Tag Archives: fleet

BMW

Strong performance under extreme conditions: the BMW iX5 Hydrogen undergoes test drives in the desert.

Munich/Dubai. The vehicles in the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet, which launched in February this year, have completed an intensive round of hot-weather testing in the United Arab Emirates for the first time. The car’s fuel cell drive system performed impressively in the face of temperatures rising to 45°C, as well as sand and dust, varying gradients and significant fluctuations in humidity.

The highly efficient fuel cell system, the two hydrogen tanks, the electric motor and the power battery teamed up with the central vehicle control unit to demonstrate their outstanding performance and state of readiness. The Munich-based development team examined both the functionality of all the electric systems under the extreme conditions and the provision of the cooling power to enable the full performance of the vehicle. The vehicles were able to ensure the driving dynamics for which BMW is renowned.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen goes around the world
Vehicles from the pilot fleet are currently in action in Europe, Japan, Korea, China, the USA and the Middle East. The aim is to shine a spotlight on the everyday usability of hydrogen-powered vehicles, and beyond that to gain important knowledge for the development of a potential series-produced model. The BMW Group is using the pilot fleet to provide support on a regional level for the development of a refuelling infrastructure which can be used with 700-bar refuelling technology across all categories of vehicle – from passenger cars and small vans to buses and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Synergies between different areas of application also offer important scope for developing a strong network of suppliers in hydrogen technology and reducing costs.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen combines long-distance capability and short refuelling stops with locally emission-free driving. Provided the relevant framework is in place, the hydrogen fuel cell technology has the potential to serve as another pillar in the BMW Group’s future drive system portfolio.

As part of its ongoing transformation, the BMW Group is applying a “technology-open” approach when it comes to drive systems. The company is therefore adapting to different customer requirements, infrastructure standards and political and regulatory landscapes in the various regions of the world. This flexibility puts the BMW Group in the position to respond quickly to changing requirements in the markets in any situation and to present an attractive offer for as many customers as possible at all times.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen has a fuel cell system generating output of 125 kW/170 hp and a highly integrated drive unit using fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology (the electric motor, transmission and power electronics are grouped together in a compact housing). The output of the overall drive system is 295 kW / 401 hp. The hydrogen needed to power the fuel cell is stored in a pair of 700-bar tanks made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Together, these tanks can hold around six kilograms of hydrogen. This storage capacity gives the BMW iX5 Hydrogen a range of 504 km (313 miles) in the WLTP cycle. 

BMW iX5 Hydrogen: Consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 1,19 kg H2/100 km, CO2 emissions combined in WLTP cycle: 0 g/km
Electric range: 504 km (313 miles) 

News

2024 Volvo EX90: Everything We Know So Far

Summary

  • Volvo aims to have 50% of its global fleet sales be electric or hybrid vehicles by 2025, with the goal of being entirely electric by 2030.
  • The 2024 Volvo EX90 represents a monumental shift in the brand’s identity, with a sleek and futuristic design that prioritizes aerodynamics and sustainability.
  • The EX90 promises a thrilling and eco-conscious driving experience, with dual-motor all-wheel drive, over 500 horsepower, a 111 kWh battery pack, and a range of 300 miles on a single charge. Safety is also a top priority, with advanced external and internal monitoring systems.

Volvo is aiming for an electrifying transformation, with the goal of having electric and hybrid vehicles represent 50% of its global fleet sales by 2025, and going fully electric by 2030. The ultimate objective is to become a climate-neutral company by 2040.

The 2024 Volvo EX90 is a significant milestone in Volvo’s journey towards electrification. It is a fully electric SUV that stands on its own, separate from any gasoline-powered counterparts. With a new platform and the dimensions of the three-row XC90 SUV, the EX90 represents a major shift in Volvo’s brand identity.

The design of the EX90 merges SUV aesthetics with aerodynamic finesse. It features a sleek and futuristic silhouette, with a smooth front fascia and flush door handles to enhance aerodynamic efficiency. Despite its focus on aerodynamics, Volvo has retained a more traditional SUV shape compared to some of its competitors.

