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<strong>QFleet</strong><br />

April 2009<br />

www.qfleet.qld.gov.au<br />

Fuel for thought part ii<br />

Fatality Free Friday - 22 May 2009<br />

THE IMPORTANCE OF SERVICING YOUR CAR<br />

Women <strong>and</strong> cars<br />

PASSENGER BEHAVIOUR<br />

Industry news<br />

Q150


<strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

April 2009<br />

Keeping you informed on innovations<br />

in <strong>QFleet</strong> <strong>and</strong> the motor industry<br />

Fatality Free Friday................................. 2<br />

Passenger behaviour............................. 3<br />

Fuel for thought..................................... 4<br />

Vehicle spotlight................................... 5<br />

Servicing your car.................................. 6<br />

Looking back......................................... 7<br />

Women <strong>and</strong> cars................................... 8<br />

Driver safety.......................................... 9<br />

Industry news.......................................10<br />

Auction schedule................................. 11<br />

General Manager's message<br />

In Journey this month you will find a number <strong>of</strong> interesting articles that highlight some <strong>of</strong> <strong>QFleet</strong>’s current<br />

agendas, namely our focus on safety <strong>and</strong> Queensl<strong>and</strong>’s 150th birthday celebrations.<br />

In late 2008 Journey featured an article on the relatively new nation-wide road safety campaign Fatality<br />

Free Friday.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> is sponsoring Fatality Free Friday this year, which will be on 22 May 2009. We believe this campaign<br />

contains an important community message, <strong>and</strong> in sponsoring this campaign, we hope to help promote<br />

it <strong>and</strong> the importance <strong>of</strong> road safety.<br />

As most will now be aware, this year is Queensl<strong>and</strong>’s 150th birthday, <strong>and</strong> by reflecting on the past we can<br />

celebrate all that has shaped Queensl<strong>and</strong>. In this edition, Journey has taken another look at the history <strong>of</strong><br />

vehicles in government, <strong>and</strong> discovers the history <strong>of</strong> <strong>QFleet</strong>.<br />

We’re looking forward to the release <strong>of</strong> our vehicle procurement strategy as it will give clients direct<br />

benefits in having access to greener <strong>and</strong> safer fit-for-purpose vehicles with improved delivery timing <strong>and</strong><br />

reliability. <strong>QFleet</strong> will maintain close communication with all clients when implementation <strong>and</strong> changes<br />

occur.<br />

As you read through this April edition <strong>of</strong> Journey I hope you find the articles both interesting <strong>and</strong><br />

enticing. With the motoring industry always progressing, whether via market dem<strong>and</strong> or in the advancing<br />

styles <strong>and</strong> technologies, Journey aims to bring you up-to-date with the latest <strong>QFleet</strong> news <strong>and</strong> industry<br />

trends.<br />

If you have any enquires please feel free to email me at journey@qfleet.qld.gov.au.<br />

Keep up the safe driving.<br />

Fiona Wright<br />

General Manager<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> Head Office<br />

Level 16, Mineral House<br />

41 George Street<br />

Brisbane<br />

GPO Box 293<br />

Brisbane QLD 4001<br />

Telephone 07 3224 4292<br />

Facsimile 07 3224 6242<br />

www.qfleet.qld.gov.au<br />

Cluster Team contacts;<br />

To find your Cluster Team contact visit:<br />

http://www.qfleet.qld.gov.au/04_contactus/cluster.htm


2 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

Fatality Free Friday<br />

Fatality Free Friday (FFF) is an exciting nationwide road<br />

safety campaign which is now entering its third year.<br />

Developed by Russell White, Managing Director <strong>of</strong><br />

www.driversafety.com.au, FFF aims to increase road<br />

safety awareness within the community.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> is supporting Russell’s goal <strong>of</strong> having a fatality<br />

free Friday. This year, the Friday in focus is 22 May 2009.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> is sponsoring the 2009 FFF. In doing so, <strong>QFleet</strong><br />

hopes to help promote the campaign’s core values;<br />

getting more members <strong>of</strong> the community actively<br />

thinking <strong>and</strong> talking about road safety.<br />

Approximately 1600 people die on Australia’s roads each<br />

year, with Friday, Saturday <strong>and</strong> Sunday statistically the<br />

worst days <strong>of</strong> the week.<br />

The FFF website (www.fatalityfreefriday.com) is<br />

dedicated to promoting road safety. The site also<br />

contains useful information <strong>and</strong> support material<br />

that will allow all members <strong>of</strong> the community, from<br />

individuals, to schools <strong>and</strong> corporate organisations, to<br />

get involved in the campaign. The first <strong>and</strong> easiest step<br />

for everyone is to jump online <strong>and</strong> take the pledge.<br />

By pledging to have a fatality free Friday the campaign is<br />

already, in part, a success. Pledging embeds the concept<br />

<strong>of</strong> driver safety <strong>and</strong> facilitates a forum for people to talk<br />

