email protected]
(Singapore) At Tyrexpo Asia 2021, to be held in Singapore in March, a series of international business conferences will take place during the three-day event organised by Tarsus Group.
The Retreading Conference, to be hosted by David Wilson, MD of Retreading Business magazine, will survey important issues such as the progress of tyre retreading on a global basis, the current challenges facing retreaders in Malaysia plus new developments in both SE Asia and the Indian Continent. Mr Wilson states, “The Retreading Conference will look at the entire aspect of retreading commercial tyres and what the future holds for the industry, especially Post-Covid 19.”
The Fleet Tyre Management Conference will be hosted by John Stone – Owner of Sapphire Media (International Media Business Consultants). The conference will look at various aspects of global tyre management including Mobile Tyre Fleet Fitment and Equipment, The Asian truck tyre market, Future tyre sales trends in Europe, part-worn tyres and the car tyre fleet market in South East Asia.
Retreading & Fleet Tyre Management Key Topics at TyrexpoAsia 2021
EVENTS ASIAN TRUCKER | 18
transportation, one would have to know what is coming. Obviously, I understand that currently the focus is somewhere else, and that the survival of the business takes top priority right now.
However, consider this: there are very few countries left where EURO II engines are sold. One day, not so far away, OEMs will decide that to continue to manufacture these engines will no longer be worth it. I expect it will be a rather abrupt stop. When these engine makers pull the plug, will you have prepared the business to take on vehicles with EURO IV to VI technology?
ADD AdBlueIn tandem with that, one will need to have AdBlue on hand. There is currently not even a distribution network for it in some countries while the understanding of the fuels is equally lacking. I have written about it before and I say it again that the term Euro 5 Diesel can be misinterpreted.
And while we are on the subject of fuelling your bus, what about the upcoming electrification? Vehicle makers are all excited about this as electric vehicles don’t need gearboxes, which means reduced development cost, parts inventory and easier maintenance. In recent months, this topic has dominated every newsletter I have received, with buses now running on hydrogen, or as trolley buses with overhead powerlines. What I am wondering is if the government is looking into this as there needs to be infrastructure put in place way ahead of the deployment of electric buses.
Internet ConnectivitySpeaking of infrastructure, more and more services are added, requiring Internet connectivity. Already strained in some parts of the world, will the increased amount of data be too much to handle? Managing your fleet will also be completely different as a consequence as the vehicles will be called for inspections at the “most effective” moment rather than at the end of a certain period of time or distance.
Human resources have also been extended with the ‘planning’ aspect. Given that autonomous vehicles are finding more and more uses and are being put to use in pilot projects that are serving actual routes, one should ask what will happen to the drivers? Combine connectivity with electrification and autonomous driving and I wouldn’t think we need drivers anymore. Or not in the sense as we see them today. They might have to be retrained to be cabin crew or learn something else altogether.
No doubt, the pandemic has hit us all hard. Getting back on our feet should be something that we look seriously into, but I would argue that the push of the big companies towards electrification, automation and connectivity can be a lurking punch in the gut too, should the industry not prepare itself to embrace these developments.
Without dwelling too long on the past few months, let’s just say this year was extremely tough for bus operators.
Currently trying to get back on their feet, I am afraid that the next onslaught is already coming, and it will take the industry by surprise. What I am talking about is the technical innovations that will soon have a massive impact on the industry. From what I observe, the European brethren are much better prepared for this.
What is Coming?I try to give our readers as much information about developments as possible, however, I can only do so much, and from what I feel, I think that most operators are not aware of what is happening in the R&D departments of the OEMs. To be prepared for the next evolution of
Will Truck Operators be Ploughed Under by Technical Innovations?While we are all struggling to adapt to a new post pandemic world Stefan Pertz believes that technology could be waiting to deliver another punch to the gut.
19 | ASIAN TRUCKER IN THE HEADLIGHTS
Tata Motors Redefines Transportation in India With Its Future-Ready Range of Commercial VehiclesTata Motors has added features to its commercial vehicles that will make them safer, more comfortable for the driver and lower the total cost of ownership.
Tata Motors, India’s leading commercial vehicles manufacturer, presents its future-ready product portfolio, developed with an aim to ‘redefine transportation’. The entire range of vehicles, from sub-1 tonne to 55
tonne gross vehicle/combination weight (GVW/GCW), is powered by efficient drivetrains, features a futuristic ‘Premium Tough‘ design language and is engineered to cater to a wide variety of dynamic market demands.
Reduced CostsThe new range offers reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) to all users – fleet operators, mid-size transport operators and small transporters, with higher-than-before vehicle performance through value enhanced features, synchronised service intervals and improved overall vehicle efficiency. With customised transport solutions to address industry-specific applications available in each commercial vehicle segment – M&HCV, I&LCV, SCV & PU, as well as passenger commercial vehicles, Tata Motors offers the widest array of vehicles in the country for customers to select as per their specific requirement.
