The Light Duty sector is growing fast with the number of light duty vehicles on the road expected to increase by 38% by 2020.
From January to November 2016 alone, more than 1.7 million new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) were registered in the EU. That’s an increase of 12.1% compared to the previous year.
So, what is driving this increasing number of light duty vehicles in cities across Europe? A key driver is that the level of urbanisation in Europe is at 74% and growing, while low barriers to entry for light commercial vehicle licenses are attracting many new drivers with a simple, affordable process.
At the same time, large companies increasingly outsource deliveries to logistics businesses that employ independent LCV drivers. And with online retail sales forecast to double by 2019, the number of delivery LCVs in urban areas is set to rise even higher.
However, this trend does not come without its challenges. Urban areas are subject to increasing vehicle restrictions and safety concerns. Drivers have to navigate tight spaces and stop-start driving conditions in cities, caused by traffic lights, congestion or deliveries. All of these factors put more strain on vehicles and ultimately, will create a higher demand for regular servicing and maintenance.
For many independent LCV drivers, the success of their business relies on the performance of their vehicle. Their heavy or light duty vehicle is their primary work tool and without it, they cannot work. Therefore, they require the best possible performance of their vehicle at all times. Engine failures, unplanned time off the road, increased maintenance and poor fuel efficiency can all have a serious impact on the efficiency of an LCV driver’s business. But these issues can be avoided.
For many drivers a trusting relationship with their mechanic is an important part of their business. So how do you approach servicing them? While mechanics might be ramping up their services for light duty vehicles with more frequent oil changes, tyre pressure checks and engine maintenance, at ExxonMobil we’re responding to the rise in light duty vehicles on our roads as well. We have launched a tailored offering for the light duty market – a high performance Light Duty lubricant range. The range has approvals from leading LCV manufacturers including Peugeot, Citroen, Iveco, Volkswagen, Ford and Mercedes-Benz to ensure you can service the majority of the market.
The oils are formulated for the rigours of city driving and provide engine protection, long engine life and fuel economy retention* that really do meet the needs and expectations of today’s LCV drivers.
* Maintains or improves engine fuel efficiency when compared to a 15W-40 mineral oil alternative (City Logistics F meets or exceeds ACEA A5/B5; City Logistics P meets or exceeds ACEA C2; City Logistics V & M meets or exceeds ACEA C3)
Understanding the unique conditions that light duty vehicles are put through each day, will build even deeper loyalty with customers. The light duty market is growing fast and the opportunities are there to grow with it.
ACEA, Commercial Vehicle Registrations, November 2016
Degree of urbanization (percentage of urban population in total population) by continent in 2016, Statista
Read Guillaume Malandains bio here.