<strong>and</strong> think about road safety. Hopefully, the more people<br />

who pledge, the safer our roads will be.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> is proud to sponsor FFF because the campaign<br />

is simple, achievable <strong>and</strong> has an important community<br />

message: improving road safety.<br />

More importantly, FFF gives the community ownership<br />

<strong>of</strong> the issue; a critical concept in successfully changing<br />

the behaviour <strong>of</strong> road users.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> hopes readers will take the pledge <strong>and</strong> work<br />

towards increasing road safety, reducing injuries <strong>and</strong><br />

fatalities on Australian roads. Drivers can take the<br />

pledge on the FFF website. A link will be available on<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong>'s homepage.<br />

Who knows, one fatality free day could lead to two <strong>and</strong><br />

then to three, with an ultimate goal <strong>of</strong> zero casualties<br />

each year on Australian roads.<br />

Gadget distraction<br />

Is the temptation for drivers to fiddle <strong>and</strong> change<br />

settings just too great to control?<br />

A recent study conducted by AAMI found a high<br />

percentage <strong>of</strong> drivers are increasing their chances<br />

<strong>of</strong> being in an accident by being distracted by in-car<br />

gadgets such as GPS navigation devices.<br />

The study <strong>of</strong> 2500 Australian drivers found 17 per cent<br />

<strong>of</strong> male <strong>and</strong> 12 per cent <strong>of</strong> female respondents admitted<br />

to losing focus while using their GPS units when driving.<br />

Forty-two per cent <strong>of</strong> all drivers also admitted to being<br />

distracted while operating their tape deck, CD player or<br />

stereo while driving <strong>and</strong> a further 12 per cent by MP3<br />

players.<br />

Tips for easily distracted drivers;<br />

• program your GPS with your destination before<br />

departing <strong>and</strong> resist the temptation to re-program it<br />

en-route<br />

• preset your vehicle's climate control system, radio <strong>and</strong><br />

CD player<br />

• only use mobile phones when parked – have a<br />

passenger answer any incoming calls or let them go<br />

to voicemail<br />

• avoid emotional or complex conversations while<br />

driving<br />

• keep reading material out <strong>of</strong> the front seat area<br />

• avoid the temptation to apply make-up or brush your<br />

hair by attending to personal grooming before you<br />

set out<br />

• take a break if you're hungry or thirsty instead <strong>of</strong><br />

trying to drive, eat <strong>and</strong> drink.


3 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

Passenger behaviour<br />

When discussions on road <strong>and</strong> driver safety arise,<br />

responses usually focus on vehicle maintenance,<br />

speeding <strong>and</strong> driver awareness.<br />

One subject that is seldom mentioned is that <strong>of</strong><br />

passenger presence <strong>and</strong> behaviour.<br />

Behavioural studies have found that the relationship<br />

between the driver <strong>and</strong> the passenger is a critical<br />

detriment to the effect passengers have on driver<br />

behaviour <strong>and</strong> ultimately, the safety <strong>of</strong> the driver,<br />

passenger <strong>and</strong> other road users.<br />

Passengers can have both a positive <strong>and</strong> negative<br />

influence on driver behaviour.<br />

Studies into passenger behaviour have found that<br />

passengers play an important role in maintaining driver<br />

awareness. This positive role usually sees passengers<br />

completing tasks drivers should not, such as using<br />

mobile phones or reading maps, as well as helping to<br />

warn <strong>of</strong> imminent hazards.<br />

Negative roles, on the other h<strong>and</strong>, are perceived as<br />

dangerous <strong>and</strong> may increase the risk <strong>of</strong> road trauma.<br />

Common negative influences include drivers showing<br />

<strong>of</strong>f to passengers <strong>and</strong> passengers distracting drivers.<br />

Distractions can range from noisy children passengers,<br />

passengers talking to the driver, to backseat drivers.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong>’s Safe Driving Guide discusses these behaviours,<br />

<strong>and</strong> highlights the importance <strong>of</strong> good passenger<br />

presence <strong>and</strong> behaviour <strong>and</strong> how they can improve<br />

road safety.<br />

Passengers can assist the driver by;<br />

• wearing a seat belt at all times<br />

• performing tasks on behalf <strong>of</strong> the driver, e.g.<br />

receiving <strong>and</strong> making mobile phone calls, reading<br />

maps etc<br />

• not encouraging the driver to partake in risky or<br />

anti-social behaviour<br />

• not distracting the driver through excessive<br />

conversation or by inappropriate behaviour<br />

• not placing their feet on the dash <strong>of</strong> a vehicle,<br />

especially if the vehicle is equipped with a<br />

passenger front airbag<br />

• not leaning against or sleeping in contact with the<br />

door or side pillar <strong>of</strong> the vehicle, especially if the<br />

vehicle is equipped with passenger side airbags or<br />

side curtain airbags<br />

• entering <strong>and</strong> exiting the vehicle via the kerb side, or<br />

if it is unsafe to do so, on the road side<br />

• keeping all <strong>of</strong> their body inside the vehicle<br />

• if young passengers are in the vehicle:<br />

• children under 12 years <strong>of</strong> age are safer in the<br />

back seat, particularly if the vehicle is fitted with a<br />

passenger front airbag<br />

• baby capsules should only be fitted to the rear<br />

seating positions.<br />

Passengers play an important role in both driver<br />

behaviour <strong>and</strong> road safety. Passengers have equally as<br />

much responsibility in helping to ensure that drivers<br />

maintain concentration on the road <strong>and</strong> assist in making<br />

our roads safer.<br />

No smoking in government vehicles<br />

Under no circumstances should any person smoke in a government vehicle.<br />

The Queensl<strong>and</strong> Government’s Smoking Policy is clear: there is a total ban on<br />

smoking in Queensl<strong>and</strong> Government buildings, <strong>of</strong>fices <strong>and</strong> motor vehicles.


