GBFE 2020 – Partners
Fleet World Great British Fleet Awards
The Fleet World Great British Fleet Awards celebrate the best of corporate motoring in the UK, from fleet managers to suppliers and manufacturers.
The awards were judged by Fleet World’s expert panel of editors and honour excellence in fleet management, and the products and services which support operators running safer, greener, more cost-effective fleets.
Innovation in RISK MANAGEMENT
WINNER > Drivetech
While the general safety messages that fleets need to give to drivers tend to be simple, engaging fleet drivers in conversations around various safety topics is rather a challenge.
It’s something that DriveTech has addressed within the last year with its Driver’s Mate videos – a series of videos designed to help drivers keep safety at the forefront of their mind prior to or during a work shift.
Ideal for viewing on mobile devices, this new innovation is based on the premise ‘Tell a story, not a statistic’. People believe stats but they remember stories and keep the messages top of mind – which is the goal of a Driver’s Mate.
The short videos have been conceived to offer quick ‘nudges’ to promote best practice in particular areas in small bitesize information that can be easily understood.
A new and innovative way to champion and reinforce on-road safety practices, all via a smartphone screen.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Trakm8
Innovation in COST REDUCTION
WINNER > Webfleet
Adoption of EVs is fast-rising but still remains in its infancy – and for many operators having insight into how to switch to EVs in the most cost-effective way is a core challenge.
This is where Webfleet Solutions steps in. The company has committed to sustained investment in advanced EV fleet management innovations, including its Fleet Electrification Planning Report tool.
An indispensable feature of the WEBFLEET SaaS system, the Fleet Electrification Planning Report sits at the heart of the EV toolkit, enabling fleet decision-makers to identify the internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that could be cost-effectively replaced with EV alternatives based on telematics insights from existing vehicles. This signposts a fleet’s true EV potential.
That’s not all that the EV toolkit offers though. Supporting the ongoing operation of EVs, workflow planning can be optimised with real-time battery levels and remaining driving ranges available for every fleet vehicle. EV health data enables pre-emptive maintenance, while on the road, the location of charging points can be pinpointed via drivers’ PRO sat nav devices.
WEBFLEET can also provide valuable insights into the charging process and vehicle charge levels, along with analysis of energy usage in kWh, per vehicle, per day.
All of which helps to cost-optimise EV utilisation and charging – putting fleets firmly on the road to net zero.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > ABAX
Innovation in MOBILITY
WINNER > Europcar
The pandemic and a switch to hybrid or fully remote working has brought new considerations when it comes to the mobility needs of business travellers.
But Europcar Mobility Group UK has made it a priority to deliver a customer experience totally in tune with today’s business mobility needs, supported by investment in the technology that underpins its services.
The EuropcarOne mobility platform provides seamless access to a full range of multi-modal solutions, from street-side on-demand car share and daily rental to pool car fleets and long-term rental.
Europcar has also developed technology to make the life of the fleet manager easier and help them keep control on costs. Examples include hand-held tech for vehicle delivery and collection to simplify customer queries, and SMS messaging that prompts drivers to get vehicles refuelled and return vehicles on time.
Another important enhancement is Europcar’s car share platform for company pool car management, which means fleet managers can book, share and track their own vehicles.
Europcar Mobility Group’s connected vehicle strategy has also played a valuable role in enhancing the customer experience; nearly 90% of the UK fleet is ‘connected’, optimising customer hires as well as vehicle maintenance and other operational areas.
All of which makes a big difference to the rental experience – maximising smart mobility.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > FOD Mobility Group
Innovation in SMR
WINNER > Fleet Assist
Fleet Assist is actively supporting the fleet industry with the adoption of a more sustainable transport future, by ensuring that its network is fully ready for the transition away from internal combustion.
Launched in 2003, the company runs a comprehensive national network of fully managed franchised and non-franchised repairers, providing network management services to 40 of the UK’s leading leasing and contract hire companies.
But it’s also supporting the rapidly changing SMR needs of fleets in the face of the 2030 ICE phase-out, ensuring its network qualified and set up to work on EVs in volume.
Fleet Assist began its internal campaign to guarantee the EV readiness of its network in 2019, at which point BEVs were still in the minority of fleet vehicles.
