Commercial

AdBlue

Going Green with AdBlue

Going Green with AdBlue https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/adblue-featured.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

With all the recent focus on vehicle emissions, we thought it worth flagging something of a positive in the industry: an eco innovation which isn’t yet commonplace but is gaining ground and has the potential to significantly reduce pollution from diesel engines: AdBlue.

Positive Reaction

Based on simple chemistry, AdBlue is a high purity urea solution which, when combined with the harmful nitrous oxides in the vehicle exhaust gases, reacts to convert around 90% of them to harmless nitrogen and water vapour. It actually enables manufacturers to take a legitimate shortcut to make their diesel engines comply with Euro-6 emission regulations which came into force 1st January 2015 to improve air quality.

Injecting AdBlue

Introduced initially in larger commercial vehicles, we’re now seeing the system being a feature in the latest diesel cars and vans.

Whilst it may be just an additive, vehicles do require a new form of exhaust incorporating the new Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, plus a dedicated tank for adding the solution. It’s therefore not something which can be retrofittable, but is a feature worth looking out for when selecting a new vehicle.

Keep topped up

AdBlue is, as the name suggests, a blue additive, and it’s vital that you keep it topped up just as you would your oil or washer fluid. When your AdBlue falls to a certain level – 3 litres in Mercedes cars, for example – vehicles are equipped with a warning system to advise you to refill. The engine management computer may also limit performance as a further precaution, and to encourage you to take action.

AdBlue warning sign

Refilling AdBlue

If you run out, the vehicle won’t start, so it’s crucial to keep tabs as any damage caused won’t be covered by your warranty. It’s important that fleet managers understand the responsibilities of correctly maintaining AdBlue-equipped vehicles, particularly with the variable service intervals common these days, and that employees are aware of the consequences should they ignore the warnings when levels get low.

A number of manufacturers, e.g. Mercedes, will refill your AdBlue during services, but top-ups between services may be needed depending on the size of the tank plus mileage, vehicle load, driving style and road conditions. Consumption rates are quoted as 4–5% of diesel use.

In cars, the filler will generally be next to the fuel filler, though sometimes they are to be found in obscure places like under a seat in the C4 Picasso. Commercial vehicles tend to have fillers in the engine bays, and are able to top up at a large number of filling stations across the country as they may need to do so as often as every week – see this interactive map or download a handy app for Android or iOS.

Interactive AdBlue map

Since the nozzle won’t fit cars, topping up smaller vehicles either requires going back to a dealership or ordering online – you can even get it from Amazon!

Availability

So far, the system can be found in Mercedes’ ‘BlueTEC’ range, the BMW 5 Series and X5 range, Audi and Volkswagen in their TDI models, and Vauxhall in some Insignia, Zafira Tourer and Cascada models. Other marques have also started to introduce the technology including Citroën, DAF, Ford, GM/Opel, Hyundai, Iveco, Mazda, Peugeot, Renault, Scania, Toyota and Volvo.

AdBlue will, according to BMW, soon be a household name.

As emissions rules and control measures become increasingly stricter, it’s good to know there are safe and inexpensive technologies available to reduce the pollution derived from our vehicles. Whilst some may consider it an inconvenience to have another consumable to monitor, it’s a small price to pay to keep our vehicles motoring, and their dangerous pollutants minimised.

If you’d like more information about adding AdBlue-equipped vehicles to your fleet, contact us and we’ll be happy to advise on current options and deals.

Configure your next lease vehicle!

Configure your next lease vehicle! https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/config-featured-3.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

When it comes to cars, we’ve all got very different ideas about what makes the perfect vehicle. With this in mind, we’re excited to announce that we’ve just launched our brand new Lease Configurator.

It’s simple. Decide on the vehicle type from over 35 leading manufacturers, then the model type. Specify your chosen engine and gearbox… and then the fun begins: colour, interior, wheels, multimedia, style packs… the list goes on!

With many manufacturers now offering a choice of different materials in the cabin (dashboard, headlining, seats and so on), you can make the car as individual as you are! Every available option is listed on our new custom microsite, optimised for mobile browsing too, so you can quickly reach the spec of your dreams without complex manufacturers’ interfaces slowing your browser to a crawl.