The ‘Power of 6‘ value proposition, which guided the design and development of this range institutes significant advances across the key areas relevant for each segment; such as lower TCO, improved earning potential, enhanced comfort, connectivity and performance, amongst other attributes. Tata Motors has upgraded every vehicle from bumper to bumper, while also introducing technological and performance upgrades that generate higher revenue and profits through higher fluid efficiency, excellent driving comfort and world-class connectivity features. Some of these key features include higher power output, superior gear shifts, multiple driving modes, improved ergonomics and crash-tested cabins for the safety for the driver.
Redefined TransportationSpeaking about ‘redefined transportation’, Mr. Girish Wagh, President, Commercial Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors said, “Post BS6 migration, the Indian auto industry is adhering to comparable global norms of emission. Being the industry leader, we used this migration to transcend beyond mere emission compliance. By holistically reimagining, we have created new paradigms of functionality, productivity, comfort, performance and connectivity in our vehicles. We now have a truly global, Indian product range that redefines the future of Indian transportation. For customers, it impressively brings forth the core benefit of lower total cost of ownership or improved earning potential and hence enhanced returns on their investment.”
Adding momentum is Tata Motors’ extensive dealership and service network of over 2600+ touch points with service facility at every 62km across the country; manned by trained specialists and backed by Tata Genuine Parts. Tata Motors also extends various vehicle care programmes, fleet management solutions, annual maintenance packages and resale for commercial vehicles under the Sampoorna Seva 2.0 initiative. Additionally, Tata Alert offers 24×7 roadside assistance for all vehicles under warranty while Tata Kavach ensures that all accident vehicles insured under Tata Insurance are repaired within 15 days.
SPECIAL REPORT ASIAN TRUCKER | 20
Fleet Edge With Fleet Edge, a next-generation connected vehicle solution, Tata Motors offers telematics to optimise fleet management, with informed decision making. This solution gives fleet owners the vital insights on vehicle diagnostics and driver behaviour, which help in better fleet utilisation. The Fleet Edge solution is relevant and beneficial across varied fleet sizes and is available with the entire M&HCV range of Tata Motors trucks and buses and a select range of I&LCV and SCV models.
Tata Motors future-ready range of commercial vehicles offering lower cost of ownership and enhanced return on investment includes:
Intermediate & Light Commercial Vehicles (I&LCV)The Tata Motors I&LCV range of BS6 trucks now offers more than 6 to 10% better fuel economy, coupled with extended service intervals providing the industry’s most competitive TCO for its customers. The higher powered engines also develop improved low-end torque. The new pedal designs, reduced gear shifts and driveability enhances the comfort and convenience for the drivers, while reducing fatigue. The new multi-function instrument cluster and a high-quality music system enhances the ambience of the cabin. Gradeability has also been improved in the tipper range above 40%. Tata Motors offers the all-new 3.3-litre diesel engine, with power and torque rating of 125-155hp and 390-450Nm respectively.
Medium & Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M&HCV)The new M&HCV range features three powerful and reliable Cummins and Turbotronn engines with six power nodes delivering higher power-to-weight ratio. The 6.7-litre Cummins engine is the ‘Largest selling Euro6 engine in the world’ and the Tata Turbotronn engine offers best-in-class fuel economy with 15,000 BS4 vehicles running successfully. The optimised drivetrains offer SCR and EGR+SCR after
treatment system, coupled with Gear Shift Advisor and multi-mode fuel economy switch that help in achieving superior fuel economy of up to +12% on select models. The M&HCV range of products come with options of three upgraded cabins in the Ultra, Signa and Prima. These upgraded cabins feature additional storage space, wider sleeping berths, T&T steering, 3-way adjustable seats and other utility features that give the driver a feel of ‘home away from home’. Additional safety and comfort features include engine brake, Hill Start Assist, Reverse Parking Assistance, new intelligent instrument cluster and LED taillights for enhanced safety and productivity. M&HCV range of vehicles now come with Power of Choice to customers with CX and LX value feature packs.
21 | ASIAN TRUCKER SPECIAL REPORT
The GAZelle NEXT crew of Evgeny Sukhovenko and Kirill Chapaev became the best in the Rally Sport category after Stages 1 and 2 of the Championship. Another GAZelle NEXT team of Alexey Ignatov and Evgeny Pavlov were fourth in their class while Mikhail Shklyaev and Alexander Filyakin in a Sadko NEXT ranked 8th in the Truck category.
GAZ Raid Sport vehicles are based on standard systems and components and that is their unique feature. Engines, frames, axles, cabins, differentials, springs, steering systems and many other components of the off-road racing vehicles are the same as used in standard versions and installed on the main assembly line.
“I’ve been to many desert races,” stated Evgeny Sukhovenko, GAZ Raid Sport pilot, “the Gobi, the Sahara, but this one at home was still a big challenge. Last year we were in Astrakhan in late April, and it’s mid-September now. The sand is much different. It’s damp and thick in April. Now it’s dry, even sun burnt. Even a small mistake may get you in a trap. The rally was a big physical and mental challenge. You had no chance to relax, not for a moment, while driving on moguls and sand. The situation around us changed every other minute and the crew had to think several moves ahead. Just like in a chess game. Our GAZelle NEXT passed the route with almost no breaks and failures.