Some two years later, this campaign has paid off, with more than 4,000 franchised and independent ‘EV-ready’ garages in place, which comprises more than 80% of its network. This ensures that the move to hybrid and electric vehicles is as seamless as possible when it comes to fleet SMR needs.
As a result of this initiative, the business says it now boasts the UK’s largest EV prepared SMR network and has been well placed to assist its customers as they undergo a significant shift towards BEV and hybrid vehicles on their fleets.
Such EV expertise means Fleet Assist is now able to cater for the next generation of fleets – keeping drivers on the road whatever they’re driving.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Jaama
Innovation in customer service
WINNER > Reflex Vehicle Hire
Reflex Vehicle Hire’s innovative work on customer service is based on the premise that customer service is about people, so if your employees are not properly supported, then standards drop.
With the past two years having placed unprecedented strain on employees across the supply chain, the business has acted to support its own staff and customers’ employees driving its vehicles.
This includes prioritising employee wellbeing to ensure team members are able to deliver their best every day, and Reflex has adopted the MIND Time to Change pledge on mental health while its ambassador, Charlie Atkins, has developed an extensive support plan with wide-ranging initiatives.
This has also been extended to drivers at its customers. A founding principle of Reflex Vehicle Hire is a focus on providing vehicle hire with ‘safety as standard’ and that includes the potential impact of mental health issues.
Supporting this, the firm’s Welfare of Reflex Drivers programme (WORD) takes mental health support behind the wheel for drivers; national research shows a growing proportion of drivers describe their current mental health as poor or very poor, so it is important that every company in the industry gets involved in enabling drivers to access support and talk about any issues.
The Reflex team also distributes special vehicle packs containing targeted guidance for drivers, all showing why the company goes above and beyond on customer care.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Novuna
Innovation in remarketing
WINNER > Aston Barclay
Drawing on over 50 years’ experience in the remarketing sector, Aston Barclay has created a suite of digital platforms to facilitate the sale of used vehicles across the spectrum.
The company is a leading independent supplier of used vehicle remarketing services with two business units: Aston Barclay Auctions and The Car Buying Group.
While its digital evolution has proved a particular boon during the pandemic, it actually dates back to 2017 when the business says it became the first remarketing supplier in the UK to provide buyers with a mobile bidding App, creating an anywhere, anytime competitive market. Since then, the Buyers App – a core component of Aston Barclay’s digital platform – has generated in-excess of £100m in total vehicle sales value.
The platform also combines its Appraisal, Dashboard, Online Catalogue and e-Live auction products for an end-to-end used vehicle proposition. The digital journey takes individual used vehicles from initial vehicle appraisal, right through to physical delivery with options to increase speed of sale.
Aston Barclay’s investment in innovative technology has paid off for the benefit of fleets, both during the pandemic lockdowns and thereafter, catering for physical auctions and sales for vehicles that have remained remote.
Its drive to revolutionise the remarketing industry doesn’t stop there and the business continues to work to set the standard for vehicle remarketing.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Reflex Vehicle Hire
Financial Superstar
WINNER >
Platform Housing Group
Matthew Neale, fleet manager, takes this year’s Financial Superstar title for his work to transform the fleet operations at Platform Housing Group.
The group is one of the largest housing associations in the Midlands, with around 1,200 staff, over 120,000 customers and 45,000 homes from Herefordshire in the West to the Lincolnshire coast in the East, and from the Derbyshire Dales in the North to the Cotswolds in the South.
PHG has a strong social purpose and works to deliver quality homes and services that bring tangible and positive differences to local homes, lives and communities.
Since Matthew joined the company in September 2021, he’s also made a tangible and positive difference to the fleet team and the larger fleet sector in the UK.
His work at Platform has included revamping the fleet strategy and policy, making operational and structural changes and introducing new solutions – helping to optimise fleet running and enhance functions.
All of which has been branded by Paul Hollick, chairman of the Association of Fleet Professionals, as “nothing short of phenomenal” – and an example of best practice going forwards too.
Fleet Management Superstar
WINNER >
Cygnet Health Care
This year’s Fleet Management Superstar title goes to Cygnet Health Care’s fleet team for their relentless hard work on everything from cutting risk to engaging drivers and ensuring optimum operations over the pandemic.
Run by group fleet manager Katharine Draper, supported by two members of staff, the fleet department operates across over 180 care units and provides 263 appropriately adapted patient cars, vans and buses.