4 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

Fuel for thought - part II<br />

In part two <strong>of</strong> this three part fuel series, Journey focuses<br />

on the two most common alternative fuels: bi<strong>of</strong>uel <strong>and</strong><br />

liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).<br />

More than ever, motorists are faced with the complex<br />

task <strong>of</strong> keeping up with the changing motoring industry<br />

<strong>and</strong> in particular, the different fuels available for modern<br />

vehicles.<br />

This three part series is dedicated to informing readers<br />

about current market trends, discussing differences<br />

between the available fuel types to give a better<br />

underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> what is available <strong>and</strong> why.<br />

The last edition <strong>of</strong> Journey featured a head-to-head<br />

comparison <strong>of</strong> petrol <strong>and</strong> diesel. Following this edition’s<br />

evaluation on alternative fuels, Journey will conclude<br />

the three part series by analysing hybrid, electric plug-in<br />

<strong>and</strong> hydrogen fuelled vehicles.<br />

Alternative fuels: bi<strong>of</strong>uels <strong>and</strong> LPG<br />

Bi<strong>of</strong>uel is a mix <strong>of</strong> solid, liquid or gaseous fuel derived<br />

from biological material. Theoretically, bi<strong>of</strong>uels can be<br />

produced from any biological carbon source, although<br />

the most common sources are from photosynthetic<br />

plants.<br />

Bi<strong>of</strong>uels are becoming a popular fuel type because<br />

they are seen as a renewable source that can boost fuel<br />

efficiency <strong>and</strong> economy, while usually costing less at the<br />

bowser.<br />

The most commonly available bi<strong>of</strong>uels used in transport<br />

today are ethanol <strong>and</strong> biodiesel blends.<br />

The production <strong>of</strong> ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, relies on<br />

plant-based feedstocks <strong>and</strong> is commonly sourced from<br />

the fermentation <strong>of</strong> sugar, starch <strong>and</strong> grains.<br />

Ethanol is usually blended with petrol. Blend quantities<br />

range from 10 per cent ethanol (E10) to 85 per cent<br />

(E85). E10 is the most common blend <strong>of</strong> ethanol<br />

because <strong>of</strong> its compatibility with an increasing range <strong>of</strong><br />

engines.<br />

Higher blends such as E85 are not yet widely available,<br />

although this is likely to change with an anticipated<br />

increase in the availability <strong>of</strong> compatible vehicles.<br />

Called flex-fuel vehicles, these vehicles are capable <strong>of</strong><br />

operating on any ethanol blend, from zero to 85 per<br />

cent. This is necessary to avoid drivers having to locate<br />

an E85 bowser for every refill.<br />

The production <strong>of</strong> biodiesel involves the use <strong>of</strong> plant<br />

<strong>and</strong>/or animal fats. Biodiesel producers in Australia<br />

commonly use canola oil, used cooking oil <strong>and</strong> tallow.<br />

Biodiesel blends like B20 (20 per cent biodiesel, 80 per<br />

cent diesel) are being trialled in large organisations such<br />

as mining companies <strong>and</strong> truck <strong>and</strong> bus fleets. When<br />

blended, the combination can be used to fuel many<br />

diesel vehicles <strong>and</strong> stationary engines.<br />

Bi<strong>of</strong>uels are available in today’s market to <strong>of</strong>fer<br />

consumers the option <strong>of</strong> using a reduced amount <strong>of</strong><br />

crude oil stock, by blending it with renewable sources.<br />

Drivers should check with manufacturers before using<br />

bi<strong>of</strong>uel in their vehicles.<br />

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a mixture <strong>of</strong><br />

hydrocarbon gases used in heating appliances <strong>and</strong><br />

fuelling vehicles. The LPG used for heating devices<br />

such as the backyard barbecue has a different chemical<br />

structure than that <strong>of</strong> the vehicle fuel <strong>and</strong> the two<br />

should not be interchanged.<br />

LPG has been used to fuel internal combustion engines<br />

since the 1940s <strong>and</strong> is one <strong>of</strong> the most common<br />

alternative fuels used throughout the world.<br />

Often referred to as autogas, LPG is a non-toxic, noncorrosive<br />

gas with a high octane rating (108 RON).<br />

Although still classified as a fossil fuel, LPG burns more<br />

cleanly than petrol <strong>and</strong> diesel <strong>and</strong> is cheaper in Australia<br />

than other conventional automotive fuel types.<br />

LPG vehicles deliver roughly the same power,<br />

acceleration, <strong>and</strong> cruising speed characteristics as petrol<br />

variants, although it does yield a somewhat reduced<br />

driving range, containing around a quarter less energy<br />

content than petrol.<br />

LPG vehicles can now be purchased direct from<br />

manufacturers or by retr<strong>of</strong>itting petrol vehicles. Most<br />

retr<strong>of</strong>itted <strong>and</strong> new “dual-fuel” models can operate using<br />

both LPG <strong>and</strong> unleaded petrol. Conversions may also<br />

reduce boot or cargo space.<br />

Locally produced <strong>and</strong> Australian self sufficient, LPG<br />

<strong>of</strong>fers consumers a bowser price advantage <strong>and</strong> lower<br />