The interior of the EX90 exudes high-tech minimalism and Scandinavian elegance. It features a large touchscreen infotainment system that consolidates most of the vehicle’s controls. The cabin is spacious and accommodates seven passengers, making it suitable for larger families or group travel. Volvo has also incorporated sustainable materials and trim in the interior, aligning with its commitment to using recycled and sustainable materials.

The EX90 promises a thrilling driving experience with its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. It offers two options: the entry-level Twin Motor model with 402 horsepower and the higher-performing Twin Motor Performance variant with 517 horsepower. The EX90 is equipped with an impressive 111 kWh battery pack that provides a range of 300 miles on a single charge. It also supports fast charging, allowing the battery to reach 80% capacity in as little as 30 minutes.

Safety is a top priority for Volvo, and the EX90 is no exception. It features advanced external sensors, cameras, and LiDAR technology to provide a 360-degree real-time view of the road. Inside the cabin, specialized sensors and cameras monitor the driver’s level of concentration and intervene if signs of fatigue or distraction are detected.

Motorsport

2024 Chevrolet Colorado Drops Mid-Range Engine Option

The General Motors Fleet Order Guide shows several changes coming to the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado. The truck just entered a new generation for the 2023 model, making it somewhat surprising to see so many revisions.

The high-output turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder now goes by the name TurboMax engine, like the Silverado. The tune making 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft is now optional for the WT and LT trims, and it’s standard on the Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2. Chevy is eliminating the Turbo Plus version making 310 horsepower and 390 pound-feet. For the 2023 model, this variant was standard on the Z71 and Trail Boss while being optional for the WT and LT. 


Citreon

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN WITH CITROËN AS AMI 100% ELECTRIC GOES ON TOUR ACROSS THE UK

  • A fleet of Citroën Ami 100% Electric quadricycles will be touring seven cities across the UK in the coming weeks.
  • There will be a competition* to win one Ami in each visited city, with a total of seven Amis up for grabs.
  • Each prize vehicle will have a unique cityscape design representing the specific city on the tour.
  • Members of the public can participate in the competition* by visiting the Ami Hub in each city and scanning the competition QR code.
  • The tour will visit famous landmarks in London, Bristol, Cardiff, Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Edinburgh.

The attention-grabbing Citroën Ami 100% Electric will be touring seven UK cities this summer as part of a national tour. Ami 100% Electric provides a glimpse into the future of emissions-free city driving. Fun and innovative, Ami embodies the core philosophy of the Citroën brand – making electric mobility affordable for everyone.

#AmiOnTour will feature Ami 100% Electric visiting well-known landmarks in each city, giving the public an opportunity to get involved, take pictures, and see Ami in their own city. To celebrate each host city, the seven prize vehicles will have bespoke designs by Jenni Sparks, showcasing local landmarks and unique cityscapes – one design for each city.

Throughout the tour, the public can enter a competition* to win one of the seven wrapped Amis – each winner will receive the Ami associated with their specific city. To enter, simply scan one of the competition QR codes located at the Ami Hub in each city between 12:00 and 16:30.

#AmiOnTour starts later this week and will cover all seven cities in just over two weeks:

  • Friday 18 August – London (Ami Hub: Leicester Square)
  • Monday 21 August – Bristol (Ami Hub: Queens Square)
  • Wednesday 23 August – Cardiff (Ami Hub: Churchill Way)
  • Friday 25 August – Manchester (Ami Hub: Piccadilly Gardens)
  • Wednesday 30 August – Liverpool (Ami Hub: Church Street)
  • Friday 1 September – Newcastle (Ami Hub: Northumberland Street)
  • Monday 4 September – Edinburgh (Ami Hub: Castle Street)

As more Ultra Low Emissions Zones, Clean Air Zones, and emissions-reducing schemes are implemented, Ami offers a solution for affordable zero-emissions mobility in urban environments. Ami represents a groundbreaking initiative from Citroën – Ami 100% Electric is a bold response to the challenges faced in today’s congested cities. As an electric mobility solution, Ami emits zero emissions during use and has a 5.5kWh battery that recharges in just four hours. With a range of 46 miles (WMTC**) and a top speed of 28mph, Ami 100% Electric is a modern and innovative solution that fulfills Citroën’s promise to provide affordable and clean mobility solutions for all.