The team has provided support to Cygnet’s nationwide key workers and vulnerable people 24/7 throughout the pandemic. At the same time, the team has delivered a much-improved driving safety culture and driver engagement.
This is demonstrated by its 2020/2021 data comparisons which show the organisation reduced pro-rata CO2 emissions by almost 90 tonnes per annum, slashed accidents by 40.24%, increased the MPG efficiency by 5.8% and decreased the insurance premium by 15% per vehicle.
2022 has already seen Cygnet start work to provide 100% sustainable fleet transport – and the team are not planning to take their foot off the throttle going forwards.
ECO Superstar
WINNER >
University of Birmingham
Our Eco Superstar for 2022 is the University of Birmingham – awarded not just for its longstanding drive to build a sustainable operating core fleet of vehicles but also its impressive results.
Its work has been spearheaded by Chris Lane, PPT services manager, and saw the fleet adopt its first electric vehicle back in 2007 and continue to switch to EVs as improved models came to market.
In 2015 the University made a bold pledge for 40% of the fleet to be alternatively fuelled within five years – and reached its target a year early in 2019.
Based on an ‘electric-first’ approach, followed by hybrids, it moved to 44% of the fleet being alternatively fuelled in April 2020, hitting 51% in July 2021.
Since then, it’s managed to cut the fleet size by using telematics data to assess where vehicles can be shared by departments – but has also cut CO2 further.
In fact, CO2 across the fleet has gone down by a huge 18% in less than two years – and that’s coming from a starting point of 44% of the fleet already alternatively fuelled.
The University’s work has been supported by strategies based on overcoming drivers’ reservations about EVs.
Laudable work with palpable results.
Best Fleet Supermini
WINNER > Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa continues to impress with low running costs, refinement and a driver-focused interior. It’s not surprising that it’s the UK’s best-selling passenger car!
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Škoda Fabia
Best Fleet Small SUV
WINNER > Toyota Yaris Cross
Building on the success of the impressive Yaris, this B-segment SUV appeals squarely to fleets with efficiency it’s hybrid powertrain and comfort from a spacious and well-built interior.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Renault Captur
Best UPPER MEDIUM SUV
WINNER > Kia Sportage
Upgrades inside and out make the new Sportage a hugely appealing proposition in a keenly contested market. Styling cues and technologies taken from the EV6 are a big plus.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Lexus NX
Best Fleet LARGE SUV
WINNER > SEAT Tarraco
Take the ability to carry seven passengers, add in an efficient range of engines and don’t forget a well-equipped and quality interior and the result is a large SUV that ticks a lot of boxes.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Peugeot 5008
Best LOWER MEDIUM FLEET CAR
WINNER > Škoda Octavia
One of the best value for money propositions on the market. The Octavia boasts an impressive amount of space and comfort, combined with decent driving characteristics and performance.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Kia Ceed
Best UPPER MEDIUM FLEET CAR
WINNER > Škoda Superb
Such is the strength of love for the Superb, many drivers are choosing to go with the Škoda, as opposed to premium German brands. The addition of the iV plug-in hybrid only added to the fleet appeal.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Vauxhall Insignia
Best Compact Executive
WINNER > BMW 3 Series
In a world that is increasingly dominated by SUVs and CUVs, it’s refreshing to see the 3 Series continue to appeal to so many drivers. BMW does the basics right so many times, it’s no surprise that fleet drivers return to what they know and love.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Volvo S60
Best Executive Car
WINNER > BMW 5 Series
For some people, a 5 Series is the only car they would ever need. Comfortable, great to drive, reliable and well-built – it’s easy to see why it’s still so popular, even after so many years. Like the smaller 3 Series, Touring estate models broaden fleet appeal.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Best Luxury Car
WINNER > Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Thankfully, fleet drivers – as well as the passengers – can experience the pure decadence of the S-Class. It’s also a technology-fest, but the myriad systems are well-laid out and easy to access. Pure luxury on every level.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Audi A8
Fleet Rising Star
WINNER > MG Motor UK
MG has gained a reputation for bringing cost-effective, reliable and impressive vehicles to market. With a growing number of EVs set to launch – in addition to the very able MG ZS EV and MG 5 – the company’s fortunes are only going in one direction in the years ahead.