Carbon Monoxide (CO) emissions than petrol <strong>and</strong> lower<br />

Oxides <strong>of</strong> Nitrogen (NOx) levels than petrol <strong>and</strong> diesel.<br />

LPG is available at over 3200 outlets across Australia <strong>and</strong><br />

has proven itself as a successful alternative fuel.


5 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

Vehicle spotlight<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> has introduced the SsangYong Actyon Sports<br />

utility to the light commercial fleet, <strong>of</strong>fering both two<br />

<strong>and</strong> four wheel drive, manual <strong>and</strong> automatic variants.<br />

This new generation ute, with great versatility <strong>and</strong> has<br />

excellent safety <strong>and</strong> carrying features, is a great addition<br />

to any utility fleet.<br />

The vehicle can be switched into 4WD while in motion,<br />

with the 4L option ideal when pulling a heavy trailer or<br />

in <strong>of</strong>f road conditions.<br />

The SsangYong Actyon Sports is available in four<br />

variants; 2WD <strong>and</strong> 4WD 4cyl, 5 speed man <strong>and</strong> 6 speed<br />

auto.<br />

SsangYong Actyon Sports<br />

Engine<br />

Transmission<br />

Fuel type<br />

Power<br />

Torque<br />

Seats<br />

St<strong>and</strong>ard features<br />

Safety<br />

Extras<br />

Fuel consumption<br />

GVG Greenhouse Rating<br />

2.0 litre 4-cylinder 2WD <strong>and</strong> 4WD<br />

5 speed manual, 6 speed auto<br />

Turbo diesel<br />

104kW at 4000rpm<br />

310Nm @ 1800rpm<br />

5 seats<br />

Climate control A/C, power steering, power windows, cruise control (auto model)<br />

Driver <strong>and</strong> passenger front airbags, four-wheel ABS, triple-layer ultra rigid frame<br />

Available in Steel, Aluminium <strong>and</strong> Heavy duty trays<br />

8-8.7 litres per 100km<br />

6 (manual) <strong>and</strong> 5.5 (Auto)<br />

FIXED PRICE<br />

FIXED PRICE<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> now gives you the ‘no-auction option’. That means you can buy a near new ex-government vehicle straight <strong>of</strong>f the lot.<br />

When you buy from <strong>QFleet</strong>, you buy with confidence, knowing you will receive the following:<br />

a guaranteed title<br />

a<br />

a<br />

three month statutory warranty<br />

(plus the balance <strong>of</strong> the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty)<br />

late model vehicles with low kilometres<br />

a<br />

a<br />

For further information about buying a vehicle from <strong>QFleet</strong> call 1800 735 338 or<br />

send an email to auctions@qfleet.qld.gov.au.<br />

a pr<strong>of</strong>essionally serviced <strong>and</strong> maintained vehicle<br />

Queensl<strong>and</strong> Transport safety certificate<br />

Auction locations: Brisbane, Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton, Bundaberg <strong>and</strong> Toowoomba.<br />

For more information visit our website www.qfleet.qld.gov.au


6 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

The importance <strong>of</strong> servicing your car<br />

Is your car receiving the attention it deserves?<br />

A <strong>QFleet</strong> vehicle is like any other vehicle <strong>and</strong> requires<br />

regular scheduled servicing to maintain quality <strong>and</strong><br />

efficiency.<br />

Regular services prolong the life <strong>of</strong> the vehicle’s<br />

mechanical components, maintain roadworthiness<br />

<strong>and</strong> contribute to greater reliability, economy <strong>and</strong><br />

resale value. Without regular servicing, vehicles face an<br />

increased potential <strong>of</strong> breakdowns, expensive repairs,<br />

<strong>and</strong> compromised road <strong>and</strong> vehicle safety.<br />

All <strong>QFleet</strong> vehicles are covered by the full manufacturer’s<br />

warranty. To comply with warranty conditions, vehicles<br />

should be serviced in accordance with the requirements<br />

specified in the manufacturer’s vehicle h<strong>and</strong>book.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> recommends vehicles be serviced accordingly,<br />