GAZelle NEXT Wins Stage 2 of Russian Rally
All Sectors Must Engage to Meet Asia Pacific’s Road Safety Challenge
GAZelle NEXT has won Stage 2 of the Russian Rally Raid Championship. During four days, from September 9 to 12, 2020, 39 national competition participants and 26 regional
competition participants showcased their cross-road driving skills and reliability of their vehicles. The Gold of Kagan rally raid was initially scheduled for March 2020 but with the pandemic and restrictive measures on it was postponed. The team of GAZ Raid Sport entered the T1 and the Raid Sport categories with their GAZelle NEXT crews and the Truck (T4) category with its Sadko NEXT crews.
The Astrakhan race is unique as there are almost no roads on the route, but just impassable loose sand, dry steppe soils, covered with moguls and thorn-bushes.
(Manila, Philippines) Road safety is a growing public health concern in Asia and the Pacific that kills more than one person a minute—a challenge that requires the engagement of all sectors of society, Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice-President for Knowledge Management and Sustainable Development Bambang Susantono told a virtual workshop.
“While governments have the primary responsibility to ensure road safety, the magnitude of this crisis requires all segments of society to engage and to contribute, including the private sector,” Mr Susantono said. “This is where a good partnership between governments and development organizations can help find ways to drastically reduce the number of fatal and serious injuries from road crashes in the coming years.”
He was speaking at the first workshop on the implementation of the Asia Pacific Road Safety Observatory (APRSO) on the sidelines of the Asia and
the Pacific Transport Forum 2020 that took place online from August 24 to 28.
According to ADB estimates, on average, more than 2,000 people lose their lives in road crashes in the region every day and many more sustain serious life-changing injuries. “More than one person dies every minute, and as I speak for 10 minutes, 14 people will have lost their lives on the roads of Asia and the Pacific,” Mr. Susantono told workshop participants workshop.
APRSO is envisioned to be the leading forum on road safety data, policies, and practices across Asia and the Pacific. It will help improve the quality of road safety data, support the monitoring of regional and global road safety targets, promote effective policies and evidence-based road safety interventions across the region, as well as the use of best practices.
NEWS & NOTES ASIAN TRUCKER | 22
The DAF CF and XF model ranges have won the prestigious international Good Design Awards for their ‘outstanding design and innovation’. The accolade in the Product Design Automotive and Transport category is granted by a jury of
no less than 55 members of the Australian based Good Design Award organisation. DAF Trucks introduced the new CF and XF series on the Australian market this March. The annual Good Design Awards is one of the oldest and most prestigious international awards for design and innovation with a history dating back to 1958. Since the introduction of the current generation LF, CF and XF trucks, DAF scooped awards all over the world, including titles such as International Truck of the Year, Fleet Truck of the Year, Green Truck of the Year and Construction Truck of the Year.
(Friedrichshafen, Germany) ZF has been honoured with four highly coveted performance awards from DAF Trucks as part of its annual Supplier Performance Management (SPM) Program. Evaluating product development, operational support and business alignment, the awards recognize excellence across key areas including product innovation and continuous performance improvement.
ZF received DAF’s highest ‘Master’ title, one of only two awarded against competition from some 60 companies, for its leading clutch product. ZF also received DAF’s ‘Leader’ award for its transmissions products as well as an ‘Achiever’ award for its damper and chassis modules.
ZF’s new Commercial Vehicle Control Systems division, formed from its recent acquisition of WABCO, also added an overall performance ‘Leader’ award to the group’s tally. For demonstration of value, DAF Trucks recognized WABCO’s significant quality and performance improvements over the previous year, elevating the business from ‘Achiever’ to ‘Leader – an award fewer than a quarter of DAF’s suppliers received.
DAF XF and CF rewarded with Good Design Award
ZF Honoured by DAF Trucks
The Good Design Awards Jury praised the CF and XF trucks: “They set a new industry standard for truck style, function, safety, sustainability and performance. Innovative thinking has resulted in a truck that has a positive impact on the end-user, business and environment. The design offers a clever combination of aerodynamic styling and features as well as powertrain refinements that have delivered a vehicle that is cleaner for the environment, yet offers better performance.” The interior design is car-like, stated the jury: “This adds to the sophistication and refinement of the truck. It showcases a thoughtful ergonomic layout, opportunities for customisation, use of tough durable materials and superior NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) qualities. These features ensure the end-user enjoys the creature comforts.”
“The Good Design Award,” said Richard Zink, DAF Trucks Director Marketing & Sales, “is more than a symbol of design excellence - it represents the dedication of DAF Trucks to ultimately increase the profitability of our customers’ business on the one hand and to make the daily work of the DAF truck drivers ultimately comfortable on the other.”
“We are truly honoured to receive four top awards from DAF Trucks. They powerfully represent our passion and unwavering commitment to delivering the highest levels of performance as a top supplier in the commercial vehicle industry,” said Wilhelm Rehm, Member of the Board of Management of ZF Friedrichshafen AG with responsibility for Commercial Vehicle Technology, Industrial Technology and Materials Management.
23 | ASIAN TRUCKER NEWS & NOTES