Fleet Manufacturer of the Year
WINNER > Kia
With an impressive range of cars that appeal to all areas of the fleet market, Kia had a great deal to offer in 2021. From the hugely popular EV6 ticking a lot of boxes for those looking to take advantage of low BiK rates, to the upgraded Sportage for SUV lovers, the brand really is moving up in the world.
Best EV City Car
WINNER > Fiat 500 Electric
Proving that not all EVs have to have a huge range, the battery powered Fiat 500 is ideally suited to the urban environment. Fun to drive and cheap to run and the design still looks fresh and modern.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Honda e
Best EV Supermini
WINNER > Peugeot e-208
An impressive range from the small car is just one of the many redeeming features of the e-208. Drivers love the performance offered by the EV powertrain and also the spacious and well-equipped interior.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Vauxhall Corsa-e
Best EV Small SUV
WINNER > Kia e-Niro
Helping to dismiss any driver’s issues with range anxiety, the e-Niro is a fantastic choice for those looking to transition from ICE to battery power. Entertaining to drive, too, which is a bonus!
HIGHLY COMMENDED > MG ZS EV
Best EV Lower Medium SUV
WINNER > Volkswagen ID.3
The much-awaited first modern-day, mass-produced electric car from Volkswagen doesn’t disappoint. Decent range and interior makes it an attractive proposition for those looking to move away from ICE power.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > MG 5
Best EV Medium SUV
WINNER > Audi Q4 e-tron
The SUV market continues to get more and more competitive, but the Q4 e-tron stands out with it quality interior, impressive driving dynamics and a whole host of onboard technologies and safety systems. A groundbreaking car for Audi.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Škoda Enyaq
Best EV Compact Executive Car
WINNER > Kia EV6
The EV6 has taken the EV sector by storm with its clever technologies, spacious interior and great performance. The fact that it has won awards as a premium product speaks volumes, and it will form a crucial part of Kia’s fleet portfolio going forwards.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Hyundai IONIQ 5
Best EV Executive Car
WINNER > Porsche Taycan
Proof that Porsche performance and electrification is a combination that really works. The Taycan might be a big car, but it is still relatively agile – plus it offers versatility with its different body styles.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Mercedes-Benz EQS
Best EV Van
WINNER > Stellantis / Toyota
Demand for electric vans is growing rapidly and the quartet from Stellantis and Toyota – Citroën ë-Dispatch / Peugeot e-Expert / Vauxhall Vivaro-e / Toyota Proace-electric – continues to be among the most attractive propositions on the market. Competitive pricing and payload, as well as one of the longest ranges on a full charge with the 75kWh battery. Competition is growing but these are still the benchmark electric vans.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > LEVC VN5
One to Watch
WINNER > Nissan Ariya
Nissan won a lot of admirers in the early days of electrification with the LEAF. Now, with a larger, more advanced model, there are signs that the Japanese manufacturer will repeat its success in the popular SUV segment with Ariya.
Innovation in Electric Vehicles
WINNER > Ohme
EV charging specialist Ohme is continuing its work in delivering EV charging software and hardware with unique services to optimise the customer experience, charging cost and CO2 footprint of the vehicle.
This includes two new core products: Fleet Data Streams and the Ohme Home Pro. These complement the Ohme Go and Ohme Fleet Management platform and enable vehicles to charge residentially, in a workplace or on the go, and for the fleet to collect information on a series of chargers, reimburse drivers or feed major fleet payroll aggregators.
Billed as the lowest-cost smart enabled charger available on the market, the Ohme Home Pro launched in September last year. It identifies the vehicle, the energy tariff and the driver’s commuting schedule and delivers the charge to the vehicle in the lowest cost and lowest CO2 way possible.
The Ohme Home Pro is a complementary product to the Ohme Go cable solution, which can charge a vehicle through a commando socket and is able to perform the same energy and cost-saving advantages operated through the app as the wall charger.
Ohme also has its own fleet management platform, which enables centralised reporting of energy data (CO2/Cost) – particularly valuable for fleets that wish to reimburse the driver above the level of AER, paying the driver or utility bill directly.
For companies using fleet aggregators such as TMC or Mina/Fleetcor for payroll integration and reporting, Ohme Data Platforms is able to share rich data quality that enables all Ohme devices fitted across its European footprint to share connected data.