* Terms & Conditions apply

** World Motorcycle Test Cycle

Featured

Indian Army Now Gets Its Hands On The Toyota Hilux Pickup Off-roader


The Toyota Hilux was added to the army’s Northern Command fleet range after undergoing rigorous terrain and weather testing

Toyota Hilux inducted into the Indian Army fleet

  • The Hilux is a capable off-roader based on the Fortuner’s ladder-on-frame platform.

  • It is equipped with the Fortuner’s 204PS 2.8-litre diesel engine; gets 4×4 as standard.

  • The Indian Army is also looking to introduce the 5-door Maruti Jimny to its fleet to replace the existing and ageing Gypsy.

  • Mahindra recently shipped an additional 1,850 units of the Scorpio Classic to the Indian Army.

If you have been following the automotive updates related to the Indian Army in recent years, you would know that it was on the lookout for newer, capable models. This came on the backdrop of the army retiring its much-cherished workhorse, the Maruti Gypsy, and has now added some units of the Toyota Hilux to its Northern Command wing.

Reasons To Pick The Toyota Pickup

Toyota Hilux in Indian Army's fleet

Given the tasks and duties the Indian Army performs, it’s natural for its squad to require tough, body-on-frame off-roaders, which have mostly been restricted to SUVs. Since the Hilux is based on the Fortuner’s ladder-on-frame architecture and offers 4×4 capabilities, it is among the best modern vehicles for our men in camouflage. The pickup aspect is also useful for transporting supplies and carrying extra personnel in the large storage bay.

Toyota Hilux

The Indian Army has put the Hilux through rigorous terrain and weather testing before accepting it in its lineup.

What Gives The Hilux Its Power?

The Toyota Hilux gets the same 2.8-litre diesel engine (204PS/up to 500Nm) as the Fortuner, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. It has two drive modes: Power and Eco. The Hilux gets a 4×4 drivetrain as standard, increasing its utility as a vehicle for the army.

Also Read: Upping The Coolness Quotient Quite Literally: Cars With Dual Zone Climate Control Under Rs 30 Lakh

Other New Cars For The Indian Army

Maruti Gypsy

Shortly before being launched, there were reports that the 5-door Maruti Jimny – the Maruti Gypsy’s spiritual successor – will be replacing the latter. However, the carmaker seems to be still studying all the possibilities and the modifications required to make the Jimny into an army-spec SUV.

Mahindra Scorpio Classic for the Indian Army

More recently, an additional 1,850 units of the Mahindra Scorpio Classic were inducted into the Indian Army’s vehicle fleet. The Scorpio Classic does not come with a 4WD option for the average consumer, but since the pre-facelifted version used to offer that capability, Mahindra could have modified these units to fit the army’s requirements.

Also Read: Indian Army Wants To Add More Electric Cars To Its Fleet, But Only In Key Areas Such As This State

Read More on : Hilux diesel

VauxhallUk

VAUXHALL WINS BIG AT THE GREAT BRITISH FLEET AWARDS 2023

 

  • Vauxhall takes home the title of ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ at the Great British Fleet Awards 2023
  • Vauxhall Corsa was also awarded the ‘Best Fleet Supermini’, Vauxhall Astra was named ‘Best Lower Medium Fleet Car’, and Vauxhall Vivaro took ‘Medium Van of the Year’ at the awards
  • Vauxhall is one of the few brands able to offer fleets a fully electric van across its entire LCV line-up
  • By 2028, Vauxhall’s entire car and van range will be fully electric – seven years ahead of the Government deadline

Vauxhall has been awarded the title of ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’, at last night’s Great British Fleet Awards 2023 in Milton Keynes organised by Fleet World. The Vauxhall Astra, Corsa and Vivaro were also celebrated, taking home the ‘Best Lower Medium Fleet Car’, ‘Best Fleet Supermini’, and ‘Medium Van of the Year’ titles, respectively.

The ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ title reflects Vauxhall’s position as one of the UK’s most versatile fleet operators. Across its Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment, it is one of the few manufacturers in the country able to offer fleets an electrified variant across its entire model line-up, alongside diesel versions. Vauxhall has been the UK’s best-selling e-LCV manufacturer for the past two years running.

Vauxhall’s passenger vehicle range has also grown significantly over the course of the past 12 months, with the brand now selling electrified variants across every model with the exception of the Crossland. By 2028 it will be an electric-only manufacturer, seven years ahead of the UK Government deadline. Vauxhall’s commitment to electrification, and its versatile product range is making it easier for businesses to go green.

The Vauxhall Vivaro was named the ‘Medium Van Of the Year’ at last night’s awards. The award winning Vivaro has been the UK’s best-selling electric light commercial vehicle for two consecutive years. Available with a 50kWh or a 75kWh battery, the Vivaro Electric achieves a WLTP range of up to 205 miles from a single charge and comes with a maximum payload of up to 1,226kg. The Vivaro Electric is joined by the Combo Electric and Movano Electric. 

The Fleet World judges named the Vauxhall Corsa as their ‘Best Fleet Supermini’, a fitting title for the UK’s best-selling supermini of 2022, while the Astra took home the award for ‘Best Lower Medium Fleet Car’.

Both Corsa and Astra continue to be popular options for both private and fleet buyers. Astra offers efficient petrol and diesel variants as well as a highly efficient Plug-in Hybrid model capable of travelling up to 43 miles (WLTP, EAER) on electric power alone. Corsa has been available as a fully electric variant since 2020. The latest Corsa Electric provides up to 222 miles of range (WLTP) from its 50kWh battery, while a 0-80% charge takes just 30 minutes to complete from a 100kW rapid charger. The Astra Electric and Astra Sports Tourer Electric will be joining the Vauxhall range later this year, providing even more electric vehicle options for fleet customers.

John Challen, Editor, Fleet World, said: “Vauxhall has always been committed to the demands of fleet drivers and the latest Astra is just one example of how it still has its eye on the ball. The arrival of plug-in hybrid and electric versions of its core fleet models ensures that the brand will remain a popular choice as the market moves away from diesel and petrol power.”

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “I’m delighted to see that Fleet World has recognised Vauxhall as ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’. It is a true indication of Vauxhall’s commitments to fleet users and how the latest Vauxhall range continues to adapt to meet the needs of today’s drivers as we move towards a fully electric car and van range from 2028.”

With the recent launch of the Astra GSe and the Astra Sports Tourer GSe, fleet users can now enjoy uprated electrified drivetrains and improved handling thanks to suspension and steering upgrades. Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe are both eligible for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 8% and 12%, respectively.

 

-ENDS-

VauxhallUk

NEARLY 20 MILLION TONNES OF CO2 COULD BE SAVED A YEAR IF EVERY VAN IN THE COUNTRY WAS ELECTRIC, FINDS VAUXHALL

  • Converting the UK’s van fleet into fully electric vans could save more than 19.5 million tonnes of CO2 annually, according to exclusive research by Vauxhall
  • Research comes as UK Government announces consultation into zero-emissions mandate, which includes a zero-emissions sales percentage trajectory for vehicle manufacturers
  • With more than 4.77 million petrol or diesel vans on UK roads, and an average annual mileage of 13,000 miles, UK’s van fleet covers more than 62 billion miles each year
  • Vauxhall’s research shows vans account for 18.2% of the UK’s annual transport related emissions
  • Vauxhall is the UK’s best-selling e-LCV manufacturer and one of few brands in the country with an electric variant across its entire LCV line-up
  • From 2028, Vauxhall will be an electric-only vehicle manufacturer

Nearly 20 million tonnes of CO2 could be saved every year if the UK’s van fleet was converted into fully electric vans, according to new research by Vauxhall. The research comes after the UK Government launched a consultation that could see manufacturers issued with yearly zero-emissions vehicle percentage sales targets, including financial penalties for those that fail to meet the targets.