<strong>and</strong> because a fully maintained operating lease includes<br />

the costs <strong>of</strong> all scheduled servicing, clients need only<br />

drop the vehicle <strong>of</strong>f at an approved service provider.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> is keen to ensure clients get the best possible<br />

service <strong>and</strong> attention from service providers. While the<br />

choice <strong>of</strong> provider is up to the client, it is recommended<br />

that a manufacturer’s authorised dealership is used.<br />

A list <strong>of</strong> providers who meet <strong>QFleet</strong> <strong>and</strong> the<br />

manufacturer’s quality st<strong>and</strong>ards is available in the<br />

Driver Companion Booklet found in the vehicle’s glove<br />

box, or by contacting <strong>QFleet</strong>’s Maintenance Controllers<br />

on 1800 061 819.<br />

So what is involved in a service?<br />

Servicing a car is no longer just a grease <strong>and</strong> oil change.<br />

Modern vehicles are much more sophisticated <strong>and</strong><br />

involve multiple component <strong>and</strong> system checks <strong>and</strong><br />

adjustments.<br />

A full vehicle service includes checking <strong>and</strong>/or<br />

changing the vehicle’s fluids, brake pads, battery<br />

condition, steering alignment, tyre tread depth,<br />

suspension condition, oil leaks <strong>of</strong> any sort, exhaust<br />

leaks or corrosion, <strong>and</strong> even how well the door locks are<br />

working.<br />

A correctly serviced <strong>and</strong> tuned engine will have a longer,<br />

more economical service life <strong>and</strong> will reduce the risk <strong>of</strong><br />

unexpected, <strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong>ten expensive, repairs.<br />

Six important steps for vehicle servicing <strong>and</strong> repairs<br />

1. When booking your service, advise the service<br />

provider that it is a <strong>QFleet</strong> vehicle.<br />

2. Prior to commencing the required work, the service<br />

provider must contact <strong>QFleet</strong>’s Maintenance<br />

Controllers on 1800 061 819.<br />

3. The service provider will be asked to provide<br />

information on the nature <strong>and</strong> cost <strong>of</strong> the service or<br />

repairs, the vehicle registration number <strong>and</strong> current<br />

odometer reading.<br />

4. Upon approval, <strong>QFleet</strong> will authorise the service<br />

provider to proceed with the work.<br />

5. When collecting the vehicle after servicing or<br />

repairs, please endorse the service provider’s<br />

documentation to certify that the work has been<br />

carried out to your satisfaction.<br />

6. If you are not satisfied with the work performed, try<br />

to resolve the matter with the service provider. If no<br />

satisfactory solution can be reached, advise <strong>QFleet</strong>’s<br />

Maintenance Controllers immediately by phoning<br />

1800 061 819 – they will take the matter up on your<br />

behalf.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong>’s Driver Companion Booklet, found in the<br />

vehicle’s glove box, contains all information regarding<br />

how <strong>and</strong> where to service your <strong>QFleet</strong> vehicle.


7 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

Looking back - the beginning <strong>of</strong> <strong>QFleet</strong><br />

Continuing the theme <strong>of</strong> Queensl<strong>and</strong>’s 150th birthday<br />

celebrations, this month Journey reflects on the State<br />

Government’s most important vehicle management<br />

initiative: the creation <strong>of</strong> <strong>QFleet</strong>.<br />

Motor vehicles have been integral to the development<br />

<strong>of</strong> Queensl<strong>and</strong>, servicing the needs <strong>of</strong> the government<br />

<strong>and</strong> allowing for service delivery across the state since<br />

the beginning <strong>of</strong> the last century.<br />

Previously, all Queensl<strong>and</strong> State Government vehicles<br />

were purchased <strong>and</strong> managed by individual agencies.<br />

In 1991, the government developed a better way<br />

to control how government vehicles were being<br />

purchased, managed, maintained <strong>and</strong> sold. The result<br />

was <strong>QFleet</strong>.<br />

By centralising the control <strong>of</strong> the fleet, <strong>and</strong> with it<br />

vehicle procurement, <strong>QFleet</strong> enabled the government<br />

to apply better buying practices <strong>and</strong> unified vehicle<br />

sales across the state.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong>’s inception also allowed government to track <strong>and</strong><br />

gain reliable information <strong>of</strong> the size, pr<strong>of</strong>ile, locations<br />

<strong>and</strong> the usage <strong>and</strong> performance <strong>of</strong> existing vehicles,<br />

<strong>and</strong> to develop related strategies, policies <strong>and</strong> reporting<br />

systems.<br />

A distinct organisation, <strong>QFleet</strong> is actively involved in<br />

all aspects <strong>of</strong> a vehicle’s life-cycle, from the purchasing,<br />

leasing <strong>and</strong> contractual arrangements to the<br />

maintenance, repair <strong>and</strong> selling <strong>of</strong> vehicles.<br />

Committed to providing clients with this full service,<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> also assumed <strong>and</strong> exceeded the responsibilities<br />

