QFleet - Department of Housing and Public Works - Queensland ...
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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 />
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Please email: journey@qfleet.qld.gov.au<br />
<strong>QFleet</strong>’s website www.qfleet.qld.gov.au.