All part of Ohme’s work to help drive EV adoption in the most sustainable way possible.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > LeasePlan
Innovation in Technology
WINNER > TMC
As electric vehicles fast-rise in prominence in the fleet sector, TMC is assisting clients in the transition with a number of different EV reimbursement methods.
Based on a fully flexible approach, these cater for different reimbursement options, from cars to commercial vehicles and grey fleet – and distinguish between those who do high business miles (the job need fleet) versus perk drivers.
While many companies continue with the Advisory Electricity Rate (AER) of 5ppm, this leaves many drivers out of pocket, particularly with energy prices soaring.
Instead, TMC’s solutions have been designed to be simple, ground-breaking and ensure that drivers are fairly reimbursed for their domestic energy costs – and draw on TMC’s expertise in mileage reimbursements for fuel. The business has also invested heavily in EV functionality underpinned by its payroll file and expense management solutions.
It offers various methods for reimbursement, including the ability to reimburse employees at actual cost using telematics data, charge point data or a driver’s self-declaration too. TMC can also incorporate data directly from public charge point providers in auto-reimbursement.
All reimbursement options can be paid to the driver via payroll, expense claim or direct to the energy provider – and provide a unique and elegant solution for those fleet managers and HR directors who wish to provide an at-cost solution to the driver that’s both fair and equitable.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Gridserve
SMALL Van of the Year
WINNER > Ford Transit Courier
If you want a small van at the moment, choice is limited. Transit Courier is the only purpose-built van in the sector and can handle payloads up to 590kg and offers a useful 2.3m3 load volume as well as a long list of standard and optional equipment.
Compact High-Cube Van of the Year
WINNER > Volkswagen Caddy
The Volkswagen Caddy Cargo 5 arrived last year, offering standard length and Maxi models, and a range of body volume and payload options. Three trim levels give fleets plenty of spec choice and an excellent new dashboard design. This is a highly competitive sector, but Caddy is a convincing choice.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Ford Transit Connect
MEDIUM van of the Year
WINNER > Ford Transit Custom
Transit Custom was the UK’s best-selling van in 2021 with 53,394 registrations, more than any other van manufacturer sold in total last year. Ford is keeping it fresh for 2022 too with a new digital rear-view mirror, using rear mounted cameras to improve safety. Transit Custom is also one of the few vans available as a plug-in hybrid and it’s undoubtedly a worthy winner.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > VW Transporter
Large Van of the Year
WINNER > Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Versatility is the key to the Sprinter’s success. Van, crew van, chassis-cab, crew cab, front or rear-wheel drive. Add in four van body lengths and three roof heights and there is just about every configuration available to suit the varied needs of fleet customers. It’s also a favourite for home deliveries. You name it, a Sprinter has probably delivered it.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Ford Transit
Pickup of the Year
WINNER > Toyota Hilux
Toyota has built a rugged reputation for the Hilux over the years and the 2.8-litre engine option was one of an extensive list of revisions at the end of 2020. Single, extended and double cab options remain while the 2.4-litre 148hp engine is likely to power most fleet models. Few pickups offer such a comprehensive range.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Ford Ranger
Light Truck of the Year
WINNER > Iveco Daily
The 2022MY Daily helped boost its market presence and revisions include a new six-speed manual gearbox, more torque and an air suspension option. The Daily Driveaway programme keeps expanding too, with ready-bodied conversions available from dealers. It’s versatile, easy to drive and a favourite with many fleets, ensuring it’s the one to beat.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Isuzu N-Series
VAN of the year
WINNER > Ford Transit Custom
Transit Custom buyers have really chosen the winner here, and there is certainly no doubt that it was Britain’s favourite new van last year with both fleet and retail customers. It’s a comprehensive range with options to cover most fleet requirements and by 2024, there will be a fully electric version too.
HIGHLY COMMENDED > Citroën ë-Dispatch / Peugeot e-Expert / Vauxhall Vivaro-e / Toyota Proace-electric
Van Manufacturer of the Year
WINNER > Ford
Ford has big things planned for 2022 and beyond. The electric E-Transit will make its debut quite soon, followed by electric versions of the Transit Custom in 2023 and Transit Courier in 2024. 2022 will also mark the arrival of the next generation Ford Ranger pickup. Other manufacturers are following similar electrification paths, but it is Ford’s strength as a light CV manufacturer that helps it to stand out as our Van Manufacturer of the Year.