<strong>of</strong> the Government Motor Garage.<br />

Established in 1914 in-line with the growth <strong>of</strong><br />

the Queensl<strong>and</strong> Government’s vehicle fleet, the<br />

Government Motor Garage predominantly serviced,<br />

fuelled <strong>and</strong> sold government vehicles. Originally located<br />

in Brisbane’s William Street, historical records show that<br />

the Garage moved to where the Parliamentary annexe<br />

now st<strong>and</strong>s, followed by a move to Pineapple Street,<br />

Zillmere in 1975 where <strong>QFleet</strong> continues to work today.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> was <strong>of</strong>ficially launched on 1 July 1991 <strong>and</strong><br />

the first vehicle introduced to the fleet was a 1991<br />

Mitsubishi Magna.<br />

From that moment <strong>QFleet</strong> experienced a number <strong>of</strong><br />

transformations; exp<strong>and</strong>ing, developing <strong>and</strong> changing<br />

to meet the needs <strong>of</strong> the growing state.<br />

The rapid growth <strong>of</strong> the fleet <strong>and</strong> changes to the fleet<br />

mix reflected the changing needs <strong>of</strong> government<br />

agencies <strong>and</strong> evolving public expectations. Whilst<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> has always maintained its primary role <strong>of</strong><br />

supplying fit-for-purpose vehicles, some <strong>of</strong> the more<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong>'s first vehicle - 1991 Mitsubishi Magna<br />

recent changes have resulted from growing concerns<br />

about vehicle emissions <strong>and</strong> the environment. This has<br />

resulted in the removal <strong>of</strong> all eight cylinder passenger<br />

vehicles from the fleet, the purchasing <strong>of</strong> passenger<br />

vehicles with a Green Vehicle Guide (GVG) greenhouse<br />

rating <strong>of</strong> more than 5.5, <strong>and</strong> a move towards employing<br />

smaller <strong>and</strong> greener vehicles.<br />

Over the 18 years <strong>of</strong> operation, <strong>QFleet</strong> has developed<br />

into one <strong>of</strong> the nation’s leading fleet management<br />

organisations.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> has established itself as an expert organisation<br />

in fleet management. This has been demonstrated<br />

through industry-leading policy development for<br />

vehicle selection, environmental management, fleet<br />

management systems <strong>and</strong> safety initiatives.<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> is proud to support Q150. By celebrating our<br />

past, we can begin to imagine what the future may<br />

bring.


8 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

Women <strong>and</strong> cars<br />

Women are now the driving force behind over 80 per<br />

cent <strong>of</strong> all vehicle purchases.<br />

The internet has become the primary resource for<br />

information gathering during the vehicle purchasing<br />

process.<br />

Inevitably, automotive websites such as<br />

www.autochic.com.au <strong>and</strong> www.hercar.com.au, catering<br />

primarily to female vehicle owners <strong>and</strong> drivers, have<br />

appeared.<br />

Launched in 2000, Autochic was created to cater to<br />

the female driver in what has been a traditionally male<br />

dominated industry.<br />

Providing readers with a better underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> the<br />

processes involved in buying, servicing <strong>and</strong> selling a car,<br />

Autochic <strong>and</strong> similar websites have helped to promote<br />

buyer confidence.<br />

Autochic is packed with buying information, as well<br />

as educational material <strong>and</strong> forums filled with insight<br />

into how dealers work, how to know if <strong>and</strong> when you’re<br />

getting ripped-<strong>of</strong>f, how to negotiate that little bit extra<br />

in the purchase deal <strong>and</strong> how to have the confidence to<br />

simply walk away.<br />

In short, it provides the reader with the information<br />

necessary to help make confident, justified <strong>and</strong> decisive<br />

decisions.<br />

Female targeted motoring sites also provide an<br />

important snap-shot <strong>of</strong> the value propositions, needs<br />

<strong>and</strong> wants <strong>of</strong> the growing market segment. For example,<br />

a poll conducted by Autochic in late 2008 asked users<br />

which were the most female-friendly automotive<br />

companies.<br />

Toyota was voted as the most female-friendly<br />

automotive company, with Honda named a close<br />

second. Interestingly in third, as an alternative<br />

to choosing any other car company listed, voters<br />

resoundingly chose the answer <strong>of</strong> ‘none <strong>of</strong> them’.<br />