Go on give it a try by clicking here… it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1

Choose the make and model from over 35 leading manufacturers…

2

Select from all the available factory- fitted options to truly personalise your lease vehicle.

3

Tell us about your lease requirements and we email you your quote!

Explore our configurator on your tablet too
Configure your car just as you want it.

The best thing is that you can drive the vehicle of your dreams with all the associated benefits of leasing – you simply pay an initial rental payment, followed by regular monthly payments for your chosen lease period of one to four years.

And it’s not just for cars – you can configure vans and commercial vehicles too in a special, dedicated Commercials section!

config-end

config-car config-van

So go on, make your next lease vehicle extra SPEC-ial with WVL!

The Week In Motoring #8

The Week In Motoring #8 https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/featured-8.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Land Rover’s Latest Innovation

Land Rover has revealed that they have developed an innovation that will allow drivers to see through their own bonnets and view the terrain below with the use of augmented technology.

The car giant claims that the new technology will render the bonnet ‘virtually’ invisible from inside the vehicle. Whilst this may not be of significant use to road users, Land Rover do say that it will considerably enhance their vehicles’ off-road ability.

Land Rover’s director of research and technology, Dr. Wolfgang Epple has said of the technology, ‘As our vehicles become more capable and autonomous off-road we will ensure the driver has the confidence to allow the car to continue to progress over any terrain.’ He goes on to exclaim how technology will hold a key part in the future of the motor industry: ‘We believe the next 25 years will be the most exciting and dynamic that the automotive industry has ever experienced. There will be huge strides in environmental innovation in safety and capability.’

The transparent bonnet, along with a whole host of new technologies, is to be showcased at the New York International Motorshow which gets under way on April 16th.

Record First Quarter for Mercedes Vans

The number of Mercedes vans registered in the first quarter of 2014 is 12.5% up on the same period last year. Totalling 6,619 units and marking the fifth consecutive quarter that Mercedes has experienced growth for their vans, this sets a record high for the German manufacturer.

Additionally, parts, 24hour roadside recovery and sales of service contracts have all also experienced very solid first quarters, with the latter achieving 178% of its targets.

The managing director of Mercedes-Benz Vans, Steve Bridge, attributes the record breaking start to 2014 to the “hard work and commitment of a fantastic team.”

Ultra-Low Emission Zone to Arrive in London

London is to become the first city in the world to have an ultra-low emission zone (ULEZ) which would encompass all types of vehicles. The zone will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is expected to cover an area of central London similar to the current Congestion Charge zone.

Transport for London are currently gaining stakeholders’ views on the proposal before publishing the consultation document next year and a ULEZ order next year (2015). This would then allow fleets 5 years to change their transport operations to ensure that their vehicles comply with new rules before the ULEZ takes effect in 2020.

The new Euro 6 compliance standards for mono-nitrogen oxides (NOx) is expected to be the key entry requirement into the ULEZ. With over 25% of road NOx emissions in central London being accounted for by cars and vans, the Euro 6 compliance standards are seen as vitally important to aiding the reduction of bad emissions by reducing NOx by up to 70%.

Autocar raise the valid point that it’s “another step towards banning older diesel and petrol-powered private cars from the city centre” posing sigificant financial implications for many ordinary Londoners.

Faced with such changes to legislation and regulations, it’s no wonder leasing is fast becoming a preferred means of motoring, offering not just flexibility, but reassurance and compliance too. Call us on 01753 851561 to discuss how leasing can be of benefit to you.

Car of the Week

Our car of the week this week is this super Vauxhall Corsa Energy 1.2VVTi 5Dr Hatch – available to lease, or purchase:

Year / Reg 2013
Mileage 190
Engine 1.2L
Fuel Petrol
Gearbox Manual
Consumption (combined) 51.4mpg
CO2 emissions 129g/km
0-62mph 13.6 seconds
Engine Power 85bhp
Colour Carbon Flash Black

Vauxhall Corsa Energy 1.2VVTi 5Dr Hatch

This super runabout is available on 4-year and 3-year lease deals. If you’d like to book a test drive or talk to us out about the options, then don’t hesitate to call on 01753 851561.