As part of its commitment to electrify Britain, Vauxhall calculated how much CO2 could be saved every year if the country’s van fleet converted into electric Light Commercial Vehicles (e-LCVs) that produce zero tailpipe emissions. Using official UK Government and Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) figures, Vauxhall calculated vans account for 18.2% of the UK’s annual transport related CO2 emissions and 4.6% of the country’s total annual carbon emissions*.  

With 4.77 million petrol or diesel vans on the road, and with an average annual mileage of 13,000 according to the Department for Transport, van drivers in the UK cover more than 62 billion miles annually. Using the SMMT’s average new van emissions estimate of 195.7 g/km CO2 as the fleet average emissions, Vauxhall calculated annual emissions exceeding 19.5 million tonnes of CO2**.

Last year, more than 16,000 electric LCVs were delivered to businesses and customers across the country, a rise of 31.2% over the previous year. As one of few manufacturers in the country to offer fleets and businesses a fully electric van across its line-up, Vauxhall was the UK’s best-selling e-LCV manufacturer in 2022, with the Vivaro Electric the best-selling e-LCV model in the country.

However, e-LCVs accounted for just 5.9% of total van registrations in 2022, well behind the 16.6% 2022 market share for electric cars, and quite far off the 10% proposed mandate for 2024 for e-LCV sales***. As well as zero tailpipe emissions, electric vans offer businesses a number of benefits, including exemption from current congestion and emissions zone charges. 

With a goal of becoming an electric-only brand by 2028 – seven years ahead of the UK Government deadline – Vauxhall is committed to electrifying the nation, with the brand’s Ellesmere Port manufacturing site also undergoing a £100m renovation to become the first Stellantis plant to produce solely battery-electric models. One of the first models to be produced will be the Combo Electric compact van, which sits alongside the Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric in Vauxhall’s e-LCV line-up.

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “Vauxhall is fully committed to electrification, and remains one of few manufacturers in the UK already able to offer fleets a zero-emissions-in-use vehicle across its entire LCV range. Our research highlights the importance in electrifying the country’s businesses to help meet the UK’s Net Zero targets, and comes at a time when the UK is considering imposing further measures to increase electric vehicle uptake.”

* https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/transport-and-environment-statistics-2022/transport-and-environment-statistics-2022#co2-emissions-from-transport-by-local-authority
Table: Provisional UK greenhouse gas emissions national statistics, 2021 finds Transport Related Emissions in 2021 were 107.5 million tonnes equivalent of CO2. The UK’s total carbon emissions account to 424.5 million tonnes.

** For the research, Vauxhall used both official Government and SMMT figures.  According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, in 2021 there were 4,804,833 vans on UK roads, of which 26,990 were either electric or electrified, leaving 4,777,843 petrol and diesel vans for 2021. 

Using the average SMMT new van emissions of 195.7 g/km CO2 for 2022, and the Department for Transport 2021 estimate of 13,000 miles as the annual van mileage, Vauxhall estimated the country’s van fleet covers more than 62 billion miles a year, accounting for more than 19.5 million tonnes of CO2.

*** https://www.smmt.co.uk/2023/01/new-van-registrations-fall-in-2022-as-market-looks-towards-net-zero-rebuild/    
https://www.smmt.co.uk/2023/01/chip-crisis-subdues-new-car-market-but-evs-now-second-only-to-petro
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1147356/zev-mandate-co2-emissions-regulation-consultation-document.pdf