Further research conducted by the site also found<br />

that women felt more effort was needed by car<br />

manufacturers to build positive relationships with them<br />

as a market segment. “It’s a matter <strong>of</strong> asking women<br />

what they want, <strong>and</strong> then delivering,” was the most<br />

common response selected.<br />

The Toyota Yaris is listed on Autochic as the top car<br />

for a "girl on a budget", while the Volkswagen Beetle<br />

Cabriolet was the winner <strong>of</strong> the site’s most-wanted car<br />

award. "It's got a little flower vase inside so you can<br />

drive in retro-style," the site reads.<br />

And then there is the Nissan Micra.<br />

Advertised as a fashion accessory, the Micra comes<br />

complete with an underseat shoe drawer. Only available<br />

in a five-door automatic, but with 11 colours to choose<br />

from. The Micra has put a new spin on women in cars,<br />

<strong>and</strong> the company is hoping that young women will see<br />

the Mirca as an extension <strong>of</strong> their personality.<br />

However, as with many niche market strategies, there<br />

are potential pitfalls; particularly if the segment is not<br />

clearly understood or misconstrued. Targeting the<br />

female buyer through style <strong>and</strong> design alone will not<br />

always result in market success.<br />

Take Volvo’s attempt in 2004, for example.<br />

The Volvo Your Concept Car (YCC) was built for women<br />

by women with smart storage, good manoeuvrability<br />

<strong>and</strong> low-emissions. While only a concept car, it was said<br />

to be primed for the female buyer.<br />

Volvo soon discovered that solely targeting the female<br />

buyer was perceived to be detrimental to the image<br />

<strong>of</strong> the vehicle. The car was seen as one that no man<br />

The Nissan Micra is available in 11 different colours <strong>and</strong><br />

comes complete with an underseat shoe drawer. Continued page 9


9 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

Women <strong>and</strong> cars cont.<br />

would ever buy <strong>and</strong> as a result, had the propensity to<br />

drive away a large number <strong>of</strong> female buyers. The YCC<br />

demonstrated that manufacturers need to build for both<br />

gender segments, whilst satisfying the values <strong>of</strong> the<br />

female audience. Volvo ended up disb<strong>and</strong>ing the YCC<br />

project.<br />

Another example <strong>of</strong> the motoring industry catering to<br />

women motorists is by throwing ‘women on wheels’<br />

nights.<br />

Some dealerships <strong>and</strong> service centres have started<br />

inviting female customers to attend sessions to learn<br />

about day-to-day vehicle maintenance <strong>and</strong> safety<br />

checks.<br />

These sessions include how to put air in tyres, how to<br />

change a tyre, how to check the oil <strong>and</strong> how to jump<br />

start a car <strong>and</strong> explain general motoring jargon. Overall<br />

the sessions <strong>of</strong>fer a place for women to get together <strong>and</strong><br />

ask questions in a non-confrontational environment.<br />

The Nissan Micra convertible<br />

The motoring industry is fast becoming female friendly.<br />

And while it still may have a way to go, the market is<br />

definitely listening <strong>and</strong> changing.<br />

Driver safety<br />

The following organisations work closely with <strong>QFleet</strong> to provide current <strong>and</strong> relevant road safety advice <strong>and</strong><br />

training to Queensl<strong>and</strong> Government drivers. For information on any <strong>of</strong> these organisations or driver safety please<br />

contact Allan Smith, Fleet Safety Manager, on 07 3225 2691 or email safety@qfleet.qld.gov.au.<br />

www.transport.qld.gov.au<br />

www.carrsq.qut.edu.au<br />

www.racq.com.au<br />

Mount Cotton Training Services<br />

A business unit within Queensl<strong>and</strong> Transport, Mt Cotton Training Services provide<br />

transport-related courses designed to improve the safety, efficiency <strong>and</strong> productivity <strong>of</strong><br />

industry <strong>and</strong> reduce road trauma in our community.<br />

CARRS-Q<br />

(Centre for Accident Research <strong>and</strong> Road Safety - Queensl<strong>and</strong>)<br />

Queensl<strong>and</strong> University <strong>of</strong> Technology Pr<strong>of</strong>essor's Jeremy Davey <strong>and</strong> Barry Watson from<br />

CARRS-Q can provide information or theory sessions on driver safety to <strong>QFleet</strong> clients.<br />

RACQ Driver Education<br />

RACQ provide a range <strong>of</strong> driver education <strong>and</strong> training programs for its members such as;<br />

• Driver Safety Awareness <strong>Works</strong>hop<br />

• Driver Rehabilitation Service<br />

• Driver Assessment Service


10 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

Industry news<br />

The world's fastest electric sports car, which can<br />

accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just four seconds, is<br />

coming to Australia.<br />

More importantly, the Californian-made eco-friendly<br />

electric Tesla Roadster, which costs about $150,000 for<br />

a basic model <strong>and</strong> can travel up to 350 kilometres on a<br />

single charge with a top speed <strong>of</strong> 200 km/h, is coming<br />

to Brisbane <strong>and</strong> will appear at Greenfest in June 2009.<br />

The Tesla Roadster is one <strong>of</strong> many exciting zero emission<br />

real-world cars coming to market. With its electrifying<br />

performance <strong>and</strong> eco credentials the vehicle will make<br />

petrol-heads take notice <strong>and</strong> help to shake <strong>of</strong>f the<br />

current electric vehicle golf cart image.<br />

Greenfest is Australia’s largest free green festival <strong>and</strong> will<br />

run June 5-7 at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens.<br />

Toyota is about to put into production the world’s<br />

first rear-seat centre airbag to help protect backseat<br />

passengers in a side collision. The innovative<br />

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbag will be fitted<br />

in an unnamed Toyota model to be launched in Japan in<br />

the near future.<br />

The rear-centre airbag inflates from a fixed, rear-seat<br />

centre console between the passengers during side<br />

collisions.<br />

It is designed to reduce the severity <strong>of</strong> injuries to rear seat<br />