The Week In Motoring #4

The Week In Motoring #4 https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/ferrari-california-t.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Ferrari California Goes Turbo

Ferrari have released details of their latest model and successor to the California, the California T. This is the first Ferrari to be fitted with a turbo engine since the F40 hypercar went out of production in 1992.

So, how does the turbo compare to its predecessor? The 3.8litre V8 engine produces 552bhp and 556lb or torque, which is 62bhp more and double the torque of the previous model. This all results in the ability to go from 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds, 0.2 seconds faster than the California. The turbo also produces 15% less CO₂ at 250g/km CO₂.

Time to start saving the pennies if you want to get your hands on one as the entry price is £155,000! Nonetheless, we can’t wait to see this beauty out on the roads.

Set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Average LCV Value Rise in January

January has seen the value for second hand light commercial vehicles marginally increase to an average of £5,322, an £11 increase on December 2013. It signals the 6th month in a row that the average value has exceeded £5,000 and is the highest value since Pulse started reporting in 2005.

Values are up 13.9% from last year, an increase of £653.

Duncan Ward, BCA General Manager for commercial vehicles has said, ‘January essentially delivered more of what we saw throughout the previous 12 months – a shortage of stock allied to decent levels of demand that generated exceptionally strong prices in the used van market. With stock remaining thin on the ground, buyer demand is focused on the best quality commercial vehicles and this is driving values up.’

Renault Unveils 3rd Gen Twingo

The next generation Twingo has been released by Renault and it will feature extra doors and a rear-mounted engine in a joint development with Smart. The French car manufacturer claims that the main benefit that occurs to the car as a result of the newly positioned engine is a considerable improvement in the turning circle.

A smaller engine, the positioning of the wheels and the rear mounted engine all contribute towards improved cabin space.

Renault’s head of design said that the Twingo ‘was inspired not only by the original Twingo but also by the Renault 5. It is a modern take on the city car genre with the accent on innovation in terms of its lines and architecture. New Twingo is a fun, playful and vibrant city car.’

As is the case with the Ferrari, the new Twingo will be given its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show… but you can take a look at it in this teaser video:

Car of the Week

The car of the week is our superb BMW 3 Series M Sport.

Year / Reg 2013 (63)
Mileage 800
Engine 3.0L
Fuel Diesel
Gearbox Automatic
Body Estate
Colour Grey

BMW 120i

Price: £36,999

The car is in excellent condition (both interior and exterior) and comes with a full service history, 3 month guarantee and 12 months MOT.

For further information, please call 01753 851561, or click here to view full details.

The Week In Motoring

The Week In Motoring https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/insignia.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Vauxhall Insignia Named Company Car of the Year

Business Car Manager have announced that the Vauxhall Insignia has been named the SME Company Car of the Year. The winner was decided by a high profile panel, chaired by Business Secretary Vince Cable, who were said to be impressed with not only the improved overall quality of the car but more specifically technological and style improvements as well as the further lowering of emissions. ‘Cheap to run and good to drive, the Insignia seems like a real no-compromise company car,’ (BCM).

The Insignia also picked up Best Large Company Car and Best Company Car for Tax Categories. Call WVL on 01753 851561 to discuss our current best leasing deal for your business!

Audi Q3 – the Fastest Selling Used Car

It is believed that the weather warnings and threats of storms have had a significant effect on consumer purchasing habits with 7 out of the top 10 selling used cars being 4x4s. With an average time span of 33.5 days spent on dealers’ forecourts, the Audi Q3 is currently the fastest selling used car in the UK. A close second was the Jeep Patriot which spent an average of 36.2 days on the forecourts. Mercedes Benz R-Class was this month’s slowest selling used car for the second month running, spending an average of 136.3 days on the forecourts.

Fiat Professional Announce 70% Increase in Sales

Fiat Professional have announced a 70% increase in sales, over twice that of their nearest rivals. The growth sees their UK LCW market share rise from 1.5% to 4.4%. They saw sales of over 13,500 units in 2013 despite not releasing any all-new models.

It seems there is no slowing down for the manufacturer this year with Fiat Professional director, Sebastiano Federigo stating, ‘With even more in the pipeline for 2014, we’re looking forward to another strong performance this year.’