passengers from contact with the console or knocking<br />

against each other, which is a major cause <strong>of</strong> rear<br />

passenger head trauma.<br />

Australians are likely to see the feature for the first time in<br />

new Lexus models.<br />

Mazda has announced plans to produce hybrid vehicles,<br />

but not before employing hybrid-matching base<br />

engines.<br />

The company continues to maintain that greater<br />

environmental <strong>and</strong> societal gains will be made by<br />

introducing two all-new direct-injection petrol <strong>and</strong><br />

diesel engine families that will debut in the next<br />

generation <strong>of</strong> dramatically lighter Mazda models from<br />

2011.<br />

Mazda said it will improve base petrol <strong>and</strong> diesel engine<br />

technology from 2011 by 30 per cent compared with<br />

today, <strong>and</strong> will then add idle-stop technology to give<br />

another 10 per cent.<br />

Further on down the track Mazda said they will also<br />

include regenerative braking <strong>and</strong> other electronic<br />

solutions. By combining the improved petrol engines<br />

with hybrid technology, Mazda believe they will provide<br />

even better performance than the current hybrid<br />

vehicles.


11 <strong>QFleet</strong> Journey<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> auction schedule<br />

For further information about buying a vehicle from <strong>QFleet</strong>, phone 1800 735 338 or email<br />

auctions@qfleet.qld.gov.au.<br />

Location 2009 dates Time Pre-inspect<br />

Brisbane<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong> <strong>Works</strong>hop<br />

72 Pineapple Street, Zillmere<br />

Each Friday except<br />

<strong>Public</strong> holidays<br />

8.15am 8:00am - 4:00pm Mon - Fri<br />

Cairns<br />

Plant Hire Services <strong>Works</strong>hop<br />

Corner Adelaide <strong>and</strong> Donaldson St, Manunda<br />

Townsville<br />

Plant Hire Services <strong>Works</strong>hop<br />

Jurekey Street Cluden<br />

Rockhampton<br />

Plant Hire Services <strong>Works</strong>hop<br />

214 Richardson Road, Kawana<br />

Toowoomba<br />

Plant Hire Services <strong>Works</strong>hop<br />

427 Greenwattle Street, Toowoomba<br />

Bundaberg<br />

Dept Main Roads<br />

90 Old Gin Gin Road<br />

Bundaberg<br />

Vehicle Hire Service<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong>’s Vehicle Hire Service (VHS) <strong>of</strong>fers a<br />

solution for agencies requiring vehicles on short<br />

notice, for special purpose <strong>and</strong> for short periods <strong>of</strong><br />

time.<br />

Tues 05 May<br />

Tues 02 June<br />

Tues 07 July<br />

Wed 06 May<br />

Wed 03 June<br />

Wed 08 July<br />

Wed 20 May<br />

Wed 17 June<br />

Wed 22 July<br />

Wed 13 May<br />

Wed 10 June<br />

Wed 15 July<br />

Wed 27 May<br />

Wed 24 June<br />

Wed 29 July<br />

VHS vehicles are available from Brisbane, Toowoomba,<br />

Bundaberg, Townsville <strong>and</strong> Cairns. If you require a<br />

vehicle outside <strong>of</strong> these locations VHS can organise an<br />

AVIS vehicle to suit your needs.<br />

All new VHS vehicles are chosen to meet <strong>QFleet</strong>’s<br />

ClimateSmart Policy, which focuses on lower-emission<br />

vehicles to improve the environmental pr<strong>of</strong>ile <strong>of</strong> the<br />

government fleet. All new vehicles available through<br />

VHS are compliant to the policy, with passenger<br />

vehicles rated 5.5 or better <strong>and</strong> light commercial<br />

vehicles rated 3.5 or better, enabling agencies to make<br />

environmentally responsible vehicle selection decisions.<br />

For more information on <strong>QFleet</strong>’s Vehicle Hire Service<br />

please contact VHS on 07 322 44180 or email<br />

vhs@qfleet.qld.gov.au.<br />

10am<br />

10am<br />

10am<br />

10am<br />

10am<br />

Feedback<br />

I hope you've enjoyed this edition <strong>of</strong> Journey.<br />

If you have any feedback or ideas for new<br />

content, please don't hesitate to contact me at<br />

journey@qfleet.qld.gov.au.<br />

Thanks<br />

Michael O'Brien<br />

Journey Editor.<br />

1:00pm - 3:00pm day before<br />

auction<br />

2:00pm - 4:00pm day before<br />

auction<br />

8.30am - 10:00am on auction<br />

day<br />

12:00pm - 3:00pm day before<br />

auction<br />

8.30am - 10:00am on auction<br />

day<br />

11:00am - 2:00pm day before<br />

auction<br />

8.30am - 10:00am auction day<br />

1:00pm - 3:00pm day before<br />

auction<br />

8.30am - 10:00am on auction<br />

day<br />

Did you know<br />

An unleaded petrol pump nozzle will fit easily<br />

into a diesel tank filling point, but diesel nozzles<br />

will rarely fit into an unleaded one? So please take<br />

care when refuelling the vehicle you are driving.<br />

Change <strong>of</strong> details?<br />

If you wish to:<br />

■ change your email contact details<br />

■ subscribe<br />

■ unsubscribe<br />

Please email: journey@qfleet.qld.gov.au<br />

<strong>QFleet</strong>’s website www.qfleet.qld.gov.au.

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