Vauxhall Vans Make it 12 Years at Number 1

Building over 44,000 vans from their Luton plant in 2013, Vauxhall has retained the title of Britain’s number 1 van maker for the 12th year running. The figure is over 3 times that of their nearest rivals. Vauxhall’s Chairman and Managing Director, Duncan Aldred, hailed the Vauxhall Vivaro as the ‘lynchpin’ of their ‘award-winning’ van range.

The new Vivaro is currently in pre-production and will go on sale later this year.

Chevrolet Unveils the Camaro Z/28.R

If you like your cars a little more rare and exotic, Chevrolet have unveiled their latest endurance racer: the Camaro Z/28.R. Unsurprisingly based on the Z/28, it contains the same 7.0L V8 engine and generates approximately 505bhp. Where this car differs from the road car is through the addition of a front splitter, rear splitter and belly pan which all improve the car’s downforce.

Mark Kent, Chevy’s motorsport director, says of the Z/28.R, ‘Apart from series-mandated equipment and the specialised suspension components needed for endurance racing, it’s as close to a production-spec race car as you’ll find.’

Additional details on the racer a likely to be announced once the car makes its track debut.

Euro 6 – New Regulation Fuels Change for LGVs

Euro 6 – New Regulation Fuels Change for LGVs https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/blue-van.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Since 2009 every Light Goods Vehicle (LGV) that has been registered with the DVLA has been required to meet the Euro 5 regulations. This is set to change after 31st December 2013 as Euro 6 regulations begin to come into force. The new regulations demand significant reductions in the levels of nitrogen oxides and CO₂ that are emitted by different vehicle classes.

One of the ways manufacturers could have complied with the Euro 6 regulations would have been by building a whole new engine for their vans, but this is not a practical solution and instead the majority look to use AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid, DEF) technology and/or Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR).

AdBlue is used through a process called Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) whereby the DEF is injected into the hot exhaust gas recirculation with the result being a reduction in harmful emissions released from diesel engines. The AdBlue converts NOx gases in exhaust flue into nitrogen and steam. Vehicles fitted with SCR systems are able to increase service intervals to as much as 40,000 miles which of course means less money spent on maintenance, however there is an extra cost that incurs with the need to regularly fill the vehicle up with the DEF (approx. 1:20 of the rate of Diesel usage).

Exhaust Gas Recirculation is the process whereby a valve is fitted to the vehicle to control the flow of gas thus recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into engine cylinders, ‘replacing excess oxygen and thereby reducing combustion temperature and suppressing NOx production.’ The EGR also brings with it excess costs as vans may require more frequent basic servicing due to the fitted valve.

Another financial increase will transpire as manufacturers look to recoup some of the extra cost they incur through investing in advanced emission-reduction technology by increasing the prices of their vehicles, a cost that could be as much as an additional £1,000 (having an effect on the cost of monthly leases).

Despite these extra costs, van operators should think twice about ignoring the impending legislation as in London the Low Emissions Zone (LEZ) charges a penalty of £250 per day for any vehicle found not to comply with its emissions standards, a figure that is doubled if not paid within 14 days.

New regulations are to be enforced as follows:

Euro6 Legislation table
Source: AVL emission report pollutant, p9

New Euro 5 vehicles can be registered until 30 December 2013. If the vehicle is built on or before 30 September 2013, it can be registered any time until September 2014.

If you have any further questions regarding the new regulations please do not hesitate to contact us on 01753 851561.

Vehicle TLC from the WVL Bodyshop

Vehicle TLC from the WVL Bodyshop https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/WVL-blog-bodyshop.jpg 660 438 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Should you find yourself in need of an expert vehicle body shop, WVL can help there too!

We’ve moved and expanded our body shop to another location in Windsor – just around the corner from our showroom – with much more space and new equipment. We can now take care of all your vehicle repairs, no matter how large or small.

We already look after the commercial vehicle fleets for Network Rail…. and when their vehicles need attention to tight deadlines and with minimum inconvenience, it’s WVL they trust to put everything right.

Try us! Click to download our Bodyshop v-card, so we’re always in your address book!

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